Overview
The Lares Trek 4 Days expedition, curated by QOSQO ADVENTURES, offers an extraordinary escape into the heart of the Andes, far from the conventional tourist trails. This journey is designed for those who wish to immerse themselves in the authentic spirit of Peru, providing rare opportunities to interact with remote Quechua-speaking communities. You will walk alongside herds of llamas and alpacas, visit local schools, and witness ancient traditions that have survived for centuries, all culminating in a spectacular exploration of Machu Picchu.
During this adventure, you will traverse majestic valleys and conquer high mountain passes while enjoying the personalized service that defines QOSQO ADVENTURES. From the therapeutic waters of Lares to the ancient salt evaporation ponds of Maras, every step is a blend of natural wonder and cultural depth. We utilize the Vistadome Panoramic Train for your return, ensuring that even your departure from the mountains is a premium experience.
By choosing QOSQO ADVENTURES, you are supporting sustainable tourism and social projects that directly benefit the families living in these isolated regions. Our expert guides, professional chefs, and dedicated support team ensure that your comfort and safety are prioritized as you discover the timeless beauty of the «Hidden Valley of the Incas.»
Day 1: Lares Hot Springs & Blue Lagoon
Witness the prehistoric Puya de Raimondi bromeliads before soaking in the medicinal Lares thermal baths. The day concludes with a hike to our first campsite at the Blue Lagoon (3,900 m), set against the backdrop of cascading waterfalls and grazing herds.
Day 2: Condor Pass & Canchacancha Community
The ultimate physical challenge: ascending to Condor Pass (4,750 m). After celebrating at the summit, descend to the isolated village of Canchacancha to meet the residents and learn about their traditional lifestyle.
Day 3: Maras Salt Mines & Ollantaytambo
Hike down into the Sacred Valley for a scenic picnic. Visit the thousands of salt ponds in Maras and walk the original Inca streets of Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes for a hotel stay.
Day 4: Machu Picchu Sanctuary Exploration
Experience the «Lost City of the Incas» during an extensive 3-hour guided tour. Explore the temples and enclosures of the classic Circuit 2 before returning to Cusco aboard the panoramic Vistadome railway.
Complete 4-Day Journey Itinerary
Day 1: Lares Hot Springs & Blue Lagoon
Your QOSQO ADVENTURES journey begins at 4:30 a.m. with a pickup from your accommodation. We drive through the Sacred Valley to the village of Calca, where we visit the local market to source fresh ingredients. We then explore the ancient hilltop complex of Ancashmarca and witness the towering Puya de Raimondi. Upon reaching the Lares Hot Springs, you can rejuvenate in the mineral pools while our chef prepares breakfast. The afternoon hike leads us through quiet valleys to the Blue Lagoon (3,900 m), our first alpine campsite.
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
- Duration: 4 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Condor Pass & Canchacancha Community
Following a warm sunrise beverage, we begin the trek’s most demanding section. A 4-hour ascent brings us to the majestic Condor Pass (4,750 m / 15,583 ft), where we perform a traditional offering to the mountain spirits (Apus). The descent takes us past turquoise lagoons to Acopata for lunch. We continue to Canchacancha (3,750 m / 12,303 ft), a village preserved in time without electricity or roads, where we will spend the evening interacting with the local Quechua families.
- Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
- Duration: 7 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,750 m / 12,303 ft
- Highest Altitude: 4,750 m / 15,583 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Day 3: Maras Salt Mines & Ollantaytambo
We descend for 4 hours from the high mountains into the warmth of the Sacred Valley. After visiting the community school, we reach Huaran for a gourmet picnic lunch. A private transfer then takes us to the spectacular Salineras de Maras and the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo. After exploring its ancient water channels, we board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes to rest in a comfortable 3-star hotel.
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 mi
- Duration: 4 hours
- Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Machu Picchu Citadel
We rise before dawn to catch the first buses to Machu Picchu. Your QOSQO ADVENTURES guide will lead a 3-hour comprehensive tour through Circuit 2, covering the Sun Temple, the Sacred Rock, and the Royal Sector. If you have pre-booked permits, you may independently climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. In the afternoon, we depart on the Vistadome train, arriving back in Cusco around 7:30 p.m.
- Tour Duration: 3 hours in the citadel
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
Included
- Pre-trek security and logistics briefing.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (Cusco or Sacred Valley).
- All private transportation throughout the 4 days.
- Professional, bilingual specialized trekking guide.
- Executive mountain chef and kitchen assistants.
- Support porters and muleteers with cargo mules.
- High-quality camping gear: 4-season tents, sleeping pads, and dining setup.
- 7 kg (15 lb) duffle bag for your personal belongings.
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Gourmet trail meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners (Vegetarian/Vegan options).
- Daily snacks and filtered drinking water.
- Entry tickets: Lares Hot Springs, Maras Salt Mines, and Machu Picchu (Circuit 2).
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Outbound Expedition train and Vistadome Panoramic train return.
- Safety kit: First-aid, oxygen tanks, and communication devices.
Not Included
- Final lunch and dinner on Day 4.
- Rental equipment: Sleeping bags, air mattresses, and walking poles.
- Optional permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Personal travel insurance.
Expedition Packing Essentials
Smart packing is key for the varied climates of the Lares region. QOSQO ADVENTURES provides a 7 kg duffle bag for your campsite gear, while you carry a small daypack with essentials for the trail.
Must-Have Trail Items
- Original physical Passport (Required for all checkpoints).
- Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder.
- High-factor sunscreen, lip balm, and sun hat.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Personal medications and insect repellent.
- Headlamp for the campsites.
- Camera and high-capacity Power Bank.
Clothing for the Duffle Bag
- Thermal base layers for the freezing nights at 3,900 m.
- Moisture-wicking hiking shirts (avoid cotton).
- Warm fleece and a down jacket.
- Sturdy hiking boots (broken in) and camp sandals.
- Swimwear for the Lares hot springs.
Provided by QOSQO ADVENTURES
- Professional 7 kg capacity Duffle Bag.
- High-quality tents and sponge mattresses.
- Backpack rain cover.
Essential Travel Information
Prepare for your QOSQO ADVENTURES expedition with these technical and logistical details.
Acclimatization & Altitude
This trek reaches 4,750 m (15,583 ft). We strongly advise arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water, eat light, and avoid alcohol before departure. If you feel any altitude symptoms, inform your guide immediately.
Weather & Best Timing
The dry season (April to October) offers the clearest skies but freezing nights. The rainy season (November to March) is warmer and greener but requires good waterproof gear. Unlike the Inca Trail, Lares is open in February.
Machu Picchu Regulations
Machu Picchu uses a timed entry system. We include Circuit 2 (Classic) by default. If sold out, we will secure Circuits 1 or 3. Please book as early as possible to ensure your preferred time slot. Large backpacks are not allowed; use a small daypack for the visit.
Booking Logistics
A deposit of US$200 is required to secure your spot. Please provide your passport details exactly as they appear on your document. Dietary restrictions must be communicated during the booking process for our chefs to accommodate you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What exactly is the Lares Trek?
It is an alternative route to Machu Picchu focusing on cultural immersion. It takes you through remote Andean villages where you interact with local Quechua families and see landscapes untouched by mass tourism.
2. Is the Lares Trek harder than the Classic Inca Trail?
The Lares Trek reaches a higher altitude (4,750 m), but the paths are generally less steep and have fewer stone steps than the Classic route, making it a different kind of challenge.
3. Do I need a permit for the Lares Trek?
Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, Lares does not require a limited permit. However, you still need a confirmed ticket for Machu Picchu and the train return, which QOSQO ADVENTURES handles for you.
4. Are there bathrooms on the trail?
At our campsites, we set up private portable toilets for your comfort. Along the trail, facilities are limited to the villages we pass, so we recommend being prepared for basic mountain conditions.
5. Is drinking water provided?
Yes. Our team boils and filters water during every meal. You only need to carry a reusable bottle for the morning and afternoon stretches of the hike.
6. Can I charge my electronics?
There is no electricity at the campsites. You will be able to charge devices once we reach the hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 3. A high-capacity power bank is essential.
7. What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides carry medical oxygen and first-aid kits. If your symptoms are severe, we have established protocols to assist you in descending to a lower altitude safely.
8. Can children or seniors do this trek?
Yes, provided they are in good physical condition and have experience with multi-day hikes. For families with children or older travelers, we recommend a private tour to adjust the pace.
9. Are trekking poles necessary?
They are highly recommended, especially for the steep descent from Condor Pass. They help maintain balance and reduce the impact on your knees. They must have rubber tips.
10. What is the difference between the 4-day and 5-day versions?
The 4-day version takes the train to Aguas Calientes on the third day. The 5-day version includes a segment of the Short Inca Trail (Km 104) before arriving at Machu Picchu.
11. Are the hot springs safe and clean?
Yes, the Lares Hot Springs are natural volcanic pools that are regularly maintained by the local municipality. They are a highlight for muscle relaxation after the first day.
12. How much should I tip the crew?
Tipping is customary in the Andes as a sign of appreciation for the hard work of the guides, chefs, and muleteers. While optional, it is highly valued by the local staff.
13. Is there phone signal on the trail?
Mobile coverage is non-existent for the first two days. You will regain signal once we reach Ollantaytambo on the evening of Day 3.
14. Can I leave my extra luggage in Cusco?
Yes. QOSQO ADVENTURES provides free luggage storage at our office. You can also leave your bags at your hotel and collect them after the trek.
15. What if it rains during the trek?
The trek operates rain or shine. Our team provides rain ponchos, and our tents are professional-grade waterproof models. The mountains are often more mystical and beautiful in the mist.