4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu Cultural and Scenic Andean Hike

Day 1: Cusco – Calca Market – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

1. Lares Trek
   45m · Admission ticket included
   Depart Cusco via private transport, winding through the Sacred Valley. Stop in the town of Calca to explore its colorful market. Arrive at Huaran (3,000m / 9,840ft) to meet your arrieros, horses, and professional chef. Hike for 5 hours through native flora and spectacular rock formations to the remote, traditional Quechua community of Cancha Cancha (3,956m / 12,979ft). Camp under a brilliantly clear starry sky.
   
   Hike Metrics: Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Duration: 5-6 hours | Max Altitude: 3,956m (12,979ft) | Ascent: +950m | Difficulty: Moderate.

Day 2: Cancha Cancha – Pachacuteq Pass – Lago Qoyalay – Quiswarani

1. Lares Trek
   Pass by
   Fuel up with a hearty breakfast for the most challenging day. Ascend gradually through the untouched high-mountain valley to Paso Pachacuteq (4,700m / 15,419ft), the trek's highest point, boasting incredible views of the Q'olque Cruz Glacier (5,400m). Descend past alpine lakes and waterfalls, pausing for an organic lunch by Lake Qoyalay. Arrive at Quiswarani Camp (3,800m / 12,460ft) to meet local families and marvel at the 7 Waterfalls cascade.
   
   Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles) | Duration: 8-9 hours | Max Altitude: 4,700m (15,419ft) | Ascent: +750m | Difficulty: Challenging.

Day 3: Quiswarani – Q'allaqasa Pass – Cuncani – Lares Hot Springs – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

1. Lares Hot Springs
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Climb 2.5 hours to the breathtaking Q'allaqasa Pass (4,400m / 14,430ft) for sweeping views of the Urubamba range. Descend past pristine lakes through alpaca grazing pastures to the community of Cuncani (3,800m / 12,460ft). A private transfer whisks you to the volcanic Lares Hot Springs (3,120m / 10,266ft) for a therapeutic, mineral-rich soak and lunch. Say goodbye to your trail crew, then drive to historic Ollantaytambo for dinner before catching the evening train along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes.
   
   Distance: 11 km (7 miles) | Duration: 5-6 hours | Max Altitude: 4,400m (14,430ft) | Ascent: +600m | Difficulty: Moderate.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Sanctuary – Return to Cusco

1. Machu Picchu
   2h
   Rise early and enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Take the 25-minute shuttle bus to the gates of Machu Picchu. Embark on a highly coveted, 2-hour guided tour to discover the spectacular temples, terraces, and history of this Wonder of the World. Return by bus to Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch (not included), and board your return train to Ollantaytambo, where private transport awaits to take you back to your Cusco hotel.

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness