Traverse the Lares Valley and its high Andean passes on a private seven-day trek that threads Quechua villages, glacial lakes and condor-filled skies before arriving at Machu Picchu. This route pairs cultural encounters with high-altitude hiking and guided archaeology.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You wake before dawn in Cusco, the cool mountain air pinching your cheeks, then climb into a van that threads the Sacred Valley’s switchbacks toward Lares. The road opens to folded ridgelines and terraced hills; distant glaciers glint like white knives. Over seven days the trail moves between high puna, glacial lakes and adobe villages where alpacas graze and Quechua tongues rise with the breeze.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
7 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have regular aerobic activity and be comfortable hiking 4–7 hours per day at altitude; prior high-altitude experience helpful.
Wildlife
History
The Lares corridor contains pre-Inca and Inca-era routes linking highland communities; textiles and terrace agriculture reflect centuries of continuous Andean practice.
Conservation
Stick to established paths, avoid disturbing pastures and don’t leave any waste—high-altitude puna is slow to recover and tourism pressure is concentrated on fragile campsites.
Reserve your spot on the 7 Day - Lares Trek to Machu Picchu - Private Service today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend 48–72 hours in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to reduce risk of altitude sickness before the trek.
Bring a daypack
Keep water, rain layers, snacks and any medications in a lightweight daypack—your main kit is carried by horses.
Protect against sun and cold
High UV and rapid temperature swings mean SPF, sunglasses, and a warm insulating layer are essential.
Use trekking poles
Poles reduce strain on knees during long descents and help maintain balance on uneven terrain.
Broken-in waterproof hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky, wet and high-altitude terrain.
Insulating mid-layer and down jacket
Nights are cold—a warm layer keeps you comfortable at camp and during early starts.
Hydration system (2–3L)
Frequent sipping helps prevent altitude headaches and maintains energy on long ascents.
Lightweight trekking poles
Reduce knee strain on descents and steady you on loose or uneven sections.