Wake up in the heart of the Andes with a warm breakfast prepared by your trekking chef. With renewed energy, we begin one of the most impressive sections of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu: a demanding yet unforgettable 6-hour ascent toward the highest point of the journey—Pachacutec Pass (4,700 m / 15,419 ft).

This part of the Lares trekking route is the most challenging, but also the most breathtaking. Snow-capped peaks rise dramatically above turquoise glacial lakes, while herds of alpacas and llamas graze peacefully along sweeping Andean valleys. The silence of the mountains is broken only by the calls of Andean geese, Caracara falcons, and other highland birds. Reaching the summit is a moment of triumph, as you stand above the clouds with 360° panoramic views of the Andes.

From the pass, we descend for about 3 hours along a remote herders’ trail, eventually reaching the traditional community of Quiswarani (3,850 m / 12,631 ft). Here, time seems to stand still. Locals dressed in colorful handmade textiles continue to speak Quechua, the language of the Incas. With your guide serving as interpreter, you’ll have the chance to connect with families and even learn a few words of this ancestral tongue.

Before arriving in the village, we stop at the Seven Waterfalls of Quiswarani, a hidden natural wonder cascading down the mountainside. This magical spot is one of the most picturesque highlights of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, offering the perfect setting for photos and peaceful reflection.

In the afternoon, private transport takes us on a 2-hour scenic drive to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town in the Sacred Valley. From here, we board the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Tonight, you’ll rest comfortably in a well-appointed hotel, preparing for the grand finale of your adventure.

The highlight of your adventure has finally arrived! After an early breakfast at your hotel, we either take the 25-minute bus ride or hike for about 2 hours up to the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft), one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour of the ancient citadel, where your expert guide will lead you through the most iconic sectors: the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, Temple of the Three Windows, the Sun Dial, the House of the Inka, agricultural terraces, and more. As you walk through these incredible ruins, you’ll uncover the history, culture, and mysteries of the Inca civilization.

For those seeking an extra challenge, you may choose one of the optional hikes (not included in the tour price):

• Huayna Picchu Mountain (2,720 m / 8,924 ft): A steep climb with breathtaking panoramic views.
• Machu Picchu Mountain (3,000 m / 9,843 ft): A longer hike offering expansive vistas of the entire valley.
• Huchuy Picchu (2,497 m / 8,192 ft): A shorter alternative with stunning views of the citadel.
• Sun Gate (Inti Punku – 2,720 m / 8,924 ft): The classic arrival point of the Inca Trail.

After exploring, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, board the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. Expect to arrive at your hotel around 7:00 pm, filled with unforgettable memories of your Andean journey.

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 3 days is not just about hiking – it’s a journey that combines breathtaking scenery with authentic cultural encounters.

Cultural Highlights:

• Visit traditional Quechua-speaking communities that preserve ancient Inca traditions.
• Learn about textile weaving from local women using ancestral techniques.
• Interact with families who still practice subsistence farming and herd llamas and alpacas.
• Experience daily life in villages like Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani, far from the modern world.

Scenic Highlights:

• Hike through dramatic Andean valleys, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
• Cross the Pachacutec Pass (4,700 m / 15,419 ft) with stunning panoramic views.
• Discover hidden gems like the Seven Waterfalls of Quiswarani.
• Relax in the natural Lares hot springs before heading to the Sacred Valley.
• Finish your adventure with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 3 days / 2 nights is considered a moderate trek. Each day involves 5 to 7 hours of walking, with gradual ascents and descents through high-altitude terrain. The highest point is Pachacutec Pass (4,700 m / 15,419 ft), which can be challenging due to the altitude.

No technical climbing is required, but a good level of fitness and some trekking experience are recommended. Travelers should be prepared for changing mountain weather, steep trails, and high elevations.

Thanks to the support of professional guides, cooks, and pack animals, the trek is very manageable, even for hikers with little experience at high altitude, as long as they take time to acclimatize in Cusco beforehand.

One of the most unique aspects of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is the opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic Andean culture. Along the route, you will:

• Visit traditional Quechua-speaking villages like Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani, where daily life has remained unchanged for centuries.
• Meet local families who welcome trekkers into their homes, sharing stories, traditions, and a glimpse into their ancestral lifestyle.
• Observe women weaving colorful textiles with techniques inherited from the Incas.
• See herders guiding their llamas and alpacas across the highlands, dressed in vibrant handmade clothing.
• Learn a few words of Quechua, the ancient language of the Incas, with the help of your guide as interpreter.

These encounters offer travelers not just a trek, but a cultural journey where you connect directly with the people who keep the Inca traditions alive in the Andes.

The best time to hike the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September. During these months, you can expect:

• Sunny days and clear skies, ideal for trekking and photography.
• Cool nights in the highlands, so warm clothes are essential.
• The best conditions to enjoy both the mountain scenery and the cultural encounters with local communities.

The rainy season (November to March) brings greener landscapes and fewer travelers, but trails can be muddy and weather less predictable.

You don’t need to be a professional athlete to complete the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu (3D/2N), but a moderate level of fitness is recommended. The trek involves walking 5–7 hours per day at altitudes ranging from 2,900 m (9,514 ft) to 4,450 m (14,600 ft).

We recommend:

• Doing regular cardio activities (hiking, running, cycling) a few weeks before your trip.
• Spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco prior to the trek to properly acclimatize.
• Being prepared for some steep ascents and descents, especially on high mountain passes.

With good preparation and acclimatization, most travelers with average fitness can enjoy this trek safely.

Yes, we highly recommend booking in advance. While the Lares Trek does not have the strict permit limits of the Classic Inca Trail, several services are subject to limited availability, such as:

• Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (with daily visitor caps).
• Train tickets from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo.
• Hotels in Aguas Calientes, especially during peak season.

Booking a few months ahead ensures your spot and better schedules. During the high season (May to September), it is best to secure your trek at least 3–4 months in advance.