LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS
Group Size:
Up to 10 people
Difficulty:
Challenging
Type Service:
Group / Private
Departures:
Daily
Transport:
Van, Train, Bus
Max Altitude:
4,500 m / 14,800 ft
Callanga Family Explorers proudly offers the 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, an unforgettable journey through one of the most scenic regions of the Peruvian Andes. This spectacular route features towering snow-capped glaciers, crystal-clear blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, and countless llamas and alpacas roaming freely across the landscape.
Along the way, you will travel through remote Andean communities where traditional customs and lifestyles have been preserved for generations, providing a unique opportunity to connect with local residents and experience authentic Andean culture.
The trek concludes at the natural Lares Hot Springs, the perfect place to relax and unwind after days of hiking through breathtaking mountain scenery. Your adventure then continues with a visit to the world-famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites on Earth. Hidden from the Spanish conquistadors, this extraordinary Inca city remained largely untouched, allowing visitors to admire its impressive architecture and historical significance today.
***Callanga Family Explorers offers exceptional value for travelers seeking an authentic Lares Trek and Machu Picchu experience.
LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO – HUARAN – CANCHA CANCHA
Itinerary
Your 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu begins with a 5:00 a.m. hotel pickup by Callanga Family Explorers. We travel by private vehicle through the beautiful Sacred Valley, following the direct route to Pisac.
Our first stop offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Sacred Valley and its impressive agricultural terraces. We then explore the Pisac Archaeological Site, home to the largest known Inca cemetery with more than 5,000 tombs. During the visit, you’ll discover its remarkable terraces, an original Inca tunnel, and the religious sector of this important archaeological complex.
Next, we continue to Calca, where we stop at the local market to purchase any last-minute supplies before driving to Huaran, the starting point of our trek. Here, you’ll meet the horsemen and horses before beginning a gradual 3.5-hour hike to Cancha Cancha. Along the way, your trekking chef will prepare a delicious lunch beside the river.
Located at 3,900 m (12,800 ft), Cancha Cancha is one of the most remote traditional Andean communities, with no road access and electricity only available since December 2019. After settling into camp and enjoying afternoon tea, you’ll visit a local family to learn about their traditions and daily life, with your guide acting as interpreter. After dinner, your guide will introduce you to the fascinating Inca constellations, which are still used today to guide agricultural activities.
-Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner.
-Accommodation: Camping facilities.
-Distance: 9kms / 5.6 miles.
-Time: Approximately 3.5 hours.
-Difficulty: Moderate.
DAY 2: CANCHA CANCHA – QUISWARANI
Itinerary
Wake up to a hot cup of tea or coffee before enjoying a hearty breakfast. Today, we begin a rewarding 7-hour hike heading northeast through some of the most spectacular scenery on the Lares Trek.
The trail starts with a steady ascent toward Pachacutec Pass (4,500 m / 14,800 ft), the highest point of the trek. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, grazing alpacas, rugged valleys, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Keep an eye out for Caracara falcons and Andean geese soaring above.
After reaching the pass, we descend for approximately 3 hours to our campsite near the Quiswarani Community (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). Following a quiet mountain trail, you’ll meet local families dressed in traditional Andean clothing as they herd their llamas and alpacas. The locals speak Quechua, the language of the Incas, and your guide will translate while introducing you to a few common Quechua words and phrases.
Before arriving at camp, we’ll pass the beautiful Seven Waterfalls, one of the day’s highlights. Once at the campsite, you’ll be welcomed with hot drinks and appetizers before enjoying dinner and a well-deserved night’s rest.
-Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner.
-Accommodation: Camping facilities.
-Distance: 12kms / 7.5 miles.
-Time: 7hrs approximately.
-Difficulty: challenging.
DAY 3: QUISWARANI – CUNCANI – LARES – OLLANTAYTAMBO - AGUAS CALIENTES
Itinerary
After breakfast, we begin another unforgettable day on the Lares Trek. A 3-hour ascent takes us to Willqaqasa Pass (4,200 m / 13,779 ft), where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of crystal-clear glacial lakes reflecting the surrounding peaks. From the pass, admire the impressive Colquecruz and Pitusiray Mountains before continuing across high-altitude grasslands, fertile farmland, and pristine mountain lakes.
We then descend for approximately 2 hours to the Cuncani Community. If the school is open, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the local children and spend some time with them.
In Cuncani, we meet our driver and continue by private transport through scenic valleys filled with farmland, fruit trees, native flowers, begonias, and wild orchids until we reach the Lares Hot Springs (3,100 m / 10,170 ft). Here, you’ll have time to relax in the natural volcanic hot springs, enjoy lunch, and say goodbye to your trekking chef and horsemen.
After lunch, we travel by private vehicle for approximately 2.5 hours to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll have dinner before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night.
-Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner.
-3* Accommodation: Pucará Hotel in Aguas Calientes or similar.
-Distance: 15kms / 9.3 miles.
-Time: Approximately 5-6 hours.
-Difficulty: Moderate.
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Itinerary
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to experience the unforgettable sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas. Your expert guide will lead a 2-hour guided tour, exploring the most important areas of the citadel while explaining its fascinating history and architecture.
After your guided visit, you’ll return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time for lunch (not included). Depending on your train schedule, you may also have time to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, or visit the local museum or hot springs.
In the afternoon, you’ll board the Expedition Train departing at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. to Ollantaytambo, enjoying scenic views of the Urubamba River along the way. If you look up the canyon walls, you may even spot the impressive Wiñay Wayna archaeological site. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, where you’ll arrive at approximately 7:00 p.m.
-Meal included: Breakfast.
-Difficulty: Easy.
***The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability, so please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to add it.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 4-DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?
INCLUDED:
- Airport transfer to your hotel upon arrival in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup with door-to-door service.
- Private transportation from your hotel to the Huaran trailhead.
- Professional licensed English-speaking guide.
- Round-trip Expedition train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Round-trip shuttle bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- 1 Night in a 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Double Room).
- 4-person tents shared by two trekkers.
- Comfortable foam sleeping mattress.
- Freshly prepared gourmet meals throughout the trek.
- Professional trekking chef and complete kitchen equipment.
- Experienced horsemen and pack horses.
- Camping equipment and up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of personal belongings carried by pack horses.
- Emergency horse available if needed.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- Boiled drinking water for refilling your water bottles.
- Transfer back to Cusco.
- Cultural interaction with local communities.
- Backpack rain cover.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Sleeping bag rental – US$20 per person per trek (clean and warm).
- Air mattress rental – US$20 per person per trek (Therm-a-Rest mattress).
- Adjustable trekking poles – US$15 per pair per trek.
- Personal tent – US$30 (available for solo travelers only).
- Vistadome train upgrade – US$65 per person (Return Only).
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance – US$75 per person (optional).
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes
- Tips for staff (optional).
***The visit to Machu Picchu is first carried out with our professional guide. After the guided tour, you can hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain independently. This hike is normally completed on your own. If you would like a guide to accompany you during the ascent, just let us know and we can arrange this with our team for an additional fee.
PRICES & AVAILABILITY
The 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu can be arranged according to your travel plans, giving you the flexibility to choose the dates that work best for your trip. Enjoy the freedom to organize your adventure around your schedule while exploring the beautiful Andean landscapes, traditional communities, and ancient trails of the Lares region on your way to the unforgettable Machu Picchu.
GROUP PRICE – 3★ HOTEL (DOUBLE ROOM)
- Only $625 USD per person
PRIVATE PRICE – 3★ HOTEL (DOUBLE ROOM)
- 2 People: $755 USD per person
- 3-4 People: $715 USD per person
- 5-6 People: $695 USD per person
- 7+ People: $625 USD per person
***Would you prefer a 4- or 5-star hotel? Contact us for the available options and their additional costs.
***USD 30 discount per person for both Group and Private Services when hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes is not required.
***Single Supplement: USD 30 per person for a private room at the 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
DISCOUNTS
-18 to 25 years old: US$30 discount. To qualify, a valid student ID is required. The card must clearly show the name of the university, the student’s full name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the student ID must be submitted at the time of booking for government approval.
-Under 18 years old: US$30 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
-Under 11 years old: US$40 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
-Groups of 6 or more: US$20 discount per person. All participants must book the trek together at the same time.
WHY CHOOSE CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS?
Because we are a local, family-owned company born in Cusco, with deep roots in the communities of our region. We know and value our land, and we strive to make every travel experience create a positive impact. In addition to offering authentic and responsible travel experiences, we support environmental and social projects that benefit local communities, children, and natural areas. When you travel with Callanga Family Explorers, you are not only discovering Peru-you are also contributing to initiatives that help protect our environment and support local people.
SMALL GROUPS
At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe that smaller groups create a better travel experience. To provide more personalized service and individual attention, we limit our groups to a maximum of 10 travelers. This allows our guides to offer a more enjoyable, comfortable, and engaging experience while exploring the Andes. Our small-group approach is one of the qualities that sets us apart from operators with larger group sizes.
OUR PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES
We are proud of our team of professional tour guides, who are fluent in English and passionate about sharing the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Incas and the Andes. Their knowledge is supported by continuous training and professional development, ensuring that every tour is informative, accurate, and engaging.
Our guides are friendly, approachable, and highly educated. They hold academic degrees in fields such as Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology, allowing them to provide insightful explanations and answer your questions with confidence. Their passion and dedication help create memorable experiences for every traveler.
OUR HORSEMEN AND PACK HORSES
The 4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with Callanga Family Explorers is supported by our experienced horsemen and well-cared-for pack horses throughout the journey. They are an essential part of our trekking team and help ensure that your adventure is comfortable and well organized.
As you trek through breathtaking Andean landscapes, visit remote communities, and discover their local traditions and culture, you can enjoy the journey with greater peace of mind and comfort, focusing on the natural beauty and authentic experience of the Andes.
OUR COOKS ON THE LARES TREK
One of the highlights of the Lares Trek is the outstanding food prepared by our talented trekking chefs. Our guests consistently praise the quality, variety, and generous portions served throughout the journey. Using fresh local ingredients combined with carefully selected products, our cooks prepare delicious Peruvian and international dishes every day. If you have any dietary requirements, food allergies, or special meal requests, we will be happy to accommodate your needs.
OUR EQUIPMENT
Our trekking team and the equipment we provide are an essential part of your experience on the trail. We take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the journey. The following camping equipment and services are included:
-Our Tents: Sleep comfortably in our spacious 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents. Each tent is designed for four people but is shared by only two trekkers, giving you plenty of room to relax and store your duffel bags. Every tent also features a front vestibule, providing extra space to keep your hiking boots, trekking poles, and other gear outside the sleeping area.
-Our Mats: We provide comfortable sleeping mats that help insulate you from the cold ground for a better night’s rest.
-Our Kitchen & Dining Tents: Our spacious dining tent serves as the gathering place for meals, where you can relax, enjoy freshly prepared food, and share your experience with fellow trekkers.
-Our Tables & Chairs: The dining tent is fully equipped with tables and chairs, offering a comfortable space for every meal. Its two-door design also provides excellent ventilation and adapts well to changing weather conditions.
-Duffel Bags: A duffel bag will be provided during the briefing on the evening before your trek.
-More: Pillows, backpack rain covers, souvenir T-shirts, hot showers, and a biodegradable camping toilet are provided during the trek.
OUR SERVICE PROJECTS
We believe travel can also make a positive difference. Through our social and environmental initiatives, we support local communities and children, participate in environmental clean-up campaigns, and help protect and restore natural areas in the Cusco region. These efforts reflect our commitment to responsible tourism and creating a positive impact beyond every journey.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please take a few moments to read the following information carefully. It contains helpful details about our services and everything you need to know before starting your 4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.
ARRIVAL TO CUSCO
Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, one of our representatives will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Please send us your complete flight details at least 14 days before your trek begins so we can coordinate your airport pickup. At the arrivals terminal exit, simply look for our representative holding a sign with your full name.
PRE-TREK BRIEFING
Your pre-trek briefing will take place at your hotel at 6:00 p.m. on the evening before your departure. During this meeting, your guide will explain the itinerary, review the trekking route, recommend the equipment you should bring, discuss important safety information, and answer any questions you may have. This briefing is designed to ensure you are fully prepared and ready to enjoy your adventure.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE BEFORE THE TREK?
Absolutely! All hotels in Cusco provide luggage storage for their guests before and after the trek. We recommend leaving your main luggage at your hotel and bringing only the essentials you will need during the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. This way, you can enjoy the trek more comfortably while your luggage remains safe until your return. If you need any assistance, our team will be happy to help.
PAYMENT METHODS
To confirm your reservation, we offer two secure payment methods. A 40% deposit of the total tour cost is required to secure your booking.
Payment Link:
We accept credit and debit cards. We will send you a secure personalized payment link through Izipay, allowing you to complete your payment quickly and safely.
PayPal:
You can make your payment directly to our PayPal account at info@callangafamilyexplorers.com. If you prefer, we can also send you a secure PayPal payment request by email, allowing you to complete your payment safely and conveniently. Your reservation will be confirmed once the required deposit has been received.
Before confirming your reservation and purchasing your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, we require the following information for each participant in your booking:
- Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
- Nationality
***Please also send us a clear copy of each participant’s passport at the time of booking.
WHAT ABOUT THE REMAINING BALANCE?
To avoid credit card processing fees, you may pay the remaining balance in cash (US dollars only) during your pre-trek briefing in Cusco. ATMs are widely available throughout Cusco’s Historic Center if you need to withdraw cash. If you prefer, you may also pay the balance online by Visa or PayPal. Please note that a 6% processing fee applies to cover the transaction fees charged by the payment platforms.
CAN I CHANGE MY TRAVEL DATE?
Unfortunately, no. Once your Machu Picchu tickets have been purchased, the Peruvian government does not permit any modifications to the travel date. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.
If you need to make any changes, please contact us as soon as possible. If you decide to cancel your 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, the deposit is non-refundable.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?
Yes. You must bring your original passport, and it is essential that it matches the passport number you provided when booking your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, as well as your entrance tickets and reservations.
If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, you may complete your booking using your current passport details. Once you receive your new passport or updated information, we can update your reservation for a $25 USD per person administrative fee. Copies of both your old and new passports are required to process the change. Before renewing your passport, please keep a copy of your current one.
If you prefer not to pay the update fee, you must travel to Peru with both passports. You may enter Peru using your new passport, but you will need to present both the old and new passports when boarding the train and entering Machu Picchu. Without both passports, you will not be permitted to board the train or enter Machu Picchu.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
Most travelers adjust well to the elevation when they allow enough time to acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting their trek. At 3,400 m (11,155 ft) above sea level, Cusco is already at a significant elevation, so we recommend spending at least 2-3 days acclimatizing before beginning this trek, especially if you are not accustomed to high elevations.
Staying well hydrated, drinking coca tea, and using oxygen when necessary may help manage altitude-related symptoms. Our guides are trained to recognize and respond appropriately to altitude sickness throughout the trek.
DUFFEL BAG & DAY BACKPACK
On the evening before your trek, you will receive a small duffel bag for packing the clothing and personal items you will need during the next 4 days. The maximum weight allowance is 7 kg (15 lbs). Your duffel bag, along with the camping equipment and food, will be carried by our pack horses.
Please note that you will not have access to your duffel bag during the day, as the horses travel ahead of the group. For the hike, you should carry a comfortable day backpack with your daily essentials, such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. A backpack with a capacity of 30 to 40 liters is generally ideal.
HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 36 km hiking adventure through the Andes in the Cusco region. The highest point reached during the trek is 4,500 m / 14,764 ft at Pachacutec Pass. During the trek, you will cross two mountain passes, with Pachacutec Pass being the highest point of the route and one of the most challenging sections of the trek.
This trek is rated as challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness. It is important to be well prepared before starting, as the route includes long hiking days, steep ascents, high-altitude terrain, and significant elevation changes. We recommend having regular exercise habits and being comfortable with long-distance walks. As part of your preparation, try walking around 15 km (9 miles) in a day or following a regular workout routine in the months before the trek.
ARE TOILET FACILITIES AVAILABLE DURING THE LARES TREK?
Yes, we provide private and clean toilet facilities during the trek for your comfort and convenience. At Callanga Family Explorers, we set up an individual toilet tent with a camping toilet and seat, located at a comfortable distance from the campsite.
The toilet facilities are available throughout the trek, including at night, so you can use them easily in a clean and private environment.
On the third day of the trek, you will also have the opportunity to relax at the Lares Hot Springs, where you can enjoy hot pools and hot water. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit.
WHAT IF I AM UNABLE TO COMPLETE THE TREK?
In case you are unable to continue the trek due to a health problem, our guide will assist you and coordinate the best option depending on your situation. Our trekking team carries emergency oxygen and basic first-aid equipment to help with altitude-related issues.
If a more serious situation occurs, an evacuation can be arranged (including helicopter evacuation if necessary), and the cost must be covered by the traveler or their travel insurance. Please note that no refunds are provided if the trek cannot be completed.
Depending on your recovery, we will help organize your transportation to continue your trip. Most cases are managed through Ollantaytambo, allowing travelers who feel better to continue to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu according to their itinerary.
ARE TIPS MANDATORY?
No. At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe in rewarding our staff through fair wages and responsible working conditions. Our staff are paid fairly for their professionalism, dedication, and hard work.
If you feel that our team has exceeded your expectations and would like to show your appreciation, tips are always welcome but are never expected or mandatory. Any gratuity is entirely at your discretion and is greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for exceptional service.
PACKING LIST
4-DAY LARES TREK PACKING LIST
– Original passport (must be the same passport used when booking your trek).
– Valid student ID card (if you booked with a student discount).
– Small daypack (a compact backpack is recommended).
– Water storage capacity of 2–3 liters (please bring reusable water bottles or a hydration bladder).
– Comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support.
– Sleeping bag (available for rent from Callanga Family Explorers).
– Headlamp (essential).
– Toilet paper
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG?
As a direct local tour operator, we provide a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing. Our pack horses and horsemen will transport up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings during the trek. This weight allowance includes your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and extra clothing.
The maximum weight permitted in the duffel bag is 7 kg (15 lbs). This limit helps ensure that the load remains manageable for the pack horses throughout the trek. All duffel bags are weighed before departure.
If your duffel bag exceeds the 7 kg limit, any additional weight must be carried in your daypack. Within the 7 kg allowance, please reserve approximately 2 kg for your sleeping bag and 1 kg for your sleeping pad, leaving about 4 kg available for your personal gear.
– 2 T-shirts.
– At least 2 pairs of hiking pants.
– 4 sets of underwear.
– 3 pairs of hiking socks.
– Swimsuit for the hot springs (optional).
– 2 fleece layers or thermal tops.
– Warm clothing, including a down jacket (temperatures at the second campsite can drop to around 3°C / 37°F).
– Waterproof gloves (ski gloves are also suitable).
– Comfortable shoes or sandals for camp.
– Quick-dry towel (we provide a small towel, but you may prefer to bring a larger one).
– Small bottle of soap (warm water is provided daily for washing).
– Battery charger or power bank (there is no electricity along the trek).
– Large plastic bags (provided at our office upon request).
– Sleeping bag rated to at least -15°C (5°F) (available for rent)
TOILETRIES
– Face moisturizer
– Hand sanitizer
– Wet wipes
– Toothbrush and toothpaste
– Personal medications
– Basic first aid kit (bandages, moleskin, etc.)
WHAT TO CARRY IN YOUR DAYPACK?
We recommend a small 30-40 L backpack for your daily hikes. Larger backpacks are not permitted inside Machu Picchu. The rest of your belongings will stay in your duffel bag at camp.
– Water (please bring enough water for the morning hike until the first lunch stop; reusable water bottles are recommended).
– Sun hat.
– Sunscreen.
– Headlamp (essential).
– Wool hat.
– Rain gear.
– Fleece jacket.
– Snacks such as chocolate bars, cereal bars, or dried fruit.
– Rain poncho.
– Gloves.
– Camera.
– Hand sanitizer.
– Toilet paper and a small bag for carrying waste.
– Extra cash for souvenirs, additional drinks, and tips.