Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU – 4 DAYS
day 1
DAY 1: CUSCO - LARES - CUNCANI – SONDOR
Hot springs, Andean communities and the start of the Lares Trek.
We cross the Sacred Valley to the town of Lares, relax in its hot springs and hike to Sondor, meeting families who keep the art of weaving alive.
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Pick-up in Cusco and breakfast in the Sacred Valley
By tourist transport · Cusco → Sacred Valley
We pick you up at your hotel in Cusco and travel to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where we will have a nourishing breakfast (not included).
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Lares hot springs
By tourist transport · Sacred Valley → Lares
We continue to the town of Lares, where we will have time to relax in its famous hot springs, a unique experience before we start hiking.
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Hike from Cuncani to Sondor
On foot, approx. 2 to 3 hours · Cuncani → Sondor
We start the Lares Trek in Cuncani and hike to Sondor. Along the way we have lunch surrounded by Andean mountains and meet local families who preserve the art of weaving with alpaca wool. We have dinner and spend the night at camp.
Day details
- Hiking time: 2 to 3 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Meals: Lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Cabin at the Sondor camp
day 2
DAY 2: SONDOR - HUACAHUASI PASS - AURORAY COCHA - YURAC COCHA - PUCARA
The highest point: the Huacahuasi Pass.
We climb among snow-capped peaks and lakes, descend through a queuña forest and camp in Pucara, with superb views of the Sacred Valley.
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Ascent to the Huacahuasi Pass
On foot, uphill · Sondor → Huacahuasi Pass
After breakfast we climb to the Huacahuasi Pass, the highest point of the Lares Trek, with spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and lakes.
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Auroray Cocha and Yurac Cocha lakes
On foot · Huacahuasi Pass → Auroray Cocha → Yurac Cocha
We continue to the Auroray Cocha and Yurac Cocha lakes, where we will have lunch surrounded by nature.
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Queuña forest to Pucara
On foot, in the afternoon · Yurac Cocha → Pucara
In the afternoon we walk through a queuña forest until we reach Pucara, where we camp with superb views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Day details
- Difficulty: Challenging (highest point of the route)
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Cabin at the Pucara camp
day 3
DAY 3: PUCARA – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES
Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town.
We hike down to Ollantaytambo, visit Pinkulluna and communities that keep their ancestral customs, and take the train to Aguas Calientes.
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Hike to Ollantaytambo
On foot · Pucara → Ollantaytambo
We hike to Ollantaytambo, known as the last living Inca town. On the way we will meet communities that keep their ancestral customs.
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Pinkulluna and traditional lunch
Walking visit · Ollantaytambo
We visit the Pinkulluna sector and then enjoy a traditional lunch.
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Train to Aguas Calientes
By tourist train, between 12:58 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. · Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes
From Ollantaytambo station we take the train to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), where we will have dinner and spend the night at a hotel. The train time may vary depending on availability.
Day details
- Train schedule: Between 12:58 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., depending on availability
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
day 4
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
The big moment! Machu Picchu.
We go up early to one of the seven wonders of the modern world for a guided tour and free time, and return to Cusco in the afternoon.
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Bus to Machu Picchu
By Consettur bus, approx. 5:30 a.m. · Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu
We start the day early to take the bus up to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
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Machu Picchu Highlight
Guided tour and free time · Machu Picchu citadel
We explore Machu Picchu with your guide, who will share insights into Inca history, construction and worldview. Afterwards you will have free time to explore on your own.
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Lunch in Aguas Calientes
By bus (ride down not included) · Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
We take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).
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Return to Cusco
By tourist train and transport · Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo → Cusco
We take the train to Ollantaytambo, where our transport is waiting to take us back to Cusco.
Day details
- Start: Approx. 5:30 a.m.
- Meals: Breakfast
Hot springs, lakes, snow-capped peaks and weaving communities in Lares, with the arrival at Machu Picchu by train. Prefer to arrive on foot along the Inca Trail? Discover the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 4 Days.
Includes
Guide, assistance and safety
- Briefing one day before the tour.
- Professional bilingual guide: English or Spanish.
- Cook and kitchen equipment.
- Muleteers and mules: They carry up to 6 kg of your luggage.
- Emergency horse.
- First aid kit.
- Oxygen tank.
Transportation
- Outbound: From Cusco to Lares.
- Tourist train: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes and Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Bus up: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
- Return: From Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
Permits and tickets
- Machu Picchu citadel entrance ticket.
- Lares hot springs entrance: Use is optional.
Accommodation and meals
- 3 nights of accommodation: Cabins on days 1 and 2, and a hotel in Aguas Calientes on day 3.
- Camping equipment: Sleeping mats, dining tent with table and chairs, and toilet.
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners and snacks: With vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Not include
Meals
- Day 1: Breakfast.
- Day 4: Lunch and dinner.
Optional
- Sleeping bag.
- Bus down: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
Prices LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU – 4 DAYS
Rates per person
Traveling solo? The tour is confirmed with a minimum of 2 people. Message us to check availability for your date.
Payment
Option 1
Full payment when booking
Pay the full amount when you make your booking.
Option 2
50% deposit per person
Secure your spot; the balance is paid no later than the day before the tour.
Need accommodation in Cusco?
Our team will help you find the best option for your stay.
Packaging list
- Documents and money: Original passport, original ISIC student card (if applicable) and cash, preferably in soles.
- Clothing: Clothes for warm and cold weather (waterproof jacket and pants), a change of clothes for 3 days, long- and short-sleeved T-shirts, rain poncho, hat and swimsuit.
- Footwear: Hiking shoes and sandals (for showers and hot springs).
- Protection and hygiene: Sunscreen, insect repellent, alcohol and hand sanitizer, personal hygiene items and toilet paper.
- Gear: Backpack with rain cover, sleeping bag, flashlight, water bottle and purification tablets (optional).
- Other: Camera with batteries and snacks such as chocolate bars and nuts.
Recomendations
- Book in advance: Machu Picchu tickets have limited daily spots. We recommend booking 3 to 5 months ahead, especially in high season (April to October).
- Acclimatization in Cusco: Arrive at least 2 days before to adjust to the altitude. We suggest a half-day City Tour or a trip to the Sacred Valley. If you are coming from another high-altitude area of Peru, 1 full day will be enough.
- Documents: Bring your original, valid passport, with the same details as your booking: it is checked when entering Machu Picchu.
- Pack light: The mules carry up to 6 kg of your belongings. Leave the rest free of charge at our office or your hotel in Cusco.
- Sleeping bag: Not included; bring one for the two nights at camp.
- Breakfast on day 1: Not included; it is taken in the Sacred Valley on the way to Lares.
- Hot springs: Bring a swimsuit and sandals for the Lares hot springs.
- Train schedule: The train to Aguas Calientes on day 3 leaves between 12:58 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., depending on availability.
- Travel insurance: Recommended, with coverage for hiking and medical emergencies, and for unforeseen events such as strikes, road blockades or cancellations.
F.A.Qs
What makes the Lares Trek special?
It is a cultural route through the Andes of Lares: it starts at the Lares hot springs, passes communities that preserve the art of weaving with alpaca wool, climbs the Huacahuasi Pass among snow-capped peaks and lakes, and descends through queuña forests to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town, before continuing by train to Machu Picchu.
How far in advance should I book?
As early as possible, ideally 3 to 5 months ahead, especially in high season (April to October). Machu Picchu tickets are assigned by time slots, with limited daily spots, and train tickets also sell out. We suggest booking as soon as your dates and flights are confirmed.
What is the best time to do the Lares Trek?
The Andes have two seasons: the dry season, from April to October, with better hiking conditions and clearer views, and the rainy season, from November to March, when rain, sun and clouds can alternate in a single day. The tour runs all year round; in the rainy months the itinerary may change for safety reasons.
How do I know if this tour is right for me?
It is ideal for travelers looking for a cultural and nature experience, away from the busiest routes, who enjoy mountain hiking. It is a challenging tour: it requires good fitness and being used to hiking several hours a day over different terrain and altitudes.
What is the recommended age?
We recommend it for children from 8 years old who are used to hiking and outdoor activities. For adults there is no maximum age; even so, we advise a prior medical check-up and travel insurance that covers hiking and medical emergencies.
How big is the group?
It is a shared service for 2 to 8 travelers. Departures are confirmed from 2 people; if you are traveling solo, check availability with your sales executive.
How many days before should I arrive in Cusco to acclimatize?
We recommend arriving at least 2 days in advance. During that time we can help you organize acclimatization activities, such as a half-day City Tour or a trip to the Sacred Valley. If you are arriving from another high-altitude area of Peru, 1 full day in Cusco will be enough.
Where do we sleep?
On the first two nights, in Sondor and Pucara, we sleep in camp cabins, with sleeping mats, a dining tent with table and chairs, and a toilet. On the third night we stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes. A sleeping bag is not included.
Which meals are included?
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners and snacks, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Breakfast on day 1 and lunch and dinner on day 4 are not included.
How much luggage can I bring?
The mules carry up to 6 kg of your luggage. The rest can stay free of charge at our office or your hotel in Cusco. The group also has an emergency horse.
Are the Lares hot springs included?
Yes, the entrance is included and using them is optional. Bring a swimsuit and sandals.
What time does the train to Aguas Calientes leave?
On day 3, between 12:58 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., depending on availability when the tickets are purchased.
Is the bus to Machu Picchu included?
The bus up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is included. The bus down is not included.
What happens if I feel unwell during the trek?
The guide will immediately assess any discomfort due to altitude, exhaustion or other situations and assist you. The group carries a first aid kit, an oxygen tank and an emergency horse.
Do I need trekking poles?
They are highly recommended: they ease the pressure on your knees on descents and give you support on the climbs. If you bring your own, make sure they have rubber tips.
Is there cell phone signal during the trek?
Signal is limited along most of the hike, and there is no signal on the train. We recommend letting your family or friends know before you start.
How do strikes or road blockades affect the itinerary?
External factors such as strikes, protests or blockades may change schedules or services. Our team monitors them constantly and arranges alternatives such as schedule adjustments, alternative routes or rescheduling. Some changes may involve extra costs, so we recommend travel insurance.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
It is not mandatory, but we recommend it for your peace of mind, as it assists you in case of lost luggage, cancellations, strikes, natural disasters or other unforeseen events.
Can I change my passport number after booking?
Only with a copy of both the new and the old passport. If you no longer have the old one, any official ID with the same name is accepted. Also make sure your passport does not expire within the six months before or during your trip.
How do I get to Cusco?
Most travelers arrive by plane. Cusco airport only receives domestic flights: if you are coming from abroad via Lima, you must collect your luggage in Lima and check it in again for the flight to Cusco.
Will I receive information before the trip?
Yes. One day before departure, your guide will give you detailed information about the route, in a group briefing or privately at your hotel.
How does the booking process work?
1. Availability check: Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com or on WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418. We will send you a booking form that each participant must complete.
2. Traveler details: To buy the Machu Picchu ticket and train tickets we need, exactly as shown on the passport, the full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality.
3. Payment: You can pay in full or make a 50% deposit per person; the balance is paid no later than the day before the tour.
4. Final confirmation: Once the tickets are secured, you will receive your official confirmation invoice and your booking will be 100% guaranteed.
Can I cancel or change the date?
Once the booking is confirmed, the Machu Picchu ticket cannot be cancelled or refunded, since it is purchased immediately to secure your spot. Date changes are subject to availability and the program’s conditions. Check the cancellation policies with your sales executive.
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Yes. During the trip, your main luggage can stay free of charge at our office or at your hotel.
Are tips expected?
Tips are part of the tradition of treks to Machu Picchu. Our whole team is paid well, but an extra is always appreciated. It is not mandatory and you should never feel pressured.
