The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is considered one of the best hikes in Peru, offering the perfect mix of culture and adventure. This Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo allows travelers to explore remote Andean landscapes while connecting with local traditions before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu. Ideal for those looking for authentic Peru hiking tours, it combines cultural immersion with stunning mountain scenery.
On the Lares Trail, travelers experience a true cultural trek in Peru, visiting remote villages and engaging in an authentic Andean villages hike. Over 2.5 days, the Lares Trek itinerary takes you through the heart of the Andes, where turquoise lagoons and snow-capped peaks surround traditional communities.
This Lares Valley trekking experience is a rare opportunity to connect with local families and discover centuries-old customs.
The adventure continues on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the most unforgettable hiking trails to Machu Picchu. In just one day of trekking and camping near Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy breathtaking Andean landscapes and Inca history. This alternative trek to the Inca Trail perfectly blends nature, culture, and archaeology, culminating at the legendary Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What Makes This Trek Unique
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is designed for adventurers who want to escape the crowds and experience one of the best hikes in Peru. This exclusive Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo blends cultural immersion with stunning trekking in the Andes, making it the ideal choice for authentic Peru hiking tours. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, this 5-day journey promises breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
The adventure begins with the Lares Trail, a true cultural trek in Peru where you’ll connect with local families in remote Andean villages. Following the Lares Trek itinerary, you’ll enjoy an authentic Andean villages hike, passing turquoise lagoons, glaciers, and spectacular peaks. This Lares Valley trekking experience offers a rare opportunity to witness centuries-old traditions while surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful mountain scenery.
From there, the journey continues on the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic hiking trails to Machu Picchu. In just one day of trekking and camping near Machu Picchu, you’ll explore fascinating archaeological sites and walk through the lush edge of the Peruvian jungle. As one of the best alternative treks to the Inca Trail, this route perfectly balances nature, history, and culture, culminating with the ultimate reward: the majestic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best hikes in Peru, designed for adventurers who want to escape the crowds and connect deeply with Andean culture. This Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo blends breathtaking trekking in the Andes with authentic cultural experiences, making it a must for travelers seeking unforgettable Peru hiking tours.
The Lares Trail offers an intimate cultural trek in Peru, taking you through remote villages where time seems to stand still. You’ll meet local families, learn about traditional weaving, and experience everyday Andean life.
Over 2.5 days, the Lares Trek itinerary guides you through turquoise lagoons, high mountain passes, and glaciers, all while accompanied by llamas carrying the camping equipment—just as the Incas did. This authentic Andean villages hike provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness traditions preserved for centuries.
Your journey continues on the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous hiking trails to Machu Picchu. In just one day, you’ll pass through cloud forests and enigmatic Inca archaeological sites, blending history with natural beauty.
Spend a night camping near Machu Picchu, surrounded by the magic of the Andes. This part of the trek is considered one of the top alternative treks to the Inca Trail, offering the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and discovery.
Your epic journey ends at the legendary Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With a guided tour, you’ll explore its temples, terraces, and sacred sites. For an even more breathtaking view, book your Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets in advance.
Highlight of the day: Relax in natural hot springs and begin your first hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu begins with an early departure from Cusco, heading toward the Sacred Valley in private transport. After a short stop at the Calca market, we’ll continue to the Lares Hot Springs (3,200 m / 10,499 ft), where you’ll enjoy breakfast and a therapeutic bath in volcanic waters—an ideal start to one of the best hikes in Peru.
From Cuncani (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), the hike begins with views of the impressive Pacchayocc waterfall and small highland lagoons. Following the Lares Trek itinerary, we’ll reach Abra Willkikasa (4,400 m / 14,436 ft), the highest point of the day, before descending to Quishuarani village (3,850 m / 12,631 ft). Here, you’ll interact with families in a remote village in the Andes, visit the local school, and witness traditional Peruvian culture in its purest form.
Highlight of the day: Immerse yourself in Andean culture while trekking through spectacular mountain scenery.
Wake up with hot tea and breakfast before starting today’s ascent to the Abra Pachacutec pass (4,700 m / 15,420 ft), the highest point of the Lares Valley trekking experience. Along the way, you’ll admire the Qoyalay Lagoon and the seven waterfalls of Qanchispaccha. The surrounding glaciers of Pitusiray and Qolqe Cruz create a dreamlike backdrop for this section of trekking in the Andes.
After lunch, we’ll continue to Cancha Cancha (3,950 m / 12,959 ft), a remote Andean village where you’ll experience an authentic Andean villages hike. Spend time with local families, learn about alpaca and llama wool weaving, and enjoy an evening of cultural exchange. This part of the cultural trek in Peru highlights the unique bond between travelers and communities.
Highlight of the day: Visit the fascinating Maras Salt Mines and explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The last section of the Lares Trail is a gentle descent through valleys filled with herds of alpacas and fertile farmlands of potatoes, beans, corn, and quinoa. This day beautifully showcases Andes mountains trekking and the agricultural traditions of the Incas. After four hours, we’ll reach Huaran (2,920 m / 9,580 ft), marking the end of the Lares section.
From here, we’ll drive to the Maras Salt Mines (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), a site of more than 3,000 salt pools still harvested by local families since pre-Inca times. Then, we continue to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft), the last living Inca town, where you’ll enjoy dinner and rest in a comfortable hotel. This stop is the perfect transition before beginning the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous hiking trails to Machu Picchu.
Highlight of the day: Walk part of the original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and visit some of the empire’s most iconic archaeological sites.
After breakfast, we’ll board the train from Ollantaytambo, following the course of the mighty Urubamba River until reaching KM 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. From here, you’ll pass the Chachabamba ruins before beginning your ascent along this legendary trail.
This section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is filled with history and stunning landscapes. On the way, we’ll visit Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca sites on the route, surrounded by lush vegetation and waterfalls. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the Sacred Valley before continuing to the highlight of the day: arriving at Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you’ll witness your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu—a moment you’ll never forget.
In the late afternoon, when the citadel is less crowded, you’ll enter the site for an intimate first experience. Afterward, a short bus ride takes us to Puente Ruinas campsite, where your tents, a hot shower, and a freshly prepared dinner will be waiting. This is one of the few camping near Machu Picchu experiences, blending adventure and comfort under the Andean sky.
Highlight of the day: Enter Machu Picchu at sunrise and explore the Lost City of the Incas with a professional guide.
The grand finale of your Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo begins with an early wake-up call and breakfast at the campsite. We’ll take the first bus to reach Machu Picchu at sunrise, allowing you to enjoy the citadel with fewer visitors—an unforgettable reward after days of trekking in the Andes.
During a 2–3 hour guided tour, you’ll discover the most important areas of the citadel: temples, terraces, and ceremonial enclosures. If you’ve reserved tickets in advance, you can also climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views, considered one of the best hikes in Peru.
After exploring, we’ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch (not included) before boarding the scenic train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transport will return you to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 p.m. This marks the perfect conclusion to one of the most authentic trekking tours in Peru.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we believe in full transparency. That’s why we clearly specify all included and non-included services for our trekking programs. We handle all the logistics so you can focus on the adventure, but please review the details carefully—some items may vary depending on the itinerary.
We’ll secure all necessary permits once we receive your booking form and deposit. Please note: permits are limited and issued for specific dates. Passport number changes are only allowed for renewals (old and new passports must be provided).
What truly sets us apart:
With Tunqui Expeditions, every detail of your Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo is carefully designed for your safety, comfort, and cultural immersion—making this one of the best Peru hiking tours available.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and worry free as possible. In this section you’ll find the answers to all your questions about travelling with Tunqui Expeditions in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions you may have about our services.
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best alternative treks to the Inca Trail, perfect for travelers looking for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path adventure. Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, the Lares Valley Trek takes you through remote Andean villages, stunning valleys, crystal-clear lagoons, and natural Lares Hot Springs, offering a genuine cultural immersion with the Quechua communities.
This trek is ideal for adventurous hikers who can handle high altitudes and varied terrain. The highest point of the Lares Trek 4 Days is the Siclla Qasa Pass (4,850 m / 15,912 ft), which rewards trekkers with panoramic views of snowcapped peaks and traditional Andean farmlands. While the climb is gradual and less steep compared to other routes, it does require stamina and a good level of fitness.
We highly recommend spending a few days in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft) before starting the trek to properly acclimatize to the altitude. This will ensure you enjoy the journey and fully experience the beauty of trekking in Peru.
Choosing the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with Tunqui Expeditions means enjoying a unique combination of spectacular mountain landscapes, cultural encounters, and the ultimate reward—arriving at Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we are proud to be pioneers of the Plastic-Free Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, promoting sustainable trekking in Peru. This unique adventure not only connects you with the breathtaking landscapes of the Lares Valley Trek, but also with the ancestral traditions of Andean communities—without leaving a negative footprint on our environment.
During this 4-day Lares Trek itinerary, we avoid the use of single-use plastics by providing:
By choosing the Plastic-Free Lares Trek, you support responsible tourism, help reduce waste in the Andes, and contribute directly to the Quechua families of Cuncani, who collaborate with us to make this trek truly sustainable.
This eco-conscious alternative to the Inca Trail is more than just trekking from Cusco to Machu Picchu—it is an opportunity to travel responsibly, honor Pachamama (Mother Earth), and experience the Andes in the most authentic and respectful way.
It’s very important to be well acclimatised to the altitude before embarking on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the start of the trek to help you acclimatise and avoid any problems with altitude sickness during the trek.
You may have been in another area of Peru at high altitude before arriving in Cusco. If this is the case, we still recommend that you spend a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from the journey and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before starting the trek.
Here are some suggestions for activities to do around Cusco before starting your adventure trek:
All information meetings and briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 17:00 the night before the tour starts. These meetings last between 30 and 45 minutes. If you can’t make it, you will need to arrange another time by email, phone or in person at the Tunqui Expeditions office.
If you have an outstanding balance, you must pay it 2 days before your trek. Otherwise your reservation will not be confirmed.
If possible, we would appreciate it if you could pay the balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw money from several ATM’s along the Avenida Sol, which offer both US Dollars and Peruvian Soles.
Alternatively, you can pay by credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 5% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank drafts or traveller’s cheques as payment for the balance.
You’ll be given a duffel bag or canvas bag during your briefing. Our team of porters will carry it with you throughout the trek and hand it to you at each camp. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
A maximum of 6 kg / 13.2 lb is allowed for each duffel, including the weight of your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothes and other personal items.
Of course you can! During the trip your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can arrange this with us on the day of the briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment you don’t need on the trek can be safely stored at your hotel. Almost all hotels offer this service. Don’t leave anything of value with your luggage; put it in the hotel safe and get a detailed receipt (in the unlikely event of theft, many insurance companies require a copy of the receipt detailing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards in a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Please note:
Returning from Machu Picchu requires some logistics, but don’t worry. It is all included in your tour!
Note: Your tour includes a one way bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu, so you can choose to use it from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu or from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. If you want a return bus ticket, you’ll have to pay an additional US$ 12.00.
Group tours are made up of different types of people, therefore physical conditions and ages may vary. By agreeing to join a group tour, you accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, everyone will be able to move at their own pace.
There may be occasions when a group wishes to make changes to the tour, but it is up to the guide to decide, in consultation with all participants, whether such changes are possible.
Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru and may interrupt some of our tours. Roads may be blocked and railway lines may be occupied. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if this means leaving the night before the scheduled date.
Tours may be cancelled in these circumstances. In the event of a change or cancellation, our Operations Department will liaise with you. Your safety is our number one priority and our decisions will be made to protect it.
Please be careful where you leave your belongings and remember to take everything with you when you leave your transport, accommodation or restaurant. You are responsible for your belongings while you’re on the tour.
Here’s a complete checklist to help you prepare for your adventure. Please read carefully and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trek.
The porters will carry up to 7kg of your personal belongings. This should include your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you are bring/renting one). In our case these two items weigh 3.5kg.
The Lares Trek with Inca Trail 5 Days is available year-round, with the best trekking season being April to October (dry season in the Andes). Daily departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 trekkers. Private groups and custom departures are also available upon request.
This small-group tour is guaranteed with just 2 participants.
Important:
PayPal charges a 5% service fee, which is the client’s responsibility for online deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash in Cusco with no additional fees.
Enhance your trip with any of the following add-on experiences:
You may add the following items to your booking:
Enhance your experience with these popular options:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — guaranteed. No matter what changes occur, we won’t increase your rate.
Before booking, please make sure to read all important information about this tour.
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is designed for adventurers who want to escape the crowds and experience one of the best hikes in Peru. This exclusive Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo blends cultural immersion with stunning trekking in the Andes, making it the ideal choice for authentic Peru hiking tours. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, this 5-day journey promises breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
The adventure begins with the Lares Trail, a true cultural trek in Peru where you’ll connect with local families in remote Andean villages. Following the Lares Trek itinerary, you’ll enjoy an authentic Andean villages hike, passing turquoise lagoons, glaciers, and spectacular peaks. This Lares Valley trekking experience offers a rare opportunity to witness centuries-old traditions while surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful mountain scenery.
From there, the journey continues on the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic hiking trails to Machu Picchu. In just one day of trekking and camping near Machu Picchu, you’ll explore fascinating archaeological sites and walk through the lush edge of the Peruvian jungle. As one of the best alternative treks to the Inca Trail, this route perfectly balances nature, history, and culture, culminating with the ultimate reward: the majestic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best hikes in Peru, designed for adventurers who want to escape the crowds and connect deeply with Andean culture. This Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo blends breathtaking trekking in the Andes with authentic cultural experiences, making it a must for travelers seeking unforgettable Peru hiking tours.
The Lares Trail offers an intimate cultural trek in Peru, taking you through remote villages where time seems to stand still. You’ll meet local families, learn about traditional weaving, and experience everyday Andean life.
Over 2.5 days, the Lares Trek itinerary guides you through turquoise lagoons, high mountain passes, and glaciers, all while accompanied by llamas carrying the camping equipment—just as the Incas did. This authentic Andean villages hike provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness traditions preserved for centuries.
Your journey continues on the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous hiking trails to Machu Picchu. In just one day, you’ll pass through cloud forests and enigmatic Inca archaeological sites, blending history with natural beauty.
Spend a night camping near Machu Picchu, surrounded by the magic of the Andes. This part of the trek is considered one of the top alternative treks to the Inca Trail, offering the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and discovery.
Your epic journey ends at the legendary Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With a guided tour, you’ll explore its temples, terraces, and sacred sites. For an even more breathtaking view, book your Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets in advance.
Highlight of the day: Relax in natural hot springs and begin your first hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu begins with an early departure from Cusco, heading toward the Sacred Valley in private transport. After a short stop at the Calca market, we’ll continue to the Lares Hot Springs (3,200 m / 10,499 ft), where you’ll enjoy breakfast and a therapeutic bath in volcanic waters—an ideal start to one of the best hikes in Peru.
From Cuncani (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), the hike begins with views of the impressive Pacchayocc waterfall and small highland lagoons. Following the Lares Trek itinerary, we’ll reach Abra Willkikasa (4,400 m / 14,436 ft), the highest point of the day, before descending to Quishuarani village (3,850 m / 12,631 ft). Here, you’ll interact with families in a remote village in the Andes, visit the local school, and witness traditional Peruvian culture in its purest form.
Highlight of the day: Immerse yourself in Andean culture while trekking through spectacular mountain scenery.
Wake up with hot tea and breakfast before starting today’s ascent to the Abra Pachacutec pass (4,700 m / 15,420 ft), the highest point of the Lares Valley trekking experience. Along the way, you’ll admire the Qoyalay Lagoon and the seven waterfalls of Qanchispaccha. The surrounding glaciers of Pitusiray and Qolqe Cruz create a dreamlike backdrop for this section of trekking in the Andes.
After lunch, we’ll continue to Cancha Cancha (3,950 m / 12,959 ft), a remote Andean village where you’ll experience an authentic Andean villages hike. Spend time with local families, learn about alpaca and llama wool weaving, and enjoy an evening of cultural exchange. This part of the cultural trek in Peru highlights the unique bond between travelers and communities.
Highlight of the day: Visit the fascinating Maras Salt Mines and explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The last section of the Lares Trail is a gentle descent through valleys filled with herds of alpacas and fertile farmlands of potatoes, beans, corn, and quinoa. This day beautifully showcases Andes mountains trekking and the agricultural traditions of the Incas. After four hours, we’ll reach Huaran (2,920 m / 9,580 ft), marking the end of the Lares section.
From here, we’ll drive to the Maras Salt Mines (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), a site of more than 3,000 salt pools still harvested by local families since pre-Inca times. Then, we continue to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft), the last living Inca town, where you’ll enjoy dinner and rest in a comfortable hotel. This stop is the perfect transition before beginning the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous hiking trails to Machu Picchu.
Highlight of the day: Walk part of the original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and visit some of the empire’s most iconic archaeological sites.
After breakfast, we’ll board the train from Ollantaytambo, following the course of the mighty Urubamba River until reaching KM 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. From here, you’ll pass the Chachabamba ruins before beginning your ascent along this legendary trail.
This section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is filled with history and stunning landscapes. On the way, we’ll visit Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca sites on the route, surrounded by lush vegetation and waterfalls. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the Sacred Valley before continuing to the highlight of the day: arriving at Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you’ll witness your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu—a moment you’ll never forget.
In the late afternoon, when the citadel is less crowded, you’ll enter the site for an intimate first experience. Afterward, a short bus ride takes us to Puente Ruinas campsite, where your tents, a hot shower, and a freshly prepared dinner will be waiting. This is one of the few camping near Machu Picchu experiences, blending adventure and comfort under the Andean sky.
Highlight of the day: Enter Machu Picchu at sunrise and explore the Lost City of the Incas with a professional guide.
The grand finale of your Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo begins with an early wake-up call and breakfast at the campsite. We’ll take the first bus to reach Machu Picchu at sunrise, allowing you to enjoy the citadel with fewer visitors—an unforgettable reward after days of trekking in the Andes.
During a 2–3 hour guided tour, you’ll discover the most important areas of the citadel: temples, terraces, and ceremonial enclosures. If you’ve reserved tickets in advance, you can also climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views, considered one of the best hikes in Peru.
After exploring, we’ll descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch (not included) before boarding the scenic train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transport will return you to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 p.m. This marks the perfect conclusion to one of the most authentic trekking tours in Peru.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we believe in full transparency. That’s why we clearly specify all included and non-included services for our trekking programs. We handle all the logistics so you can focus on the adventure, but please review the details carefully—some items may vary depending on the itinerary.
We’ll secure all necessary permits once we receive your booking form and deposit. Please note: permits are limited and issued for specific dates. Passport number changes are only allowed for renewals (old and new passports must be provided).
What truly sets us apart:
With Tunqui Expeditions, every detail of your Lares Trek and Inca Trail combo is carefully designed for your safety, comfort, and cultural immersion—making this one of the best Peru hiking tours available.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and worry free as possible. In this section you’ll find the answers to all your questions about travelling with Tunqui Expeditions in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions you may have about our services.
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best alternative treks to the Inca Trail, perfect for travelers looking for a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path adventure. Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, the Lares Valley Trek takes you through remote Andean villages, stunning valleys, crystal-clear lagoons, and natural Lares Hot Springs, offering a genuine cultural immersion with the Quechua communities.
This trek is ideal for adventurous hikers who can handle high altitudes and varied terrain. The highest point of the Lares Trek 4 Days is the Siclla Qasa Pass (4,850 m / 15,912 ft), which rewards trekkers with panoramic views of snowcapped peaks and traditional Andean farmlands. While the climb is gradual and less steep compared to other routes, it does require stamina and a good level of fitness.
We highly recommend spending a few days in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft) before starting the trek to properly acclimatize to the altitude. This will ensure you enjoy the journey and fully experience the beauty of trekking in Peru.
Choosing the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with Tunqui Expeditions means enjoying a unique combination of spectacular mountain landscapes, cultural encounters, and the ultimate reward—arriving at Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we are proud to be pioneers of the Plastic-Free Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, promoting sustainable trekking in Peru. This unique adventure not only connects you with the breathtaking landscapes of the Lares Valley Trek, but also with the ancestral traditions of Andean communities—without leaving a negative footprint on our environment.
During this 4-day Lares Trek itinerary, we avoid the use of single-use plastics by providing:
By choosing the Plastic-Free Lares Trek, you support responsible tourism, help reduce waste in the Andes, and contribute directly to the Quechua families of Cuncani, who collaborate with us to make this trek truly sustainable.
This eco-conscious alternative to the Inca Trail is more than just trekking from Cusco to Machu Picchu—it is an opportunity to travel responsibly, honor Pachamama (Mother Earth), and experience the Andes in the most authentic and respectful way.
It’s very important to be well acclimatised to the altitude before embarking on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the start of the trek to help you acclimatise and avoid any problems with altitude sickness during the trek.
You may have been in another area of Peru at high altitude before arriving in Cusco. If this is the case, we still recommend that you spend a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from the journey and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before starting the trek.
Here are some suggestions for activities to do around Cusco before starting your adventure trek:
All information meetings and briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 17:00 the night before the tour starts. These meetings last between 30 and 45 minutes. If you can’t make it, you will need to arrange another time by email, phone or in person at the Tunqui Expeditions office.
If you have an outstanding balance, you must pay it 2 days before your trek. Otherwise your reservation will not be confirmed.
If possible, we would appreciate it if you could pay the balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw money from several ATM’s along the Avenida Sol, which offer both US Dollars and Peruvian Soles.
Alternatively, you can pay by credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 5% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank drafts or traveller’s cheques as payment for the balance.
You’ll be given a duffel bag or canvas bag during your briefing. Our team of porters will carry it with you throughout the trek and hand it to you at each camp. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
A maximum of 6 kg / 13.2 lb is allowed for each duffel, including the weight of your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothes and other personal items.
Of course you can! During the trip your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can arrange this with us on the day of the briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment you don’t need on the trek can be safely stored at your hotel. Almost all hotels offer this service. Don’t leave anything of value with your luggage; put it in the hotel safe and get a detailed receipt (in the unlikely event of theft, many insurance companies require a copy of the receipt detailing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards in a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Please note:
Returning from Machu Picchu requires some logistics, but don’t worry. It is all included in your tour!
Note: Your tour includes a one way bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu, so you can choose to use it from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu or from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. If you want a return bus ticket, you’ll have to pay an additional US$ 12.00.
Group tours are made up of different types of people, therefore physical conditions and ages may vary. By agreeing to join a group tour, you accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, everyone will be able to move at their own pace.
There may be occasions when a group wishes to make changes to the tour, but it is up to the guide to decide, in consultation with all participants, whether such changes are possible.
Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru and may interrupt some of our tours. Roads may be blocked and railway lines may be occupied. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if this means leaving the night before the scheduled date.
Tours may be cancelled in these circumstances. In the event of a change or cancellation, our Operations Department will liaise with you. Your safety is our number one priority and our decisions will be made to protect it.
Please be careful where you leave your belongings and remember to take everything with you when you leave your transport, accommodation or restaurant. You are responsible for your belongings while you’re on the tour.
Here’s a complete checklist to help you prepare for your adventure. Please read carefully and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trek.
The porters will carry up to 7kg of your personal belongings. This should include your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you are bring/renting one). In our case these two items weigh 3.5kg.
The Lares Trek with Inca Trail 5 Days is available year-round, with the best trekking season being April to October (dry season in the Andes). Daily departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 trekkers. Private groups and custom departures are also available upon request.
This small-group tour is guaranteed with just 2 participants.
Important:
PayPal charges a 5% service fee, which is the client’s responsibility for online deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash in Cusco with no additional fees.
Enhance your trip with any of the following add-on experiences:
You may add the following items to your booking:
Enhance your experience with these popular options:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — guaranteed. No matter what changes occur, we won’t increase your rate.
Before booking, please make sure to read all important information about this tour.
