From Cusco: 4-Day Alternative Lares Trail to Machu Picchu – Cusco, Peru

EXPERIENCE:

Take an alternative route to Machu Picchu from Cusco via the Lares Trail. Discover the local communities and admire the breathtaking scenery during the 4-day hike. Explore the Maras Salt Mines and Machu Picchu with your guide.

Begin Day 1 with pickup at your hotel in Cusco, then drive for around 3 hours to the hot springs in Lares. Have breakfast upon arrival, then start the approximately 4-hour hike to Cuncani. Take a break for lunch, then continue to Kiswarani, where you’ll stay overnight.

On Day 2, start the day with breakfast before taking a 4-hour to the Condor Pass at over 4,700 meters above sea level. Carry on hiking for another 2 hours until you have a lunch break, then hike for just 1 more hour to Cancha Cancha and rest for the day.

After breakfast on Day 3, hike to the Sacred Valley, where transportation will be waiting for you to take you to the Maras Salt Mines. Once at the mines, explore an area that has been used to extract salt since the time of the Incas.

From the mines, head to Ollantaytambo for lunch before taking the train to Aguas Calientes, the town closest to Machu Picchu. Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, make your way to the hotel for an overnight rest.

On Day 4, wake up early in the morning and take a bus to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour, then get some free time to explore this awe-inspiring place on your own. Head back to Aguas Calientes afterward, then take the train to Ollantaytambo before returning from there to Cusco.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Embark on an adventure to Machu Picchu via the lesser-known Lares trail
Discover local communities and learn more about their traditions
Visit the Maras Salt Mines and discover the history of salt production
Explore the iconic Machu Picchu and admire the spectacular surroundings
Admire stunning mountain peaks, lakes, and wildlife during the 4-day adventure

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