Lares Trek to Machu Picchu: A Stunning Alternative Hike with Andean Village Visits

Embark on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, an alternative hike that takes you through Andean villages and offers stunning mountain views. Experience the authentic culture of Cusco and explore the lost city of the Incas.

Duration: 4 days
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights

Cusco - Pumahuanca - Puyoc (Base Camp).

Sacred Valley of the Incas - We leave early in the morning to Sacred Valley of the Incas (Pumahuanca) where you start hiking all the way up the valley to get the first lunch place, covering approx 14 km in total, along the way there is a small Inca site CHUPANI to explore, native plants, spectacular rocky…

What's Included
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
What's Not Included
  • Tips and sleeping bags & poles)
Additional Information

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a remarkable alternative to the Inca Trail hike. This route takes you on a less trodden path, with stops at traditional Andean settlements, all while encircled by extraordinary mountain peaks and lakes. Our journey commences from the sacred valley of the Incas, moving towards the Lares Hot springs. This exceptional trek…

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(16 Ratings)
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Inversioness426
Jan 5, 2025
A transformative journey through the Andes - The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu was more than just a hike; it was a transformative journey that touched my soul and left an indelible mark on my heart. This 4-day adventure through the remote and breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes was an immersion into the rich cultural heritage of the Quechua people, a test of physical endurance, and a profound encounter with the natural world. From the moment our group assembled in Cusco, a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation filled the air. We were a diverse group, hailing from different corners of the globe, united by a shared thirst for adventure and a yearning to experience the magic of Machu Picchu. Our guide, Marco, a native Quechua with a warm smile and a wealth of knowledge, set the tone for the journey ahead, emphasizing the importance of respect, cultural sensitivity, and environmental consciousness. The first day of the trek took us through picturesque villages nestled amidst rolling hills and vibrant green valleys. We were greeted by curious children with rosy cheeks and shy smiles, women weaving intricate textiles on traditional looms, and men tending to their flocks of llamas and alpacas. The warmth and hospitality of the Quechua people were heartwarming, offering a glimpse into a way of life deeply connected to the land and their ancestral traditions. As we ascended higher into the Andes, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of rugged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and crystalline lakes. The air grew thinner, the trails more challenging, but the breathtaking scenery fueled our determination. Marco shared fascinating insights into the flora and fauna of the region, pointing out medicinal plants used by the Quechua people and identifying the soaring condors circling overhead. The campsites were strategically chosen, offering panoramic views that took our breath away. Falling asleep under a canopy of stars, with the Milky Way stretching across the inky black sky, was an experience that words cannot adequately describe. The silence was broken only by the gentle rustling of the wind and the occasional distant bleating of sheep. One of the most rewarding aspects of the Lares Trek was the opportunity to interact with the local communities. We visited remote villages where time seemed to stand still, sharing coca tea with families in their humble homes and learning about their traditional weaving techniques. The children were particularly curious, eager to practice their English and share their laughter with us. These encounters were a powerful reminder of the human connection that transcends cultural differences. The physical challenge of the trek was undeniable. We traversed steep mountain passes, navigated rocky trails, and crossed gushing streams. There were moments when my legs burned, my lungs ached, and I questioned my ability to continue. But the support and encouragement of my fellow trekkers, the unwavering positivity of Marco, and the sheer determination to reach Machu Picchu kept me going. The final day of the trek was filled with anticipation. As we approached the Sun Gate, the iconic entrance to Machu Picchu, a collective gasp of awe echoed through the group. The sight of the ancient city, bathed in the golden light of dawn, was breathtaking. Tears welled up in my eyes as I realized the magnitude of what we had accomplished. Exploring Machu Picchu with Marco was like stepping into a living museum. He explained the function of each structure, from the Temple of the Sun to the Royal Tomb, weaving captivating stories about the Inca emperors, their rituals, and their ingenious architectural feats. I was awestruck by the precision of the stonework, the intricate terraces, and the ingenious water management systems. The Lares Trek was more than just a physical challenge; it was a journey of self-discovery. I learned to appreciate the simplicity of life in the Andes, the resilience of the human spirit, and the profound connection between humans and nature. I returned home with a renewed sense of gratitude, a deeper appreciation for the beauty of our planet, and a heart filled with memories that will last a lifetime. The Lares Trek is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization and the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Andes. It is a journey that challenges, inspires, and transforms. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to anyone seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and a profound connection with the natural world. Perfect 4 day hike to Machu Picchu with Lares trip in Perú!
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Olgha098
Apr 15, 2023
Nice adventure to Lares Valley - Lares trek to Machu Picchu was amazing \./ \°/ The trekking to the natural springs of Lares valley was good experience. The team gave us a nice treat and the meals were very delicious - Thánks Lares trip team!
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Wendycg9794bs
Apr 13, 2023
We had fantastic expedition to Machu Picchu. - We had a great time hiking to Machu Picchu with Lares Trip :) Our communication was clear from the biginning to the end. The Trek from Sacred Valley to the natural hot springs was impressive. We saw lakes, sharpy mountains, alpacas, llamas, native people and finished in the hot springs. After finishing the hike, we took prívate car to Ollantaytambo town, then we took train to Machu Picchu village where we spent the night and the last which was day four was to visit Machu Picchu site. Along the expedition, we were with horsemen, chef, assistant chef, and our tour guide Rubén. The crew gave us a great service. The food was impressive, horsemen were very friendly and our tour was very informative. We highly recommend hiking the Lares Trek with this locally owmed company!
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Jamesrolerson
Dec 29, 2021
Great Lares Trek experience to Machu Picchu! - Great 4 day Lares Trek experience to Machu Picchu with LARES TRIP. We were so lucky! After searching hours on google, we found a local tour operator who gave us excellent service. We had very well experienced team as cook, assistant cook, horsemen and tour guide. The food was fantastic, the horsemen very helpful and the tour Werner very informative. Thanks our team, we have survived the Lares trek to Machu Picchu and we highly recommend Lares Trip to Travel with!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Felipat10
Dec 3, 2021
4 day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu AMAZING! - We booked the four day hike to Machu Picchu with Lares Trip and we had a lifetime experience. The cook , the horsemen and your guide very well organised crew. Highly recommend this company to visit Machu Picchu and the food is fantastic! Thanks Juan C.
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Tingm295
Sep 23, 2021
Amazing Lares Trekking to Machu Picchu - I and my family booked 4 day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. We did not know what comapny hike with! Likely, we were reading reviews and finally booked with Lares Tripo travel agency. The trip was amazing, our crew had 1 cook, 2 assistant cooks, 3 horsemen and our guide Mauro. The food was excellent prepared by Sebastian, the horsemen very helpful and our tour guide was very informative on the way to Machu Picchu. My family had fantastic time with Lare trip! Thanks.....
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Lourend71
Sep 13, 2021
Amazing Lares Trek & Food - The Lare trek 4 days was spectacular! We had wonderfull time with Lares Trip a local company who organised very well our expedition to conquer the Andes. The team was very well trained, the camping gear was good quality, amazing food prepared by Dio and our guide Ruben was very informative. We highly recommend this tour local company.
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Kimberlytho
Sep 7, 2021
Great Food on the way to Machu Picchu - We had to wait more than one year to finilize our dream in one of the most beautiful places of the world, Machu Picchu. I booked with Lares trip the amazing 4 day Lares trek to Machu Picchu. Everything was fantastic, the great food that prepared our cook Dio, Jeronimo the most friendly horsemen, and our mountain guide Henry was very informative on the way to Lares hot springs and Machupicchu. The best local operator, thanks Henry and will highly recommend this agency to my friends!
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Charlmark1
Jul 31, 2021
Wow amazing hike to Machu Picchu! - We booked Lares trek 4 days before pandemic but we had to postpone after covid19. Fortunately, I and my wife just finished this impressive hike. The food, the workers, the equipment and the guide were fantastic. Highly recommended this local company!.
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Tvillegashorsen
Dec 18, 2020
"4 day Lares trekking to Machu Picchu fantastico" - the 4 day hike to the hot spring of Lares valley was our favorite. Along the trek were amazing views, lagoons, valleys and after walking three days without shower was unbelievable. Our guide Henry was very informative, the chef very genius, horsemen very friendly and the company had good camping equipments for that terrible rain. Thanks Henry and your fantastic team!
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