Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

What is included Lares Trek

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days Includes:

• Pre-departure briefing.
• Transfer from accommodation in the historic center of Cusco.
• Return transfer to your accommodation (historic center of the city).
• Professional local guide in English, Spanish, and other languages.
• Round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
• Entrance tickets to Lares and Machu Picchu.
• Voyager or Expedition class train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Horses to carry all camping equipment.
• Camping equipment: dining tents, kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment.
• Duffel bag with a capacity of up to 8 kg (17 lb) for your belongings.
• First aid kit, oxygen supply.
• 2 nights camping in comfortable North Face or Hard Wear tents.
• 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Sleeping pad, rain poncho, hand towels.
• Experienced chef to prepare meals: breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
• All meals on the trail, except dinner on the last day.
• Morning wake-up tea.
• Afternoon tea.
• Daily water and snacks.

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days Does Not Include:

• Dinner on the last day in Aguas Calientes.
• Sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, trekking poles.
• Travel insurance (recommended).
• Tips.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain.
• Additional costs or delays beyond our control.

What to bring for the Lares Trek

What to pack in your daypack:

The daypack will be with you at all times, and you’ll be responsible for carrying it during the daily hikes, so it should be as light as possible. Remember that duffel bags will only be available at the campsite, so everything you need during the day must be in your daypack.

• Passport: Essential to carry in a secure, moisture-proof location, ideally in a Ziploc bag along with money and other documents.
• Student ID: If you booked as a student, bring your student ID, especially for entry to Machu Picchu.
• Water Bottle or Camelback: Carry a reusable container with a minimum capacity of 2 liters. It should be easily accessible.
• Poncho and Waterproof Jacket: A plastic poncho will be provided during the hike, but you should also bring a waterproof jacket or windbreaker.
• Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and long-sleeved shirts to protect yourself from the sun during the hike, as you will be exposed without shelter.
• Warm Jacket: It will be cold in the early morning, so it's important to have multiple layers and remove clothing as you warm up. Always keep a jacket handy, as weather in the Andes can change rapidly.
• First Aid Kit: Include your personal medications, band-aids, altitude pills, pain relievers, antihistamines, insect repellent, and any other necessary medications.
• Other Essentials: Headlamp, camera, mobile phone, sunglasses, and toilet paper (always keep it in your daypack).
• Extra Money: Carry cash, with around 600 soles (200 USD) recommended, preferably in small bills for emergencies or incidental purchases.

What to pack in the duffel bag:

You will receive the duffel bag during the pre-trek meeting at our office the day before the hike. The maximum allowed weight is 8 kg (17 lbs), and it should include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress.

• Sleeping Bag: A four-season sleeping bag (down to -10°C) is recommended. You can bring your own or rent one from us. If you rent, a cover will be provided.
• Inflatable Mattress: We will provide a foam mattress, but if you prefer more comfort, you can bring or rent an inflatable one.
• Pillows: We will provide small pillows for camping.
• Footwear: Wear trekking boots suitable for this type of terrain.
• Socks: Bring about 5 pairs of thick wool hiking socks, plus 3 lighter pairs for resting in the evenings.
• Clothing: For women, 3 pairs of long pants, trekking pants, or leggings are suitable. Thermal underwear is also important, especially for the nights.
• Swimsuit: Don’t forget your swimsuit for the Lares Hot Springs on the first day.
• Sandals: Useful for after the hike or at the hotel.
• Toiletries: Include essentials like toothpaste, soap, shampoo, lip balm, and moisturizer.
• Towel: Bring a small, lightweight towel.
• Other Essentials: Hand sanitizer and toilet paper.

This gear will help ensure you are prepared for the trek, keeping you comfortable and safe while enjoying the adventure.

Lares Trek Travel Information

How many days do i need to acclimate before the trek?

It is very important to be well-acclimated to the altitude before embarking on a trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek begins to help acclimate and avoid potential altitude sickness issues during the hike. If you’ve already been at another high-altitude location in Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights.

Traveling to Cusco

Cusco’s airport currently only operates domestic flights. International passengers must land in Lima and clear customs there. It is important to note that due to Cusco’s high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, weather changes can affect air traffic. If you prefer a land alternative, buses are a viable option. However, the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours.

Pick-up of Clients

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up at your hotel as long as it is located in Cusco’s Historic Center. During the pre-trek briefing, your guide will coordinate the meeting time, but please be aware that wait times can vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow and cobblestone streets, which can make access to some hotels and Airbnbs challenging. Some locations may be in areas without vehicular access or on steep inclines, making luggage transport more difficult. It is advisable to book accommodation with easy access to facilitate transportation.

Luggage Storage

You can securely store any additional luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel or with us at Ausangate Adventure while you are on your trek. We will handle the storage of your luggage in the morning before your trek starts and return it to you once you are back in Cusco. It is important to ensure your bags are clearly labeled for easy identification.

Altitude

The altitude on the Lares Trek varies and can be challenging for some hikers. The route traverses different ecological zones, meaning you will experience significantly different elevations. During the trek, you will reach mountain passes exceeding 4,400 meters (14,436 feet) above sea level, requiring good acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. It is important to consider that altitude can affect your physical performance and breathing ability, so gradual ascent and proper rest are recommended.

Altitude Sickness

To avoid altitude sickness on the Lares Trek and Machu Picchu, acclimate by spending a few days in Cusco before the trek. Stay well-hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you. Eat light, frequent meals, focusing on carbohydrates, and avoid heavy foods. Walk slowly, take frequent breaks, and avoid intense physical exertion initially. Consult your doctor about preventive medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox). Use natural remedies like chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea, which are traditional practices in the Andes. Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms, which include headaches, nausea, and dizziness; if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Carry a first aid kit and plan your itinerary with flexibility to allow extra acclimatization time if needed. Following these tips will improve your chances of having a safe and enjoyable trek.

Weather

The weather in Lares is quite variable and depends on the time of year you undertake the trek. Generally, it is cold in the high areas and milder in the valleys. During the rainy season (October to March), rainfall is frequent and temperatures are more moderate. In the dry season (April to September), the weather is more stable with less rain and temperatures can vary considerably between day and night. It is advisable to bring warm, waterproof, and layered clothing to adapt to the typical mountain weather changes.

First Aid

Each Ausangate Adventure guide is trained in first aid. They will carry a first aid kit with basic medical supplies and oxygen during the trek. They are prepared to take good care of you. In the event of an unexpected situation where you feel unable to continue the trek, they will determine the safest, quickest way to get you off the trail and to a clinic in Cusco.

Food

We provide all meals and snacks during the trek, up to the last lunch on the Lares to Machu Picchu trek. We understand you might be interested in the quality of our food. While each meal is prepared by a chef in a small tent on a small stove, our clients are consistently satisfied with the excellence of our dishes. Each chef is professionally trained to prepare the best breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. At the end of each day’s hike, you will be treated to a delicious dinner cooked in the heart of the Andes, sure to exceed your expectations for trekking cuisine.

We use fresh ingredients sourced from the Cusco market and transported by pack horses handled by our muleteers. These ingredients are then prepared by our chefs to ensure each meal is fresh, healthy, and delicious.

Special dietary needs? Don’t worry; we are equipped to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and those with food allergies.

Water

Ausangate Adventure ensures that water is available at every meal. The water will be boiled, purified, and cooled before being served to our clients, ensuring it is safe to drink. However, for the first morning of the trek, you should provide your own water due to the preparation process. It is advisable to start the trek with 2-3 liters of water, so make sure to have a sufficiently sized bottle or camelback to store it.

Environmental Impact

At Ausangate Adventure, we use biodegradable soap and ensure that all our trash is taken back to Cusco. Our muleteers are trained to keep the trails clean and collect waste. Additionally, we are committed to environmental preservation and responsible waste management. We adopt practices that minimize our environmental impact.

Protests and Strikes

Protests and strikes are common in Peru and can affect our travel plans. Roads may be blocked, and trains may be halted. However, we will do everything possible to keep your itinerary as planned, even if it means departing a night earlier. In some cases, travel may be canceled. If changes occur, our operations team will contact you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.

Lost Items

Please take special care of your belongings and ensure you collect all your items when leaving our vehicles, campsites, or restaurants. You are responsible for your personal items during the trek.

Shared service Trek.
Price: 640 USD per person.
This group or shared service means that you will do the tour with other people, the standard service is in a group of 10 to 16 people, guarantyd departures, if there are only 1 or 2 people they can join one of our groups.

Trek in private service.
This private and exclusive service with daily departures is a way to undertake this journey where the service is much more personalized. The prices vary according to the number of travelers: one, two, three, four, or more travelers. If you would like a private service, please request information at info@ausangateadventure.com or through our WhatsApp +51 914201334

Lares Trek 4 days FAQs

What is the Lares Valley Trek?

The Lares Valley Trek is an alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a less crowded experience and a deeper immersion into Andean culture. It traverses local communities, stunning landscapes, and culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu.

What is the best time to do the trek?

The dry season, from May to September, is the most popular due to clear skies and less rain. However, the rainy season (October to April) provides greener landscapes and fewer tourists.

Where is the Lares Valley Trek located?

The trek is located in the Lares district, in the province of Calca, about 150 kilometers from Cusco. Starting at an altitude of 3,250 meters (10,663 feet) above sea level, the trek begins at the Lares hot springs and takes you through ancient Andean communities, where you can experience their traditions and customs.

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

The difficulty varies depending on the itinerary, but it is generally considered moderate to challenging. It includes ascents to high altitudes, which requires good physical fitness and prior acclimatization.

What type of food is provided during the trek?

Meals are prepared by local cooks and are typically varied, featuring traditional Peruvian dishes. It’s recommended to bring additional snacks for the trek.

Do I need to hire a guide for the trek?

Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a licensed local guide. They are familiar with the route, the communities, and can assist with acclimatization and any emergencies.

What if I have a fear of heights?

The trek includes ascents to high altitudes, so if you have a fear of heights, it’s important to consider this before making your decision.

How important is acclimatization before the trek?

Acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. It is recommended to spend at least 2 days in Cusco (3,400 meters or 11,155 feet) before starting the trek.

Is it safe to do the Lares Valley Trek?

Yes, the trek is safe if done with a reputable travel agency and by following the guide's recommendations.