Summary
Important Details
- Frequency: Scheduled departures (check availability)
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Start time: Day 1 – 05:00 h
- Return time: Day 4 – Approx. 20:30 h
- Mode: Shared group
- Difficulty level: Medium – High (high-altitude trekking)
Why Travel with Peru Coyana?
The Lares Valley trek is a magical alternative for those who wish to discover the deep Peru, far from conventional tourist routes. Over 4 days, you’ll pass through authentic Andean communities, high-altitude lakes, majestic glaciers, and fertile valleys — a journey that blends breathtaking landscapes with a deep connection to the living culture of the Andes.
The trek culminates in a visit to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. This adventure is perfect for travelers who value nature, history, and cultural immersion — without missing out on exploration and discovery.
Itinerary Summary
- Day 1: Cusco – Lares – Wacawasi (camp)
- Day 2: Wacawasi – Ipsaycocha Lake (camp)
- Day 3: Ipsaycocha – Huylloc – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes (hotel)
- Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco (return to hotel)
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Cusco → Lares → Wacawasi
We pick you up early from your hotel and travel to the Sacred Valley, crossing the province of Calca until reaching Lares (3,261 m.a.s.l.), where you’ll have the option to enjoy the natural hot springs (entrance optional). After lunch, we begin a 2.5-hour hike to Wacawasi (3,800 m.a.s.l.), our first campsite. Along the way, we’ll meet local villagers and learn about their daily lives and traditions.
Day 2 – Wacawasi → Ipsaycocha Lake
After breakfast, we begin our ascent to Condor Pass (4,100 m.a.s.l.), the highest point of the trek. On the way, we’ll meet local weavers and see traditional techniques for crafting ponchos and blankets. After reaching the pass, we are rewarded with views of Mount Veronica (5,750 m.a.s.l.). We then descend gradually to Ipsaycocha Lake, where we set up our lakeside campsite.
Day 3 – Ipsaycocha → Huylloc → Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes
We begin a gentle descent through the valley to the community of Huylloc, where we have lunch. From there, we hike to the archaeological site of Pumamarka, with its impressive Inca terraces. We then continue to Ollantaytambo, where we board the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. Free evening and overnight in a comfortable hotel.
Day 4 – Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Cusco
Early breakfast at 05:00 a.m., followed by a bus ride to Machu Picchu’s entrance. We arrive just in time to watch the sunrise over the citadel. Our guided tour (1.5 to 2 hours) covers the Sun Temple, Intihuatana, Temple of the Condor, Sacred Rock, and more. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore or hike to Huayna Picchu (optional, with advance booking). In the afternoon, we take the train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco.
Includes / Not Included
What’s Included in the Lares Trek?
- Professional bilingual guide for the entire route
- Private transport from Cusco to Lares
- Train ticket Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
- 2 nights camping (tents for 2 people)
- 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
- Pack horses for gear and food
- Cook and camp assistant
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- First aid kit and oxygen
- Transfers from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
What’s Not Included?
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- First breakfast (Day 1) and last lunch (Day 4)
- Entrance to Lares hot springs (approx. S/10.00)
- Huayna Picchu entrance (USD 10 – book in advance)
- Personal expenses and tips
Tips
Recommendations for Your Lares Trek
- Bring a small backpack and sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Comfortable warm clothing and trekking shoes
- Rain poncho, sunscreen, and hat
- Insect repellent and hygiene products
- Camera with good battery life
- Cash in soles for small purchases
- Original passport or valid ID
- Note: This trek is perfect for those seeking deep cultural immersion, unforgettable landscapes, and fewer crowds. We strongly recommend proper acclimatization in Cusco before the trek.
