4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Outty Ranking 55 4.3 · 6 traveler reviews96 hoursFrom $395
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Outty Ranking

55/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.3/5

Based on 6 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu worth booking?

4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 96-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $395 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 6 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
55 / 100
Rating
4.3/5 (6)
Duration
96 hours
From
$395 per person

For travelers who want to experience or get to know a part of Peru that still maintains its traditional life and ancestral culture. The Lares Hike is perfect to get to know the communities of the Andes who maintain their colorful traditional clothing and Quechua language; men and women whose livelihoods are dedicated to the principal activities of pastoralism (raising llamas and alpacas) and the cultivation of native products like potato, corn, and various grains which will be part of our meals throughout the progression of our hike—products which are 100% organically grown using ancestral tilling instruments and natural fertilizers.

What you get

    About this experience

    For travelers who want to experience or get to know a part of Peru that still maintains its traditional life and ancestral culture. The Lares Hike is perfect to get to know the communities of the Andes who maintain their colorful traditional clothing and Quechua language; men and women whose livelihoods are dedicated to the principal activities of pastoralism (raising llamas and alpacas) and the cultivation of native products like potato, corn, and various grains which will be part of our meals throughout the progression of our hike—products which are 100% organically grown using ancestral tilling instruments and natural fertilizers.

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • Entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu archaeological site
    • Private transportation from the train station to your hotel in Cusco
    • Private transport from the hotel to the start of the hike
    • Entrance tickets and fees throughout the course of the hike, with assistance
    • Water Refills
    • Bus to/from Machu Picchu Pueblo to the entrance of the Machu Picchu archaeological site
    • Round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu Pueblo

    Not included

    • Extra items while hiking such as sodas, snacks, etc.
    • Travel insurance
    • Gratuities
    • All Camping Equipment and Sleeping Accommodations
    • All Food

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Cusco

    We will coordinate a meeting location via WhatsApp for travelers who do not require pickup.

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 180 minutes before departure.

    Ends at

    We will coordinate a meeting location via WhatsApp for travelers who do not require pickup.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Wonders of Peru Expeditions

    Know before you go

    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

    Photos

    4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco, photo 24 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco, photo 34 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco, photo 44 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco, photo 54 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco, photo 64 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 6 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    3 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Physical effort

    3 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    The guide

    2 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    6 verified traveler reviews for 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    rhiannah862 · March 2026

    Incredible Hike w Incredible People

    We did the Lares Trek last March and had such a fabulous time. The hike itself was STUNNING—unbelievable landscapes and we had it very nearly all to ourselves. Wonders of Peru put together a very thoughtful journey with phenomenal food, friendly and knowledgeable guides (Percy is awesome!), and some finishing touches that made camp cozy and welcoming after long days of hiking (hello hot water bed warmers). Lares Trek is a difficult hike but SO worth it. Cannot recommend enough. THANK YOU!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for such a kind review! It's truly a privilege to take guests on the Lares Trek — those quieter trails and big landscapes are exactly what makes it special. So glad the food and the team made the whole journey memorable. Hope to welcome you back to Peru one day!

    via Tripadvisor

    P5768YHbrianc · March 2026

    You're in good hands

    This is one of those trips that will stay with you. We did the Lares Trek as a group of 8 friends, but really we were 9 friends because we instantly loved Percy. Percy and his team went above and beyond at every step. There was great communication before we even left our houses so that we had the proper gear and expectations for what we were about to do. They did a more detailed briefing the night before we left, which was helpful. We went to a market just before hitting the trail where we tasted a variety of local fruits and stocked up on supplies. We also got some school supplies to give to a few local kids/families you encounter on the trek - seeing and interacting a bit with the few pastoral families along the trail was truly special. It's also hard to describe the experience of coming over one of the mountain ridges on the Lares Trek, when you are breathing hard and very tired, and seeing the natural wetlands and streams below (so see the pictured for a better sense). Throughout the trip, Percy was super attentive to how the group was feeling and was always there to make our experience a little better. Other highlights: the chef team and the delicious food they provide at every meal - you will be well-fueled! The team setting up and taking down our tents every day was a true luxury that I hadn't experienced before, but they were amazing and it made it easier and lighter to carry the rest of our supplies ourselves on the trail. And the animals (llamas, alpacas, viscachas, Peru mountain dogs). I'll say that this isn't an easy trek and it is important to be prepared a bit mentally and physically. Coming from the US, the elevation on the Lares Trek, especially the 2nd day, definitely can get to you, and it was good that we had a bit of hiking experience and were prepared. But Percy and the team also took good care of us with several safety protocols in place in case we needed them (horses, oxygen, delicious muna tea and coca leaves that help with the altitude).

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the lovely words — "9 friends" is going to make Percy's day! These are exactly the trips that mean the most to us too. The Lares Trek has a way of bringing people together, and we're so glad it stayed with you. Hope to welcome you back to Peru one day!

    via Tripadvisor

    mandycC3573UB · August 2025

    Lares Trek & Machu Picchu

    We did the 4day/3night Lares Trek with Percy and had an amazing experience!! We were picked up right at our hotel in Cusco and drove through the very scenic countryside to the trailhead. Our team was professional, efficient, and welcoming! The gear was high quality - our tent and mattresses kept us warm through cold mountain nights. Our team supplied us with delicious 3-course meals with fresh ingredients and endless amounts of warm tea! Though we definitely felt the altitude the first day or two, Percy was patient and very encouraging. He answered our never ending stream of questions with enthusiasm. You really can tell he cares so much about his clients, his history, and his homeland. We saw incredible views the entire time and were able to meet with and learn from locals in the mountains. As for the Machu Picchu tour, Percy ran the whole day seamlessly, taught us so much, and, again, answered our many questions with enthusiasm). This was such a special experience, and I would 10/10 recommend!!!

    Response from the operator: We are thrilled to have been able to take you on this epic trek. Lares is truly an amazing path to Machu Picchu. Thank you for your kind review and we hope to see you again here in Peru.

    via Tripadvisor

    alexisnW1490YU · June 2025

    The Worst experience!

    My vacation was ruined because of this “company.” I made the reservation on April 4, 2025, to visit Machu Picchu, and just two days before, they sent me a message saying that entrance tickets must be purchased one day before the tour. The company expected me to suddenly book a new hotel and change my itinerary just to get a ticket. The Ministry of Culture of Peru had announced this ticket limitation policy starting March 30, 2025, and the company only informed me on May 29, when my tour was scheduled for June 1. Here I am, writing this review with tears in my eyes, sitting on the sidewalk waiting for my return train because I wasn’t able to visit Machu Picchu. The provider named Sam (an American) who doesn’t speak Spanish was very unprofessional and showed no empathy. They didn’t even have staff assigned to pick me up at the station. A total disaster…

    Response from the operator: We are very sorry you had a bad experience, we strive to give everyone a great Peru experience. We are not seeing any booking for Lares trek and will be looking into this.

    via Tripadvisor

    A7901YWianr · January 2025

    Don’t miss out on the best tours of South America

    Tours with Wonders of Peru are essential to any visit to South America. I went on two trips with Percy and could not recommend this company more. Not only are the areas you visit unbelievably beautiful, the guiding is also top notch. The whole crew of cooks and porters are very friendly and helpful, plus the food is delicious. And Percy is the best guide I’ve ever had the privilege of spending time with in the mountains. He is incredibly friendly, funny and personable as well as incredibly knowledgeable about the area. His deep connection to the area shows in his knowledge and relationships across this section of the Andes. There is so much more I could say, but I’ll leave it at you will not regret booking a trip with Wonders of Peru, your trip will be better if you do book one!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words. We are dedicated to providing our guests a truly memorable and magical experience and are thrilled you had such a wonderful time. We hope to see you again in the future here in Peru!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    96 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Available for selected locations
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 55

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)80
    Review evidence (18% weight)32
    Booking momentum (14% weight)22
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)79
    Local standing (8% weight)34
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cusco.

    How much does 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu cost?

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    Prices start at $395 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cusco usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu take?

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    Plan for about 96 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cusco is not rushed.

    Is 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 6 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

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    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 96-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

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    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cusco can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cusco and add a light layer if any part of the 96-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cusco within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Cusco?

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    On Outty we rank every Cusco experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Sacred Valley Full Day Tour, Full-Day Humantay Lake Trek (Meals Included), Cusco: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Premium Day Trip with Meals. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Cusco?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Cusco?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

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    Included: Private transportation; Entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu archaeological site; Private transportation from the train station to your hotel in Cusco; Private transport from the hotel to the start of the hike; and Entrance tickets and fees throughout the course of the hike, with assistance. Not included: Extra items while hiking such as sodas, snacks, etc; Travel insurance; Gratuities; and All Camping Equipment and Sleeping Accommodations. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 449 listed pickup locations in and around Cusco. Be ready about 180 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offered in?

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    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu if the weather is bad?

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    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about 4 Day Backpacking Trip Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

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    Across 6 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, food and drink, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

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