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4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Places to visit

  • Pisac Inca Ruins
  • Glaciers
  • Lakes
  • Waterfalls
  • Isolated Communities in Lares Valley
  • Hot Springs
  • Machu Picchu Inca City
Group Size Up to 8 people
Max Altitude: 4700m m.s.n.m
Type Service: Group/Private
Transportation: Van, Train, Bus
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

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Map Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

SAM Travel Peru is the only tour operator with its own scenic and cultural trekking route, that treks COMPLETELY

OFF THE BEATEN PATH with the 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU. You pass through the most isolated indigenous
communities keeping the Inca culture alive and get the privilege to interact with them. Our own unique route is
incredibly picturesque, with majestic ice glaciers, shockingly blue glacial lakes, waterfalls,
llamas, and alpacas. We are the only tour operator that includes PISAC INCA RUINS TOUR in this unique itinerary.
— NO ONE HAS A BETTER DEAL than SAM Travel Peru for this Lares trek.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

The excitement of your 4 day Lares trek to Machu Picchu will help you rise early for your pickup at 5:00am from your Cusco hotel. First we go to Pisac to visit the archeological site in the peaceful early morning dawn. You will have the Pisac Incan site all to yourself, then you will go to a private guesthouse in Pisac where your trail chefs will serve a lavish breakfast.

Next we drive to Calca where we visit the market. Another 20 minute drive brings us to Huaran, where we meet your horsemen and horses. Time to get ready, boots on, and begin our first 3 hours gradually ascending towards Cancha Cancha. Along the way, your lunch will be served next to the river, replenishing your energy for the trek ahead with a delicious meal prepared by your trekking chef.

Cancha Cancha (3,900m/12,800ft) is one of the most isolated and traditional communities, self-sustaining as it has been for hundreds of years. There is no road to the community and they were recently connected to electricity in December, 2019. After settling into your tents and having afternoon tea, you will have the opportunity to visit a local family. You will learn all about life in a traditional Andean village, with your guide as your interpreter. After dinner, your guide will show you the Inca’s constellations on which they depended for their agricultural guidance and still do to this day.

  • Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities with bathroom building
  • Distance: 9kms / 5.6 miles
  • Time: 3.5hrs approximately
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Cancha Cancha – Quishuarani

Feeling all revved up to begin our second day, after another delicious breakfast, we begin our 6 hour hike northeast. It starts out as an intense walk, accomplishing high passes on our way to the highest point of our trek at Pachacutec Pass (4,500m /14,800 ft). This is where you pat yourself on the back and embrace the satisfaction and exhilaration for making it up to the summit. Motivating you along the trail for this intense part of the trek are the views of glaciers, remote lakes, alpaca herds, rugged valleys and spectacular mountain vistas. Keep your eyes on the sky for the Caracara falcons and Andean geese.

After enjoying the summit, we descend for 2 hours until we reach our campsite located by the Quishuarani community, (3,700m/12,139ft). On the way, we will be taking an isolated trail where we will see herders wearing traditional outfits and herding their llamas and alpacas. The local indigenous people will open their hearts and interact with you in the Quechua language (the Incas’ language). Your guide will act as your mediator to translate and teach you some Quechua language. When you arrive at the spectacular seven waterfalls, you are almost to the campsite!

At the campsite, everything will be ready. Enjoy afternoon tea time and dinner then snuggle in for a comfortable night sleep.

  • Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities with bathroom building
  • Distance: 12kms / 7.5 miles
  • Time: 7hrs approximately
  • Difficulty: challenging

Day 3: Quishuarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Your adventure continues as you begin the most memorable day yet!  We begin our ascent for 3 hours until we reach the Hullkiccasa Pass, (4,200m/13,779ft) getting a bird’s eye view of the reflections of the mirror images of the glacial lakes. Time to descend for 2 hours through the boundless farmlands and pristine lakes to the Cucani community. Connecting with the local indigenous children, we will visit their school and share in some quality time with the students. When we arrive to the SAM Travel van it’s time for our goodbyes for our remarkable chef and horsemen.

A little further, on we are welcomed at the Lares Hot Springs. Here we enjoy a relaxing soak in the mineral waters, have lunch and take a siesta. With the body relaxed, we enjoy a gourmet lunch at the hot springs, then drive to Ollantaytambo. At Ollantaytambo wwe have dinner, then take the 19:04 train to Aguas Calientes.

  • Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
  • 3* Accommodation in Ollantaytambo: Intipunku Tambo
  • Distance: 15kms / 9.3 miles
  • Time: 6 hrs approximately
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

This is the day you’ve been waiting for! We take the early bus to Machu Picchu archeological site, making sure we tour every nook and cranny of this New 7 Wonder of the World and UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The Citadel of the Incas, Machu Picchu, what an unforgettable experience! On your 2.5 hours private tour, your guide will expertly direct you through the enigmatic ruins and its most important sites. You will see the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, Temple of Three Windows, Sun Dial, Quarry, the House of the Inka, the urban areas, agricultural terraces and many different types of architecture.

You may wish to indulge in a few of the following activities on your own (not included in the price):

  • Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain– appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from above. These extra hikes sell out and must be requested at time of booking.
  • You will be given some time to walk to the Sun Gate, also called Inti Punku. (No additional fee)
  • Other optional activities in Aguas Calientes include a visit to the new local museum or to the hot springs. (entrance fee)

When you are ready, you will descend to Aguas Calientes, have a leisurely lunch on your own, and later on board the train at 14:55 for the return trip with the Expedition train to the Ollantaytambo train station where you will catch our private van back to Cusco and your hotel. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 19:00.

  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Difficulty: Easy

WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR THE 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

Included

  • Transfer from the Airport to Hotel (it can be done on any date)
  • Private transportation from the hotel to Pisac Inca ruins and then Huaran (Trailhead)
  • Local Licensed guide fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua ( 2 guides for more than 8 people)
  • Entrance tickets for Pisac Inca Ruins
  • Exclusive access to our private swimming pool and sauna at the Veronica View Hotel
  • Round trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and a transfer back to Cusco
  • 2 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes 
  • Admission ticket to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex
  • Private guided tour in Machu Picchu for 2.5 hours
  • Hotel with private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, storage and buffet breakfast included
  • 4 person EUREKA tent for every 2 trekkers
  • Thick comfortable foam sleeping pad and pillow
  • Delicious gourmet meals during the 4 days as indicated in the itinerary
  • Chef and cooking equipment, dining tent, cooking tent and toilet tent
  • Horseman and mules, to carry all camping and personal equipment (7 kgs of your personal items such as extra clothes, sleeping bag will be carried by our mules)
  • Provision of a horse in case of emergency – In case of illness, to ensure trek can be completed by all participants
  • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
  • Boiled water to fill your bottles
  • Rain poncho
  • Transfer back to Cusco only for our group
  • Interaction with the local kids and community people
  • Backpack rain cover

Not Included

  • Sleeping Bag –$20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress –$20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles –$15 USD per pair per trek (Professional poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent -$30 USD – (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Spa services and drinks at the Veronica View Hotel
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade  -$67 USD per person (Return Only )
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain  -$75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Machu Picchu  Mountain – $75 USD per person  (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes

**Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour. 

OPTIONAL UPGRADES

  • VISTADOME TRAIN: $67 USD per person (Return Only)
  • Additional Night in hotel in Aguas Calientes – From $60 USD (depending on choice and availability)

PRICES:

The best 4 day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is available on any date that is best suited for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers.

Group Tour

  • $559 with 2* Hotel in Aguas Calientes

***Minimum 2 persons required to  open up a new group – single trekkers may join an existing group

*** This price includes the extra pack horse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kilos,  guided tour in Sacred Valley (Pisac Inca ruins) are included in the price and we will provide you with a duffel bag.

***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.  

Private Tour 

  • 2 Trekkers: $627 USD
  • 3 – 4 Trekkers: $597 USD
  • 5 – 6 Trekkers: $567 USD
  • 7 – 8 Trekkers: $537 USD

***The 5 person discount for the private trek is already factored into the pricing above. 

DISCOUNTS

  • 18 to 25 years old: $30 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card at booking is required & government approval for discount.
  • Under 18 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: $40 USD.  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Group of 5 or more: $20 USD. All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

EXTRAS 

  • Sleeping Bag –$20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress –$20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles –$15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal Tent -$30 USD – (Tent is for single trekkers only)
  • Additional Night in Aguas Calientes – From $60 USD (depending on availability)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade  -$67 USD per person (For the return to Cusco (Poroy) at 4:43pm )
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain  -$75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Machu Picchu  Mountain – $75 USD per person  (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Single Supplement -$35 USD 2* for single travelers

**Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour. 

ADDED VALUES  FOR FREE

  • TRANSFER – from the Airport to Hotel (Cusco Only)
  • DUFFEL BAG AND TRASH BAGS – included in the trekking price
  • EXTRA PACK HORSE is included in the price, the horse will carry your belongings up to 7 kgs /14p like sleeping bag, mattress, clothes etc
  • BOILED WATER is included along the Lares Trek Machu Picchu
  • OXYGEN TANK will be available along the Lares Trek Machu Picchu
  • EMERGENCY HORSE is included in the price which can be ridden if you get tired or sick
  • SMALL PILLOW
  • PLASTIC RAIN poncho made by SAM Travel Peru is included
  • GUIDED TOUR INTO PISAC INCA RUINS: Enjoy and explore the amazing Inca city of Pisac which is one of the most important Inca cities of the famous Sacred Valley
  • BEST ITINERARY operated by Lares Trek Machu Picchu specialist only

WHY CHOOSE SAM TRAVEL

SAM Travel Peru is a family owned travel agency and a local tour operator based in Cusco with personal experience over many years of trekking. SAM Travel Peru is a 1oo% Cusqueñian Company without any shareholders.

 Our dream as a locally based company is to create small personalized tours & treks strictly and only operated by local professional staff catering in PERSONALIZED and HIGH QUALITY SERVICE.  

We take pride in having a reputation as being a RESPONSIBLE & SUSTAINABLE tour operator. Our staff are our extended family. We ensure they are supported financially by offering them a fair salary. We are proud of our team without them , we wouldn’t be able to offer the best service and lifetime experiences to our clients.

SAM Travel Peru knows how important it is to trust in a reliable honest operator to create your adventure of a lifetime while in Peru. Check out our reviews and certificates of excellence on, TRIPADVISOR for yourself! Also we are highly recommended on Conde Nast Travelers,  Lonely Planet and by many blogs like: Salkantay/Inka Trail ! July 14th to 20th 2016  Trek de Lares 4 hours, “It’s the journey, not the destination…”Lares Pass – Day 3Trekking in the Sacred ValleyAlli and Ellie hike to Machu Picchu

SMALL GROUPS

In an effort to provide a more personalized service to our passengers, we at SAM Travel Peru  have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people. This sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups.

BEST LARES TREKKING ROUTE 

SAM Travel Peru is the only tour operator which treks OFF THE BEATEN PATH with the LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU, passing through the most isolated communities, ending at the hot springs. We are the only tour operator including the PISAC INCA RUINS on top of the Lares Trek to Machu PicchuNO ONE HAS A BETTER DEAL than SAM Travel Peru.

OUR TOP TOUR GUIDES

We are so proud of our guides! They are highly professional and speak fluent English. They are very knowledgeable and passionate for Incan heritage and history.  Our guides are dedicated to continuous personal and professional development. They do research to ensure that you receive accurate and recognized theories in Incan and Andean culture. Our crew is fun lovinggreat sportsmen and well-educated. They all hold degrees in one of the following: Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History or Anthropology.

OUR COOKS AND HORSEMEN

Trekking the Lares Trail with SAM Travel Peru is a life changing experience with a fully portered trek, where your comfort and enjoyment are our first priority. We make sure that you get the best experience for your holiday in Peru, while you interact with the locals, explore fantastic sites and re-discover remote ancient Inca towns. Our cooks and horsemen will help carry your gear, prepare your meals, set up your tents by avoiding crowded campsites and take care of you while you sit back and relax.

We provide the following  items to our cooks and horsemen for free: Jacket, sun hat, warm hat, t-shirt, pants, hiking boots, comfortable duffel bags, canteen and girdle for protecting their spine, sleeping bags, mattresses and travel insurance. All of our porters are hired from isolated communities and are given the opportunity to work with our company, in regards, to better their economic circumstances as well as getting help for their childrens’ education!  We, SAM Travel Peru, ensure that all of our porters are treated like family!

OUR COOKS 

The food on the Lares trek to Machu Picchu has been highlighted by all our clients as delicious and abundant gourmet style meals. Peruvian and International Cuisine are prepared by our professional and dedicated cooks from a mixture of local and exotic produce. If you have any diet restrictions or have food allergies of any kind, we can cater to your needs.

OUR EQUIPMENT

Our team (guides, cooks and horsemen) and our equipment are what really makes SAM Travel Peru stand out from all the competitors…. For all our adventures we hike we include the following items:

  • OUR TENTS: Enjoy a good night’s sleep in our 4 season EUREKA Timberline tents. All our tents are 4 person tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks so you don’t have to bring in dirt.
  • OUR MATTS: They are used to separate and insulate you from the ground. They all are comfortable.
  • AIR MATTRESSES: They can be rented for $15 USD.
    OUR KITCHEN & DINING TENTS: The dining tent is used as our meeting room at meal time. It’s a place to enjoy our meals and the company of fellow trekkers.
  • OUR TABLES & CHAIRS: The interior of the dining room includes tables and chairs with two doors on each side, which are adaptable to weather conditions.
  • DUFFEL BAGS: Will be provided at briefing time the night before the trek.
  • MORE: Pillows, backpack, rain covers , survivor t-shirts , hot shower and the biochemical camping toilet , are provided on trek.

OUR SERVICE PROJECTS

SAM Travel Peru have always believed that we should give back to the local isolated communities.  Therefore, as part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we always do many service projects and hire locally.

SAM Travel Peru is so proud to be able to support these people, not only employing them but go back to our grassroots as they share with their families. It makes us happy to have this holistic approach with our highland employees and their families!

IMPORTANT INFO

Please read carefully the following information; it will help with your questions about our services and the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu- 

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

You will be greeted at the Cusco airport and taken to your hotel, please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to trek´s start. Look out for our representative holding an orange board of SAM Travel Peru at the arrival terminal.

THE BRIEFING FOR THE 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

Your briefing will take place the night before your trek. It will be held at our office at 6 or 6:30pm, depending on your confirmation email details.  Calle Garcilaso 210, Office 207, La Casa de mi Abuelo.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Of course! During the 4 day Lares trek to Machu Picchu, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are for free.

HOW TO BOOK THE LARES TREK MACHU PICCHU

FIRST, to book your Lares trek to Machu Picchu, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here the link BOOK NOW.

Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase an Lares trek to Machu Picchu permit without the following information:

  • Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

*** We will need each participant’s passport at the time of booking. They will be need, in order, to purchase tickets.

SECOND, we require a deposit of $211.00 USD per person in order to purchase a permit for the Lares trek Machu Picchu.  You can make you deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (we accept US dollars or Peruvian soles). We have many ATMs within the historical center.  You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL.  To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address of samtravelperu@gmail.com. 

MAY I CHANGE THE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Unfortunately, the answer is No. Once the tickets have been bought the Peruvian government does not allow any changes so we can’t change any dates. Tickets are not transferable nor refundable. With alternative treks, we may be able to change dates for a fee depending on what has been already purchased.  Please contact the office as soon as possible if you need to change your date. If you cancel your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, the deposit is not refundable at all!

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT? 

Yes! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport you sent to us to book your Lares Trek, other entrances and reservations. In case, you are renewing your passport or changing your name, go ahead and send us your old passport information to secure your permit, and we can change it when you get your new passport number or updated your name for a fee of $25 USD per person.  We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change. Before you change your passport keep a copy of your old one.

If you do not wish to pay this fee you will need to bring both passports to Peru with you.  You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both passports, old and new to be to enter Machu Picchu or the train.  If you do not have both you will not be allowed to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or get on the train.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?

The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend to always dress in layers as it is more easier to adjust to the different climates.

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS? 

In general, if you exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you will be able to acclimate normally. It usually take between 24 hours to 2 days.

The recommended remedies for altitude sickness is WATER, COCA TEA and OXYGEN, IF NEEDED. Our guides are trained to treat you  for Altitude Sickness. For more detailed information on Altitude Sickness click this link: Altitude Sickness. 

HOW MANY COOKS/PACK HORSES FOR THE GROUP?

You will have 1 cook per group. The number of pack horses depends of the size of the group. For a group of 2 trekkers, they will have 4 horses, 4 trekkers will have 6 horses, 6 trekkers will have 9 horses, 8 trekkers will have 12 horses.

HIKING THE 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

The evening before you start your trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/14lbs. Your team of porters will carry your duffel bag for you, together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware, that you will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, your camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc.  A 30 to 50L backpack is sufficient.

IS THE 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The 4 day Lares trek to Machu Picchu is a 39 km hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is 4,700mt. On the second day of the trek, we climb two mountains. The trail is a fairly difficult trek and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You have to be moderately fit and take regular exercise. In preparation: try walking 15kms/9 miles in a day or working out in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.

ARE THERE TOILETS ON THE 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU ?

It has been highlighted by most of our clients, especially by lady trekkers, who want a private, clean and sanitary toilet!! SAM Travel Peru toilet facilities have an individual tent and a “camping toilet with a seat.” Check out the picture, which illustrates how we set up our camping toilet on the trek by using this link: picture of toilet tent. Our toilet is always set up a comfortable distance from our campsite.  At night if you need to use the toilet it is readily accessible and clean, unlike the dirty facilities supplied by the government.
There are hot showers and hot water pools to soak in and relax on the 3rd day of your trek at the Lares Hot Springs. Be sure to bring your bathing suit.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?

In the unlikely scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to a health issue, Sam Travel Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance required). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the Lares trek.
Generally, those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo and if they recover quickly, they then continue the journey to Aguas Calientes (cost incurred by trekker) and visit Machu Picchu according to original plan.

ARE WE GOING TO BE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL?

Absolutely!! Hotel drop off is included in your trek package. If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there too!

AT WHAT TIME IS THE TRAIN DEPARTURE?

It will depend on the train availability (high season it could book out) but the idea is to give you as much time as possible in Machu Picchu and enjoy the amazing views on the way back to Cusco from the train. Therefore, you we usually book the train at 14:55pm.

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the Lares trek to Machu Picchu. It inspires them to give excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many SAM Travel Peru destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you would like, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE? 

Yes, we are a locally sustainable & responsible tourism operator. That incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.

 

PACKING LIST


What you have to take with you for 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

  • Original Passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
  • Valid student card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage:  2-3L (Camelbaks are encouraged).
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from SAM Travel)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toilet paper

What to put in your duffel bag for the 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

As a Direct Local Tour operator, we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and  INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 14lbs including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.

  • 2 t-shirts
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 3 sets of hiking socks
  • Bathing Suit for the thermal waters
  • Couple Fleece/ Thermals
  • Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office — Please ask for them
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us
  • Swimming Suit

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK FOR THE 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.

  • Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch stop. Please bring your water bottles.
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Wool hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
  • Coca leaves
  • Rain plastic poncho (provided by SAM)
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail peru

Join SAM Travel Peru for an Unforgettable Travel Experience In Peru

  • 100% Locally Owned and Operated
  • Years of Experience in all Areas of Peru
  • Knowledgeable Staff ready to Help You
  • Uniquely designed Adventure treks and tours
  • Especially Designed Tours and Treks
  • The Best Quality Personal Service
  • Fantastic Value for Money with Many Added Extras
Your adventure. Our expertise.

Why Travel with SAM travel Peru?

  • Superior Service
  • Inca Trail Specialists
  • 100% value for money
  • Small Groups with a maximum of 8 people
  • Delicious and nutritious meals
  • Sustainable Travel
  • Years of Professional Inca Trail Experience
9.6
K+

Happy Traveler

5.5
K+

Tours Success

99
.5%

Positives Review

24
+

Travel Guide

Excellent!

5.0 Rating out of 5.0 based on 5.107 reviews

Join the Thousands of Satisfied Customers who Rate us #1 on TripAdvisor

Bernie s 2023/03/02

Had a great trip with our guide Ray Herrera and driver Alfredo. Lots of good experiences in a short period of time 4 days. Learnt a lot not just about the main tourist destinations but Peru in general by Ray. Ray has a passion for Inca history and local produce. Ray knows all the good photo spots and we managed the sun out every day .. Good culture and if you want to get on a tour ask for Ray at Sams Travel = amazing

Tanya H 2023/03/02

Ray was our Tour Guide and Alfredo was our driver for a 4 day tour we did with SAM Travel Peru. Ray's knowledge of the history of Cusco and Machu Picchu was outstanding. Ray was very accommodating with all our needs. He stayed alongside us when trekking and helped where he could. His sense of humour was pleasant to be around. Ray spoke very good English. He is such a nice guy. I would strongly recommend Ray to be your tour guide to visit Machu Picchu. Ray explained everyday what the plans were for the next day, which was reassuring what we needed to take etc

Captanjack 2023/01/012

Our 1 day tour thru the Sacred Vally with Danny was wonderful. He was very knowledgeable and able to answer all our questions in detail. I would recommend asking for him personally if you are able.

Sherry 2022/12/26

We booked the Classic Cusco to Machu Picchu tour with SAM travel which we really had a good experience. SAM travel is very responsive during the communication and cater to our changes needed. Our guide is Ray who is also an very awesome guide. He is knowledgeable, patient, humorous as well reliable, he help us take many good photos and also go extra mile to help with our request. Thanks Ray! Thanks SAM travel that gave us good memories in Peru! Highly recommend if you consider booking any tour in Cusco.

Reviews by Trip Advisor

5.0 5,190 opiniones
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C Clark 2023/01/20

Wow. We had such an incredible experience in Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Our guide, Dayvit, is the most knowledgeable guide we have ever had. He has such an extensive knowledge of the history and is very friendly and helpful. If you are planning a trip to Peru, I highly recommend SAM travel and be sure to request Dayvit!

Emma Dinzebach Clark 2023/01/10

2 day tour sacred valley / Machu Picchu highly recommend! David was the best tour guide. He knows an incredible amount about Incan culture and is personable and funny. He also kept us up to date on a political situation happening when we were there and was informative. Overall, this tour checks all the boxes. Thank you!

Nupur Joshi 2023/01/02

We used SAM Travel for a 2D/1N trip from Cusco to Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu on Dec 25-26, 2022. The team was good with communication from the start - both Saul and Junior were very helpful and professional with answering any questions and clearing up any misunderstandings. Our guide, Miguel, was prompt, pleasant, and quite knowledgeable. We enjoyed his company and insight over the 2 day trip and recommend him to anyone booking with SAM Travel.

Xueying Chen 2022/12/20

We booked the Classic Cusco to Machu Picchu tour with SAM travel which we really had a good experience. SAM travel is very responsive during the communication and cater to our changes needed. Our guide is Ray who is also an very awesome guide. He is knowledgeable, patient, humorous as well reliable, he help us take many good photos and also go extra mile to help with our request. Thanks Ray! Thanks SAM travel that gave us good memories in Peru! Highly recommend if you consider booking any tour in Cusco.

Reviews by Google

5.0 700 opinions
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Cheri Buccino April 21, 2024
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Powerful! This journey tests your humanity and leaves you in awe of yourself and the beauty that Pachamama provides. April 2024 We conquered the Inca trail and it was only made possible with the help and guidance from our expert guides Jean Pierre (JP) and Jimmy. The knowledge these gentlemen shared was admired by all of our group and the envy of other trail hikers who stopped to listen. The hike has many layers of challenges including language barriers, altitude sensitivities and food specifications. The team at Sam travel exceeded the needs and went above to ensure our comforts were met. A special mention must be made to Mario, the Chef who somehow performed magic with nutritious flavourful meals to satisfy even the pickiest consumers and Francesco who was our lead porter who orchestrated the harmony that happened behind the scenes to get everything done. Nothing less than marvellous from this team. Thank you to each of the group who made our trek a remarkable experience.

BL
Bhavana Lalwani April 18, 2024
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Jose and Henry were great guides for our first time exploring machu pichu! They were very attentive and kept everything on a smooth schedule. Highly recommend!

RY
Ryan April 9, 2024
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The whole experience was amazing. Ray, our guide answered all of our questions and definitely had our best interest in mind the whole time. Timothy the cook made fantastic food and somehow found a way to prepare a birthday cake with no notice! Boni our head porter and his whole crew were kind, accommodating, and had such upbeat attitudes which really made the experience great!

Isabel Batteria April 17, 2024
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I spent two days with Sam Travel’s guide Raymier, who guided us through the one-day 12-km stretch of the Inca trail and then took us to Machu Picchu the next day. In my group, I was always the last one on the trail because I come from the coast and I’m not used to altitudes, and honestly I could also have prepared physically a little better. Raymier respected my pace, never rushed me, and supported me throughout the ardous trail. He had much knowledge to share. I speak Spanish, but ended up in an English tour, and Ray’s English was very good. He was funny, respectful, and versatile. He knew where to take all the best photos and patiently took photos of all of us. I would trust Sam Travel again especially if I was lucky enough to have Ray as a guide again.

Reviews by Trustpilot

5.0 105+ opinions
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Sam Travel stands out

Sam Travel is a renowned local travel agency based in Cusco -Peru, recognized for its commitment to customer satisfaction, expert travel advice and personalized itineraries that meet the needs and preferences of each traveler.

food on the inca trail to machu picchu - sam travel Peru
Best food on the Machu Picchu hike
best campsite on the inca trail
Best Camping Equipment
Inca trail porters
Our Porters
Empowering Women on the Inca Trail
Empowering Women
Safety on the Trail
Safety on the Trail
Our Christmas Party In The Andes
Tree-Planting-Social-Environmental-
Tree Planting Project
Dreams Come True For Student

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