Inca Trail 2027 - Limited permits. Plan early with Apple Travel Peru.
Check availability4 Days / 3 Nights
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days is one of the best alternative treks to the Inca Trail, combining Andean culture, hot springs, waterfalls, lakes, and the Maras Salt Mines (Salineras), finishing with Machu Picchu.
This cultural trek takes you through remote Andean villages where families still speak Quechua and weave textiles from llama and alpaca wool.
Unlike the Salkantay Trek, Lares is less physically demanding and more focused on culture, making it perfect for families and travelers who want to meet local communities. You will soak in the Lares Hot Springs (3,200m / 10,498 ft), hike to Kiswarani Lake and over Condor Pass (Pachacutec Pass) at 4,680m / 15,354 ft, and visit Cancha Cancha village (3,750m / 12,303 ft).
Cancha Cancha is the only village in the valley without electricity or cars, where homes are built with traditional stone walls and grass-thatched roofs. You will also explore the Maras Salt Mines with over 3,000 evaporation pools in use since pre-Inca times.
Group or Private
Trekking, Cultural and Adventure
Up to 8
Camping
Challenging
4 Days / 3 Nights
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
Your Lares Trek adventure begins with an early 5:00 AM pickup from your accommodation in Cusco, Urubamba, Huaran, or Pisac. From there, enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive through the Sacred Valley and the Andes, with sweeping mountain views setting the tone for the journey ahead.
We arrive at the Lares Hot Springs, where you’ll enjoy breakfast with a view before easing into the naturally heated pools. The springs range from cool to hot and are rich in volcanic minerals, traditionally valued for relaxation, muscle recovery, and stress relief.
After time to soak and unwind, we continue 20 minutes by vehicle to Punta Carretera (3,300 m / 10,827 ft), the official trailhead.
At the trailhead, meet our horses and muleteers, who will carry your duffle bags, allowing you to hike comfortably. The trek begins with a gentle 2-hour uphill walk toward Kiswarani.
Here, enjoy your first freshly prepared meal by our trekking chef. This region is known as the “potato valley,” home to dozens of native varieties. Along the way, your guide will point out medicinal plants used by local communities.
You’ll meet llamas, once sacred to the Incas and central to their economy, and learn about their cultural importance from local herders. We’ll also visit the village, including a local school where children still speak Quechua. If you wish, you’re welcome to bring small school supplies or interact with the children.
The afternoon continues with another 2-hour gradual ascent to the campsite. Upon arrival, your tents will be ready, and you’ll be welcomed with hot drinks as night falls. Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, followed by stargazing or a well-earned rest.
You’ll wake gently around 5:00 AM with a hot drink delivered to your tent. As the day begins, enjoy sweeping views over the colorful Kiswarani lake and valley, where local families are already tending to their llamas and alpacas.
After breakfast, we pack up, refill water bottles, and begin today’s challenge.
The trail climbs steadily for 3 to 4 hours to Pachacutec Pass, also known as Condor Pass. We zigzag uphill and stop often to enjoy views of lakes, waterfalls, and grazing alpacas and llamas. An emergency horse is available if you need extra support.
At the summit at 4,680m / 15,354 ft, you get 360-degree panoramic views above the clouds, including Pitusiray Mountain (5,700m / 18,700 ft). We rest here with a hot drink and time for photos before starting the descent.
We descend toward El Mirador, where lunch is served with views of open pastures and llamas grazing nearby. After lunch, we continue hiking downhill for about 3 hours, passing more alpine lakes and wide valleys.
By afternoon, we arrive in the remote village of Cancha Cancha (3,750 m / 12,303 ft). This is the only village in the Lares Valley without electricity or cars, where most homes are still built using traditional stone walls and grass-thatched roofs.
Your tents will be set up upon arrival. You’ll have time to meet local families and children, and your guide will introduce you to traditional Andean life, including a visit to a home where hand-woven textiles made from llama and alpaca wool are produced.
Travelers who wish may bring school supplies or food to support the community—always optional, but deeply appreciated.
As night falls, enjoy the quiet, untouched atmosphere of the Andes before settling in for a well-earned rest.
Your final trekking day begins with a hot drink delivered by our porters, followed by breakfast. Before setting off, enjoy time to explore the village and visit the local elementary school, where Quechua, the ancient Inca language, is still taught—an authentic cultural moment to close the trek.
We begin the final 4-hour downhill hike, following a scenic trail through traditional farmland. Along the way, you’ll see llamas and alpacas, as well as locals practicing ancestral Inca farming techniques using hand tools.
As we descend into the Sacred Valley, the landscape transforms and the climate warms. Crops change from high-altitude potatoes and fava beans to corn, quinoa, kiwi, peaches, avocados, and fruit orchards. We finish the trek in the village of Huaran, where we say farewell to our horses, muleteers, chef, and porters.
From Huaran, travel by private van to the Maras Salt Mines (Salineras). Here, a natural salt spring feeds over 3,000 evaporation pools, in continuous use since pre-Inca times. Each pool is still owned and maintained by local families. You’ll have time to explore, take photos, and purchase naturally mineral-rich salt, including the famous pink varieties.
We continue with a 45-minute drive through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, the only living Inca town still intact. Your guide will walk you through the village before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
In the evening, board the train to Aguas Calientes (typically around 7:00 PM, subject to availability). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax—Machu Picchu awaits tomorrow.
Today is the moment you’ve been waiting for. We start early, boarding one of the first buses around 5:30 AM for the 30-minute ride up to Machu Picchu. Arriving early gives you the chance to witness the sunrise over the citadel—one of the most memorable moments of the journey.
Inside the sanctuary, your guide will lead a 2-hour guided tour, sharing the history, symbolism, and engineering behind Machu Picchu. You’ll explore its most important areas and gain a deeper understanding of why this site remains one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders.
After the guided visit, enjoy free time to continue exploring on your own or simply take in the atmosphere.
For those seeking an extra challenge and panoramic views, you may hike Huayna Picchu.
In the afternoon, board the train to Ollantaytambo (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival, a private vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, with drop-off at your hotel—bringing this unforgettable adventure to a smooth close.
Would you like to stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes? Let us know in advance and we’ll adjust your train tickets and arrange your hotel.
The Lares Trek can leave any day of the week, 12 months a year.
$557 per person
A group tour means that it is open for other trekkers to join you. This means that your group will have varying hiking and fitness abilities. All our guides are experts on how to keep the trek moving and happy no matter how fast you hike.
Private tours are available and priced by party size.
2 Trekkers: $750 per person
3 Trekkers: $725 per person
4 Trekkers: $700 per person
5 Trekkers: $675 per person
6 Trekkers: $650 per person
7 Trekkers: $625 per person
8 or more Trekkers: $600 per person
* All our tours are priced in US Dollars.
Inti Punku
This tour includes 2 nights camping and 1 night in a basic three-star hotel, Inti Punku. Rooms all include private bathrooms, hot showers, and wifi. Prices are based on a shared room (Double, Matrimonial, or Triple available) and single rooms are available for a $30 US supplement (all solo travelers are given a single room). Other hotels are available upon request at the prices listed below.
Single Room: +$30 pp
La Cabana: +$40 pp shared (+$110 for a single)
Casa Andina: $40 pp shared ($110 for a single)
El Mapi: +$70 pp shared (+$170 for a single)
Book on your own: -$30 pp
If you’re planning to travel to Cusco, there’s some important info you should know about getting there. Currently, the airport in Cusco only services domestic flights. So if you’re coming from an international destination, you’ll need to disembark in Lima and go through Customs there, even if you have a connecting flight to Cusco on the same day with the same airline. When it comes to the best way to reach Cusco, flying is definitely the way to go.
There are a number of airlines that offer flights to Cusco, with LAN being one of the most popular (though also one of the pricier options). Just be aware that due to the high altitude of Cusco, it can be tough for planes to land there, and weather conditions can also cause flight delays or cancellations. If you’re not up for flying, taking a bus is another option. While it may be a long journey, the buses in Peru are generally very comfortable and well-maintained. This is particularly recommended if you’re coming from a nearby city like Puno. However, if you’re departing from Lima, be prepared for a 20-hour bus ride to get to Cusco.
We understand that you may have extra luggage with you during your trip, and we want to assure you that it will be safely taken care of. You have a couple of options – you can leave it at your hotel in Cusco, or with us at Apple Travel Peru while you’re on the trek. We’ll personally take care of storing your luggage on the morning of your trek and make sure it’s returned to you once you’re back in Cusco. To make things easier, we kindly ask that you attach luggage tags to your bags so they’re easy to locate.
Please note that for the trek, you will need to bring your own daypack as Apple Travel Peru does not provide one. It is important to keep your daypack as light as possible during the trek. Please keep in mind that Machu Picchu has strict regulations on backpack size, and only daypacks of 25L or less are allowed. If your pack exceeds this size, you will need to check it at the entrance. Please be aware that while checking your bag is relatively inexpensive, there are often long lines, so plan accordingly.
Once you’ve booked your trip to Peru, it’s common to wonder about altitude sickness. When you’re at high altitudes, the air contains less oxygen than at sea level, so your body has to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. To acclimate to the lower oxygen levels, we always suggest spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes.
Altitude sickness may make you feel like you have the flu or a hangover, with symptoms such as a headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, or trouble breathing during exercise. If these symptoms become severe, please contact our office, and we’ll assist you in getting to a doctor.
It’s important to ease into physical activity slowly, allowing your body time to adjust. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or coca tea, which people have been using for centuries to help prevent altitude sickness. Avoid consuming too much alcohol or coffee as they may dehydrate you, and refrain from smoking as it makes it harder for your body to absorb oxygen. Furthermore, avoid sleeping pills as they may cause shallow breathing, making it harder for your body to get oxygen while you sleep.
Remember, the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race, so take it slow and let your body adjust to the elevation. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medication, such as Acetazolamide and Dexamethasone, to help alleviate altitude sickness. If you start taking the medicine two days before arriving at a high altitude, continue to take it while you’re there. Also, don’t stress about getting sick during your vacation. If you do experience altitude sickness, inform your guide right away. Our Apple Travel Peru guides have the training to assist you during such situations.
When trekking in Cusco, it’s essential to prepare yourself for all weather conditions, even during the dry season from April to October. While it is generally dry, rain can still occur, so packing rain gear like a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and gloves is crucial to stay dry and comfortable. Don’t forget to pack warm gloves as well to avoid being cold and miserable.
The Andes have diverse microclimates, and temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day. To be ready for any weather changes, pack layers that are easy to adjust accordingly. It’s also wise to bring a warm, packable down jacket for chilly evenings.
If you plan to trek Lares, be aware that this trek tends to be colder than others. Apple Travel Peru will provide insulated warm bottles to keep you warm while sleeping. Still, it’s essential to bring extra layers to stay cozy during the colder temperatures.
Apple Travel Peru takes the safety and well-being of our clients very seriously. We want you to have a memorable and enjoyable trekking experience, and that means ensuring that you are in good hands in case of an emergency.
Our guides are well-trained in first aid. They are equipped with a first aid kit to deal with basic medical situations. In addition, we conduct mandatory first-aid training every February. It is to ensure that our guides are up to date with the latest techniques and procedures.
If you are unable to complete the trek due to medical issues, our guides will assist you in the safest and quickest way off the trail. They will accompany you every step of the way until you are safely with a doctor. Once you are feeling better, we will make sure that you still get to visit Machu Picchu and rejoin your group comfortably by train.
We kindly ask that you inform your guide of any chronic medical conditions you may have before the trek. This way, we can be prepared to assist you if needed. At Apple Travel Peru, your safety is our top priority.
Travel insurance is an essential part of protecting your investment when traveling, and we highly recommend that all travelers purchase it. To ensure that you have peace of mind during your trip, we work with a reputable agency in the United States that can provide you with comprehensive travel insurance at an affordable price. Whether it’s for unexpected flight cancellations, lost baggage, or medical emergencies, travel insurance can provide you with financial protection and assistance when you need it most. Don’t let unforeseen circumstances ruin your trip; get travel insurance today.
If interested in booking through our trusted partner Ahart, Frinzi & Smith CLICK HERE.
Apple Travel Peru is committed to promoting eco-friendliness and supporting local communities. Providing biodegradable soap and portable toilets that allow for proper waste disposal is an important step toward reducing the impact of tourism on the environment. And buying food from local farmers and markets supports the local economy. It also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
Apple Travel Peru sponsors a teacher and provides English classes for their team members. Building a house for the porters is another way to show that the company values their hard work and wants to ensure their safety and comfort.
The twice-yearly trips to Machu Picchu for the porters and their families are heartwarming gestures. It’s essential to remember that the success of the trekking industry in Peru relies heavily on the hard work and dedication of porters, and it’s essential to provide them with fair compensation, insurance, and proper working conditions.
Providing a personal porter for each camping trek is a fantastic service. It allows travelers to focus on enjoying the trek without the burden of carrying heavy equipment. Providing proper uniforms, salaries, and insurance for the porters shows a commitment to fair labor practices.
Apple Travel Peru’s commitment to eco-friendliness, community service, and fair labor practices makes them an excellent choice for travelers who want to explore Peru while supporting local communities and the environment.
Remember you are packing for 2 nights of camping and 1 night in a hotel. Porters will carry up to 8 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt (if you bring/rent one). From us, these two items weigh 3.5 kg.
When it comes to choosing a daypack for your hiking trip, it’s important to consider the size. While daypacks can come in any size, we always recommend opting for a smaller one. This is especially important if you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu, as bags larger than 25L won’t be allowed inside the citadel gates. If your daypack happens to be larger than 25L, you’ll need to store it outside the gates.
Now, in terms of what you’ll need to bring with you on your trip to Peru, it’s essential to make sure your passport is valid and up-to-date. Additionally, you’ll want to have your student card and immigration card on hand, which will be given to you on the plane as you enter Peru.
When it comes to your daypack, again, we recommend choosing a smaller one. It’s also a good idea to bring along water storage, such as a Camelbak reservoir, so that you have enough water to last you for the duration of your hike. We suggest packing enough for at least 2-3 liters.
Lastly, make sure you have comfortable hiking boots with lightweight yet sturdy soles. You’ll want to be able to move easily and confidently on your hiking adventure.
January 10, 2024 · Apple Travel Peru
It was my best experience with Apple Travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly.
Read moreOctober 21, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
Incredible service and experience in Inca Trail 4 days travel. Everything was top of the notch. Thanks Ivanoe, my guide.
Read moreOctober 19, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
The 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was everything I expected and more. Gorgeous from beginning to end. The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable.
Read moreOctober 11, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
It was a great experience with all the team Apple Travel. I enjoyed my whole trip. Thanks a lot for being part of my vacation in Cusco.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A very organized Salkantay experience with caring guides, strong support at altitude, and memorable food after long hiking days.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide and chef made the trek feel safe, enjoyable, and personal, even when altitude made the journey challenging.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A difficult hike became possible thanks to a patient guide who encouraged the group and helped through the hardest sections.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide adapted the pace and itinerary well, combining knowledge, courtesy, and flexibility throughout the tour.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A smooth multi-day trip with patient guiding, careful logistics, clean transport, and thoughtful help at every site.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The experience exceeded expectations with a local guide whose knowledge and enthusiasm made the journey feel meaningful.
Read moreOct 29, 2025 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide brought history and culture to life while keeping the group comfortable and helping capture great memories.
Read moreFeb 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The team handled planning easily and adjusted the route around weather and walking ability without losing key highlights.
Read moreApril 21, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
Expert guides, strong porters, and memorable meals helped turn a demanding trail into a remarkable group experience.
Read moreApril 18, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guides kept the schedule smooth and attentive, making the first visit to Machu Picchu easy to recommend.
Read moreApril 9, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide, cook, and porter team brought great energy, answered questions, and even helped celebrate a birthday.
Read moreApril 17, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide respected a slower pace, shared useful knowledge, and made the route feel supportive and enjoyable.
Read more
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