Luxury Lares Trek 4 Days – Glamping Adventure to Machu Picchu

Luxury Trek Style

Overview – Luxury Lares Trek 4 Days

The Luxury Lares Trek 4 Days is an exclusive journey deep into the remote Andes, designed for travelers who seek adventure, solitude, and authentic cultural immersion without giving up comfort. This private trek begins in the Sacred Valley and leads you through high-altitude landscapes, glacial valleys, and turquoise alpine lakes, far from the crowds and modern distractions.

Along the route, you will hike past traditional Quechua-speaking communities, where ancient farming and herding traditions are still part of everyday life. Nights are spent under vast Andean skies in carefully designed glamping camps, offering hot showers, personalized service, gourmet meals, and restorative massages after each day on the trail. The absence of city lights creates exceptional conditions for stargazing, adding a quiet, magical atmosphere to the experience.

A highlight of the journey is the rejuvenating soak in the natural Lares hot springs, surrounded by towering mountains — a rewarding moment of relaxation before transitioning from the high Andes to the lush cloud forest. The trek concludes with a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes and a private guided visit to Machu Picchu, where you will explore the citadel and enjoy panoramic views from its iconic viewpoints.

This trek is ideal for travelers who wish to experience the raw beauty of the Andes through a fully supported, private, and thoughtfully curated adventure that blends nature, culture, and refined comfort.

  • 4 Days / 3 Nights
  • Private Trek Experience
  • Fully Supported & Secure
  • Year-Round

Journey Highlights

  • Remote Andean landscapes far from the crowds, trekking through high-altitude valleys, snow-capped peaks, and pristine glacial lakes that showcase the untouched beauty of the Andes.
  • Comfortable glamping camps in the heart of the mountains, offering hot showers, gourmet meals prepared by a private chef, and relaxing massage services after each day of hiking.
  • Cultural encounters with traditional Quechua communities, where you gain insight into ancestral lifestyles, weaving traditions, and daily life in the high Andes.
  • Spectacular alpine lakes and mountain passes, including turquoise glacial lakes and panoramic viewpoints reached during rewarding high-altitude ascents.
  • A rejuvenating soak in the natural Lares hot springs, the perfect way to relax tired muscles while surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
  • A seamless transition from wilderness to comfort, ending the trek with a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes and a night in a luxury riverside hotel.
  • A private guided exploration of Machu Picchu, visiting the ancient citadel and its iconic viewpoints for unforgettable panoramic views.
  • Fully supported private trekking experience, with an expert guide, muleteers, dedicated trekking staff, and all logistics carefully handled from start to finish.

What is and isn't included

What’s Included

  • Two nights of luxury glamping accommodations during the trek
  • One night in a luxury riverside hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Professional English-speaking expert guide
  • Full private trekking support team, including muleteers, trekking chef and assistant chef, waiter, masseuse, and private driver
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Hiking poles
  • All private overland transportation throughout the journey
  • All entrance fees and permits, including a one-way Vistadome train ride
    • Optional upgrade to the luxury Belmond Hiram Bingham train (available upon request)
  • First aid kit and oxygen bottle for high-altitude safety
  • All applicable Peruvian taxes (IGV)

What’s Not Included

  • Accommodation before or after the trek (can be arranged upon request)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses, including souvenirs, laundry, or additional beverages
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Gratuities for the trekking staff and guides

Suggestions for glamping trails

Important Information

Before embarking on this journey, there are a few important details to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the trek.

  • Train schedules & stations: Train departure times and stations are subject to availability and operational changes. During the rainy season, occasional delays may occur, and schedules can vary depending on demand and weather conditions.
  • Train upgrades: Optional train upgrades, including the luxury Belmond Hiram Bingham service, are available for travelers seeking an enhanced rail experience. Availability and pricing vary, so please consult your travel advisor in advance.
  • Optional hikes at Machu Picchu: Additional hikes such as Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, or the Gran Caverna require separate entrance tickets. These experiences offer a unique perspective of the citadel and surrounding landscapes. Speak with your travel advisor if you are interested in adding one of these options.
  • Hiking & altitude considerations: This trek involves moderate hiking at high elevations, including mountain passes above 4,000 meters. Proper acclimatization is essential. Travelers with medical concerns related to altitude or physical exertion are encouraged to consult their doctor before traveling.

Itinerary – Day by Day

Day 1: First Steps on the Lares Trail

Your journey begins early in the morning with a private pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley toward the trailhead. Along the way, you pass traditional Andean villages where llamas graze across terraced hillsides, offering a first glimpse into rural life in the highlands.

Upon arrival in Huaran, the starting point of the trek, you meet your dedicated expedition team, including expert muleteers, a private trekking chef, and on-trail massage therapists who will support you throughout the journey. The hike begins at a gentle pace, following the Cancha Cancha River through Andean farmland and quena forests.

Midday brings a gourmet lunch at Piedra Grande, surrounded by striking rock formations and sweeping mountain views. After lunch, the trail continues toward Cancha Cancha Camp, beautifully set beneath snow-capped peaks. Upon arrival, you can relax with a hot shower and a soothing massage before enjoying a freshly prepared gourmet dinner. As night falls, settle into your glamping tent beneath a vast, star-filled Andean sky.

Route: Cusco – Calca – Cancha Cancha
Included meals: Snacks, Lunch, Tea Time, Dinner
Maximum elevation: 3,980 m / 13,058 ft
Walking distance: 7 km / 4.4 miles
Accommodation: Luxury glamping

Day 2: Pachacutec Pass & Glacial Lakes of the High Andes

Wake to the quiet beauty of the Andes and begin the day with freshly brewed coffee or traditional coca tea. After a nourishing breakfast, you set out on the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek: the ascent to Pachacutec Pass.

The trail leads past high-altitude glacial lakes, including Szulcocha Lake with its deep steel-blue waters, followed by the striking turquoise hues of Suerococha Lake. Llamas and alpacas are often seen grazing peacefully against the dramatic mountain backdrop.

The final ascent brings you to Pachacutec Pass, the highest point of the trek, where panoramic views of the surrounding peaks provide a memorable reward. After descending from the pass, you enjoy a lakeside gourmet lunch before continuing toward the Quiswarani community. This traditional Quechua village is known for its ancestral farming practices and vibrant weaving traditions. Arriving at camp in the afternoon, you can unwind with mountain views, a hot shower, a therapeutic massage, and a gourmet dinner before another peaceful night in your glamping tent.

Route: Cancha Cancha – Pachacutec Pass – Quiswarani
Included meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Tea Time, Dinner
Maximum elevation: 4,690 m / 15,387 ft
Walking distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Accommodation: Luxury glamping

Day 3: Hot Springs & Arrival in Aguas Calientes

After a final gourmet breakfast on the trail, you continue your journey through the Andes, ascending Huillquijassa Pass for sweeping views of glacial valleys and rugged peaks. This is a beautiful farewell to the remote highlands that have accompanied you over the past days.

Descending from the pass, you arrive at the natural Lares hot springs, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating soak surrounded by towering mountains. A gourmet picnic lunch follows, allowing time to relax and take in the serene setting.

Later in the day, private transport takes you to Ollantaytambo, where you board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes. Nestled within the lush cloud forest at the base of Machu Picchu, this charming town marks the transition from mountain wilderness to refined comfort. After checking into your luxury riverside hotel, the evening is free to rest and prepare for the final highlight of your journey.

Route: Quiswarani – Huillquijassa Pass – Lares Hot Springs – Aguas Calientes
Included meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
Maximum elevation: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Walking distance: 9 km / 6 miles
Accommodation: Luxury hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 4: Machu Picchu Discovery

Today marks the culmination of your adventure with a private guided visit to Machu Picchu. After breakfast, your guide meets you for the short shuttle ride to the entrance of the citadel. As you explore the expansive ruins, your guide shares insights into the site’s history, architectural mastery, and enduring legends.

You will ascend to the panoramic viewpoint for the classic view of Machu Picchu framed by lush green peaks — an unforgettable moment and a perfect opportunity for photographs. After the guided tour, you return to Aguas Calientes for a gourmet lunch before boarding the scenic train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transport returns you to your hotel in Cusco, bringing your luxury glamping trek to a memorable close.

Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Maximum elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft

Plan Your Luxury Lares Trek Experience

The Luxury Lares Trek 4 Days offers a rare opportunity to explore the remote Andes through glacial valleys, natural hot springs, and high-altitude landscapes, all while enjoying the comfort of private glamping camps and personalized service. This exclusive journey concludes with a private guided visit to Machu Picchu, creating a seamless transition from wilderness to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

With limited availability and a fully private format, early planning is highly recommended. Our travel specialists will assist you with availability, customization options, and every detail needed to design a smooth and unforgettable trekking experience tailored to your pace and preferences.

 

    Frequently Asked Questions – Luxury Lares Trek 4 Days

    1. How difficult is the Lares Trek and who is it best suited for?

    The trek is designed for travelers with a moderate level of fitness. While it includes high-altitude passes, the pace is private and adaptable to your comfort level. This journey is ideal for those seeking an immersive Andean trekking experience combined with comfort, personalized support, and time to acclimatize properly.

    2. What is included in the glamping experience during the trek?

    The glamping camps feature spacious tents equipped with comfortable beds, duvets, pillows, and warm linens. At camp, you’ll have access to hot showers, private bathroom facilities, gourmet meals prepared by a dedicated chef, and relaxing massage services to help you unwind after each day on the trail.

    3. Will I have time to enjoy the Lares hot springs during the trek?

    Yes. On the third day, the itinerary includes time to relax at the natural Lares hot springs. This is a highlight of the journey, offering a rejuvenating soak surrounded by mountain scenery before continuing toward the cloud forest and Aguas Calientes.

    4. Is this a private trek or will I be joining a group?

    This is a fully private trekking experience. You will travel with your own expert guide and dedicated support team, allowing the itinerary, pace, and daily rhythm to be tailored to your preferences and comfort.

    5. How is Machu Picchu visited at the end of the trek?

    After completing the trek, you travel by scenic train to Aguas Calientes, where you stay overnight in a luxury hotel. The following day, you enjoy a private guided visit to Machu Picchu, exploring the citadel and its panoramic viewpoints with in-depth explanations from your guide.

    6. What should I pack for the Lares Trek?

    We recommend bringing layered clothing for variable mountain weather, sturdy hiking boots, a daypack, sunscreen, and personal items. Essential trekking equipment such as walking poles and camp gear is provided, and a detailed packing list will be shared once your booking is confirmed.

    We were featured in

    10 travellers are considering this tour right now!