Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

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Peru Travel Insights

Lima, Cusco & Lares Trek to Machu Picchu - 6 Days
Map of Lima, Cusco & Lares Trek to Machu Picchu - 6 Days
Lima, Cusco & Lares Trek to Machu Picchu - 6 Days

A shorter alternative to the Inca Trail, the Lares Trek offers an experience just as stunning. Despite the high altitudes, this trek follows a less rigorous route through local communities, making it ideal for those who are looking for something accessible, unique, and immersive.

Beautiful Andean landscape
Map of Lares Lodge-to-Lodge Trek to Machu Picchu - 5 Days
Lares Lodge-to-Lodge Trek to Machu Picchu - 5 Days

The five-day Lares Trek takes you high up in the Andes, hiking during the day and overnighting in luxurious lodges along the way. Providing impressive views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes, it’s a relatively demanding hike that will test your fitness.

Girl walking home in the Lares Valley
Map of Lares Valley Trek & Short Inca Trail - 8 Days
Lares Valley Trek & Short Inca Trail - 8 Days

Trek through the Lares Valley, where you'll pass between glacier-capped mountains where llamas and alpacas graze in the surrounding hills. You'll visit the town of Lares, a colourful traditional town in the heart of the valley. Combined with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, this is a trek that combines two wonderful valleys & mountain ranges with very different ecologies & landscapes.

View from the Santa Cruz trek in Peru
Map of Best 10 Treks in Peru
Best 10 Treks in Peru

Peru — a nation with abundant natural diversity, from coast, to mountains, to jungle — has long attracted lovers of the Great Outdoors. The Peruvian Andes, running like a backbone down the centre of the country, contain mesmerizing variations in landscape that make for some of the best trekking in the world. Cloud forests, 5000m+ cordilleras (mountain ranges), the world’s deepest canyon and the striking remains of ancient civilizations all await.

Making a pilgrimage to Machu Picchu on one of these two treks makes your arrival even more spectacular
Salkantay Trek vs the Inca Trail: Which is Right for You?

Trekking to Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers—but there's more than one way to get there. The classic Inca Trail lets trekkers walk in the steps of the Incas, while the more remote Salkantay route offers solitude and wildlife. Compare your options for getting to Peru's most famous place on foot, from distance and cost to overnight options.

Huchuy Qosqo
Map of Best Day Hikes in the Sacred Valley near Cusco
Best Day Hikes in the Sacred Valley near Cusco

Peru is famous for the Inca Trail and other multi-day hikes, but if you are short on time, there are plenty of excellent day hikes throughout the Sacred Valley. These hikes are a great way to visit some of the rural communities and lesser-visited ruins throughout the Valley.

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Experienced travel agents with a passion for Peru
Travel specialist Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
active 1 hour ago

Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca

Peruvian delicious food, unique culture, and fascinating history are part of me! And as a good cusqueñian, I am very proud of my culture and heritage. I have lived and worked in the USA and made...

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Travel specialist Anne Godoy
active 9 mins ago

Anne Godoy

I fell in love with Peru's landscapes, culture, food, and people—not only because of what I learned in college but also because of what I had seen and lived my whole life. That passion and love...

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Travel specialist Kristy Tizon
active 4 mins ago

Kristy Tizon

Kristy, a Peruvian-American originally from Los Angeles but now based in Lima, Peru, has a deep passion for travel. She founded Miski Travels, a travel agency that offers customized trips to...

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Travel specialist Johanna Fabian
active 3 hours ago

Johanna Fabian

I enjoy slow travel, ideally being in one country for a month where I can really get to know the local people, their way of life and of course their food! I am Peruvian-American and have traveled...

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Trip Reviews for Peru

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Epic adventure in Peru
Peru | Oct 14 - Oct 23, 2024

cheryl
cheryl c.
Canada | Reviewed on Nov 07, 2024
Kristy planned an excellent itinerary which was beautifully executed with seamless airport transfers, professional and enthusiastic guides especially Valerio, beautiful accommodations, fascinating tours and adventures and delicious food. Our expectations were exceeded and are very delighted with the KimKim experience and service. Kristy and the Peru team are amazing and we look forward to our next trip. Cheryl and Dave Read more

Kristy planned an excellent itinerary which was beautifully executed with seamless airport transfers, professional and enthusiastic guides especially Valerio, beautiful accommodations, fascinating tours and adventures and delicious food. Our expectations were exceeded and are very delighted with the KimKim experience and service.

Kristy and the Peru team are amazing and we look forward to our next trip.

Cheryl and Dave

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Antigua Miraflores
Lima

The team at Hotel Antigua Miraflores was stellar. The doorman and front reception were professional and service focused and always with a smile. The restaurant and bar service and food were excellent. The accommodations were super clean and very comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Charming decor and friendly staff.
Location
Staff
They were very helpful and willing to assist.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Las Qolqas EcoResort Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo

Outstanding property and staff. Exceeded our expectations in all levels.

Authenticity & Character
love the tents
Location
Beautiful setting in the valley, serene and scenic both day and night.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tierra Viva Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu

Location good and rooms adequate.

Authenticity & Character
Looking out at the garbage next door disappointing
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rumi Wasi
Cusco

Cool

Authenticity & Character
The authenticity of the decor matched the UNESCO designation
Location
So close to center of Cusco
Staff
Responsive
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Kristy Tizon
Kristy
Kristy Tizon
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Nov 09, 2024

Hi Cheryl and Dave,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a joy to help plan your Peru adventure, and I'm thrilled to hear that everything exceeded your expectations. It means a lot to know you’re already looking forward to your next trip—we can’t wait to help make it just as special!

Warmest regards,
Kristy

Cusco Adventure
Peru | Oct 16 - Oct 19, 2024

Graham
Graham H.
Greensboro, NC | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2024
We had 3 days in Cusco before we joined our yoga retreat and decided to work with KimKim to come up with an itinerary for us. We have used KimKim twice before and have always had excellent customer service as well as a great itinerary! Anne Godoy was wonderful and didn't mind the many questions I had or the changes that we made. She responded promptly to our inquiries, made excellent suggestions, and was always available to chat via WhatsApp when we needed it. KimKim is the best! Anne... Read more

We had 3 days in Cusco before we joined our yoga retreat and decided to work with KimKim to come up with an itinerary for us. We have used KimKim twice before and have always had excellent customer service as well as a great itinerary! Anne Godoy was wonderful and didn't mind the many questions I had or the changes that we made. She responded promptly to our inquiries, made excellent suggestions, and was always available to chat via WhatsApp when we needed it. KimKim is the best! Anne booked a local company in Cusco to set up our excursions and we couldn't have asked for a better time. It's great to have locals because they know the city, the people, and the history. Our amazing guide, Julio Quispe Fernandez, was the best. He was right there to meet us at the airport and took us to our hotel where check in was super easy. Then we were off. We went on a walking tour of some of the city and his knowledge of the city and it's history was so impressive and interesting. He was so enthusiastic. We later met with Seledonia, who owns Mama Seledonia's restaurant, and we went shopping in a local market to select ingredients for the dinner we would be cooking later at her restaurant. What an experience! All the vegetables, fruits, meats, spices, potatoes on display--it was incredible, and beautiful. We made a delicious dinner and Pisco Sours (yum!) and had the best time with Seledonia and Julio at dinner. We even took several of our yoga group back on Friday night for dinner--and it was even more delicious! The next day we went kayaking on Lake Piuray and had a fabulous lunch all cooked in a clay fired oven outside by some local women. After lunch, we rode a bit and then took ATVs to the Inca Experimental Agricultural Lab in Moray and then we visited the Maras salt flats and learned about the past and present operation of those. So incredible. Our final full day was spent riding bikes along the Urubamba River (approximately 20 miles). The weather was perfect, the scenery gorgeous. We were thoroughly pleased with all of our excursions and the level of detail that was taken to make sure we were picked up at the right times, had knowledgeable guides and responsible drivers, given water and lunch, and then returned to our hotel. We also felt safe the entire time. KimKim has always been great about providing you with excellent guides and very detailed and efficient itineraries and they will work with you to the level of "adventure" that you are looking for. Highly recommend and we will be using them for all of our travel needs.

Hotel Review
Antigua Casona San Blas
Cusco

This hotel was a jewel. It's tucked in a narrow street and you don't know how beautiful it is until you go through the door. The patio is the first thing you see and it's so pretty-lots of seating and firepits for cool nights. The restaurant is right off the rear and the bar as well, both of which are great. Our room was perfect for us. A comfortable king size bed, several bottles of water throughout the room, space for our clothes, and coffee/tea if we wanted it. The room was very clean and the waters were replaced several times each day and there is also a filtered water fountain in the lobby. Everyone was very friendly and personable. We had a spa treatment our last day (massage and then they hyperbaric chamber--so great!) and that was wonderful. The lobby has a neat little room off to the side that has waters, teas, and coffee for you. The restaurant was great too--we ate breakfast there each morning which included a delicious buffet with fruits, oatmeal, breads, salads, fresh juices, and coffee or you could order from the menu. They also served lunch and dinner, and everything we ate was yummy. The bar staff was so friendly and made drink recommendations for us. We loved sitting at the open window at the bar and watching the activity on the patio. The location was great--within walking distance of so many restaurants, shops, market places. The entire vibe was wonderful and we would definitely stay there again.

Authenticity & Character
It used to be a multi family home (it was actually our guide's childhood home!) that has been transformed into a beautiful hotel. Very cozy and comfortable.
Location
Close to all you need-shops, restaurants, city squares, markets.
Staff
Everyone was friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our room was very clean and cleaned each day. The bed was comfortable and it was great having filtered water available in our room all the time.
Activity Reviews
Cooking Class with Seledonia Mesa
Cooking Class with Seledonia Mesa
Cusco

This was one of the best things we did. Seledonia was so much fun and although she couldn't speak much English and we couldn't speak Spanish, we could communicate wonderfully through smiles, laughter and gestures. She took us, along with our guide, to a local market that was incredible. All the vegetables, fruits, spices, meats, potatoes--it was mind blowing. And so beautiful!! We picked out the items we needed to make our dinner and then walked to her restaurant, Mama Seledonia's. We chopped and diced and had a grand time. We also got to make Pisco Sours, a delightful cocktail that was delicious. We had so much fun shaking those and dancing around. Our first course was a lamb stew that percolated on the stove while we chopped more veggies and spiced our filets for the main course, a delicious Peruvian-Asian fusion dish served with rice. We sauteed all that up on an open flame and didn't burn the place down. For dessert we had fresh fruit, fresh cheeses, and this amazing bread that we dipped in some sort of magical melted chocolate drink. The whole experience was absolutely incredible. We laughed and hugged and had the absolute best time. Her whole staff was so friendly, even though you know we were in their way (the restaurant was open for business). We met her husband and 2 of her children and they were delightful as well. We loved it so much, that later that week when we met up with some of our retreat group members, we all went to dinner at Mama Seledonia's and it was by far one of the best meals we had while in Peru. I highly recommend you do the cooking class.

Quality of Experience
Everything! The food, the people, the atmosphere. It was great.
Food
The different things we made--I normally don't like lamb, but the stew was delicous. It was great trying different fruits and spices. And the cheeses were incredible!!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They were all so friendly. Our guide through Peruvian Soul, Julio, was terrific. And Seledonia was a jewel!
Transport
We had a private transport so it was very easy to get around and to ask questions, talk to our guide and driver.
Piuray Lake Kayaking
Piuray Lake Kayaking
Peru

The lake was so pretty and our guide was a very passionate young man who loved the outdoors and taking us on our kayak journey. We were given wetsuits and taken to the water to start paddling. It was a very quiet lake, we were the only people on it for the longest time. Our guide told us about all the mountain ranges, the different birds that are there, some of the history, and at the end I jumped off and went swimming. The water was so refreshing! Oh, we also so flamingos. It was a great trip. Not very strenuous at all. After kayaking, we went back to shore and showered (they have a rudimentary outdoor shower) and were given a wonderful lunch cooked totally outdoors in a clay oven. It was so good, along with fresh fruits. Again, the people there were so kind and friendly. We were lucky and the weather was perfect!

Quality of Experience
Beautiful place to spend a relaxing day. So peaceful and the scenery was gorgeous.
Food
Everything was so fresh and delicious, even the things I wasn't crazy about. We tried everything and went back for seconds on most items. Try it all!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everyone was so friendly and kind. Our guide was very knowledgeable.
Transport
We were till with our guide Julio and then our guide on the lake was a young man who loved what he did--very enthusiastic about nature and his job.
Quadbike Tour Maras & Moray
Quadbike Tour Maras & Moray
Peru

This was a lot of fun--ATVs are a great way to get around! We had a little "training" session first before heading out and then we followed out guide off to Moray to see the Incan Experimental Lab. There wasn't much traffic and he went slowly so we didn't have to worry about keeping up. He gave signals to us when to change gears and when to slow down/stop. We were able to stop and take photos and ask questions. The Experimental Lab was incredible to see--the ingenuity of the Incans is mind blowing. We were there for about 15 minutes and then we went back the way we came and dropped the ATVs off. The whole ATV experience was probably 1.5-2 hours. We definitely enjoyed it. We then got back in our van and went to the Maras salt flats. There weren't many people there as it was late in the afternoon, so that was nice. The salt flats are beautiful, and the reflection of the sun just enhanced their beauty. Julio, our trusty guide, filled us in on the history, past and present, and it was fascinating. We saw some women actually scraping the salt into piles to let it dry. On the way out, we bought some salt to bring home with us. Definitely worth visiting.

Quality of Experience
Something different to do and a neat way to see scenery.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Fun driver and very friendly.
Transport
We had a private tour so it was easy to follow our guide and talk to him/ask questions.
Local specialist: Anne Godoy
Anne
Anne Godoy
Local specialist in Lima | Replied on Nov 18, 2024

Dear Graham & Patrick
I have not many words to express how happy I was when reading your review, and mostly that you had such a great time while you were traveling with us, and also for taking the time to review each experience. Julito sends his regards, he and Antigua Casona San Blas make such a good and personal experience, I wish all our travelers could experience.

Thank you for kind words, it was very nice crafting the best trip for you two. If you every come back to Peru, please let us know.
I wish you the best on your future trips!

The trip was truly incredible and beyond our ...
Peru | Sep 7 - Sep 25, 2024

Mark
Mark D.
Kansas City, MO | Reviewed on Nov 01, 2024
The trip was truly incredible and beyond our expectations, to be honest. We spent roughly 13 days traveling between Lima, the Amazon, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Next, we headed to Argentina for 6 days where we fell in love with Buenos Aires during our time there and at a Gaucho ranch in addition to a stunning 2 days at Iguazu Falls where we even wnet to Brazil for the day! Kristy from Kim Kim was a fantastic help throughout the booking and trip process; her knowledge was... Read more

The trip was truly incredible and beyond our expectations, to be honest. We spent roughly 13 days traveling between Lima, the Amazon, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco. Next, we headed to Argentina for 6 days where we fell in love with Buenos Aires during our time there and at a Gaucho ranch in addition to a stunning 2 days at Iguazu Falls where we even wnet to Brazil for the day!

Kristy from Kim Kim was a fantastic help throughout the booking and trip process; her knowledge was key to ensuring the trip exactly met our expectations, and it didn't disappoint. She was even available throughout the trip for any issues or questions we had and provided some brilliant insider knowledge on food, trips, and recommendations she knew we would like!

All the elements worked seamlessly from travel to flights and hotels, so we didn’t have to worry or think about anything, to be honest—it was very slick. Finally, a special thank you to our guides, with whom we spent some unforgettable times: Henry in the Amazon, Frank in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Feddy at Iguazu Falls, and Rosa in Buenos Aires. All of you really made the trip special and one we will never forget!

Planning is now underway for a return to South America next year! :)

Hotel Reviews
Be Jardin Escondido by Coppola
Buenos Aires

What a place! The staff and the hotel were 10/10 in every way. It really is a beautiful small boutique hotel (with 4 rooms) in a brilliant Buenos Aires neighborhood.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Such a big thank you, as everyone was so nice and really made the stay very special. :)
Cleanliness & Comfort
Las Qolqas EcoResort Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo

Beautiful! We could have stayed here for weeks; it was very peaceful in beautiful surroundings. The food and spa next to the river were also just perfect.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica
Puerto Maldonado

What a 3 days in the Amazon! Just incredible. Our guide Henry was a fountain of knowledge throughout. What a location, too! The food was great, and the stunning main house where you eat is beautiful. The only thing needed was some pillows for the chairs at the tables; it would make dining much more comfortable. ;)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
All were brilliant, but special thanks to our guide Henry. His passion, knowledge, and jokes really made the excursions and adventures even more unique.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Palacio del Inka Cusco
Cusco

Stunning hotel in the center of Cusco just beautiful! Make sure you look out for the baby alpaca in the courtyard; he loves carrots! :) We loved the spa and water therapy as well; it’s a must after a long day or if you need some R&R.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel
Puerto Iguazú

Jungle hotel where you are right in it, with bouncing bridges that connect the buildings (fun)! There’s a great adults' pool overlooking the river (perfect for a few sundowners). We found it to be the perfect laid-back hotel for exploring Iguazu.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
El Mapi by Inkaterra
Lima

Right in the center of town, great location, and just 1 minute from the train station. It’s okay for a night with a view if you’re there to see Machu Picchu, but the rooms could use some better ventilation plus quite noisy. The staff were helpful, and oxygen is available quickly if the altitude gets to you.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pullman Lima Miraflores
Miraflores, Lima

Perfect city hotel right on the Pacific Ocean!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Lima Food Tour - (PM Tour)
Lima Food Tour - (PM Tour)
Peru
Quality of Experience
Food
v v tasty and fantatsic to go to 4 different places and explore the city!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
really good
Local specialist: Kristy Tizon
Kristy
Kristy Tizon
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Nov 04, 2024

Hi Mark,

Thank you so much for taking the time to review your trip for us. I am so happy to hear you had such a wonderful trip. Thank you for trusting me with the planning! I'd be happy to help again with any future trips to South America. Take care! :)

Best,
Kristy