FROM THE LIVING ANDES TO MACHU PICCHU
Lares Valley → Cuncani → Sicllaq’asa Pass → Sacred Valley → Maras Salt Mines → Machu Picchu
Step beyond the classic trekking routes and discover a more authentic side of the Andes on our 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. Journey through spectacular mountain landscapes, remote Quechua communities, ancient traditions, and peaceful highland valleys before descending into the fertile Sacred Valley.
Cross the dramatic Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, walk among llamas and alpacas, and experience the living culture of communities that have preserved their traditions for generations. After the trek, visit the extraordinary Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of ancient salt pools cascade down the mountainside, before continuing to the legendary Machu Picchu.
This is more than a trek. It is a journey through the living Andes—where mountains, culture, and history come together.
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY LARES TREK?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu operates most of the year. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred trek dates, Machu Picchu tickets, train, and Aguas Calientes hotel. May–August: 4–8 months ahead. April & September–October: 3–6 months ahead. November–January: 2–4 months ahead. February: operates during the rainy season, with wetter and muddier trails. March: 2–4 months ahead. Our recommendation: Book early, especially for peak season or fixed travel dates.
AT A GLANCE
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Trek Distance: Approximately 34 km / 21 miles
- Highest Point: Sicllaq’asa Pass — 4,800 m / 15,710 ft
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Experience: Adventure • Culture • Nature • History
- Accommodation: 2 Nights Camping + 1 Night Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Group Size: Small Groups
- Departure: Daily, subject to availability
IMPORTANT
-
The Salkantay Trek is a high-altitude and physically demanding adventure. The route reaches approximately 4,630 m / 15,190 ft at Salkantay Pass, so we strongly recommend spending at least 2–3 full days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before departure. Walk at your own rhythm, stay hydrated, eat well, and communicate with your guide if you feel unwell.
A TREK THAT GOES DEEPER
- WALK THROUGH THE LIVING ANDES
Leave the crowds behind and enter the spectacular Lares Valley, where enormous mountains, peaceful valleys, streams, farmland, and traditional villages create an authentic Andean experience.
- CONNECT WITH QUECHUA CULTURE
Travel through communities where traditional ways of life remain closely connected to the mountains.
Along the trail, encounter local farmers, llamas and alpacas, colorful traditional clothing, agricultural fields, and landscapes shaped by generations of Andean culture.
- REACH SICLLAQ’ASA PASS
Challenge yourself on the highest point of the trek.
At 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, Sicllaq’asa Pass is the defining moment of the Lares adventure.
The ascent is demanding, but the reward is extraordinary: vast mountain horizons, high-altitude valleys, and an unforgettable feeling of standing above the Andes.
- EXPERIENCE DRAMATIC LANDSCAPE CHANGES
The Lares Trek is a journey of contrasts.
Begin in the high Andes, surrounded by rugged mountains and remote valleys, then gradually descend toward greener landscapes, farmland, native vegetation, and the Sacred Valley.
- DISCOVER THE MARAS SALT MINES
After completing the trekking portion on Day 3, continue into the Sacred Valley and visit the extraordinary Maras Salt Mines.
Thousands of small salt pools have been built into the mountainside, creating one of the most distinctive landscapes in the Cusco region.
Walk among the salt terraces and learn how local communities have harvested salt from natural mineral-rich spring water for generations.
- EXPLORE THE SACRED VALLEY
Continue toward Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s most remarkable living Inca towns.
Here, the mountains open into the fertile Sacred Valley before your journey continues by train toward Aguas Calientes.
- END AT MACHU PICCHU
After crossing remote mountain landscapes and experiencing the living culture of the Andes, arrive at Machu Picchu.
Explore the ancient citadel with your Peru Hikers guide and discover the history, architecture, symbolism, and stories behind this extraordinary Inca sanctuary.
WHY HIKE THE LARES TREK WITH PERU HIKERS?
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE. REAL CONNECTION. MEANINGFUL JOURNEYS.
Discover the Salkantay Trek with a professional Peru Hikers team and experience the
Andes through local knowledge, culture, history, and adventure.
EXPERIENCE THE ANDES BEYOND THE CLASSIC ROUTES
The Lares Valley offers a more authentic and intimate way to experience the Andes. Travel through remote landscapes where Quechua culture, mountain traditions, and rural life remain part of everyday life.
HIKE WITH LOCALS WHO KNOW THESE MOUNTAINS AS HOME
Our local guides know the trails, communities, history, and traditions of the region. They do more than lead the way—they help you understand the people and places you encounter.
TRAVEL IN SMALL GROUPS
Enjoy a more personal experience with small groups, attentive guides, and a comfortable pace. More time to connect, appreciate the landscape, and experience the Andes without feeling rushed.
FROM HIGH MOUNTAINS TO THE MARAS SALT MINES
This journey goes beyond trekking. Cross the spectacular Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, descend into the Sacred Valley, and visit the remarkable Maras Salt Mines before continuing to Machu Picchu.
TRUSTED BY TRAVELERS
Join travelers from around the world who have experienced the Andes with Peru Hikers.
⭐ 5.0 RATED ON TRIPADVISOR & GOOGLE
Travel with a locally owned Cusco team trusted by travelers from around the world. From your first contact to the final day of your journey, we are here to make your experience personal, authentic, and unforgettable
ITINERARY
DAY 1 — CUSCO → LARES → CUNCANI
ENTER THE HEART OF THE ANDES
Your Lares adventure begins early at 5:00 AM with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. As we leave the city behind, we travel through the Sacred Valley toward Calca, where we make a convenient stop to pick up snacks, water, or any last-minute essentials—including medicine you may have forgotten. From here, the road climbs deeper into the spectacular Lares Valley, and the scenery transforms around you with snow-capped peaks, remote villages, sweeping mountain valleys, and llamas and alpacas grazing across the highlands. After reaching Lares, enjoy a delicious lunch before beginning your first hike toward the traditional Quechua community of Cuncani. Along the trail, your local guide brings the landscape to life, sharing stories of Andean culture, traditions, and history. By late afternoon, arrive at your campsite surrounded by mountains. As the sun disappears and the Andes fall silent, settle into your tent, enjoy a warm dinner, and experience your first unforgettable night in the living Andes.
DAY 1 DETAILS
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours
- Highest Elevation: 3,800 m / 12,464 ft
- Accommodation: Camping in Cuncani
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
DAY 2 — CUNCANI → SICLLAQ’ASA PASS → PACCHAYOQ
THE HIGHEST POINT OF YOUR JOURNEY
We wake early at around 5:00 AM with the peaceful silence of the Andes surrounding us. After a warm drink and breakfast, we begin hiking at approximately 6:00 AM for a 4-hour ascent toward Sicllaq’asa Pass. The trail climbs steadily through spectacular high-altitude landscapes, with vegetation becoming increasingly sparse, the air thinner, and the surrounding mountains more dramatic with every step. After a rewarding climb, we reach Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, the highest point of the trek. Take a moment to breathe, admire the immense Andean landscape stretching in every direction, and celebrate this incredible achievement. From the pass, we begin our long descent toward lunch, gradually leaving the high mountains behind as the landscape changes around us. After lunch, we continue downhill toward Pacchayoq, where our campsite awaits. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner, rest your legs, and spend another peaceful night beneath the vast Andean sky.
DAY 2 DETAILS
Hiking Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Hiking Time: Approximately 9–10 hours
Highest Elevation: 4,800 m / 15,710 ft
Accommodation: Camping in Pacchayoq
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 3 - PACCHAYOQ → PUMA MARKA → SACRED VALLEY → MARAS SALT MINES → OLLANTAYTAMBO → AGUAS CALIENTES
FROM THE HIGH ANDES TO THE SACRED VALLEY
After breakfast, we begin our final morning of trekking, descending from the high Andes as the landscape transforms around us. Rugged mountain terrain gradually gives way to greener valleys, streams, farmland, native vegetation, and traditional Andean communities, until we finish the trek near Puma Marka, where private transportation meets us and takes us toward the Sacred Valley. We continue to Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s most remarkable living Inca towns, before enjoying lunch and visiting the extraordinary Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of ancient salt pools cascade down the mountainside and continue to be fed by natural spring water, a tradition maintained by local communities for generations. After exploring the salt terraces and taking in the spectacular views across the Sacred Valley, we continue to Ollantaytambo train station and board our train toward Aguas Calientes. As the train follows the Urubamba River, the scenery transforms once again—from the dramatic Andes into greener vegetation and the lush cloud-forest environment surrounding Machu Picchu. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check into your hotel, relax, and enjoy a well-deserved evening before tomorrow’s unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu.
DAY 3 DETAILS
Hiking Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
Hiking Time: Approximately 3 hours
Highlight: Maras Salt Mines
Destination: Aguas Calientes
Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 4 — AGUAS CALIENTES → MACHU PICCHU → AGUAS CALIENTES → OLLANTAYTAMBO → CUSCO
Today, the journey reaches its most anticipated moment. Wake early in Aguas Calientes and enjoy breakfast before traveling by bus up the winding road toward Machu Picchu. As the mountains open before you, enter the sanctuary with your Peru Hikers guide, who brings the history, architecture, symbolism, and stories of the Inca civilization to life. Walk among ancient terraces, temples, plazas, and stone structures surrounded by the dramatic green mountains of the Andes, taking time to appreciate the incredible journey that brought you here. You have crossed remote valleys, climbed to 4,800 meters, walked among traditional Quechua communities, descended into the Sacred Valley, explored the extraordinary Maras Salt Mines, and now stand before Machu Picchu. After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes and board your afternoon train toward Ollantaytambo, where your private transportation will be waiting at the station for the journey back to Cusco.
DAY 4 DETAILS
Machu Picchu Guided Tour: Approximately 2-3 hours
Meals: Breakfast
Return: Train + private transportation to Cusco
YOUR PERU HIKERS EXPERIENCE INCLUDES
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Professional bilingual trekking guide
- Professional trekking chef
- Private transportation during the trek
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- Transportation to the Lares Valley
- Camping equipment
- Sleeping mats
- Tents
- Campsite fees
- 1 night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Meals during the trek as specified
- Filtered and boiled drinking water
- Maras Salt Mines visit
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Train service to and from Aguas Calientes
- Bus transportation to Machu Picchu
- First-aid kit
- Emergency oxygen
- Personal duffle bag service up to 8 kg
- Snacks
NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Personal expenses
- Snacks and additional drinks
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides, chefs, drivers, and trekking staff
- Huayna Picchu entrance ticket
- Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket
PACKING LIST
IN YOUR DAYPACK
- Original passport
- 2–3 liters of water
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm fleece
- Gloves and warm hat
- Headlamp
- Personal snacks
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper
- Extra cash
IN YOUR DUFFLE BAG
- Sleeping bag
- Hiking boots
- Hiking pants
- T-shirts
- Hiking socks
- Thermal layers
- Waterproof gloves
- Comfortable camp shoes
- Personal toiletries
- Quick-drying towel
- Personal medication
- Portable battery charger
TRAVEL INFORMATION
PRE-TREK BRIEFING
Before your Lares Trek, we will meet with you for a pre-trek briefing to review the itinerary, weather conditions, packing requirements, altitude, and important safety information.
Your guide will also confirm your pickup time, duffle bag, daypack, and any rented equipment so you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
LUGGAGE STORAGE IN CUSCO
You do not need to carry all your travel luggage on the trek.
Peru Hikers provides secure luggage storage at our office in Cusco, allowing you to leave your larger bags behind while you hike with only what you need.
Your main trekking duffle will stay with our support team and will be delivered to your camps according to the itinerary.
GETTING TO CUSCO
Your Lares Trek begins and ends in Cusco, so we recommend arriving at least 2–3 days before the trek.
This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude and allows you to explore Cusco at a relaxed pace before starting your hike.
If you are arriving from Lima or another low-altitude destination, do not plan to begin the trek immediately after landing in Cusco.
YOUR DAYPACK
During the trek, you will carry a small daypack with the essentials you need throughout the day.
We recommend a 20–30 liter daypack containing:
- Passport
- 2–3 liters of water
- Sun protection
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm layer
- Hat and gloves
- Snacks
- Personal medication
- Headlamp
- Camera or phone
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper
- Small amount of cash
Keep your daypack as light as possible. The lighter you walk, the more comfortable the trek will be.
DUFFLE BAG SERVICE
Peru Hikers provides a personal duffle bag of up to 8 kg (17.6 lb) for the trek.
Your duffle can contain clothing, toiletries, a sleeping bag, and other trekking essentials. Our support team will transport it between camps, so you only need to carry your daypack while hiking.
Important: Keep your passport, valuables, medications, and other essential personal items with you in your daypack.
WEATHER & TEMPERATURE
The Andes can experience rapid changes in weather, particularly at high altitude.
You may experience strong sun, cold temperatures, wind, rain, and changing conditions during the same day.
The higher sections of the trek can be particularly cold in the early morning and evening, while lower valleys may feel considerably warmer.
We recommend dressing in layers and always carrying rain protection.
DRY SEASON
May–August: Generally drier conditions, clear skies, and cold nights.
SHOULDER SEASONS
April, September–October: A good balance of weather and fewer visitors, although rain is still possible.
RAINY SEASON
November–March: Greater possibility of rain, cloud, mud, and changing trail conditions. February is typically the wettest month.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes trekking at high altitude and emergency evacuation.
Your policy should ideally cover:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Emergency evacuation
- Trekking activities at high altitude
- Trip interruption or cancellation
- Lost or delayed luggage
Please carry your insurance information with you during the trek.
TIPPING
Tipping is voluntary and is not required.
Many travelers choose to tip guides, chefs, porters, and other members of the trekking team as a way of showing appreciation for their work.
There is no mandatory amount.
Tip according to your experience and personal preference.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE LARES TREK
The Lares Trek is a demanding high-altitude adventure, not a casual walk.
You will experience long hiking days, steep ascents and descents, changing weather, and high elevations. In return, you will discover remote mountain landscapes, traditional Quechua communities, the Sacred Valley, the Maras Salt Mines, and Machu Picchu.
Come prepared to walk, adapt, and experience the Andes beyond the usual tourist routes.
Travel deeper. Walk with purpose. Experience the living Andes.
ALTITUDE & ACCLIMATIZATION
The Lares Trek reaches 4,800 m (15,710 ft) at Sicllaq’asa Pass, making altitude one of the most important factors to consider.
We strongly recommend spending at least 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before beginning the trek.
During the trek:
- Walk at a steady, comfortable pace.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Eat regularly, even if your appetite is reduced.
- Follow your guide’s recommendations.
- Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell.
Altitude affects everyone differently, regardless of age or fitness level. Good acclimatization is one of the best ways to prepare for the trek.
FIRST AID & EMERGENCY SUPPORT
Your safety is our priority.
Our trekking team carries a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen, and your guide is trained to monitor the group and respond to common trekking emergencies.
If you experience symptoms related to altitude, dehydration, exhaustion, or any other health concern, tell your guide immediately.
In the event of a serious emergency, our team will coordinate the appropriate evacuation or medical assistance.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The Lares Valley is home to traditional Andean communities, fragile mountain ecosystems, and landscapes that have been cared for by local people for generations.
We believe trekking should protect the places and communities that make the journey special.
During your trek, we ask you to:
- Carry out everything you bring in.
- Avoid single-use plastics whenever possible.
- Stay on established trails.
- Respect wildlife and vegetation.
- Avoid leaving food or waste along the trail.
- Ask permission before photographing local people.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Support local communities when appropriate.
We work with local guides, cooks, horsemen, drivers, and community members, helping tourism create opportunities within the region.
For us, responsible travel is not simply about leaving no trace. It is about traveling with respect, connecting with local communities, and helping preserve the Andes for future generations.
TRAVELING WITH RESPECT
The Lares Trek passes through communities where traditional Andean culture remains an important part of everyday life.
You may meet local families, farmers, children, and herders along the route. A friendly greeting, respectful attitude, and genuine interest in their culture can make a meaningful difference.
Remember that you are not simply passing through a landscape—you are walking through someone’s home and community.
SMALL-GROUP TREK
Adults: From US$699 per person
PRIVATE TREK
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the Lares Trek difficult?
Yes. The Lares Trek is considered demanding, mainly because it reaches Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft. The second day includes a long ascent and descent, so good physical preparation and proper acclimatization are important.
How many days is the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
The trek takes 4 days and 3 nights. You will spend 2 nights camping in the Andes, 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, and visit Machu Picchu on the final day.
What is the highest point of the Lares Trek?
The highest point is Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft. This is reached on Day 2 after approximately four hours of uphill hiking.
How far do we hike each day?
The total trekking distance is approximately 34 km / 21 miles. Daily distances vary, with the longest and most challenging section on Day 2.
How many days should I acclimatize before the trek?
We recommend spending at least 2–3 days at high altitude before starting the Lares Trek. This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude and can make the experience more comfortable.
When is the best time to do the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek operates most of the year. May through August generally offers the best conditions, with drier weather and clearer mountain views. April and September–October are also good months. November through March can bring more rain, with February being particularly wet.
Do I need to be an experienced hiker?
No previous trekking experience is required, but you should be comfortable hiking for several hours at high altitude. Regular walking, hiking, or cardio training before your trip will help you prepare for the demanding sections.
Are meals included?
Yes. Meals are included as specified in the itinerary. Our professional trekking chef prepares nutritious meals during the trek. Breakfast and lunch are included on Day 3, while breakfast is included on Day 4.
Is drinking water provided during the trek?
Yes. We provide filtered and boiled drinking water during the trek. We recommend carrying 2–3 liters of water in your daypack.
Do I need to carry all my luggage?
No. Peru Hikers provides a personal duffle bag service of up to 8 kg. You will carry only what you need for the day in your daypack, while your main luggage remains stored securely in Cusco.
What size should my daypack be?
A 20–30 liter daypack is generally ideal. It should be large enough for your water, rain gear, warm layers, snacks, camera, sunscreen, and personal essentials.
Are sleeping bags included?
No. Sleeping bags are not included, but they can be rented from Peru Hikers. We recommend a suitable sleeping bag for high-altitude camping, especially for the colder nights.
Are trekking poles included?
No. Sleeping bags are not included, but they can be rented from Peru Hikers. We recommend a suitable sleeping bag for high-altitude camping, especially for the colder nights.
What happens if I feel sick from the altitude?
Altitude affects everyone differently. Our guides are trained to monitor travelers throughout the trek and carry a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen. If you experience significant altitude symptoms, inform your guide immediately so the appropriate action can be taken.
Is the Lares Trek suitable for families?
It can be suitable for active families, but the trek is physically demanding and reaches 4,800 m / 15,710 ft. Children should be comfortable with long hikes and high-altitude conditions. We recommend discussing your group’s ages and hiking experience with our team before booking.
Can I do the Lares Trek as a private trek?
Yes. Private departures are available for travelers who prefer a more personal experience, flexible pacing, and a private trekking team.
What time does the trek start in Cusco?
Pickup is approximately 5:00 AM on Day 1 from your hotel in Cusco. The early departure allows enough time to travel into the Lares Valley and begin the trek.
Is Machu Picchu included?
Yes. The Machu Picchu entrance ticket, guided visit, bus transportation, train service, and transportation back to Cusco are included according to the itinerary.
Which Machu Picchu circuit will we visit?
The Machu Picchu circuit depends on ticket availability and the regulations in effect for your travel date. We will secure the appropriate available circuit when booking your Machu Picchu entrance
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, subject to availability. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain require separate entrance tickets and should be requested as early as possible because spaces are limited.
How far in advance should I book the Lares Trek?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially during the high season or if you have fixed travel dates. Ideally, book 4–8 months ahead for May–August, while 2–4 months ahead is generally recommended for November–January and March.
What happens to my luggage while I am trekking?
Your larger luggage can be stored securely at our office in Cusco while you are on the trek. You will travel with your daypack and your Peru Hikers duffle bag containing the items you need for the trail.
Is February a good month for the Lares Trek?
February is part of the rainy season and conditions can be wetter and muddier, so it is not our preferred month for this trek. The Inca Trail is also traditionally closed in February, while the Lares route may operate depending on conditions.
What should I pack for the Lares Trek?
Essential items include your original passport, hiking boots, warm layers, rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle or hydration system, headlamp, personal medication, toiletries, and extra cash. See our complete packing list above for a detailed checklist.
Why should I choose Peru Hikers for the Lares Trek?
Peru Hikers is a locally owned Cusco trekking company with local guides who know the mountains, communities, culture, and trails firsthand. We focus on small groups, personal service, authentic cultural experiences, and responsible travel, helping you experience the Andes beyond the classic tourist routes.
