Night 1-2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsJose Antonio Hotel, Cusco
A comfortable hotel in a great location for exploring the city. Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace for wonderful views of the city and don’t miss their excellent breakfast.
Discover the beauty of the Peruvian Andes on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu Tour
Explore the ancient city of Cusco, Peru, trek in the spectacular Peruvian Andes, and watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu on the Lares Trek and Machu Picchu tour. This 7-day guided trekking adventure is the experience of a lifetime and Peru’s mesmerizing Lares Trail.
Discover the unique and colourful culture of small Quechua village life as you hike through the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley. On this Lares trekking tour, you’ll also enjoy luxury hotel accommodations in Cusco, the oldest continually inhabited city in South America. You’ll understand why this region once formed the heart of the Incan empire and why so many adventurers opt to explore this area today on the Lares Trek.
Beyond experiencing the magic of Peru’s Lares Trail itself, you’ll also spend a day experiencing the wonders of Machu Picchu on this incredible adventure. Beginning with the sunrise, continuing with a guided tour, and ending with opportunities to explore freely, your day at Machu Picchu will give you memories to treasure for years to come. Don’t miss this guided trekking tour full of adventure, mystery, culture and history. Book your place on the Lares Trek and Machu Picchu guided trekking tour today!
Everyone has heard of Peru’s Inca Trail but those looking for something a little bit different may have landed on the Lares Trail. While both trails are among the best trekking trails in Peru, there are some key differences to note.
The Inca Trail is commonly known as the classic Peruvian trek, while the Lares Trail is less well-known and therefore less crowded. The Lares Trail is also generally considered to be an easier trek than the Inca Trail and is also shorter in length. A big highlight of the Lares Trail is the multitude of authentic Andean villages trekkers pass through along the way, making it not only an incredible trekking experience but an unforgettable cultural experience too.
In short, a Lares trekking tour is perfect for those looking to ditch the crowds and soak up the best of Peru’s waterfalls and mountain lakes while getting a true taste of Andean culture along the way.
While it is required by the Peruvian government to hold a permit to hike the Inca Trail, it is not the case for the Lares Trail. For this reason, it is possible to complete the Lares Trek on a self-guided basis, however, a guided trek is recommended to experience the most on the trail and for safety reasons.
Welcome to Peru and the city of Cusco! Transportation will be arranged for you to get to your hotel from the airport, and once there you will meet your guide for a tour briefing and overview. Depending on what time you arrive, you should have time to explore Cusco! This city set high in the Andes was the capital of the ancient Incan Empire, and there are many remains left from this time. You can also see Spanish churches and mansions. Cusco also offers wonderful Peruvian restaurants and a vibrant nightlife.
Today you are free to explore Cusco at your own pace and following your own interests. There is much to see, do, and learn here in South America’s oldest, continuously inhabited city. What was once the Inca’s capital city has now become the archaeological capital of South America.
To help you make the most of your visit, you can choose one of two optional daytours, which are provided for free (though you still need to pay admission fees while on the tour. Choose between the Sacred Valley Tour and the Maras Moray Tour.
The Sacred Valley Tour is a full day of experiences. You’ll visit an Indian market in Pisac to experience this colourful tradition. You’ll then travel to the town of Ollantaytambo, a town of narrow streets and canals that are largely unchanged since the time the Incas inhabited it. Finally, visit the Chinchero market. This market is more authentic and less geared toward tourists. According to legend, Chinchero is the birthplace of the rainbow. When you are finished in Chinchero, return to Cusco.
Your other option is the Maras Moray tour begins with a drive from your hotel to Moray (approx. 1.5 hours). Moray is known as the “Inca agricultural greenhouse or laboratory.” Here, the Incas carved amphitheatre-like terraces in a bowl shape. It is thought that these were used to test and determine optimal growing conditions for different crops. After exploring Moray, continue another two miles to visit the Maras salt mines, a spectacular set of terraced salt ponds. Exposed to the sun, the water dries and leaves the salt behind. It is believed that salt was harvested in this way in this place since a time before even the Incas. After exploring the Maras salt mines, return to Cusco.
After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Calca, which is in the Sacred Valley. This is an opportunity to purchase any last-minute supplies. continue driving, going to today’s highest elevation, 4,265 m (13,992 ft), where you will be able to see two large and beautiful mountains: Sawasiray and Pitusiray. Descending again, you’ll come to the small colonial town of Lares (3,207 m / 10,521 ft). Pause to have lunch, enjoy the springs and prepare to begin your hike.
Today’s Lares trek hike will climb almost 400 m to reach your first campsite at Huacawasi (3,800 m / 12,467ft). Here in this small town, you’ll see adobe houses, llamas, and plenty of vibrant colors.
After breakfast, begin your trek from Huacawasi to Aruraycocha (4,500 m / 14,763 ft), which is today’s highest point. From here you can see the stunning Aruraycocha Lake and the views from this point are simply incredible. From here, begin hiking down toward the lake. You’ll notice the vegetation begins to change as you enter the Mantanay Conservation Area, so watch for the special Q’euñas trees that surround another lake, Lake Yuraccocha. Stop for lunch in the beautiful region around these two lakes. Keep your eyes to the skies for the chance to spot the enormous Andean condor. After lunch, continue descending the trail into the village of Mantanay, where you’ll find your next campsite (3,800 m / 12,467 ft).
Finish your Lares guided trek today from Mantanay to Yanahuara (2,950 m / 9,678 m). Yanahuara is another lovely and colorful village in the Sacred Valley. White grain corn, an important staple crop, is grown here. You’ll notice the weather grows warmer here. In Yanahuara, you’ll have one last meal with the horsemen and cooks that accompanied you on your trek, then bid them farewell. Board a van takes you on to Ollantaytambo, where you will visit a museum and archaeological site that were formerly the royal estate of Incan Emperor Pachacuti, who conquered this area in the mid-15th Century. Ride the train from here to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll stay for the night.
Get a very early start today, eating breakfast and being ready to leave the hotel at 5:40 AM. A short bus ride will bring you to Machu Picchu in time to watch the sunrise. You’ll then be able to enter the Citadel for a guided walking tour of the complex that lasts about 2 hours. After your tour, you’ll have time to freely explore this mysterious ancient city. If you would like to climb Wayna (Huayna) Picchu, the mountain behind Machu Picchu, this can be arranged for an additional fee. This hike allows you to see Machu Picchu from a different perspective, as well as some steps that the Incas cut into the rocks, and other interesting details. In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes by bus and eat lunch. After lunch, the train takes you back to Ollantaytambo, where you will be picked up and transported back to your hotel in Cusco.
Optional: You can also choose to hike to the top of Wayna (Huayna) Picchu, scenic mountain near Machu Picchu, that has amazing views of the site from another angle. Make sure to book this hike a long time in advance, as there is a limited number of permits issued for every day. Check Dates and Prices for more information about the price.
Sadly, your Lares and Machu Picchu tour has come to an end. After breakfast, depending on your flight times, you are free to explore Cusco until it is time for your transfer to the airport. Have a pleasant journey!
You can choose between joining a group tour or else creating a custom tour for just your group. All the prices are per person, sharing a double room or a tent.
Make new friends by joining a group tour! The prices below are per person.
Day Of Week | Price Per Person * | |
---|---|---|
Monday | Not Available | |
Tuesday | $995USD | Book Now |
Wednesday | Not Available | |
Thursday | $995USD | Book Now |
Friday | $995USD | Book Now |
Saturday | Not Available | |
Sunday | $995USD | Book Now |
This tour is based in hotels and camps. Four nights are spent in hotels and two nights along the Lares Trek are spent in camps.
Hotels on this trip are 4-star and offer modern conveniences that can make this trip more pleasant. The accommodations have been carefully chosen so you will feel comfortable and pampered.
Rooms are double occupancy, and single travelers will pay a supplement.
In some cases, accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a single supplement of $360USD to have a private room in a hotel. Contact us and we can try and match single travelers up, where possible.
A comfortable hotel in a great location for exploring the city. Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace for wonderful views of the city and don’t miss their excellent breakfast.
Sleep under the starry sky in comfortable tents in the campsites along the Lares Trek. Spend your nights in Huacawasi and Mantanay camps surrounded by stunning peaks of Peruvian Andes.
Stay in a suite room in this fabulous and luxurious hotel with mountain and river views. The location is convenient for exploring Machu Picchu and the decor will immerse you in Andean culture.
A comfortable hotel in a great location for exploring the city. Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace for wonderful views of the city and don’t miss their excellent breakfast.
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 afternoon snacks, 3 dinners, and other various snacks along the trek.
Hotel accommodations for 4 nights, 3 in Cusco and 1 in Aguas Calientes. Camping for 3 nights
Planned transportation throughout the tour is included. This includes:
How hard is the Lares Trek?
We rate the Lares Trek as a 3 / 5. The trek is moderate but hikers unaccustomed to hiking at higher altitudes will notice the additional strain caused by the elevations.
Do I need a Visa?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included?
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 afternoon snacks, and 3 dinners are included. Additional meals can be arranged upon request.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have Health and Medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Cusco to start this tour?
Fly to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. Many international flights will connect through Peru’s capital city of Lima. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes about 1 hour.
Are the tours in English?
Yes, the tour guide is English speaking.
Where does the tour end?
The tour ends where it begins, in Cusco. Transportation from your hotel to the Cusco Airport is included.
What should I pack?
Don’t forget your passport (and visa if needed). Bring layers of clothing to keep you comfortable as you are hiking, as well as warm enough on cold nights. Please keep clothing lightweight. Rain gear is important to keep you dry and warm on rainy days. Sun protection is very important, especially at higher elevations. Sun block, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended. You may also be glad to have insect repellent. Bring a backpack (preferably waterproof). Be sure you have sturdy shoes for hiking.
Do I need vaccines?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Peru?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Is the Lares Trek at high altitude?
The Lares Trek does go to high altitudes, so please check with your family doctor. This tour has 2 nights in Cusco at the start to help you acclimatize , though there are many things to do and see in Cusco, so many trekkers spend an extra night or two in town.
What do I do do if I'm tired on Lares Trek?
If you are concerned about the distances or elevation, you can rent a horse and a horseman. This way you can sit on the horse for days where you are tired. The price of the horse is $70 per person for the trek and the horse can carry maximum of 110 kg.
All tours on 10Adventures are operated by highly vetted local tour operators and guides.
Having local tour operators and guides means you get a more authentic experience, and your booking creates jobs in the local communities you visit.
Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
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I’ve been using 10Adventures route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10Adventures made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
Lina K.
I’ve adventured around a lot of Canada and the US, but I’ve always wanted to explore other parts of the world. I felt a bit scared before booking my trip to Israel, but my conversations with the team at 10Adventures helped ease any worry. I can’t wait to explore more of the world!
Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
My wife Sarah and I had a great experience booking our 7-day cycling trip through Portugal via 10Adventures. The communication between us and Nadine leading up the trip was top-notch!
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Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
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I tend to have a lot of questions before travelling and was so happy to find that the team at 10Adventures responded to every single one of my inquiries in a timely fashion. I was never left waiting and waiting for a response. This was much appreciated!
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I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
We rate the Lares Trek as a 3 / 5. The trek is moderate but hikers unaccustomed to hiking at higher altitudes will notice the additional strain caused by the elevations.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
The classic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days is one of the most famous treks in South America, and for good reason. Mixing history, wildlife, and spectacular scenery, this three-night adventure is an unforgettable experience, with a final destination — Machu Picchu itself — that ranks among the world’s most impressive archaeological sites.
Experience the majesty of the Cordillera Huayhuash mountain chain in the Peruvian Andes on this magical Cordillera Huayhuash trek. This trek is a bit shorter than the complete Huayhuash Circuit tour, however, this is a popular itinerary for those who have 2 weeks to get to Peru and complete the incredible Huayhuash Trek. This is a wonderful trip that has you trekking the majority of the Classic Huayhuash Circuit.
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