A four-day alternative to the Inca Trail that balances high Andean passes, lake shores and community homestays. Expect challenging altitude gain, authentic textile encounters, and a final arrival at Machu Picchu via train.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A thin dawn light slips across the high pastures as your van climbs out of Cusco toward the Lares Valley. The first trailhead opens into a pattern of hand-farmed terraces and grazing llamas; wind-sculpted ridges loom like slow-moving time. Over four days this route moves from community homestays and textile demonstrations through a 4,500 m pass, down to crystalline highland lakes and the humid foothills that feed the Sacred Valley—ending at the train to Aguas Calientes and the archaeological heart of Machu Picchu.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4 days (daily hikes vary: 3–9 hours)
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness; previous multi-day hiking or trekking experience helps, especially for 4,500 m pass day
Wildlife
History
The Lares corridor sits on pre-Inca and Inca-era transhumance and textile routes; many communities still practice traditional weaving and communal agriculture.
Conservation
Support low-impact travel by buying locally made textiles, using established trails, and following leave-no-trace practices to protect fragile puna and cloudforest zones.
Reserve your spot on the Lares Valley Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 1–2 days in Cusco (3,400 m) before the trek to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Bring cash for communities
Small vendors in Huacawasi and Pucará accept soles only—carry small bills for textiles and snacks.
Layer for large temperature swings
Mornings near the pass can be below freezing while midday is sunny—pack warm insulating layers and a sun shell.
Use trekking poles
Poles help on the steep ascent to 4,500 m and reduce impact on long descents to Pucará.
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and waterproofing for rocky ascents, wet trails and long downhill sections.
Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
Cold mornings at 4,500 m and nighttime camping demand a warm mid-layer.
winter
Lightweight rain shell
Reliable rain protection for afternoon showers and windy passes.
summer
Sleeping bag (0°C rating) or rental option
Warm sleeping bag is important for community lodges and campsite nights at high elevation.