The Lares Trek 4 days is the best alternative to the Inca Trail for those seeking an authentic experience in the Peruvian Andes. This Lares to Machu Picchu trek of 4 days and 3 nights takes you through the spectacular Sacred Valley, connecting with traditional Andean communities and unparalleled mountain landscapes.
Starting at the Lares Hot Springs, located 3 hours from Cusco, the Lares Trek 4 days crosses the Huacawasi Pass at 4,300 meters altitude, descending towards Ollantaytambo for the final access to Machu Picchu. This best alternative to the Inca Trail is less crowded but equally impressive, ideal for travelers who want to experience the living culture and tradition of the Andes.
During the 42-kilometer journey, you'll visit highland villages where life continues as it has for centuries, with inhabitants who preserve ancestral Inca customs, traditional textiles, and ancient agriculture alongside llamas and alpacas. The Lares to Machu Picchu adventure culminates with sunrise at the lost citadel of Machu Picchu.
The Lares Trek 4 days begins at 5:00 AM with pickup from your Cusco hotel. The bus journey to Calca takes 45 minutes, followed by an additional 2 hours to the famous Lares Hot Springs, where you'll enjoy a picnic and can relax in the natural thermal pools surrounded by mountains and snow-capped peaks.
The first day's hike is uphill for 4 hours until reaching Quishuarani, a traditional village where you'll have free time to learn about ancestral weaving techniques and enjoy local hospitality. The afternoon includes tea and dinner with views of snow-capped peaks.
After an energizing breakfast, we begin the longest day of the Lares Trek 4 days. The route continues northeast through the valley, passing stone houses with thatched roofs. After half an hour of level walking, we ascend 2.5 hours to Pachacutec Pass, the highest point with spectacular views of the Pitusiray snow-capped peaks.
We continue along a narrow trail for 1 hour to an isolated area with glacial lakes where we'll have lunch. Finally, in the afternoon, we descend to the next valley with waterfalls until reaching Cancha Cancha, our overnight campsite.
After a delicious breakfast in the mountains, we start the 3-hour hike to the small Cancha Cancha river until reaching the village of Huaran. From here we take local transport to Ollantaytambo, a perfectly preserved Andean town where you'll have time to explore before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.
Arriving in Aguas Calientes marks the end of the Lares Trek 4 days and the beginning of anticipation for visiting Machu Picchu. We'll spend the night in a hotel in the town of Machu Picchu.
The culminating day begins early with the bus at 6:00 AM to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu to witness the spectacular sunrise. You'll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour with our expert guide, with sufficient free time for you to take photos or videos during the tour.
Visitors with Huayna Picchu entrance tickets (limited to 400 people daily, extra cost) can ascend this sacred mountain (2,720 m / 8,890 ft) in approximately 2-3 hours. Afterwards, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, Expedition train to Ollantaytambo and transport back to Cusco.
The Lares Trek 4 days offers a unique experience that combines adventure, culture, and nature. Unlike the traditional Inca Trail, this best alternative to the Inca Trail allows you to:
The Lares to Machu Picchu route provides an authentic cultural immersion while maintaining the same spectacular finale at the ancient citadel. This best alternative to the Inca Trail is perfect for travelers seeking a more intimate and culturally rich experience in the Peruvian Andes.
Book your Lares Trek 4 days and live an unforgettable adventure in the Peruvian Andes!
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Jane M
September 16, 2025
The inka trail to Machu Picchu with Iza and Luis Miguel was absolutely amazing!!!! There kindness and consideration were above expected and required. If and when I return I will personally ask for them and their team at ITEP.
Heather R
September 16, 2025
Iza and Luis Miguel were awesome trail guides. Very knowledgeable and supportive of all the women in our group. The porter team was encouraging and thought of little details that made the whole experience more enjoyable. The pre-trip meeting ensured we were all well prepared for the hike. The food on the trail was amazing and appreciated. Excellent quality and variety. They even prepared a special cake for a birthday on the trail. I would highly recommend this group.
Courtney W
September 16, 2025
An unforgettable experience from start to finish. Our guides, Iza and Luis Miguel went above and beyond to make sure our trip went smooth, and we had everything we needed. Iza and Miguel were so encouraging and truly cared about our experience. Extremely knowledgeable and showed great leadership throughout. I’m so happy we had them as our guides for the Inka trail. I would highly recommend!
Gabby B
September 16, 2025
Iza and Louis Miguel were awesome guides!! They provided an unforgettable experience with awesome support and information. The food was amazing as well as the Inca Trail. I will never forget this amazing experience thank you Inca Trail Expeditions.
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