4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco
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4d
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About this experience
Enjoy a 4-day trek along a great and less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail called the Lares Trek. This high altitude trek will be enjoyed by hikers interested in interacting with the local communities and seeing their way of life in the countryside.
Available options
Lares Trek 4D-3N
The most famous hike to reach Machu Picchu is the Inca Trail, yet other great and less crowded alternatives exist, such as the Lares Trek. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pre-departure briefing
Round Trip Tourist Bus Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
Horses to carry cooking and camping equipment plus a total of 7 kilos for each trekker for the first 3 days of the trek. (This includes 2.5 kilos for your sleeping bag & mattress plus 2.5 kilos of personal items.
Bus Ollantaytambo to Cuzco
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Cook who is responsible for preparing and serving all delicious Peruvian meals and snacks
Small group experience; Max 15, Avg 4
Van Cuzco - Lares Town (starting point of trek)
Meals: 3B/3L/3D/3 snacks with typical menus (special dietary considerations available with prior notice)
1-night 3* Hotel Accommodation at Aguas Calientes
Professional Bilingual Guide on trek & Machu Picchu tour
Camping Accommodation during trek (including basic sleeping mattress & tent for 2 people)
Cuzco Accommodation Pick-Up
First Aid kit & Emergency oxygen bottle
Round Trip Tourist Train Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes
What's not included
Airport Pick-Up (please make your own way)
Sleeping Bag (Rental $15 USD for the trek)
Day 1 breakfast, day 4 lunch, bottled water
Accommodation Drop-off in Cuzco
Guide for bus and train transfers (these portions are on your own)
Hot Springs Lares town (10 soles)
Optional Huayna Picchu Trek (at an extra cost) must be booked at least 2 weeks in advance
Optional Machu Picchu Mountain Hike (at an extra cost) must be booked at least 1 week in advance
Small gift for communities
Accommodation in Cuzco
Tips (Please remember that tipping is 100% optional and depends entirely on the service you received. It is customary to give tips in Latin America, however it is NOT mandatory. If you do wish to give a tip, these are our recommended guidelines.) Guide: 40-60 soles per trekker Assistant Guide: 30-40 soles per trekker Horsemen: 60-80 soles for each horseman from the whole group Cook: 150-200 soles for the cook from the whole group
Note: Prices for optional activities are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Please confirm these prices before departing on the trek.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age is 7 years
Note: There is a mandatory pre-departure briefing at our Cusco office the evening before your trek. You will receive detailed information on your excursion, a list of what to bring and confirm your departure details
Typical Meals on the Trek: On all of our Inca Trail Treks and Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu we search for the best cooks who put forth their best effort to provide you with the best tasting meals on the mountain. All of our cooks pride themselves on their delicious specialty menus with the freshest local ingredients available. Every meal is prepared fresh with plenty of variety and an abundant quantity of food including a vegetarian option for every meal (please advise prior to departure). Here is an idea of what you will be eating during your trek. *Vegetarian Option Available Upon Request (please advise at least 2 days in advance). BREAKFASTS: Hot porridge, quinoa or oats, fried eggs, egg omelet or pancakes with fresh bread, fried bananas and boiled water for hot tea, coca, coffee, chocolate and milk. LUNCH & DINNER: First Course: Quinoa, corn, noodle, asparagus, mushroom or vegetable soup, stuffed avocado or potatoes. Second Course: Chicken breast, beef stew, quinoa, fried rice, hamburgers, fried chicken, spaghetti bolognese, typical dishes: aji de gallina (chilli pepper chicken), escabeche de pollo (marinated chicken) or ajiaco de olluco (spicy potato stew). Desserts: Fried plantains, chocolate pudding, chocolate or vanilla cake and boiled water for hot tea, coca, coffee, chocolate and milk. SNACKS: Boiled water for hot tea, coca tea, coffee, chocolate and milk with popcorn, cookies, crackers.
Accommodation options: Days 1-2: Single travelers will share a tent with another traveler & couples will have a tent to themselves / Day 3: Single travelers will share a room with another traveler & couples will have a private room.
Physical Requirements: This hike is difficult, good physical conditions are needed as most of the hike is at high altitudes of 4000 meters (don't forget to bring warm clothes).
Departure dates for trek: Monday, Wednesday & Saturday (Daily departures with a group of 4 or more)
Important: You must provide the following information upon booking: Full name (exactly as it appears on the passport), Date of birth, nationality, passport number, date of passport expiration, which must be valid for at least 6-months past the date of travel. Without this information, the local tour operator will be unable to make the booking. Please be aware that your complete and correct passport information must be provided. Absolutely no modifications can be made once your booking has been confirmed. Any changes or discrepancies in the information provided will result in a complete loss of permits and entrance tickets, for which you will be held responsible and will need to pay for again.
Max 15, Avg 4
If desired, an extra night in Aguas Calientes town can be arranged. (Please let us know whether you would like to stay an extra night when booking your tour.)
SUGGESTED PACKING LIST: Bring or Rent in Cuzco: hiking poles, rain pants, rain poncho, trekking boots, sandals, warm socks, sweater, thermals, hat, gloves, sun hat, sun block, sun glasses, flashlight/torch, camera, extra batteries and memory card (there is limited to no electricity available during the trek), waterproof bags for your camera, hand sanitizer, personal first aid kit, water bottle. Bring extra cash for snacks, water, gatorade which doubles or triples in price along the trail. Bathing suit for hot springs in Lares town (this activity is available at an additional price).
DON'T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS: Original passport, visa (if applicable), insurance card, personal medications.
Travellers who booked their trip using one passport, then renewed or replaced it afterward, must carry the old passport they used to make the booking or a photocopy with them on the trip.
You will have a guide during the trek and on the Machu Picchu tour. However, during your bus and train transfers you will not be accompanied by a guide.
*Please note that there is a mandatory pre-departure briefing at our Cuzco Headquarters one day prior to departure at 6 PM. You will receive detailed information on your excursion, a list of what to bring and confirm your departure details. Meeting time: 6 PM Bamba Experience is located at: Calle Matara 242, Second Floor. Cuzco, Peru Emergency Contact: Ruth: +51 984 008 440 Sekwanele: +51 957 625 445
As of June 11, 2022, all travelers over 18 years old must have three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. That means two regular doses plus a booster. Passengers from 12 to 17 years old must prove they are vaccinated with two doses. If they do not have a complete scheme, they must present the negative result of an RT-PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before boarding in their country of origin.
Important notes
• Travellers who booked their trip using one passport, then renewed or replaced it afterward, must carry the old passport they used to make the booking or a photocopy with them on the trip.
*Please note that there is a mandatory pre-departure briefing at our Cuzco Headquarters one day prior to departure at 6 PM. You will receive detailed information on your excursion, a list of what to bring and confirm your departure details.
Meeting time: 6 PM
Bamba Experience is located at: Calle Matara 242, Second Floor. Cuzco, Peru
Emergency Contact: Ruth: +51 984 008 440 Sekwanele: +51 957 625 445
About Cusco
Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, is a captivating blend of Indigenous and colonial influences. Known for its well-preserved archaeological sites, vibrant culture, and stunning Andean landscapes, it's a gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. The city's rich history, combined with its lively arts scene and delicious cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination in South America.
Top Attractions
Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley is a stunning region filled with Inca ruins, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-visit for history and nature lovers.
Historical/Nature
Full day
PEN 10-50 (USD 2.50-12.50) depending on the site
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is the iconic Inca citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Its breathtaking views and rich history make it a must-see.
Historical/Adventure
Full day or overnight
PEN 152 (USD 38) for entrance, train tickets vary
Qorikancha
Qorikancha, or the Temple of the Sun, was the most important temple in the Inca Empire. It's a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
PEN 10 (USD 2.50)
Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman is a massive Inca fortress with impressive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. It's a testament to Inca engineering and military might.
Historical
1-2 hours
PEN 10 (USD 2.50)
San Pedro Market
San Pedro Market is a bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. It's a great place to experience local life.
Cultural/Food
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cuy al Horno
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Main Course
Not vegetarian
Lomo Saltado
Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian
Aji de Gallina
Shredded chicken in a creamy, spicy sauce.
Main Course
Not vegetarian
Sopa de Quinoa
Quinoa soup, a nutritious and traditional dish.
Soup
Can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Trekking
Mountain biking
Whitewater rafting
Visiting spas
Exploring parks
Enjoying local cafes
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the city and its archaeological sites. The skies are clear, and temperatures are mild.
5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)
41°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Quechua, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common-sense precautions
Cusco is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Be cautious with street food
Getting there
By air
- Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
By train
San Pedro Station
By bus
Cusco Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Shared taxis (colectivos) are a common and affordable way to get around Cusco. They follow specific routes and can be flagged down.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Easy Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center
San Blas
San Cristobal
Day trips
Pisac
35 km (22 miles) from Cusco • Full day
Pisac is a charming town known for its vibrant market and impressive Inca ruins. It's a great day trip from Cusco.
Ollantaytambo
60 km (37 miles) from Cusco • Full day or overnight
Ollantaytambo is a picturesque town with well-preserved Inca ruins and a gateway to Machu Picchu. It's a must-visit for history and adventure lovers.
Tipon
25 km (16 miles) from Cusco • Half day
Tipon is a beautiful archaeological site with well-preserved Inca terraces and water channels. It's a peaceful and less crowded alternative to other Inca sites.
Festivals
Inti Raymi • June 24
Cusco Festival of Music and Dance • August
Pro tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
- Dress in layers to accommodate changing temperatures
- Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish or Quechua to enhance your experience
- Visit the San Pedro Market early in the morning for the best selection and prices
- Book tickets and train tickets in advance for Machu Picchu and other popular attractions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
