Step into a landscape of remote Andean villages, glacier-fed lakes, and centuries-old weaving traditions on this 7-day trek from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. Combining cultural exploration in Cusco with a multi-day trek through the Lares Valley, this journey balances physical challenge with authentic encounters, including a relaxing soak in natural hot springs before the final approach to the Inca citadel.
Perfectly paced for travelers who want a complete Andean experience without an overly long commitment, this itinerary blends archaeological depth, high-altitude scenery, and a memorable sunrise visit to Machu Picchu. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking adventure, culture, and iconic views in a single, well-rounded week.
Overview
The 7-Day Lares Adventure Trek is a compact yet complete Andean journey, combining cultural immersion in Cusco and the Sacred Valley with a multi-day trek through the remote Lares Valley. The route passes through traditional weaving communities, high mountain passes, and glacial lakes before descending to the therapeutic hot springs of Lares and concluding with a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Tour Itinerary Summary
Day 1 — Cusco City Tour
- Arrival in Cusco and hotel transfer
- Visit to the Cusco Cathedral and Qoricancha
- Guided tour of Sacsayhuamán fortress
- Stops at Qenqo, Pucapucara, and Tambomachay
Day 2 — Sacred Valley Exploration
- Visit to Chinchero's Inca terraces and colonial church
- Exploration of the Moray agricultural terraces
- Tour of the Maras Salt Mines
- Visit to Ollantaytambo fortress and Temple of the Sun
- Overnight stay in the Sacred Valley
Day 3 — Start of Lares Trek
- Early transfer to the Sacred Valley with breakfast stop
- Trailhead start at Huaran with horse support team
- Ascent along the Cancha Cancha River
- Traditional lunch in a local community
- Walk through Polylepis forest
- Overnight camp at Acopata (3,950m)
Day 4 — Crossing Pachacutec Pass
- Ascent to Pachacutec Pass (4,750m)
- Views of Pitusiray and Sahuasiray glaciers
- Descent to Qoyalaycocha lake for lunch
- Continued trek to Quishuarani village
- Opportunity to purchase alpaca textiles
- Overnight camp at community center
Day 5 — Trek to Lares and Train to Aguas Calientes
- Ascent to Cuncani Pass (4,200m)
- Views of the Urubamba mountain range
- Descent past lakes to Cuncani village
- Continued descent to Lares hot springs
- Relaxing soak in thermal baths
- Transfer and train ride to Aguas Calientes
Day 6 — Sunrise at Machu Picchu
- Early bus transfer to Machu Picchu citadel
- Guided tour of temples, terraces, and plazas
- Free time to explore independently
- Train return to the Sacred Valley or Cusco
Day 7 — Departure
- Private transfer to Cusco airport
- End of trekking adventure
Why Choose This Tour
This itinerary suits travelers who want the cultural richness and physical challenge of a multi-day trek without committing to a longer expedition. The Lares route offers close contact with Andean communities and their weaving traditions, dramatic high-altitude scenery, and the unique bonus of natural hot springs to soothe tired muscles before arriving at Machu Picchu, all within a manageable seven-day timeframe.
Tour Highlights
- Guided tour of Cusco's key Inca and colonial landmarks
- Exploration of the Sacred Valley, including Chinchero, Moray, and Maras
- Multi-day trek through the Lares Valley with horse support
- Crossing of Pachacutec Pass and Cuncani Pass above 4,200 meters
- Overnight stays in remote weaving communities
- Relaxing soak in the natural hot springs of Lares
- Train journey to Aguas Calientes
- Sunrise guided tour of Machu Picchu
Main Attractions
Cusco: The historic Inca capital, home to Qoricancha, Sacsayhuamán, and the Cusco Cathedral.
Sacred Valley (Chinchero, Moray, Maras): A region showcasing Inca agricultural engineering and traditional Andean village life.
Lares Valley: A remote area known for its weaving communities, alpine passes, and glacial lakes.
Lares Hot Springs: Natural thermal baths offering a welcome rest after days of trekking.
Machu Picchu: The trek's grand finale, visited on a guided sunrise tour.
Experience
Travelers move from Cusco's cobbled streets into a world of high alpine passes, turquoise lakes, and small Andean communities where traditional textile weaving remains part of daily life. The trekking days combine steady climbs with cultural exchanges, opportunities to purchase handwoven alpaca textiles, and sightings of llamas, alpacas, and native wildlife. After the physical demands of the trek, the hot springs at Lares provide welcome relief before the emotional culmination of the journey: a sunrise visit to Machu Picchu.
What Makes This Tour Special
This itinerary stands out for its efficient pacing, delivering deep cultural immersion and dramatic Andean scenery within just seven days. The inclusion of the Lares hot springs is a distinctive touch, offering genuine recovery time before Machu Picchu, while the sunrise citadel visit provides a quieter, more atmospheric experience than a mid-day arrival.
Recommended For
- Adventure Travelers
- Culturally Curious Travelers
- Nature Lovers
- Photographers
- Couples
- Solo Travelers
- Travelers with Limited Time
- History Enthusiasts
Useful Information
Altitude: Ranges from around 2,040 m in Aguas Calientes to 4,750 m at Pachacutec Pass.
Climate: Cold nights and cool days at altitude, warmer and more humid near Machu Picchu.
Recommended Season: The dry season, from May to September, offers the most stable trekking conditions.
Travel Time: Approximately 7 days from arrival in Cusco to departure.
Physical Level: Moderate to challenging, with two demanding high-altitude trekking days.
Recommendations: Acclimatize in Cusco beforehand, pack warm layers for camping, and bring swimwear for the hot springs.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Cusco
Upon arrival in Cusco (3,400m), our guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for a short briefing, followed by some well-deserved rest—essential for proper acclimatization to the altitude.
Beginning with the Cathedral and the Qoricancha. These sites exemplify the sophisticated integration of Spanish colonial structures atop the sacred foundations of the Sun Temple, illustrating a complex historical transition.
The circuit extends to the surrounding archaeological complexes, headlined by the monumental lithic engineering of Sacsayhuamán. The itinerary concludes with an analysis of the ritual and strategic importance of Qenqo, Pucapucara, and the hydraulic sanctuary of Tambomachay, providing a comprehensive insight into the administrative and spiritual mastery of the Andes.
Day 2: Sacred Valley
The journey commences across the Chinchero Plateau toward Chinchero, where remarkably preserved Inca terraces and a colonial temple sit atop ancient palace foundations. The expedition continues to the architectural anomaly of Moray, featuring deep circular depressions designed for agricultural experimentation, followed by the Maras Salt Mines, an expansive network of terraced ponds utilized for salt extraction since pre-Inca times.
The descent into the Sacred Valley leads to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town and a prominent ceremonial center. The visit focuses on the monumental fortress and the Temple of the Sun, showcasing sophisticated lithic engineering with massive granite blocks transported from distant quarries. After exploring these archaeological milestones, the day concludes with an overnight stay amidst the serene landscapes of the Sacred Valley.
Day 3: Sacred Valley – Huaran – Concha Concha – Acopata
At 7:00 a.m., our private transport will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We will make a short stop near Calca to enjoy breakfast, and if needed, you can buy snacks such as fruit, chocolate, and water.
We will then continue to Huaran (3,000 m / 9,840 ft), where we will meet our horsemen and horses before starting the trek. The trail ascends gradually for 4 hours, following the Cancha Cancha River to the small community of the same name. Along the way, we will pass through traditional farmland, admire breathtaking valley views, and walk through Polylepis forests, home to diverse wildlife, including hummingbirds.
In the village, we will enjoy a traditional Andean lunch before continuing our hike for two more hours until we reach our campsite, Acopata (3,950 m / 12,960 ft). We will spend the night here after a delicious dinner and a short briefing about the next day’s journey.
Day 4: Acopata – Ascent to Pachacuted Pass – Quishuarani
After breakfast, we continue our ascent on what will be the most demanding day of the trek. We will hike for approximately 3 hours to reach the highest point, Pachacutec Pass (4,750 m / 15,580 ft). From here, the panoramic views are breathtaking, showcasing the majestic Pitusiray and Sahuasiray glaciers and stunning emerald-green lakes.
We then begin a 2-hour descent to the glacial lake Qoyalaycocha, where we will stop for a traditional Andean lunch. After a short break, we continue trekking for another 2.5 hours to reach the village of Quishuarani, passing herds of llamas, alpacas, and sheep along the way. With some luck, we may also spot Andean deer, geese, falcons, ducks, or even the elusive Andean fox.
Our campsite will be set at the community center, which offers basic facilities. In Quishuarani, you will have the opportunity to purchase handwoven alpaca textiles, crafted using traditional Lares Valley techniques. In the afternoon, we will enjoy a light snack, followed by a hearty Andean dinner to end the day..
Day 5: Quishuarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
We start the day early at 6:00 AM with a hearty breakfast before beginning our 4-hour ascent to Cuncani Pass (4,200m / 13,780ft). From the top, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Urubamba mountain range, including Willcaccasa (4,458m), Padreyoc (5,500m), and Veroni (5,800m), as well as turquoise lakes and the stunning valley landscapes.
A 2-hour descent past several lakes takes us to the shores of Lake Cuncani, where we will have lunch. Another hour of hiking brings us to the village of Cuncani (3,900m / 12,795ft), where you can purchase authentic alpaca textiles and meet locals dressed in their vibrant traditional clothing, surrounded by herds of llamas, alpacas, and sheep.
From Cuncani, we continue our descent to Lares, famous for its medicinal hot springs, where we’ll enjoy a relaxing soak after our trek. Our private transport will then take us to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel El Mapi, and in the evening, your guide will provide a briefing for your visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Day 6: Sunrise Over Machupicchu And Return To Cusco By Train
Early in the morning, we meet our guide to take the CONSETUR bus to the citadel of Machu Picchu. After passing the entrance checkpoint, we begin our 2 to 2.5-hour guided tour, exploring its legendary temples, terraces, and plazas while learning about its fascinating history.
After the tour, you will have free time to explore at your own pace or simply soak in the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, we return to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to the Sacred Valley or Cusco, where you will be transferred to your hotel.
Note: If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain, permits are limited and must be reserved in advance along with your Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Day 7: Adventure Concludes Here
At the scheduled time, we will provide a private transfer to the airport for your flight to Lima. Our services conclude here, but we trust that the memories created on this journey will stay with you forever. We wish you a pleasant flight and look forward to the privilege of welcoming you back to Peru in the future.
Includes
- Briefing
- Entrace Tickets for City Tour and Sacred Valley Tour
- Private Transportation: Cuzco – Huaran, Lares – Ollantaytambo, train station – Cuzco.
- Private tour guide during all your journey
- Chef and cooking equipment.
- Quality double tents and mats, tables and chairs.
- Horses to carry food, cooking and camping equipment and 8 kg of luggage per person.
- First Aid Kit.
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back, transfer to Cuzco.
- Two nights hotel in Cusco(Casona Antigua San Blas) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- One night hotel in the Sacred Valley(Pakaritampu) ⭐⭐⭐
- One night hotel in Aguas Calientes.(El Mapi by Inkaterra) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
- Breakfast provided by the Hotel
- Meals (B,L,D) during the Trek (Includes Boiled water to refill in the camps)
What’s Not included
- International and domestic flights and taxes.
- Huaynapicchu Entrance (optional-under request and subject to availability)
- Lunch and dinner on day 1,2,5,6 and 7 are not included
- Travel Insurance.
- Gratuities.
Packing List
Clothing
- Lightweight and moisture-wicking clothing for hiking
- Long-sleeve shirts and pants for sun and insect protection
- Warm layers for the cool evenings (fleece or down jacket)
- Waterproof jacket and pants (for rainy weather)
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Warm hat, gloves, and scarf for cold nights at higher altitudes
- Comfortable hiking boots (broken-in and waterproof)
- Comfortable camp shoes (sandals or lightweight shoes)
- Wool or synthetic socks (bring several pairs)
Essential Gear
- Daypack (25-30L) for carrying your personal items
- Large duffel bag for porters to carry (preferably waterproof)
- Sleeping bag (fiber-filled, as provided)
- Sleeping pad (if not provided, confirm with the tour organizer)
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Waterproof bags to protect electronics and clothing
- Reusable water bottle (at least 2L capacity)
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Sunscreen (high SPF) and lip balm with sun protection
- Insect repellent (DEET-based recommended)
Personal Items
- Passport and copies (for entry into Machu Picchu)
- Travel insurance documents
- Credit card or cash (for personal expenses)
- Camera or phone (with extra memory cards and batteries)
- Personal medication and a small first-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, etc.)
Optional Items
- Snacks (energy bars, trail mix)
- Lightweight trekking poles (optional but recommended for the Inca Trail)
- Binoculars for bird watching
- Notebook or journal
- Small lock for your duffel bag
Important Notes
- Make sure all your gear is lightweight and waterproof, as weather can change quickly.
- Ensure you have proper hiking boots that are well-broken-in before the trek to avoid blisters.
- Pack light, as porters will carry your equipment, but there are weight restrictions for what can be carried.
Location the 7 Day Lares Adventure
Travel Information
The Lares Trek is an alternative route in the Peruvian Andes, located in the Cusco region, near the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Unlike the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, this trail is less traveled and offers a more intimate experience with Andean culture. Unique Cultural ExperienceAndean Communities: It passes through traditional villages such as Cancha Cancha, Quishuarani, Cuncani, and Lares, where residents maintain their ancestral customs.Living Traditions: Locals speak Quechua, weave textiles with natural dyes, and practice traditional agriculture.Lares Hot Springs: A highlight are its medicinal hot springs, ideal for relaxing with mountain views.
- Lares Hot Springs: A highlight are its medicinal hot springs, ideal for relaxing with mountain views.
- Andean Communities: It passes through traditional villages such as Cancha Cancha, Quishuarani, Cuncani, and Lares, where residents maintain their ancestral customs.
- Living Traditions: Locals speak Quechua, weave textiles with natural dyes, and practice traditional agriculture.
What to Bring
Pack broken-in hiking boots, layered clothing for cold nights and warm days, a rain jacket, sun protection, and a headlamp for early starts and camp evenings. A warm sleeping bag is recommended for the high-altitude camping nights. Don't forget swimwear and a small towel for the hot springs at Lares. Trekking poles are useful for the steep ascents and descents, particularly on the Pachacutec and Cuncani pass days, and a daypack is essential for carrying water and personal items during the walking sections.
Included
Most packages include professional guiding, horse support for camping equipment, all trekking meals, camping gear, entrance fees to archaeological sites, access to the Lares hot springs, train tickets to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, and transportation throughout the itinerary. Accommodation in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes is generally included as well.
Not Included
Typically excluded are international flights, travel insurance, tips for guides and horsemen, alcoholic beverages, the Huayna Picchu entrance ticket (which must be reserved separately and in advance), and personal expenses. Meals not specified in the daily itinerary are also generally excluded from the package.
Physical Difficulty
This trek is rated moderate to challenging, with two demanding days crossing Pachacutec Pass and Cuncani Pass, both above 4,200 meters. The remaining days involve steady, well-paced hiking over varied terrain. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, along with mental preparation for consecutive days of high-altitude walking, though extensive prior trekking experience is not strictly required.
Altitude Information
The trek reaches its highest point at Pachacutec Pass, 4,750 meters above sea level, with a second significant high point at Cuncani Pass, 4,200 meters. Proper acclimatization in Cusco before starting the trek is strongly recommended to reduce the effects of altitude. Staying hydrated and maintaining a steady pace during the pass crossings will help ensure a more comfortable trekking experience.
Weather
Weather in the Lares Valley reflects typical high Andean conditions, with sunny days, cold nights, and notable temperature swings at altitude. Conditions near Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes are warmer and more humid. The dry season offers more predictable, stable weather, while the wet season increases the likelihood of rain and slippery trail conditions in the higher sections.
Transportation
Travelers are transported by private vehicle between Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the Lares trailhead, with horses carrying camping equipment during the trekking days. A train connects the Sacred Valley or Ollantaytambo with Aguas Calientes, and a shuttle bus provides access to Machu Picchu on the final touring day.
Food
Meals are prepared by an experienced trekking team and combine traditional Peruvian dishes with hearty, energy-sustaining options suited to high-altitude trekking. Breakfasts are substantial to fuel the day's hiking, while lunches and dinners at camp typically feature warm, multi-course meals designed to support recovery after demanding trekking days.
Accommodation
Accommodation combines comfortable hotels in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes with camping during the Lares trekking days. Campsites are set in scenic, remote locations near Andean communities, with tents and equipment transported by horses and set up by the support crew ahead of each overnight stop.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season, from May to September, offers the most reliable trekking conditions, with clear skies and minimal rainfall, making it the preferred time for this trek. April and October serve as reasonable shoulder-season alternatives, though occasional rain is possible. The wet season, from December to March, increases the likelihood of rain and muddier trail conditions at higher elevations.
Travel Tips
Arrive in Cusco at least two days before the trek begins to allow time for altitude acclimatization. Pack warm layers for the camping nights and bring swimwear for the Lares hot springs. If interested in climbing Huayna Picchu, reserve tickets well in advance, as daily access is strictly limited and often sells out weeks ahead of travel dates.
Important Notes
This trek passes through remote areas with limited access to medical facilities, so travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking is strongly recommended. Travelers with pre-existing health conditions should consult a physician before booking. Trail conditions, camping locations, and daily schedules may be adjusted based on weather or logistical factors at the guiding team's discretion.
Frecuendly asked questions
The Lares Adventure Trek is rated moderate to challenging, with two demanding days crossing Pachacutec Pass at 4,750 meters and Cuncani Pass at 4,200 meters. The remaining trekking days involve steady, well-paced hiking over varied terrain, including river valleys, forest paths, and open highlands. While prior trekking experience is helpful, it is not strictly necessary for reasonably fit travelers. Proper acclimatization in Cusco beforehand significantly improves the experience, particularly given the two high-altitude pass crossings within a relatively compact seven-day itinerary.
This itinerary is designed as a 7-day journey, including cultural touring in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, three days of trekking through the Lares Valley, a relaxing stop at the Lares hot springs, and a final day exploring Machu Picchu. This condensed structure makes it an appealing option for travelers who want a full Andean trekking and cultural experience without committing to a longer, more extended expedition.
The Lares Adventure Trek emphasizes cultural immersion in remote Andean weaving communities and high-altitude scenery, while the classic Inca Trail follows an original Inca stone pathway lined with archaeological ruins. The Lares route does not require the same limited daily permits as the Inca Trail, offering more flexible booking. This itinerary also includes a unique stop at natural hot springs, a feature not found on the traditional Inca Trail route.
The Lares Trek itself does not require the limited-capacity permit system used for the classic Inca Trail, making it easier to book on shorter notice. However, since the itinerary concludes with a visit to Machu Picchu, an entrance ticket to the citadel is required and should be reserved in advance due to daily visitor limits, particularly if travelers wish to add the optional Huayna Picchu hike.
The dry season, from May to September, is considered the best time for this trek, offering clearer skies, more stable temperatures, and drier trail conditions across the high mountain passes. April and October serve as reasonable shoulder-season options, though occasional rain is possible. The wet season, from December through March, increases the likelihood of rain and muddier trails, making the pass crossings more physically demanding.
Reasonably fit beginners with some hiking background can generally complete this trek, though the two high-altitude pass crossings require steady pacing and proper acclimatization. Travelers with limited trekking experience are encouraged to prepare with cardiovascular training and shorter practice hikes beforehand. The relatively short seven-day format makes this trek a manageable introduction to high-altitude multi-day trekking for motivated beginners.
The Lares hot springs are natural thermal baths located in the town of Lares, known for their mineral-rich waters believed to have therapeutic properties. After several demanding days of trekking through high mountain passes, this stop offers a welcome opportunity to relax sore muscles in warm, soothing pools surrounded by scenic Andean landscapes, making it a distinctive and memorable highlight of this particular itinerary.
Most packages include professional guiding, horse support for transporting camping equipment, all trekking meals, camping gear, entrance fees to archaeological sites, access to the Lares hot springs, train tickets to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, and accommodation in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Aguas Calientes. Optional extras such as the Huayna Picchu hike typically require separate advance booking and are not included by default.
A sunrise visit to Machu Picchu offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience compared to a mid-morning or midday arrival, with fewer crowds and softer early light over the ruins. Arriving early also allows more time to explore the site’s temples, terraces, and plazas at a relaxed pace before the busiest hours of the day. For photographers and travelers seeking a more contemplative experience, the sunrise timing is generally considered a significant advantage.
The trek reaches its highest point at Pachacutec Pass, standing at 4,750 meters above sea level, with a second high point at Cuncani Pass, 4,200 meters. Camping nights are typically set between 3,900 and 3,950 meters. This significant elevation exposes trekkers to thinner air and colder temperatures, particularly during the two pass crossings, making proper acclimatization in Cusco and steady pacing essential for a safe and comfortable trekking experience.
