LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
3 DAYS / 2 NIGHTS
CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS le invita a descubrir el inolvidable Trek de Lares a Machu Picchu. Esta exclusiva ruta lo llevará por impresionantes paisajes andinos con majestuosos glaciares, cristalinas lagunas, cascadas, llamas y alpacas. Durante el recorrido, visitará comunidades tradicionales alejadas de las rutas convencionales y disfrutará de una auténtica experiencia cultural junto a sus habitantes.
La aventura finaliza con una visita guiada a la majestuosa Ciudadela Inca de Machu Picchu, seguida de tiempo libre para explorar este increíble sitio antes de regresar a Cusco en tren a través del Valle Sagrado de los Incas.
***Importante: Debido a la duración del itinerario, el Trek de Lares de 3 días no incluye la visita a los Baños Termales de Lares. Esta experiencia está disponible únicamente en nuestro Trek de Lares de 4 días.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO – HUARAN – CANCHA CANCHA
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 a.m.. We then drive through the beautiful Sacred Valley to Huaran, where you’ll meet your guide, horsemen, and pack horses before preparing for the trek.
The hike starts with a gradual uphill walk of approximately 3 hours toward the traditional Andean community of Cancha Cancha. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy spectacular mountain scenery before stopping beside a peaceful river to savor a freshly prepared lunch cooked by our trekking chef.
Located at 3,900 m (12,800 ft), Cancha Cancha is one of the most remote and authentic communities in the Andes. Isolated for centuries, the village only gained access to electricity in 2019, preserving its traditional way of life and rich cultural heritage.
After settling into camp and enjoying afternoon tea, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a local family and learn about their daily life, customs, and traditions with your guide acting as interpreter. In the evening, after dinner, your guide will introduce you to the fascinating Inca constellations, which were once used to guide agricultural activities and continue to hold cultural significance today.
- Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities with bathroom building
- Distance: 9kms / 5.6 miles
- Time: 3.5hrs approximately
- Difficulty: Moderate
DAY 2: CANCHA CANCHA – QUISWARANI – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES
Itinerary
After a nourishing breakfast, we begin the second day of our adventure with an approximately 7-hour hike heading northeast. The trail starts with a steady ascent toward the highest point of the trek, Pachacútec Pass (4,500 m / 14,800 ft). Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of glaciers, remote lakes, alpaca herds, steep valleys, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Keep an eye on the sky, where you may spot Caracara falcons and Andean geese.
From the pass, we descend for about 3 hours to our campsite near the traditional community of Quiswarani (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). Along the trail, you’ll pass through isolated highland areas where local families continue to herd llamas and alpacas while wearing their traditional clothing. You’ll also have the opportunity to interact with the local people in Quechua, the language of the Incas, with your guide serving as interpreter and teaching you a few Quechua words.
After visiting the spectacular Seven Waterfalls, we arrive in Quiswarani, where our private transportation takes us to Ollantaytambo. From there, we board the train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night at your hotel.
- Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
- 3* Accommodation: Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu or Hotel Pucará
- Distance: 12kms / 7.5 miles
- Time: 7hrs approximately
- Difficulty: Challenging
DAY 3: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Itinerary
Today is the highlight of your adventure—Machu Picchu! After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll board one of the first shuttle buses to the Inca Citadel, arriving in time to experience the peaceful morning atmosphere. Your professional guide will lead you on an approximately 2-hour guided tour, introducing you to the site’s most important landmarks while explaining the history and the three main sectors of Machu Picchu: agricultural, residential, and religious.
After your guided visit, you’ll take the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also enjoy some free 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 back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., following the scenic Urubamba River through one of the most beautiful valleys in the region. Along the journey, you may catch a glimpse of Wiñay Wayna high above the canyon walls. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our representative will meet you at the train station and transfer you by private vehicle to your hotel in Cusco. Estimated arrival is around 7:00 p.m.
Guests who have reserved the Huayna Picchu Mountain hike in advance should note that this additional excursion is self-guided.
***IMPORTANT:
- You may upgrade to the Vistadome Train on the same available departure times: 2:55 p.m., 3:20 p.m., 4:22 p.m., or 4:43 p.m. (additional cost: US$65).
- Alternative train schedules can also be arranged in advance upon request, subject to availability.
INCLUDED:
- Airport pickup and transfer to your hotel (available on any arrival date).
- 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.
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- 3-star hotel with private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi and breakfast.
- Spacious 4-person EUREKA TIMBERLINE tent shared by only 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 to carry the camping equipment and up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings.
- 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 journey to Cusco via Poroy on the 4:43 p.m. train)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance – US$75 per person (must be requested at the time of booking).
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes
- Tips for the guide, cook, horsemen, and trekking staff of CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS
***The Huayna Picchu Mountain hike is an optional activity within the Machu Picchu Citadel and is not guided. It is usually completed independently after your guided tour of Machu Picchu. If you would like this additional hike to be guided, please let us know in advance. An additional fee applies for this service.
OPTIONAL UPGRADES: Hotel or Train
– Vistadome Train Upgrade from Machu Picchu to Cusco (via Poroy) – US$65 per person.
– La Cabaña Hotel Upgrade – US$40 per person.
– Tierra Viva Hotel Upgrade – US$70 per person.
– El Mapi Hotel Upgrade – US$120 per person.
– Additional Night in Aguas Calientes – From US$60 per person, depending on your hotel selection and availability.
PRICES
The 3-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is available on any date that best suits your travel plans, provided there is a minimum of 2 participants.
Best Group Rate
- From US$495 per person
Group Price
- 2 People – US$595 per person
- 3 People – US$575 per person
- 4 People – US$555 per person
- 5 People – US$535 per person
- 6 People – US$495 per person
- 7+ People – US$475 per person
**Prices are based on the number of participants, as the 3-Day Lares Trek is less frequently booked than the 4-Day Lares Trek. Groups typically consist of 2 to 4 travelers.
**Every two trekkers share one spacious 4-person EUREKA tent, providing extra comfort and plenty of room for your gear.
**The tour price includes an extra pack horse to carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings. A duffel bag will be provided during the briefing for your trekking gear.
DISCOUNTS
– Travelers aged 18 to 25: 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.
– Children under 18 years old: US$30 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
– Children under 11 years old: US$40 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
– Groups of 5 or more: US$20 discount per person. All participants must book the trek together at the same time.
WHY CHOOSE CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS?
Callanga Family Explorers is a family-owned travel agency and local tour operator based in Cusco, built on many years of firsthand trekking experience. We are a 100% Cusqueñian company with no external shareholders, proudly dedicated to providing authentic and unforgettable travel experiences throughout Peru.
Our mission as a locally based company is to create small, personalized tours and treks, operated exclusively by experienced local professionals committed to delivering personalized service and the highest standards of quality. We believe that every traveler deserves individual attention and an exceptional travel experience from beginning to end.
We are proud to be a responsible and sustainable tour operator. Our guides, cooks, horsemen, and support staff are an essential part of our extended family. We value their hard work by providing fair wages and a positive working environment, allowing them to continue sharing their passion, knowledge, and hospitality with every guest. Their dedication is what makes each journey truly memorable.
At CALLANGA Family Explorers, we understand how important it is to choose a trustworthy and reliable local tour operator when planning your adventure in Peru. Our commitment to quality service, safety, and personalized attention has earned the confidence of travelers from around the world. We invite you to read our Tripadvisor reviews!.
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 PACK HORSES
The 3 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with Callanga Family Explorers is an unforgettable adventure, fully supported by our experienced horsemen and well-cared-for pack horses. Your comfort and enjoyment are our top priorities throughout the journey. While you immerse yourself in breathtaking Andean landscapes, visit remote Inca communities, and experience the local culture, our pack horses safely carry your camping equipment and personal duffel bag, allowing you to enjoy the trek with greater comfort.
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
At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe that outstanding adventures begin with an experienced team and high-quality equipment. Together with our professional guides, cooks, horsemen, and support staff, we provide reliable camping gear to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable trekking experience. Our 3 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu includes the following equipment:
- 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.
- Air Mattresses: Available to rent for US$15.
- 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 COMMITMENT TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES
At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe that responsible tourism means giving back to the local communities that make every journey so special. As part of our commitment to sustainable tourism, we proudly hire local staff and support the isolated Andean communities where our treks take place.
We are proud to contribute to the well-being of these communities by creating employment opportunities and working closely with local families. By supporting local people and respecting their traditions, we help ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared with those who call these beautiful mountain regions home.
INFORMACION IMPORTANTE
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 3 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 3-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?
In general, if you exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before your trek, your body should acclimatize well. Most visitors adapt within 24 to 48 hours.
To help prevent altitude sickness, we recommend drinking plenty of water, enjoying coca tea, and using oxygen if necessary. Our guides are trained to assist guests experiencing symptoms of altitude sickness.
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 3 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.
IS THE LARES TREK CROWDED DURING PEAK SEASON?
One of the greatest advantages of our 3 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is its peaceful and less-traveled route. Even during the busiest months of the year, you will rarely encounter other trekking groups, allowing you to enjoy a more authentic Andean experience.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I CAN'T FINISH THE TREK?
In the unlikely event that you are unable to complete the trek due to a health issue, Callanga Family Explorers will assist you in reaching the nearest town where transportation can be arranged. Our guides always carry emergency oxygen to assist with altitude or respiratory-related issues. In extreme situations, a helicopter evacuation can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance is required.) Please note that no refunds are available if you are unable to complete the trek.
In most cases, trekkers who leave the trail early are taken to Ollantaytambo. If they recover quickly, they can continue to Aguas Calientes (at their own expense) and visit Machu Picchu according to their original itinerary.
ARE TIPS MANDATORY?
No. At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe in rewarding our team through fair wages and responsible working conditions. Our guides, cooks, and horsemen 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.
ARE WE A SUSTAINABLE TOUR OPERATOR?
Yes. Callanga Family Explorers is a locally owned, sustainable, and responsible tour operator committed to the core principles of responsible tourism. We strive to protect the natural environment while supporting local communities by respecting their traditions, culture, and way of life.
To uphold these values, we train all of our local staff to understand and respect the places we visit, as well as the people and communities who welcome us.
PACKING LIST
3-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 FOR THE 3-DAY LARES TREK?
As a direct local tour operator, we provide a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing and include an extra porter to carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of personal belongings. This weight allowance includes your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and extra clothing.
According to Peruvian regulations, the maximum weight permitted in the duffel bag is 7 kg (15 lbs). This limit helps protect the well-being of the porters and horses involved in 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 bringing a compact daypack (30–40L) for use during the hike. Large backpacks are not permitted inside Machu Picchu. Any additional belongings can be stored in your duffel bag, which will remain at camp until needed.
– 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.
LARES TREK ROUTE MAP
What Our Travelers Say?
- Reserva con un depósito de 40%
- Hoteles de 3*** estrellas