The Lares trek is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail. You will learn all about life in isolated villages, become familiar with Andean culture and traditions, and even visit a local school. This trek is also outstandingly beautiful, combining the majestic Andean mountains with spectacular glaciers, glacial lakes, stunning waterfalls, and countless llamas and alpacas. Finish your experience on a high, spending an unforgettable day exploring Machu Picchu, one of the most incredible locations on the planet. Day 1: After pickup from your hotel at around 5:00 AM, you will drive through the beautiful landscape of the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the famous Lares thermal  baths. Jump into the medicinal pools, all of which are set at different temperatures. The water is great for your bones and muscles, as well as stress and headaches. The route on day 1 is relatively easy with a 2-hour uphill trek until you reach Kiswarani village for lunch. After lunch, continue for 2 hours to the campsite, located on the banks of a beautiful blue lake. Day 2: The second day is the longest and most challenging. After breakfast, set out on a 4-hour hike uphill to Condor Pass at 4700 meters, the highest point of your journey. After a break, descend for 3 hours through the breathtaking scenery. Day 3: Start day 3 with a beautiful view of the mountains and a delicious breakfast to prepare for the descent from the highlands into the sacred valley. Take some time to explore the ancient streets and the water channel that has been in use since Inca times. Have dinner in a local restaurant in Ollantaytambo before catching the 7:00 PM train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a hotel. Day 4: On your final day, take the 5:30 AM bus to Machu Picchu and arrive as the sky brightens. Walk for an hour up to the Sun Gate, with incredible views of the city along the way. On a clear day you can watch the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu. This is truly an unforgettable sight. Your guide will take you on a 2 to 3-hour comprehensive tour of the city before leaving you in Machu Picchu to explore on your own or climb either the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked as far in advance as possible). Your guide will tell you how to take the bus from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes and then take the Vistadome train back to Cusco. You will be met at the station and dropped off safely back at your hotel.