Lares Trek 4 Days: The Best Cultural Alternative to the Inca Trail

Many of the houses in Huacahuasi are built of stone and have thatched roofs. The local people produce beautiful, colourful fabrics. This morning, we learnt about weaving techniques and admired their high-quality products, such as ponchos and 'chullos' (woollen hats), as well as other garments. We will start trekking later today after having lunch in the village.

After climbing for around two hours, we reach the summit of Ipsaycocha Pass (4,500 m), the highest point of the trek. There, we can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. We then descend gently for about an hour until we reach our second campsite, which is located near the beautiful Ipsaycocha Lake. If we are lucky, we may catch sight of Andean geese, Puna ibises and other birds of the wetlands around the lake. We then continue downhill until we reach our camp in Patacancha (3,750 m/12,377 ft), where we enjoy tea and dinner.

We continue our journey through Patacancha village. The people of the village are locally known as 'Huayruros' because the colours of their ponchos are reminiscent of the huayruro seed: red and black. We have the opportunity to view textiles made by the villagers. Their high-quality weavings are renowned for their intricate designs, which reflect aspects of their everyday lives and culture.

We visit various local communities, such as Willoq (3,600 m/11,877 ft), a traditional Andean village where the locals still wear traditional clothing and are proud to maintain their cultural identity. Then we continue downhill to Pallata. Next, we head uphill to explore the astonishing Inca site of Pumamarca. Finally, we take transport to Ollantaytambo, passing farming terraces and an ancient cemetery along the way.

We arrive in Ollantaytambo in time for lunch. In the afternoon, we took the train to Aguas Calientes (6,727 ft/2,040 m), enjoying spectacular views of the changing countryside from the Andean highlands to the lush, tropical vegetation of lower-lying Aguas Calientes. We will stay the night at a hostel here.

On the final day of our expedition, we set off before dawn on a demanding two-hour climb towards the Machu Picchu citadel. The physical effort is rewarded when we catch our first glimpse of the 'Lost City of the Incas' as it emerges into the morning light.

Next, we will embark on a two-and-a-half-hour guided tour to uncover the mysteries and engineering behind each architectural sector. To guarantee an optimal experience, the tour prioritises access through Circuit 2, the technical route which allows a thorough exploration of the entire site. However, if this option is unavailable due to high demand, the visit will be organised through Circuits 1 or 3, which offer equally impressive views of the complex.

Similarly, you will have the chance to climb the peaks that guard the ancient city, but this requires an additional reservation. It is also essential to remember the access logistics: the 45 minute climb to the breathtaking Huayna Picchu summit requires the purchase of an exclusive Circuit 3A ticket in advance, while the hour-and-a-half hike to Machu Picchu Mountain requires a Circuit 1A reservation.

After exploring the site at your own pace, we will begin the descent to the town of Aguas Calientes. For this section, we strongly recommend walking down gently to enjoy the lush surroundings, although you also have the option of taking the shuttle bus (not included, costing approximately $12 USD for a one-way trip).

Once you arrive in town, you will have free time to recharge your batteries by sampling the excellent local cuisine. You can also take the opportunity to relax in the town's well-known hot springs (entry costs 10 soles and is not included in the package). In the afternoon, we will board the return train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy station, where private transport will be waiting to take you to Cusco.

Pre - Trek briefing

A day before the trek, our guide will visit your hotel to brief you. They will provide you with a duffel bag for your personal belongings.

Please note that it is very important to let us know where you will be staying in Cusco.

Professional Guides

Experienced bilingual tour guide. Having grown up in this region, they are passionate about teaching others about their heritage. They are both fun and professional and will ensure that you are safe and happy.

Please note that groups of up to eight participants have one tour guide, while groups of more than eight participants have two tour guides.

Accomodation

Three nights' camping and one night in a hotel in Machu Picchu.

Our tents are from the Eureka Mountain brand and are designed for four seasons. We provide tents with a capacity of three people; however, only two trek participants use them! This gives you more space and comfort. For single travellers, we provide a tent with a capacity of two people.

We also offer a hotel in Machu Picchu with a private bathroom and hot water, with single, double or matrimonial rooms available.

Inflatable sleeping Mattress - Thermarest mattress

We provide inflatable mattresses from the Therm-A-Rest brand. These 3 cm high mattresses will ensure sufficient insulation from the cold ground!

This inflatable mattress will make sleeping on the trail more comfortable! 

Sleeping Bag

We only use feather sleeping bags that are suitable for temperatures down to -16°C. This means you don't need to worry about the cold, as the temperature at night on each trek only reaches a maximum of -5°C!
 

Entrance

The Lares Valley and Machu Picchu were included.

A professional Cook + Meals

Three breakfasts, three lunches, three dinners, two afternoon hot drinks and a snack every morning.

Our chefs at Machu Picchu cook delicious meals that have received rave reviews from previous trekkers. If you are a vegetarian or have any dietary requirements, please let us know in advance and our chef will prepare special food for you. There is no extra cost for a vegetarian meal option. Food is typically served buffet-style.

Water

Machu Picchu T will supply all the water needed during the trek, except for the first four hours when you will need to bring your own. This water will be boiled, filtered, and cooled before being distributed. You must supply your own water bottles or CamelBak. We recommend carrying about 3 litres. We will refill our water bottles at each meal.

Muleteer + Horses or Llamas

Our horses will carry all the camping equipment for your trek, as well as 7 kg of your personal belongings and a sleeping bag. 

There is an emergency horse that you can ride if you feel unwell or are a little slower.

The muleteer is responsible for taking the horses; "Machu Picchu T" does not permit this exploitation! We guarantee that our horses carry no more than is permitted by Peruvian law!

Tourist Train

Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo (Inca Rail): You can choose the time of your return train to Cusco.

The train leaves Ollantaytambo for Machu Picchu at 12:36, arriving at 14:00.

The return train from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo leaves at 14:55.

If you take the 14:55 train, you will arrive in Cusco at 18:00.

If you take the 19:00 train, you will arrive in Cusco at 22:00.

During the high season, it is very important to let us know in advance because spaces are very difficult to find.

Cooking Equipment

We provide tables and chairs, a cooking tent with cooking equipment, dining and toilet tents, and bottled gas.

Machu Picchu Bus

A shuttle bus runs from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town.

Private Transportation

An early morning transfer by private bus will take you to Lares, the starting point of the trek.

The train service finishes at Ollantaytambo train station, where our driver will be waiting to take you to Cusco.

First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle

Our guide has received first aid training from a doctor. They will always carry a first-aid kit to treat minor medical issues such as traveller's diarrhoea, cuts and grazes, and will also carry oxygen.

Extra equipment for your hike included 

• A pair of hiking poles
• A blanket per person
• A pillow
• Rain ponchos
• A duffel bag for your personal belongings
• A 'Machu Picchu T'-shirt

• Breakfast on day 1 and lunch on the last day;
• Travel insurance;
• Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain ($80);
• Shuttle bus between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes ($12 one way);
• Tips for local staff (please note that it is customary to give tips in Peru, but not obligatory);
• Any other extras not mentioned.

Solo Traveler: If you have booked the 'Solo Traveller' option for this tour, please note that you will receive your own single tent and a single room in Aguas Calientes.

Local flights: The price of the trek does not include any local flights!

Day 1 - 2: We will pick you up from your hotel at 06:00 and take you to the Lares community and hot springs. We will then continue the hike to the Huacawasi camp on the Lares Trek. The next day, we will wake up early and start the trek to Lares. We will enjoy the views of Ipsacocha Lake and the beautiful landscapes of the high mountains. You can choose between a homestay in Patacancha or camping.

Day 3: We have breakfast at a homestay, where we experience Andean culture. In the afternoon, we will take the train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu

Day 4: We wake up very early and continue our trek to the Lost City. We take a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and in the afternoon we take a train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco.

The camping equipment for the Lares Trek will be returned to Cusco on the third day. You will need to give your sleeping bag and mattress to the chef.

• A double tent is provided for the first two nights of the camping trip.
• A double room is provided in Aguas Calientes town on the third night.

The tour price for this trek to Lares included the carriage of seven kilos of personal items by horse. You will need to carry a daypack containing your camera, water bottle, snacks, cold-weather clothing, a poncho (in case of rain, which is unlikely in the dry season from May to October, but it's still a good idea to be prepared) and anything else you might need before lunch, as the horses will not be walking alongside you.

You will collect your bag at lunchtime, after which it will be waiting for you in your tent at the campsite.

This trek includes the bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, and a guide will be provided on the third day.

For trekking, you will need a backpack or luggage

Generally speaking, you should pack as lightly as possible. The horses will carry your luggage from Lares on the first day to Patacancha on the second day. On the three-day hike, you will take your luggage by train to Aguas Calientes. You are expected to carry your own luggage for up to 10 minutes. We recommend keeping the weight under 7 kg (14 lb). You will need to carry clothes and a sleeping bag.

It is very important that you take the best backpacker cover, because the weather on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu changes every day and we can’t predict whether it will rain or not. If you don't have one, we recommend putting your clothes, sleeping bag and other personal equipment in a plastic bag.

Wear appropriate clothing on this hike

During the day, hiking trousers and T-shirts are recommended, along with sweaters, fleeces and waterproof jackets. It is advisable to keep light rain gear in your daypack, such as a rain poncho, rain jacket and/or rain trousers, as the weather can change suddenly and it can rain unexpectedly. At night, you will need warm clothing; down jackets are useful for this, otherwise a fleece and a jacket will suffice. On the third day, if it is sunny, convertible hiking trousers are useful as they can be switched into shorts if necessary. Machu Picchu has a warm climate, only getting cold at night. The rest of the necessary items are included in the 'What we recommend that you bring' list.

What should you bring?

• Passport original
• Original International Student Identity Card (in case you have applied for a student discount)
• Cash in soles no dollars
• A backpack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek
• Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)
• Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended
• Sandals or jogging shoes for a higher comfort while at camp
• Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping
• Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
• Camera and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions)
• Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
• Sun block
• After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
• Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – no malaria risk has been reported
• Handkerchiefs
• Toilet paper
• Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc. Please note that we do provide a daily morning snack and our meal service is very complete and well supplied. This recommendation applies for all clients being used to a specific snack, as it may happen that it is not included in our selection
• Water container and water for the first morning. Important notice: plastic water bottles are no longer allowed into Machu Picchu. Plastic water containers (ie. Nalgene) or metal ones are recommended
• Optionally: water- sterilizing tablets in case you pick up water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink and has not reported any health problem so far
• Small towel
• Swimsuit (if you wish to go to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
• Optional: walking sticks or poles (rubber covers required in order not to damage archaeological sites).

Climate: The highland region of Cusco experiences distinct winter and summer seasons. Winter days (June to August) are sunny and warm, but temperatures drop to near freezing at night. The rainy season is from January to March. December and January are two of the best months for trekking, with only the occasional shower and lots of flowers in bloom.

• Walking sticks or trekking poles: USD 20 for both.
  You can take up to 7 kilos of personal belongings with you, which are carried by horses. If you would like to take more items, there is an additional charge of USD 20 for each extra 3 kilos. You can request this at reception when you check in.
  If you are unsure about walking on this trek, you can hire extra emergency horses at a cost of USD 80.