The Lares trekking route is the most scenic and culturally enhancing trail you will ever experience. Our four-day trek through the Lares trekking to Machu Picchu takes you to isolated villages, spectacular snow covered mountain peaks, with striking lakes, rivers and streams snaking their way through the most tranquil and serene places in the Andes Mountains. What makes this trek the most unique and special is your encounters with indigenous communities, a truly culturally enriching experience, that can only be exclusively experienced on this amazing trail. Learn about the Inca culture from their decedents, who still maintain their ancestor’s way of life, herding llamas and alpacas, weaving and farming using ancient technics and using the star constellation to guide their planting and harvesting seasons.
This trek will enhance your visual senses and take you back to a time when life was as simple as could be.
There are several factors that make this trek a great alternative hike to the 4 day Inca Trail.
In brief, the best time to hike the Lares trek to Machu Picchu is during the dry season from April to September. Also, just at the start of wet season from October to November, expect rain, but its not as frequent. Also, there is fewer tourists onthe trail, making the hike pretty tranquil. December to March is the more intense raini season, so rainy days are almost gauranteed. During wet season however, the nights are much warmer compared to dry season. Overall dry season is the preferable time of the year. On the other hand, it is still possible to embark on this cultural trek during the wet season as well.
Take the Lares Trek to get to know about life in the Peruvian Andes mountain, because you will witness a more authentic way of life of the Quechua People living in this part of Cusco; and there you will have a chance to learn about their wisdom, religion as well as philosophy. Besides only mountain villages and the local culture, enjoy the clear blue lakes, valleys inhabited by Alpacas, the alluring mountain peaks, and many marvels this trek has yet to offer.
We highly recommend to spend at least 2 days before starting the Lares trek.
We say “almost anyone” because we mean that there are is no specific required level of fitness for the Lares Trek. Multiple age groups have completed this trek from as young as 12, up to 70 years. People with diasbilities have concured this trek. The best part is that not all trekkers are avid hikers and were attempting hiking in Peru for the first time. So, age, gender and experience are no barrier. However, we do say that a basic level of fitness is really needed: after all you are going to be walking for several hours a day, for four days in a row, and all of those at altitude.
**If you go to the gym, swim, play football, even if you do a lot of gardening, all of those are good indicators that with decent acclimatisation you’re unlikely to encounter serious problems.
Expect cold temperatures at night and early hours in winter running from May-August, but it turns out to be advisable months for doing the hike. (Temperature can dip below zero degrees). Whereas, in the summer months from December – March, the temperature gets warmer but followed by downpours. The rest of the year is mild.
There is no need to pre book the tour months before, as it receives unlimited tour groups year-round. Just look for a reliable tour operator like Orange Nation Peru and ask for the tour, then they will begin to organize the hike. There is always availability.
No, the river streams running on the trail are not reliable. Most trekking companies including Orange Nation provide boiled water everyday at breakfast. On the first day, it is a good idea to bring plenty of water, you only get boiling water when you arrive at camp.
This is just a reminder because not everyone can take the same drug. According to specialists and pharmacists, they recommend pain killers such as Paracetamol and ibuprofen for some headaches that can be experienced due to altitude sickness. The next thing that could occur during a trek is diarrhea, so to help it halt, consider taking Imodium pills, and of course, Acetazolamide for altitude sickness.
No tour guide nor tour agent is allowed to prescribe any recipe or pills of any kind. What they do is to carry a basic first aid kit with pharmacy medicines where if the tourist agrees to take it because it is the same as the doctor´s suggestion, so they take it. We highly recommend visit your family physian for advice on suggested medication to bring on a trek at high altitudes.
You will surely see local people, going about their daily duties. Most of them work as llama herders and farmers. They are always dressed in their traditional clothes as it was supposed to be in Incan times. They live in adobe huts, plastered with mud. Stone fencing secures their llamas and alpacas or woven wired fences in the summer months. Visiting them is great experencial tourism, seeing their way of life first hand.
The camping sites are less crowded as it is less trodden and has several versions. There are only outhouse toilets so go prepared for it. Orange Nation has a few unassuming flushing in 1 of the campsites, which is welcomed relief if enjoy your ammenities. Water is not pure and safe for drinking, so it essential to only drink boiled or purified water. As for body hygien, bring wet wipes becuase mornings and nights are fridget cold. Most tour companies worth their salt, will provide a basin with hot water and a small cloth at breakfast to freshen up.
The Lares hot springs are sizzling hot and perfectly nestled in the picturesque Lares Valley. You can find a few pools all with varying water temperatures. With its close proximity to the lush Sacred Valley, it’s easy to independently visit these authentic public baths as a day trip. It’s possible to visit from Cusco, but it can make for a super long day trip.
The Lares hot springs are simple, yet basic, and have a chill local vibe. Located next to a mighty river and the epic backdrop of those luscious green mountains, plan for a day of total relaxation.
The most common Lares trek covers a 37 km/ 23 mile pathway, starting in Lares Hotsprings, throughout Quiswarani camp to Huaran hamlet in the Sacred Valley. It involves a 3-day trek, and after the 37 Km/ 23 mile hike, the adventure ends with a magical visit to Machu Picchu on the fourth day. See the detailed itinerary here!
The highest point to get when hiking the standard Lares trek to Machu Picchu, is the 15 400 ft / 4 700 mountain pass, a mountain pass by the name of Pachakuteq. This mountain hike is completed within 2 days. Day 3 we enter the Ollantaytambo in the Sacred before taking the train to Aguas Calientes town.
The Lares Trek is considered a moderate hike. It’s not a technical hike but the altitude may affect some individuals. We recommend renting walking sticks from your trekking company. Walking sticks can be bulky and can present a nuisance when you come across airport security, especially at major International Airports.
The adventure begins with an early pick up at 5:00am from your Cusco hotel, making our way through the sacred valley along the Urubamba River towards the small town of Calca. Our first stop is at the Calca market so you can purchase any last-minute snacks, like fruits, nuts or water. What makes this trek unique and special is the countless interactions you will experience with the indigenous Quechua speaking communities we pass along the way. So, we recommend that you consider purchasing small gifts like toys or bread to extend some goodwill to the villagers. Our journey continues to Cuncani, a village that sits above the clouds. We stop here for our first of many hearty breakfasts prepared by our talented chef. While you tuck into your food, enjoy spectacular views of waterfalls, mountain peaks, green hills and the lush valley.
Once we finish breakfast, we handover our duffel bags to our horsemen, keeping only your day backpack with daily essentials. We embark on our first incline towards the highest point for the day, Willqaqasa (4,200m/13,779ft). On arrival, we take a break to enjoy the stunning scenery with fleeting clouds gently flowing over the mountains and a number of beautiful lakes scattered across the mountain sides. This is a perfect spot to dig into our extensive 5-course lunch, a spread that can rival some of the best restaurants in Cusco.
After lunch, our trail passes the Pacchayoc Waterfall (7 waters waterfall), a stunning natural phenomenon. We continue on a short 2-hour descent towards Kiswarani. This small isolated village has access to humble flushing toilets, nothing fancy, but definitely a welcomed convenience. Experience the traditional lifestyle of this indigenous community and interact with the rose-cheeked children eager to play and get to know you. Later, we tuck into our delightful dinner that our chef cooks to perfection, before settling into our spacious tents for our first night under the stars.
Awaken on day 2 surrounded by green lush mountains covered in snow. Your morning call is your guide serving you hot cup of tea in your tent followed by a basin of warm water to freshen up. Eat breakfast like a king, clearing your mind for the exciting and challenging day ahead. ¨All happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast. ¨ John Gunther.
We begin our day following an uphill zigzag pattern to Pachacutec Pass at 4,700 m / 15,420 ft. It is a somewhat intense walk, passing through small thatched stone houses, the transverse landscapes and high passes. At the summit, immerse yourself in breath taking views of the turquoise Pachacutec lake and the heart of the glazier atop mount Pitusiray. Close to here is our lunch spot, which we tuck into surrounded by the magic of the mountains. The fog that gently flows over the mountain tops gives an overwhelming sense of peace, serenity and calmness.
After another abundant lunch , we start a slow descent towards our second camp in the village of Cancha Cancha. Upon arrival, our horsemen will have camp already set up and the chef will serve afternoon tea with snacks. Also use this opportunity, if you wish, to purchase some homemade textiles from the locals made from the wool of the many alpacas you see grazing in the fields. Later, we settle in for dinner, which many consider a phenomenal tent dining experience. After dinner, we join our guide for a tail of how the Incas used the constellations to guide their farming seasons. Up to and including today, the locals still follow this ancient farming method. We retire into our tents for our last night of camping in the Andes.
This is the most relaxing day so far! After breakfast we will possibly visit the local school of Cancha Cancha, depending on the time of the year. You get to explore the village, its people and maybe play a soccer game or two with the kids. Once ready, we continue on a relaxing descent to end of the of the Lares Valley Trek. Along the way we have a small river to accompany us. The climate also changes, becoming significantly warmer and the trees and foliage become a bright green, sprouting a variety of vibrant colors. We also pass by many alpacas and llamas and for the first time on the trail cows and sheep. You will see farmers harvesting potatoes and beans by hand, and see firsthand Peruvian agriculture and tradition.
When we arrive to Huaran, we stop at the river bank for one last meal for our dedicated chef before they have to bid us farewell and head back to their respective highland villages. From Huaran, our private transportation picks us up for a ride though the Sacred Valley to the Salineras, the Salt Mines of Maras. We spend some time, exploring these fascinating Pre- Inca Salt Mines. The locals have full mining rights and extract salt the same way their ancestors did. It is also another ideal spot to buy some souvenirs, with locals have stall nearby selling this pure pink salt.
Finally, we drive to Ollantaytambo town to catch the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). We stop at a carefully selected restaurant for dinner before checking into our hotel for an exciting day ahead.
The day has come! After an early breakfast at your hotel, we are ready to get an early bus at 5:30am up to Machu Picchu just in time to witness the sunrise. It is a truly mystical site out of history you’ll not want to miss! After enjoying the sunrise your guide will provide a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Our guide will take you to the most important sites and explain the history of each section of the ruins. You will learn about the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, Temple of Three Windows, the House of Inca and much more! If you booked ahead of time, you may have the opportunity to do an extra hike after your tour!
When we are all set, we will board the bus down to Aguas Calientes to have lunch (not included). There are many good restaurants in Aguas Calientes that you may choose from. We will be boarding the train which departs from Aguas Calientes at 14:55 or 15:20 to Ollantaytambo. At the exit from the train station, your driver will meet you to take you in our private transportation back to Cusco, arriving approximately 7:00pm at your hotel.
As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra pack horse which will carry up to 7 kgs or 14lbs including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.
We highly recommend a small backpack 30L to 40L for hiking in the day. The rangers s will not allow you to enter Machu Picchu with a big backpack. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.
It was perfect! On the first day we had a great time exploring the Sacred Valley and see the main attractions and learn about the history of this beautiful place.
I would definitely recommend the short Inka trail, I think it was the best way to get to know Machu Picchu and the surrounding area. We arrived at Machu Picchu when most of the crowd was gone and it felt really special.
You won’t regret booking with this tour company, especially if Liz Montesinos is your guide. My boyfriend and I did the 4 day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain (private) tour. The tour covered everything; from transportation, hotels, meals, tickets and entrance fees, to stops at local places we would’ve never known to go or check out. We did a private tour because for us we felt this would help us get the most out of our time and experience in Peru
Best mix of adventure, history and nature: Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
4-day trekking option seemed too intense for us, but we still wanted to experience the entrance to Machu Picchu through the ancient Inka trail, so we opted for Orange Nation’s combination of Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I couldn’t be more happy about our decision.
We booked and paid the deposit to Orange Nation / Sam travel for the 4 day Inca Trail and Machu Pichu trip back in 2019. But we couldn't travel in 2020 and 2021 - but the company honoured our agreement and so we came back in 2022.
recommends Orange Nation Peru
You won’t regret booking with this tour company, especially if Liz Montesinos is your guide. My boyfriend and I did the 4 day Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain (private) tour. The tour covered everything; from transportation, hotels, meals, tickets and entrance fees, to stops at local places we would’ve never known to go or check out. We did a private tour because for us we felt this would help us get the most out of our time and experience in Peru. This tour had so many incredible things and places packed into 4 days.
recommends Orange Nation Peru
My girl and i did the Machu Pichu trek tour with Orange Nation. It was seriously the most amazing experience that we'll never forget. Gorgeous views! The long trek was worth the amazing view. The tour guide was friendly and very knowledgeable. We considered other tours but chose Orange Nation because we liked the idea of smaller groups and this was definitely worth it. I will be using Orange Nation again next year when I come back to Peru!
recommends Orange Nation Peru
Wow, what a wonderful trekking experience! My trip to Peru was amazing thanks to this awesome tour that i took with Orange Nation. I did multiple tours with this company. I'm a solo traveler and everyone in my group was always still friendly and did not make me feel left out. I loved going off the beaten track with this company. It's much better to pay extra to go off the path for the quality experience of this amazing guided tour They definitely helped guide us and gave us a quality experience with a small group and paid special attention to each one of us. I highly recommend using Orange Nation for your next tour in Peru!
Has one of the most outstanding meal services. Our chefs have been highly trained to prepare the best peruavian and International food our treks. You should be prepared to not only have a superb trekking experience, but also a culinary one. "The food has been the highlight for all our hikers"
Christian B
10/10 Amazing experience
If you’re thinking about which agency to use, look no further- Ray and Jimmy went well above and beyond and made this a memorable, safe, fun, and professional experience.
Ray is the most knowledgeable guide I’ve ever had in any country for any excursion - during both the Short Inka Trail and the actual tour of Machu Picchu, Ray’s expertise shined through in his ability to give us a detailed background on every aspect of the history, climate, nature, flora, animals.. anything!
Likewise, Ray and Jimmy were truly the friendliest, kindest hosts that I could have imagined our group having.
Thank you both so much and I will definitely book with you again if (when) I come back!
Matt A
Awesome experience!!
Did the 2 day Inca trail with Ray and Jimmy they were great and knowledgeable. Ray not only guided us along trail to Machu Picchu but also was an excellent photographer and taught us the history. It was a group of 10 and we had a great time. Even everything going on in Peru, we always felt in good hands.
Rius
Short Inca Trial (2-Day)
This tour was the perfect experience for our (group of 10) short trip to Peru. The trail was sometimes challenging, but the views and history made it all worth it. Ray and Jimmy were our guides and imparted sooo much knowledge about the history of Peru, Inca, and beyond. I would definitely recommend!