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Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
The trek through weaving communities
4 days / 3 nightsChallengingUp to 124,450 m.a.s.l.
About the tour
Lares is chosen for what lies along the way rather than the destination. The route crosses high valleys where Quechua-speaking communities still weave on backstrap looms and dye wool with plants and cochineal — not as a demonstration for visitors, but because it is their work.
The trek crosses passes above 4,400 metres, between glacial lakes and alpaca herds, and drops to the Lares hot springs, a welcome finish for the legs after day two.
Unlike the Inca Trail it needs no permit booked months ahead, and on the final day you reach Machu Picchu by train from Ollantaytambo.
Highlights
- Weaving communities
- Lares hot springs
- High glacial lakes
- No advance permit needed
Day-by-day itinerary
1
Cusco – Lares – first campsite
Transfer to the Lares area and the start of the trek through high valleys, between potato fields and alpaca herds, to the first campsite.
2
High pass and weaving communities
The most demanding day: crossing a pass above 4,400 m, between glacial lakes, and descending to communities where wool is still woven on backstrap looms and dyed with plants and cochineal.
3
Lares hot springs and transfer to Ollantaytambo
The last stretches of walking and a soak in the Lares hot springs. Transfer to the Sacred Valley and train to Aguas Calientes.
4
Machu Picchu and return to Cusco
Guided entry to the citadel and free time. Return to Cusco by train in the afternoon.
Qué llevar
- Pasaporte
- Bolsa de dormir apta para bajo cero
- Casaca impermeable y capas térmicas
- Botas de trekking ya usadas (no estrenar)
- Linterna frontal con pilas de repuesto
- Protector solar factor alto y labial con SPF
- Bastones de trekking
- Botiquín personal y pastillas para la altura
Frequently asked questions
Lares crosses valleys inhabited by Quechua-speaking communities who still weave and herd, rather than archaeological sites. It also requires no permit booked months in advance.
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