4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Full itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Quishuarani

5:00 a.m. – Pick-Up from Hotel and Drive to Lares
Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. You’ll embark on a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, passing through charming villages and the lush Andean countryside on the way to the town of Lares.
Upon arrival at Lares, relax in the natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties, while enjoying the stunning mountain views. Afterward, meet your trekking team and prepare for the hike.
Start your trek with a gradual ascent through picturesque valleys, passing by small traditional farms and fields of potatoes and quinoa. Along the way, you’ll encounter locals dressed in vibrant traditional clothing, often herding llamas and alpacas.
Stop for a delicious lunch prepared by your trekking chefs, giving you time to rest and enjoy the serene surroundings.
After lunch, continue hiking through the Andean landscape, eventually reaching the village of Quishuarani, known for its beautiful weaving traditions and alpaca herds. Settle into your campsite, where you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and relax under the stars.

• Elevation: 12,467 feet (3,800 meters)
• Hiking Distance: 6 miles (10 kilometers)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Overnight: Campsite near Quishuarani

Day 2: Quishuarani – Pachacutec Pass – Cancha Cancha

Fuel up with a nutritious breakfast before starting the most challenging day of the trek. Today, you’ll ascend to the highest point of the trek, Pachacutec Pass.

After a steep climb, you’ll reach Pachacutec Pass at 15,748 feet (4,800 meters). Celebrate your achievement while taking in the incredible panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and valleys below.

Descend from the pass through a beautiful valley dotted with lakes and waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll encounter more native wildlife, including llamas, alpacas, and the occasional Andean condor. Enjoy lunch en route before continuing downhill to the traditional village of Cancha Cancha.

Arrive at the remote village of Cancha Cancha, one of the last isolated communities where the traditional Quechua way of life remains untouched by modernity. Here, you’ll meet local families, learn about their ancient weaving techniques, and experience their hospitality.

• Elevation: 12,139 feet (3,700 meters)
• Hiking Distance: 7.5 miles (12 kilometers)
• Difficulty Level: Challenging
• Overnight: Campsite near Cancha Cancha

Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Ollantaytambo – Train to Aguas Calientes

6:30 a.m. – Breakfast and Start of the Hike
After breakfast, begin your descent through the lush valleys, passing more agricultural terraces and small farms as you make your way toward the Sacred Valley.

After a few hours of trekking, you’ll reach the village of Huaran in the Sacred Valley. Here, your vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to Ollantaytambo, a charming Inca town known for its well-preserved ruins and cobblestone streets.

Enjoy lunch in Ollantaytambo, with time to explore the town and its archaeological site if desired.

In the afternoon, board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, passing through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley and along the Urubamba River. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening in the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

• Elevation: 6,561 feet (2,000 meters)
• Hiking Distance: 5 miles (8 kilometers)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 4: Machu Picchu Exploration and Return to Cusco

After an early breakfast, take the bus up to Machu Picchu, arriving before the crowds to watch the sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas. Once inside, your guide will take you on a comprehensive tour of this incredible archaeological site, explaining the history, significance, and mysteries of Machu Picchu.

Optional Hike
After your guided tour, you’ll have free time to hike the mountain on your own, for those who have booked in advance, there is an option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for spectacular panoramic views of the site and surrounding mountains.

Take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not Included) or explore the town before your train departs.

In the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a private transfer will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your unforgettable 4-day Lares Trek adventure.

• Elevation at Machu Picchu: 7,972 feet (2,430 meters)
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Overnight: Cusco