Photo gallery
Lares Trek photos
Tour overview
Lares Trek at a glance
The cultural trek. You walk among Quechua communities where weaving and llama herding still shape daily life, soak in the Lares hot springs, and finish at Machu Picchu.
Our Cusco team checks the services, timings and availability for your dates and sends the options in a written quote.
Journey highlights
Highlights of the Lares Trek
- Quechua weaving communities and llama herds
- Natural hot springs in Lares
- High passes and glacier lakes far from the crowds
- Guided visit of Machu Picchu
Detailed itinerary
Lares Trek itinerary: day by day
Times and services are indicative. Your final schedule is confirmed in your written quote.
Day 1 — Cusco to the Lares hot springs and Huacahuasi
The drive crosses the Sacred Valley and climbs over the mountains to Lares, where you relax in natural hot springs surrounded by green peaks. After lunch, an easy walk leads up the valley to the weaving community of Huacahuasi, where families still wear traditional dress and herd llamas and alpacas. You camp near the village and, if they are free, meet local weavers at work.
Day 2 — Ipsaycocha Pass and the high lakes
The big day of the trek. You climb steadily to the Ipsaycocha Pass, with views of glaciers and turquoise lagoons, and stop by the lake of the same name. The descent follows a valley of stone corrals and grazing herds to the Patacancha area, where you camp near a farming community.
Day 3 — Down to Ollantaytambo and the train
A short morning walk takes you through the Patacancha valley before a transfer to Ollantaytambo. You have time to visit the Inca fortress before the afternoon train to Aguas Calientes and a night in a hotel.
Day 4 — Machu Picchu
An early bus takes you up for your guided tour of Machu Picchu. In the afternoon you take the train back to Ollantaytambo and a transfer to Cusco.
What's included
What's included in the Lares Trek
Included
- transfers
- guide, cook and horsemen
- camping gear
- meals
- hot springs and community fees
- hotel night
- Machu Picchu ticket
- bus
- trains
Not included
- Sleeping bag and walking poles (available to rent)
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Tips
Plan with confidence
Duration, difficulty and price
Good to know
Good to know before you go
Entrance route
This tour uses the Machu Picchu circuit available for your date, confirmed in your quote. See Machu Picchu circuits explained.
Planning guides
Planning guides
What to bring
What to pack
- Original passport
- Daypack of 25–30 liters and a refillable 2-liter water bottle
- Sleeping bag rated to −10 °C (or rent one)
- Warm layers, wool hat and gloves, rain jacket
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel for the hot springs
- Headlamp, sunscreen, sunglasses and cash in soles for the springs, crafts and tips
Carry the original passport used to book. Check your confirmed ticket and operator instructions for current baggage and site rules.
Frequently asked questions
Lares Trek FAQs
Is Lares easier than Salkantay?
Yes. It is shorter, with lower passes, and suits hikers with average fitness.
Can I buy weavings along the trail?
Yes. Buying directly from the weavers supports the communities you visit.
Can I combine Lares with the Inca Trail?
Yes. See our Lares & Short Inca Trail 5 Days.
Do I need a permit for the Lares Trek?
No. Lares runs all year, including February, and dates are easy to secure at short notice.
How high does the Lares Trek go?
The highest point is the Ipsaycocha Pass, at about 4,450 m, on Day 2. Nights near the pass are cold, often below freezing from May to August.
Can we bring gifts for the communities?
Small gifts such as school supplies or fruit are welcome. Ask your guide how to share them respectfully.
What is the minimum age?
8 years.
Tripadvisor reviews
What travelers say about our team
Reviews of Traveleez Peru SAC, the operator of Machu-Picchu.tours, on our Tripadvisor profile Machu Picchu by Traveleez.
★★★★★
Professional attention and impeccable support
“Always responding quickly, clearly, and professionally.”
Translated from Spanish
★★★★★
Highschool’s travel buddies to Machu Picchu
“Traveleez team are so helpful in assisting our needs with their prompt response.”
★★★★★
Incredible experience
“An unforgettable experience. Super punctual, good transportation, and very good treatment.”
Translated from Spanish
