Join us on the 4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. This is a unique adventure that promises breathtaking landscapes and cultural immersion. This trek offers an alternative to the classic Inca Trail and Short Inca Trail. Lares Trail Peru takes us through the Lares Valley, a remote area rich in traditional Andean culture.
We will hike through picturesque small towns, pass by stunning high-altitude lakes, and encounter local families who maintain their age-old customs. The journey will allow us to step off the beaten path and experience the untamed beauty of the Urubamba mountain ranges.
Our adventure begins in Cusco, where we will prepare for the trek, ensuring our day packs and gear, such as sleeping bags, are ready. We will then set off into the heart of the Lares Valley, climbing to the highest point at around 4,700 meters (15,420 feet).
From this vantage, we will marvel at panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. As we continue, we will encounter charming villages. Locals here still wear traditional clothing and practice farming techniques passed down through generations. Each step will bring us closer to Machu Picchu, but the journey itself is as rewarding as the destination.
Along the way, we will have time to acclimatize and prevent altitude sickness, while our guides ensure that we are safe and well taken care of. After trekking through serene landscapes, we will reach Ollantaytambo. Here a scenic train ride will take us to Aguas Calientes. From there, we will venture to Machu Picchu, the crowning jewel of this unforgettable experience.
This trek is perfect for those who seek both adventure and cultural discovery. By opting for the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, we will not only witness the ancient marvels of the Inca Empire but also immerse ourselves in the present-day traditions of Andean life. As always, travel insurance is recommended to ensure a smooth and worry-free trip.
Prepare for an incredible journey that blends natural beauty, high-altitude trekking, and rich cultural encounters. The 4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is more than just a hike. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave lasting memories.
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu Includes
Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco Excludes
On your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, expect a journey that combines breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural encounters. You will hike through remote Andean villages, where local families still live according to ancient traditions. The scenery will shift from lush valleys to high-altitude passes, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and rugged landscapes. The trek will challenge you physically, but the rewards of witnessing the untouched beauty of the Lares Valley and interacting with the local communities will be unforgettable.
As you approach the final leg of your adventure, the excitement will build. You will take a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where Machu Picchu awaits. After several days of trekking off the beaten path, reaching the ancient citadel will feel like a triumph. With a guided tour of the ruins, you will learn about the history and mysteries of this world wonder, capping off an incredible experience that blends adventure, culture, and history in one unforgettable journey.
The Lares Trek reaches a maximum altitude of around 4,700 meters (15,420 feet) at Ipsaycocha Pass, the highest point of the trek. The starting altitude is typically 3,200 meters (10,499 feet) in the town of Lares, and the trek involves significant elevation changes as it passes through valleys, high-altitude passes, and Andean villages before descending towards Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.
Yes, the Lares Trek does lead to Machu Picchu, although the trek itself does not go directly to the Inca citadel. The Lares Trek finishes in the town of Ollantaytambo, where trekkers take a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
From Aguas Calientes, trekkers will continue the journey to Machu Picchu, either by bus or on foot, depending on their preference. The Lares Trek combines the adventure of high-altitude trekking with the chance to explore the famous Inca site at the end of the journey.
The Lares Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek due to its high altitudes and varied terrain. While it doesn’t have the steep and prolonged ascents of some other treks, such as the Classic Inca Trail, the altitude—reaching up to 4,700 meters (15,420 feet) at the Ipsaycocha Pass—can make it physically demanding.
The trek involves hiking around 6-8 hours a day over rugged mountain paths, which can be taxing, especially for those not accustomed to high-altitude trekking. However, the Lares Trek is more flexible, with options for shorter or longer routes depending on the group’s pace. Proper acclimatization, fitness, and preparation for cold weather at higher elevations will make the trek more manageable.
Overall, it’s a rewarding adventure for those seeking cultural experiences and scenic beauty, but altitude and physical stamina should be taken into account.
The summit of the Lares Trek is Ipsaycocha Pass, which reaches an altitude of approximately 4,700 meters (15,420 feet). This is the highest point of the trek, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks and high-altitude landscapes. After reaching this summit, the trek begins a gradual descent toward lower elevations and the journey continues towards Ollantaytambo and eventually Machu Picchu.
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The 4-Day Lares Trek with Luan Travel Peru was amazing! Breathtaking views, wonderful guides, and a perfect blend of nature and culture. Highly recommend this unique adventure!
