Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.

$550
/person

4 Days

5+ People

Bus, Hike & Train

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu & Hot Spring 4-Days / 3-Nights.

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu & Hot Spring is one of the most amazing treks, as this route is less traveled compared to the traditional path to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will immerse yourself in Inca culture and history, while also enjoying the unspoiled mountain scenery. In addition, you will have the unique opportunity to bathe in hot springs and connect with Andean families along the route. Ultimately finishing the trip at the majestic Machu Picchu Incan city.

  • Hiking the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu & Hot Springs is one of the most breathtaking options, especially since this route is much less traveled compared to other paths that lead to Machu Picchu, Inca city.
  • Embark on a 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu — a soul-stirring journey through Andean villages, soothing hot springs, and ancient Inca wonders, filled with unforgettable moments.
  • Through this Lares trek experience, you will have the opportunity to learn about the rich Andean culture, gaining deeper insight into its traditions and way of life.

Day 1: Cusco – Huarán – Cancha Cancha / Trek into the Heart of the Andes.

Our Cultural Trek to Machu Picchu begins with an early pick-up at 6:00 a.m., followed by a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley. As dawn breaks over the Andes, we’ll stop at a panoramic viewpoint to admire the valley’s timeless beauty — a true Inca masterpiece of terraces and farmlands.

We then continue to Calca, where you’ll visit the local market and experience authentic Andean life before heading to Huarán, the starting point of our adventure. Here, you’ll meet your muleteers and begin a gentle three-hour hike toward Cancha Cancha, passing peaceful mountain streams and stunning views. Along the way, enjoy a freshly prepared riverside lunch, a perfect balance of flavor and tranquility.

Upon reaching Cancha Cancha (3,900 m / 12,800 ft), you’ll settle into camp and share afternoon tea before visiting a local family, learning about their traditional lifestyle and deep connection to the land.

As night falls, enjoy a warm dinner, review the next day’s plan with your guide, and then drift to sleep beneath the starry Andean sky — a perfect close to your first day of cultural and natural immersion.

  • Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Campsite with restroom facilities
  • Distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
  • Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Cancha Cancha – Kiswarani / Discover Hidden Lakes and Mountain Passes.

Your guide will gently wake you with a warm cup of tea or coffee, the perfect way to begin another inspiring day in the Andes. After a delicious breakfast, we set off on a 7-hour trek, heading northeast through breathtaking mountain scenery.

Soon after, the trail begins to climb steadily toward the highest point of our journey — the Pachacútec Pass (4,500 m / 14,800 ft). As you ascend, be inspired by glaciers, crystal-blue lakes, and herds of alpacas grazing peacefully along the slopes. The towering peaks and deep valleys surrounding you make every step unforgettable. Keep your eyes on the sky — you may spot Caracara hawks or Andean geese gliding gracefully overhead.

After reaching the summit, we begin a two-hour descent toward our lakeside lunch spot, where your chef awaits with a freshly prepared Andean meal. Enjoy this well-deserved break, take in the serenity of the highlands, and recharge for the journey ahead.

Later in the afternoon, we continue toward the Kiswarani community (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). Along the way, you’ll meet local villagers dressed in their traditional attire, guiding llamas and alpacas across the rugged terrain — a vivid glimpse into authentic Andean life.

As you near the camp, the Seven Waterfalls of Kiswarani come into view — a breathtaking sight that signals the day’s end. Upon arrival, everything will be ready for you. Relax with hot drinks and appetizers, then enjoy a hearty dinner before settling into your tent for a peaceful night’s rest, surrounded by the tranquil sounds and starry skies of the Andes.

  • Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Campsite with restroom facilities
  • Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
  • Duration: Approximately 7 hours
  • Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Kiswarani – Lares Hot Springs – Journey to Machu Picchu Town.

After a peaceful night’s rest, you’ll awaken to the crisp mountain air and a warm cup of tea or coffee, the perfect way to start your final day in the Andes. Following a nourishing breakfast, we begin our descent toward the Lares Valley, walking along scenic trails framed by rolling hills and traditional farmlands. As we make our way down, you’ll notice the landscape gradually transforming — from rugged highlands to lush valleys dotted with native flora and small Andean villages.

After approximately three hours of hiking, we arrive at the Lares Hot Springs, a hidden gem surrounded by dramatic peaks. Here, you’ll have time to soak in the natural thermal pools, allowing the warm mineral waters to relax your muscles and rejuvenate your spirit — the perfect reward after days of trekking through the Andes.

Later, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch near the hot springs, prepared by our trekking chef. Then, it’s time to say goodbye to our trekking team before boarding our private transport to Ollantaytambo (approximately 2.5 hours). There, we’ll have dinner before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening — resting and preparing for the unforgettable experience awaiting you at Machu Picchu the next day.

  • Included Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
  • Accommodation (3★): Andino Hotel
  • Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles
  • Duration: Approximately 2 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Discover the Wonder of Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco.

After an early breakfast at your hotel, board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu for an unforgettable visit to this world wonder. Your expert guide will lead a captivating two-hour tour through the citadel’s most iconic sectors, unveiling the fascinating design and purpose behind its agricultural, residential, and religious areas.

Once you’ve explored the marvels of Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train schedule, you may also have time to stroll through the town or browse local textile shops for handcrafted souvenirs.

In the afternoon, board the Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo (at 2:55 or 3:20 p.m.) and enjoy the scenic ride along the Urubamba River, surrounded by lush valleys and dramatic canyon walls. Upon arrival, your private driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, where you’ll arrive around 7:00 p.m., closing your journey with lasting memories of an extraordinary adventure.

  • Meal Included: Breakfast
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • briefing: You will meet your tour guide, at our meeting at 7:00 pm.
  • pick up and drop off at your hotel in Cusco.
  • Private Transport: during your trip.
  • Official tour Guide: English-speaking.
  • Personal tents: 2 nights camping in the mountains with comfortable equipment, Dining and kitchen tents, tables, and chairs.
  • Foam mats or sleeping pads: to put under your sleeping bag.
  • 1 Duffle Bag: Where you can put your personal belongings, 4 kilograms.
  • Horses and muleteers, Professional Trekking Cook: In charge of preparing all the meals along the journey.
  • Meals: 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 dinners, and Snacks.
  • All Entrance tickets: Lares Hot Spring, Lares Trail, Salt Mine, Machu Picchu.
  • First breakfast near the Hot spring (Lares)
  • Every afternoon 1 hour before dinner the cooks will let on the dining table popcorn, biscuits, coffee, chocolate, different Types of teas, and hot water.
  • Daily snacks – Days 1, 2, and 3: Our Snacks consist of local fruits.
  • Water grooming: Each morning, warm water with a towel.
  • Medical kit: Our crew brings the First-aid kit including an emergency oxygen bottle.
  • Tourist Train tickets Round Trip.
  • 1 Night in Aguas Calientes Pueblo.
  • Bus Ticket one way up to Machupicchu.
  • Sleeping Bags: (you can hire from our company for $25.
  • Walking Sticks: you can hire from our company $20.
  • Last Day: Lunch and Dinner.
  • Travel insurance is recommended.
  • Gratuities for your crew: Cooks, horse herders, and guides are at your wish.
  • Additional costs or delays caused by management are out of control like landscape, bad weather conditions, Cases of itinerary modification with a view to safety concerns, illness, change of government policy, and Political instability strikes.
  • Expenses are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Drinks, beer, soda, etc.
  • Your Original passport.
  • A sleeping bag you can hire from our company.
  • Sturdy Hiking boots.
  • Warm clothes and trekking pants. Not jeans.
  • Flashlight with extra batteries, camera.
  • Sun protection: sunscreen: sun hat: sunglasses.
  • Thermals: wool socks: Gloves/scarf and woolen hat for cold nights.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Rain poncho: a good rain jacket.
  • Toiletries – toilet paper – small towel.
  • Bathing clothes for the hot springs.
  • Personal medical kit.
  • Extra money for souvenirs, and drinks.
  • Trekking poles you can hire from our company

We will contact you as soon as possible, usually within 2 hours by WhatsApp and up to 24 hours by e-mail.

Thank you for your time and interest in touring with Peruvian Culture Tours.

  • WhatsApp / Phone: +51 927628548
  • Emergencies:  +51 927628548
  • peruvianculturetours@gmail.com

Follow the steps below to book the tour:

  1. Select a day from the calendar.
  2. Enter the number of passengers and enter the required data.
  3. Enter the additional information.
  4. Choose the payment method.

Prices

  • Adult Price: $550 per person.
  • Student Price: $530 per student.

Discount:

We offer a special discount of $20 for students. Students must have the original student card issued by the university up to 25 years of age,

Contains the following: university information, personal information of the student, photo of the student, and effective date no later than December 31 of the current year.

  • Huayna Picchu: Tickets need to be booked in advance and cost an additional $75 per person.
  • Montaña: Tickets need to be booked in advance and cost an additional $75 per person.
Optional
  • Sleeping Bag: $25
  • Walking Sticks (Pair): $15

Huayna Picchu: This is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 55-minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep if you are scared of heights. You would do this after you tour Machu Picchu. The cost is $75. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance due to popularity. Please understand that the weather is out of our control.

About booking and payment form

To book your trip (trek or by train), a deposit of 50% of the total price is required. This deposit is essential to secure train and Machu Picchu entrance tickets, all subject to availability. Once your deposit is confirmed, the remaining balance is due upon arrival in Cusco, either 48 hours before departure or during your briefing. If the balance is not paid before departure, participation in the trip will not be possible. Final acceptance is contingent on receiving and reviewing all forms, documents, and payments.

About trip itineraries

All Peruvian Culture Tours hikes may be subject to itinerary changes due to various circumstances. Peruvian Culture Tours reserves the right to cancel or modify any trip based on river, road, weather conditions, or political climate. Additionally, trips may be canceled due to client unsuitability, including factors like age, ill-health, poor fitness, or intoxication.

Any missed tours due to these circumstances (weather, political climate) cannot be refunded or recuperated. However, the price and duration of a hiking trip will not change once you’re registered. Payments are non-refundable for itinerary changes or public land closures. If a trip is canceled due to circumstances beyond our control, a trip credit equal to the full amount paid will be issued.

Change policy

If you wish to change the date of departure/ and or route of your trek after making the reservation/deposit, there will be a $50 per person fee to make the change, except if the change is made in the 48 hours prior to the trek, when the change will cost $100 per person.

Cancelations by cliente:

Cancelation of tour once you have received a written confirmation incurs a loss of booking deposit -Non-refundable booking deposit.

  • Cancelation of tour within 45 to 22 days before the date of tour departure incurs a loss of 70% of the total tour cost.
  • Cancelation of tour within 21 to 9 days before departure incurs a loss of 80% of total tour cost.
  • Cancelation of tour within 8 days to 48 hours before departure incurs a loss of 100% of total tour cost.
  • Peruvian Culture Tours does not take responsibility for additional costs due to unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophes, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal items, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
Medical releases

We require medical releases for prospective guests over 70 years of age and for various circumstances such as the history of cardiovascular disease, chronic illness, and other conditions and factors.

Let know to the guides if you consume any medical tab, pill, or chronic illness to prevent any accident or emergency case, if you have the first aid kit brought for the trail will be very useful for member hikers.

Travel insurance

For your protection, we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Travel insurance provides you with trip cancellation or interruption, travel delay, medical expenses, emergency assistance, and baggage delay coverage to protect your financial investment. Medical coverage purchased with your policy will also satisfy our requirement for health insurance.

How to book?

Reservation Form

Fill out the reservation form, this information is important to contact you.

Travel Date

Choose the date you want, for this tour we have daily departures.

Payments

We have Payments via credit or debit card and PayPal. Make your reservation effective using one of the mentioned options.

From
Was
$600
$550

Essential: Small Group service, Lares Trek to Machu Picchu & Hot Spring 4-Days / 3-Nights.is available all year.
Daily departures! (Minimum 2 people).

Students have a discount of $ 20 dollars per person. Valid with your university student card.

The difficulty is moderate, Before embarking on a Moderate Lares Trail to Machu Picchu plus Salt mines you should be at least partly acclimatized to the high altitude of the Andes as it affects your oxygenation, energy levels, and hydration.  

Availability

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu & Hot Spring 4-Days / 3-Nights. It is available all year. The best season to hike is from April to September.

Reviews
Any questions?

    Similar tours

    $498

    /person
    Classic tour in 2 days

    Chinchero, Moray, Salt mines and Machu Picchu tour 2Days/1Night

    $390

    /person
    Adventure in 4 days

    Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu 4Days/3Nights

    $400

    /person
    Tour in 2 days

    Guinia Pig Sacred Valley biking Machupicchu 2Days/1Night

    $550

    /person
    Alternative trek of 5 days

    Salkantay Trek 5Days/4Nights