Lares Treks 2026

Experience an unforgettable adventure with Lares Treks in Peru, a peaceful route to explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of the Andes. escape the crowds and dive into pure beauty, traveling through chill valleys, old-school Andean villages, and epic mountains Ready to discover a hidden gem of Peru? Start your adventure now!

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chossing lares trekking

Why choose Lares trekking?

Unlike the packed trails of the usual routes, the Lares Treks give you some peace and a closer bond with the Andean vibe Do you wanna adventure and chill? this is the path less crowded, gives u the chance to see the awesome nature and cool culture of the Andes without all the noise from big crowds

Journey through lush valleys up to the highest mountain passes and lakes on an ancient route. We think this trip is a photographer and nature enthusiast dream. Options to photograph the Andes are infinite due to the diversity of fauna and flora as well as incredible landscapes, without any doubt. Whether you are a pro hiker or first time visitor. Seeking to uncover the Luncha Valley and its exclusive culture and spectacular beauty?

Best sellers Lares treks in Peru

Ready to discover the secret valleys of Cusco? Our Lares Treks Tours take you through mountains, lagoons, and Andean communities steeped in history and tradition. As local operators, we work alongside the valley’s families to offer you an authentic, cultural, and sustainable experience, with options from one day to several days of adventure.

lares trek and short inca trail
4 Days 3 Nights
Trekking Nature & Culture

Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 4 Days

Experience the Lares trek and Short Inca trail wonders

The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail are two fantastic alternatives to the traditional Inca Trail, offering breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. The Lares Trek takes you through beautiful valleys, remote villages, and high-altitude mountains, providing a unique glimpse into Andean life. The Short Inca Trail combines stunning natural beauty with ancient ruins, culminating at the Sun Gate for an unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. Both treks offer a more serene and less crowded experience.

Started from:

$880

Per person

lares trek and short inca trail
4 Days 3 Nights
Luxury Trekking & Culture

Luxury Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days | Exclusive Cultural Trek & Glamping Experience

Luxury Lares trek to Machu Picchu 4 days | Deluxe Machu Picchu tours

The Luxury Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers an extraordinary blend of adventure, culture, and comfort, taking you deep into the breathtaking landscapes of the Andean highlands. Over the course of four unforgettable days, this exclusive journey leads you through traditional mountain villages such as Huacawasi, Patacancha, and Willoq, where ancient customs and vibrant local life remain beautifully preserved.

Along the way, you will experience the perfect balance between wilderness and indulgence, staying in luxury glamping camps designed for comfort in the heart of nature. Each camp features spacious tents with plush bedding, private bathrooms, and gourmet meals prepared by professional chefs, allowing you to relax and recharge after each day of scenic hiking.

This luxury trek is ideal for travelers seeking a unique combination of stunning natural landscapes, authentic cultural encounters, and premium comfort, making it one of the most rewarding ways to experience the magic of the Andes and the wonder of Machu Picchu.

Started from:

$2200

Per person

lares trek to machu picchu 4 days
4 Days 3 Nights
Trekking Nature & Culture

Lares trek to Machu Picchu 4 days | Authentic Andean Experience

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days Andean adventure

Walking the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is more than just a hike, it’s an immersion into the living heart of the Andes. As we make our way through quiet valleys and over dramatic mountain passes, we’re not just covering ground, we’re weaving through centuries of history, tradition, and untouched nature.

Each village we pass tells a story. Locals wrapped in colorful textiles, children waving from terraced hillsides, and the scent of woodsmoke lingering in the crisp mountain air, all of it forms part of the Lares experience. The trail is quiet, far from the crowds, but rich in authenticity.

From peaceful hot springs nestled between green hills to soaring peaks dusted with snow, the route constantly surprises. It’s a landscape shaped by time and belief, where every step feels sacred. And then, after days of effort and awe, there it is, Machu Picchu, rising from the mist like a whispered legend finally revealed.

Started from:

$620

Per person

lares trek 3 days
3 Days 2 Nights
Trekking Nature & Culture

Lares trek 3 days to Machu Picchu

Best Lares trek 3 days to Machu Picchu

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in 3 days is far more than a walk through mountains, it’s a deep journey into the soul of the Andes. Over the course of three unforgettable days, the trail leads through serene valleys and high mountain passes, where nature, culture, and history blend effortlessly.

On Day 1, the journey begins in Cusco, passing through Calca to the Lares Hot Springs, where warm waters offer a relaxing start to the trek. The trail then continues through Huacahuasi and Isaycocha, crossing quiet valleys and traditional villages before reaching Patacancha for the night.

Day 2 focuses on cultural connection, hiking from Patacancha to Willoq, where Andean traditions remain part of daily life. The route passes the archaeological site of Pumamarka and descends to Ollantaytambo, before traveling by train to Aguas Calientes.

On Day 3, the highlight of the trek awaits: Machu Picchu. Rising through the morning mist, the citadel offers a powerful and unforgettable ending before returning via Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Started from:

$620

Per person

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Awards earned by our Lares trek tours

Our lares trek tours have been recognized for sustainable travel practices and community-based tourism in the Andes. These distinctions reflect our commitment to responsible trekking and high service standards.

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Travel the Lares Treks route in the heart of the Andes

Tired of mass tourism? The Lares treks takes you to Peru, between mountains and authentic Andean communities. Contact us today and experience the Peru you truly want to see. Your story in the Andes starts here!

Lares trekking is the perfect adventure for you

If you’re looking for an authentic and adventurous experience, Lares Trekking is the ideal option. We’ll tell you what you can enjoy:

Beautiful Andean landscapes

hiking through the breathtaking snow-capped peaks of Mount Salkantay and the lush green valleys of Lares. You’ll pass pristine lagoons like Laguna de Huillca and Laguna de Chancachaca, where the serene waters reflect the towering mountains around them.

Traditional villages

Visit traditional villages such as Patacancha, Wacahuasi, and Cuncani, where you can immerse yourself in the daily life of indigenous communities. These villages offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Andean people.

Tranquility of the Lares Valley

Enjoy the tranquility of the Lares Valley, away from the crowds of popular tourist spots. Trek through peaceful areas like Q'elloq'asa and Cuncani, where nature’s calm is the perfect escape.

The flora and fauna

The flora and fauna of the valley including alpacas, Andean condors, and vibrant wildflowers in this untouched natural paradise.

Lares alongside gentle llamas

Travel the valleys of Lares alongside gentle llamas, following ancient Andean routes through peaceful mountain landscapes. This authentic experience connects you with nature and tradition in every step.

Lares Trek map

Ready to get off the beaten path? The Ultimate Lares Trek Map is everything you need to explore one of Peru’s best-kept secrets. Winding through remote Andean villages, thermal hot springs, and high-altitude passes.
lares trek map

What should I bring for the Lares tour?

  • Layered clothing for varying temperatures: pack a warm jacket for chilly mornings and evenings, as well as breathable, moisture-wicking clothes for daytime trekking.
  • Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support and traction, as you’ll be walking on rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Andean sun at high altitudes.
  • A lightweight, water-resistant backpack (20-30L) to carry your personal items, with room for layers, snacks, and a rain jacket.
  • Insect repellent to avoid bites from mosquitoes, especially near lakes and villages.
  • Hydration system (like a camelbak) or water bottles (at least 2L), as you’ll need to stay hydrated during long treks.
  • A high-quality camera or smartphone to capture breathtaking views of rivers, lagoons, and Andean wildlife along the way.

The best time to do the Lares treks tour in Peru

The best time to do the Lares Trek is during the dry season, from May to October, when the sunny weather offers the perfect temperature at high altitudes and will help you walk on a firmer, mud-free path.

The best time to do the Lares treks tour

A glimpse of our Lares treks in Cusco

The essence of the Andes with a glimpse of our Lares treks in Cusco, the best alternative cultural route for travelers seeking authentic Andean traditions, passing through remote villages, high mountain passes, and the natural hot springs of Lares.

Top traveler reviews of our Lares trek tours

Travelers consistently rate our lares trek tours highly for cultural authenticity, breathtaking scenery, and personalized attention. Many reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere and meaningful local interactions.

Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Sara D profile picture
Sara D
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Matthew W profile picture
Matthew W
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏
Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Arianna O profile picture
Arianna O
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!
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naomiammar
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Hardest challenge of my life but worth it One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!
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cade c profile picture
cade c
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Awesome trek We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.
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Lola U
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.
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Julia C.
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.
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Emelie A
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verified
Hike of a lifetime! We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!

FAQs about Lares Treks in Peru

Planning your adventure on the Lares? Here, we’ve gathered the most common questions to help you prepare for an unforgettable experience.

A 2-4 day hike through remote Andean villages with authentic cultural experiences and stunning mountain scenery. Unlike the Inca Trail, you'll interact with local communities and encounter way fewer tourists. Most trips end at Machu Picchu.

Lares is a rural area located in the Sacred Valley about 3-4 hours northeast of Cusco, Peru. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional Andean villages, and natural hot springs.

Moderately challenging. You'll hike at high altitude (up to 4,600m), covering 10-15 km daily with steep climbs. The thin air is tough, and nights get cold. You need decent fitness and a few days in Cusco to acclimatize first.

Turquoise mountain lakes, snow-capped peaks, and traditional villages where life hasn't changed in centuries. You'll visit communities, soak in natural hot springs, camp under incredible starry skies, and meet locals living authentically. It's cold, challenging, and absolutely worth it.

You'll pass through authentic Quechua villages like Huacahuasi, Cuncani, Quiswarani, and Willoc. These are real communities where families farm, weave textiles, and speak Quechua.

Most people do the 3-day version (about 35 km), which balances hiking and culture nicely. There's a 2-day express option or a 4-day slower-paced version. Almost all include Machu Picchu at the end.

May through September offers dry weather and clear mountain views. June-August is peak season with more hikers but still uncrowded compared to other treks. November-March brings rain but greener landscapes and solitude. April and October are perfect middle-ground months.

First, ask yourself if you want a peaceful and relaxing trip through the valleys and lagoons. If the answer is yes, then the Lares Treks are worth it. It's ideal for those looking to experience traditional Andean culture and pristine landscapes away from the crowds. It's definitely a must-do in Peru!

The Lares Trek reaches altitudes of up to 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) at the highest pass, which is a challenging but rewarding part of the trek. It’s important to acclimatize to the altitude before starting, but don’t worry, there are plenty of beautiful stops along the way to help you adjust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lares Treks
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