Important Information

Arrival to Cusco

• You will be greeted at the Cusco airport and taken to your hotel. Please inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival. Look for our representative with an orange INCA EXPEDITIONS board.

Briefing for the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

• The briefing occurs the night before the trek at 6 PM at our office, Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

Luggage Storage

• Your main luggage can be stored at our office or your hotel during the trek.

Booking the Lares Trek Machu Picchu

• Fill out our booking form by clicking on the “BOOK NOW” link on our homepage. Provide the following information for each participant:

• • Full name (exactly as on your passport)
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
  • Nationality

• A deposit of $211.00 USD per person is required to purchase a permit. You can pay via VISA or PAYPAL on our homepage or booking page.

Balance Payment

• To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) or online via VISA or PAYPAL (5.5% service fee). For PAYPAL payments, use incasexpeditions@gmail.com.

Student Discount

• Students under 18 years qualify for a discount. Students aged 18 and above need a valid university ID card. Discounts are $30 USD for ages 11-17, $40 USD for ages 2-11, and free for ages 0-2. Provide a copy of your passport and, if applicable, your university ID card.

Date Changes

• Once Machu Picchu tickets are purchased, they cannot be changed or refunded. Contact our office if you need to change your date. Deposits are non-refundable in case of cancellation.

Original Passport Requirement

• Bring your original passport, which must match the passport details provided for booking. If renewing or changing your passport, send us the old passport information. We can update your permit for a $25 USD fee, or you may bring both old and new passports.

Feel free to ask if you have more questions or need further details!

Weather on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

The weather on the Lares Trek is unpredictable, with rapid changes in conditions. We recommend dressing in layers to easily adjust to these fluctuations.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can be managed by acclimating properly. Spending a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek helps with acclimatization. Typical remedies include drinking plenty of water, coca tea, and using supplemental oxygen if needed. Our guides are trained to address altitude sickness.

Group Size

• Maximum Group Size: 8 persons
• Typical Group Size: 2-6 persons
• Specialization: We focus on small, private groups for a personalized experience.

Cooks and Pack Horses

• Cooks: 1 cook per group
• Pack Horses:

• • 2 trekkers: 4 horses
  • 4 trekkers: 6 horses
  • 6 trekkers: 9 horses
  • 8 trekkers: 12 horses

Hiking the Lares Trek

• Duffel Bag: Provided for packing clothes, with a weight allowance of 7kg/14lbs. Your pack horses will carry this bag. You won’t have access to it during the day, so carry essentials in a day backpack (30-40L) for personal items.
• Difficulty: The trek covers 39 km through the Andes, reaching up to 4,700m. It’s a challenging hike requiring moderate fitness. Prepare by walking 15 km a day or similar exercise. Spend 2-3 days in Cusco to acclimate.

Toilets on the Trek

• Facilities: We provide a clean, private toilet tent with a camping toilet. It is situated a comfortable distance from the campsite.
• Hot Showers: Available at Lares Hot Springs on the 3rd day. Don’t forget your bathing suit.

If You Can’t Finish the Trek

• Assistance: In case of health issues, we’ll assist you to the nearest town. Oxygen is carried for emergencies, and helicopter evacuation can be arranged at your expense (travel insurance required). There are no refunds if you can’t complete the trek. Recovery usually involves going to Ollantaytambo and possibly continuing to Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu.

Hotel Drop-Off

• Included: Hotel drop-off is included in your trek package. We can drop you off in the Sacred Valley if your hotel is there.

Train Departure Time

• Train Timing: We typically book trains for 14:55 or 15:20 to maximize your time at Machu Picchu and enjoy the scenic journey back to Cusco. Train availability may vary.

Vistadome Train Upgrade

• Cost: $67 USD for an upgrade. The Vistadome train features panoramic windows, better seats, snacks, and a dance show. The train runs from Aguas Calientes to Poroy, with a 25-minute drive back to Cusco.

Tipping

• Appreciation: Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. It’s a meaningful way to thank the team for excellent service. Tip based on your satisfaction and trip length.

Sustainability

• Commitment: We are dedicated to sustainable and responsible tourism, respecting the environment and local communities. Our staff is trained to uphold these values.

Overview: Lares Trail 4 Days

The Lares Trail 4 Days is a scenic and culturally rich trek through the Peruvian Andes, leading to the famous Machu Picchu. It offers a quieter and less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, allowing travelers to explore remote Andean villages, witness traditional lifestyles, and enjoy stunning mountain views. The 4-Day Lares Trek is perfect for those who want both cultural immersion and breathtaking landscapes without the crowds.

Weather and Climate on the Lares Trail

Daytime Temperatures

During the Lares Trail 4 Days, daytime temperatures can range between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F), depending on the season and altitude. The weather is generally cool at high altitudes but can feel warm when hiking under the sun. Be prepared for rapid weather changes, typical in the Andes.

Nighttime Temperatures

Nighttime temperatures drop significantly on the 4-Day Lares Trek, especially in higher camps. It can fall below freezing, particularly in camps located above 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). A good sleeping bag is essential for staying warm during cold nights.

Best Time to Hike

The ideal time for the Lares Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days is from May to October, during the dry season. This period offers clear skies and stable weather, making the trek more comfortable. The rainy season, from November to April, brings more rain and muddy trails, but also greener landscapes.

Tips for Dressing and Packing for the Lares Trail

Layering Your Clothing

Dressing in layers is key for the Lares Trail 4 Days. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, add a warm fleece or down jacket for insulation, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against sudden rain showers or cold winds.

Footwear and Essentials

Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial for the 4-Day Trek Lares to Machu Picchu. The trail can be rocky, steep, and muddy, so reliable footwear is a must. Bring trekking poles to assist with steep ascents and descents, and pack sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Andean sun.

Packing List Essentials

For the 4-Day Machu Picchu by Lares trek, pack a warm sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, rain gear, and a small daypack for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and layers. Don’t forget insect repellent for lower altitudes near Machu Picchu and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the hike.

Physical Preparation for the Lares Trail

Acclimatization

Since the Lares Trail 4 Days reaches altitudes as high as 4,400 meters (14,436 feet), acclimatization is critical. Spend at least two days in Cusco (3,400 meters/11,154 feet) to allow your body to adjust to the altitude before starting the trek. This helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Fitness Level

The 4-Day Lares Trek is considered moderate, but the high altitudes and long hiking days make it physically challenging. It’s important to be in good physical shape before attempting the trek. Cardiovascular exercises like hiking, running, or cycling, combined with leg-strengthening activities, will help prepare your body.

Hydration and Nutrition

Stay hydrated during the hike by drinking water regularly. Dehydration can worsen the effects of altitude, so carrying a refillable water bottle or hydration pack is essential. Pack high-energy snacks like dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars to fuel your body during the trek.

Health and Safety Recommendations

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can be a concern on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days, especially during the higher sections of the trail. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. To reduce the risk, acclimatize before the trek, hike at a steady pace, and drink plenty of water. Consider bringing altitude sickness medication or chewing coca leaves, a traditional remedy used by locals.

Vaccinations and Health Precautions

There are no specific vaccinations required for the Lares Trail 4 Days, but it’s recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines such as hepatitis A, B, and typhoid. Carry a small first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and personal medications, including altitude sickness tablets, if needed.

Safety on the Trail

Hiking with a guide or in a group is highly recommended for the 4-Day Trek Lares to Machu Picchu. Guides provide valuable local knowledge and ensure your safety throughout the trek. They also help manage logistics, such as setting up camp and preparing meals, which can make the trek more enjoyable and stress-free.

Restrictions and Environmental Considerations

Group Tours vs. Independent Hiking

While the Lares Trail 4 Days does not require a special permit like the Inca Trail, most travelers choose to join a guided tour. Tour operators handle logistics such as transportation, meals, camping equipment, and mules to carry gear. Hiking independently is possible, but the logistics can be more challenging without local knowledge.

Environmental Responsibility

When trekking the 4-Day Lares Trek, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles. Carry all trash out with you, stay on the designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging the environment. Respect the local communities and their traditions, as you will pass through remote villages along the route.

Final Recommendations for the Lares Trail 4 Days

The Lares Trail 4 Days offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. With proper preparation, respect for the local environment and culture, and the right gear, you’ll have an unforgettable experience hiking through the stunning Andean landscapes on your way to Machu Picchu. This trek is a perfect combination of adventure, culture, and history, and a great alternative to the busier Inca Trail.