lares trek plus short inca trail

Lares trek + Short Inca Trail

Inca trail + lares trek.

The Lares Trek + The 2 day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu gives the hikers the best of both worlds in 5 days.  You pass through the most isolated indigenous communities, which are still keeping the Inca culture alive, and get the privilege to interact with them. Our unique route is incredibly picturesque, with majestic glaciers, shockingly blue glacial lakes, waterfalls, llamas, and alpacas. You will really feel that you are out in the wilds of the Andes!

On the Inca Trail, you will hike on the original Inca Trail just like in ancient times, explore the ancient Inca religious sites along the way and enter through the Sun Gate directly to the new 7 wonders Machu Picchu. You get to visit Machu Picchu twice.

• Day 1: Cusco – Calca – Huaran – Cancha Cancha
• Day 2: Cancha Cancha – Pachacuteq Pass – Quiswarani
• Day 3: Quiswarani – Cuncani – Lares – Hot Springs – Ollantaytambo
• Day 4: Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Wiñay wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Useful information.

• Starting Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,840 ft
• Maximmun Altitude: 4,780 m / 15,682 ft
• Walking Distance: 48 km / 29,82miles

Day 1:  Cusco – Calca – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

Today your Lares Valley adventure to Machu Picchu begins early.Picking you up at 5:00am. On the way to the trailhead we have a quick stop at the traditional Calca market where your chef will buy some local organic produce. Here you also have the opportunity to buy anything you might want to gift to the highland children you will meet along your trek. Arriving at the trailhead Huaran(3,000 m/9,840 ft) in the sacred valley, your breakfast is served between the mountains, admiring the mountain peaks and awesome views of the valleys. Full of energy, it’s now time to get our packs ready, put our 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 (3,956 m / 12,976 ft) 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.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / Dinner
• Accommodations: Camping
• Maximum altitude: 3,956 m / 12,976 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,840 ft
• Walking Distance: 10 km
• Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2:  Cancha Cancha – Pachacuteq Pass – Quiswarani

Your guide will wake you with a hot mug of coca tea to enjoy in your sleeping bag before you get up for breakfast. Feeling all revved up to begin our second day, after another delicious breakfast, we begin our 7 hour hike. It starts out as an intense walk, accomplishing high passes on our way to the highest point of our trek at Pachacuteq Pass(4,780m /15,678 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 snacks and the summit, we descend for 3 hours until we reach our campsite Quiswarani community, (3,700m/12,139ft). On the way, we will be taking an isolated trail where we will see indigenous highland people in their traditional outfits 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 interpreter 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 hot drinks and appetizers before dinner, then snuggle in for a comfortable night sleep.

• Maximum altitude: 4,780 m / 15,678 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,700 m / 12,139 ft
• Walking Distance: 12 km
• Approximate walking time: 7-8 hours
• Difficulty: challenging

Day 3:  Quiswarani – Cuncani – Lares – Hot Springs – Ollantaytambo

Your adventure continues as you begin the most scenic day yet!  We begin our ascent for 3 hours until we reach the Willqaqasa Pass, (4,200 m/13,779 ft) getting a bird’s eye view of the reflections of the mountains in mirror images in the glacial lakes. The majestic Colquecruz and Pitusiray Mountains are awe inspiring to admire from the pass. We continue our trek through the Puna grasslands, undulating and productive agricultural sites and natural pristine lakes. Time to descend for 2 hours to the Cuncani community. Connecting with the local indigenous children, you may have the opportunity to visit their school and share in some quality time with the students.

From Cuncani we meet our driver and ride down through a lush valley with extensive agricultural areas, fruit bearing trees, varied flora, and native flowers like begonias and wild orchids. Finally, we reach our destination, the Lares Hot Springs (3,100m/ 10,170ft), where we cannot wait to soak in the natural volcanic hot springs, have lunch and relax. Time for our goodbyes for our remarkable chef and horsemen.

After lunch in Lares, we take our private transport to 3 hours to Ollantaytambo, where we have dinner together and spend the night in our hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel
• Maximum altitude: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 2,792 m / 9,158 ft
• Walking Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
• Approximate walking time: 6 – 7 hours

Day 4:  Ollantaytambo – Km104 – Wiñay wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

We start this exciting day early; your guide will leave the hotel with you at 5:30. When you arrive at the train station, your guide will give you your lunch to add to your daypack. Your train departs Ollantaytambo at 6:10 and you will have just over an hour on the train to enjoy the scenery and have breakfast (not included), Your hotel can provide you a box breakfast to take with you or you can pack your own breakfast.

Your guide will get off the train with you at the famous Km104, where your hike begins! (2,000m/6,560 ft. above sea level) After crossing the Urubamba river on a picturesque foot bridge, you will show your passport at the checkpoint and visit your first Inca site nearby. The first hour and a half are a gentle up, with several shelters along the way to pause for a bit out of the sun, or rain, depending on the season. Along the way, you will stop at several outlooks where you have an expansive view of the Urubamba River. You will also pass through several microclimates, including cloud forest, so be ready for damp or even rain at any season of the year. The next hour and a half are a slightly steeper uphill with a beautiful waterfall as your reward at the end of the hike!

Cross the bridge below the waterfall, take some time for photos and then you will find yourself gazing up at the spectacular Wiñay Wayna! (2,600m/8,500ft above sea level) These amazing Inca ruins have a fascinating history and some parts are still hidden by the dense jungle. This close to Machu Picchu, you are hiking through lush sub-tropical jungle. Your guide will tell you all about the remains, plus the incredible flora and fauna of this microclimate and answer any questions you have before the short 5 minute walk to your lunch spot.

You have lunch at a covered shelter at the Wiñay Wayna campground, which is the last campground for those hiking the four day Inca Trail. Nearby are outdoor sinks to wash your hands and also restrooms. Take your time enjoying your hearty lunch and admiring the tropical flowers around the campground.

After lunch, you will have a mostly flat walk to the Sun Gate, from which you have your first view of Machu Picchu! Though the hour long walk is a gentle rolling up and down, it does end with a set of steep stairs carved directly into the bedrock by the Inca. Once you reach the stairs you will know that you’re almost at the Sun Gate! It is a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, so take some time to savor the moment and take photos. The last 45 minutes down from the Sun Gate provide many opportunities to take more photos of Machu Picchu from this unique vantage point.

Once you reach Machu Picchu, you will have time to take more photos from the viewing platforms above the site. You will arrive in the afternoon, as the archeological area starts to empty of tourists, which gives you the opportunity to take beautiful photos in the afternoon light with fewer people in your shots. Take your time to enjoy this magical experience before you take the bus down to Aguas Calientes to check into your hotel. You will have a delicious dinner in town, then have time to walk around this picturesque little town or just go to your hotel to rest after such an exciting day.

• Meals: Boxe Lunch – Dinner
• Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
• Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
• Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours
• Difficulty: moderate

This is the day you’ve been waiting for! After an early breakfast at your hotel, you will take one of the first busses up to Machu Picchu so that you can be there to witness the sunrise. It is a truly extraordinary site and not something you will want to miss! Your guide will give you the full tour, which takes about two hours. You will see all of the most important parts of Machu Picchu.

After your tour, those who have booked in advance for the extra hikes up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain will have time to enjoy those views on their own. When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).

The train will take you back to Ollantaytambo, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. You can also see Wiñay Wayna from the train, if you look up high on the steep canyon wall! Back at Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco

• Meals: Breakfast
• Minimum altitude: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft
• Maximum altitude: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft
• Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
• Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
• Briefing with your trekking guide 1 or 2 days before your trek
• Transfer upon arrival from airport or bus station in Cusco to your Hotel
• Professional Chef
• Breakfast on Day 1.
• Mules to carry cooking and camping equipment plus 7kg of your personal items.
• Pick-up from the Hotel
• Transportation by bus to Huaran and from Lares to Ollantaytambo
• Train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104
• Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco
• Water (excluding the first 4 hours of the hike when you need to bring your own)
• Hot water for washing
• Daily morning boiled and cold water to refill the water bottles.
• 5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Afternoon Snacks and 4 Dinners. If you have a dietary such as vegetarian food please let us know,and request with no cost at all.
• Dining tent with tables and chairs for the Lares trek 4 days to Machu Picchu
• Kitchen tent
• Toilet tent
• Duffle bag for your personal gear
• a 4-men tent for every 2 trekkers
• Hotel on Day 3 & 4
• Sleeping mattress
• Oxygen bottle
• First aid kit
• Entrance to Lares hot springs
• Entrance to the Inca Trail
• Entrance to Machu Picchu
• Bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu -round trip

Does Not Include:

• Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us)
• Lunch on Day 5
• Dinner on Day 5
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain-US$ 70
• Tips for the crew (guide, chef, wranglers)
• Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your Lares trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days.

What you need to take for this Trip.

• Original Passport
• Valid STUDENT CARD (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
• Walking boots
• Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hat and gloves
• Comfortable Trousers
• Insect repellant
• Toiletries and hand sanitiser
• towel / sandals
• Personal medication
• Camera and film
• Spare batteries
• 2 people US$950 per person
• 3 people US$930 per person
• 4 people US$910 per person
• 5+people US$890 per person
• Student Discount: US$20 (Requires Valid STUDENT CARD to qualify)
• Under 15 years Discount: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Optional Rentals:

• Sleeping Bag $20 USD
• Walking Poles –$15 USD per pair per trek (These are professional poles that can be extended)
• Personal tent- $20 USD – (Please request when you book your trek)
• Additional night in Aguas Calientes – from $60 USD (depending on availability)
• Vistadome Train Upgrade $67 USD per person (Return only)
• Huayna Picchu Mountain $70 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
• Machu Picchu Mountain  $70 USD per person  (Please request when you book your Trek)

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN THE CUSCO AREA AND WHAT ARE THE BEST MONTHS TO VISIT?

Peru’s climate varies depending on where you visit, but here are the basics for the Cusco/Inca Trail and Lares Trek area.

The best months to experience the Inca Trail are from May to September when the conditions are fairly dry and the weather is generally sunny.

June, July and August can be very cold at night so bring a good quality four-season sleeping bag (or rent one from us).

In the Andes there are two main seasons – wet and dry. The wet season runs from November to April and is usually warmer overall. The dry season runs from May to October and has hot clear days but cold nights.

The weather in Peru is difficult to predict. You can have beautifully clear hot days in the middle of the wet season and hail storms in the dry season – it’s one of the beauties of Peru!

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

We strongly suggest staying at high altitude (above 3,000 metres – in Cusco or another high altitude city) for 2 to 3 days (minimum) before undertaking the trip. This is in order to minimize the effects of possible altitude sickness. Also, you can help your body acclimatize by drinking plenty of liquids, adding a bit more sugar to your drinks, eating food rich in carbohydrates, avoiding cigarettes and alcohol and drinking coca (ancient traditional leaf) tea. Diamox can also be helpful – please ask your doctor about this.

The recommended natural remedies for altitude sickness is water, coca tea and muña (andean mint)

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 39 km/ 24.23 miles hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is (4,780 m/15,682 ft).  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. It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3,350 m/11,047 ft) prior to starting the trek.

ARE WE GOING TO BE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

Absolutely, Included in the package and on the last day we will drop you at your hotel! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there too!   If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, for sure we wil pick you up there.

ARE THERE TOILETS ON THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

This has been highly appreciated by most of our clients, especially by our trekkers, who want a private, clean and sanitary toilet! Mountain Gods Peru toilet facilities have an individual tent and a camping toilet with a seat.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.

HIKING TO LARES TREK MACHU PICCHU

The evening before you start your trek, you will be given a Duffel Bag to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7 kg /14 pounds.Your team of pack horses 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 horses will always be ahead of the group. During the Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, 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 40L  backpack is recommended.

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 number you sent to us to book your Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail, permit, 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 the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or the train.  If you do not have both you will not be allowed to enter the Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or get on the train.

WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE ON THE TREKS?

Our experienced chefs make amazing cuisine in the middle of the mountains using minimal equipment!  They are used to preparing dishes for people with different food restrictions or lifestyles, so please let us know your preferences and if you have any dietary needs. We provide complete meals and snacks during the treks.

ADDED VALUES FOR FREE

• Inflatable Mattress (Included)
• Pillow (Included)
• Blanket (Included)

Extra 7 kg of personal ítems (Included).All of our treks include porters, who are responsible for carrying and setting up all equipment. They will also carry your personal duffel, which you will receive at your briefing the night before your Comfort Inca Trail. This duffel can not exceed 7 kg/15.43 pounds, and must include your sleeping bag and an air mattress.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Name (required)

Email (required)

Phone or Skype

Country (required)

Passport Number

Birth Date (required)

Name of Tour (required)

Type of Service (required) Group (3+) Private (1-2)

Number of Travellers (required)

Desired Depature Date (required)

Please give at least two alternative start dates in order of preference. Write none if there are no other dates available for you

Do you want to hike Huayna Picchu? Yes No

Is anyone in your group 17 or under? Yes No

How did you find us? (Optional)

Additional Details

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LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL, 4 DAYS

Lares Trek plus Short Inca Trail 4D, 3N Private Hiking Tour

Lares Valley hike plus Short Inca Trail 4 Day is a great option.The spectacular Lares trek route is perfect for trekkers looking for an off the beaten path adventure in a part of Peru still appears as it did 500 years ago. This remote and rarely visited region offers the traveler exceptional insight into the lives of Andean villagers, who still dress in their traditional brightly-colored ponchos. This hike combines a taste of the Inca Trail without days of hiking and camping. The day 3 We begin the hike from the train stop at Kilometer 104 and follow the trail for six hours to the spectacular view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku, the Gate of the Sun.

Hike the famous Lares Valley and Inca Trail follow both trails, See Machu Picchu twice: at SUNSET and SUNRISE and have plenty of time to explore Machupicchu

Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

4d, 3n private hiking tour, price $ 720 usd all inclusive, activity level.

Challenging

Door to Door Services

Professional Chefs

Private Campsites

Small Groups Max. 6

Personalized.

Your personal travel advisor work with you to create the perfect tailored itinerary

Private Tour

All tours private unless otherwise indicated; Enyoy individual attention and exeptional services.

Local Knowledge

Our Staff and guides are knowledgeable, profesional and pasionate about their home country.

In Trip Support

All our travelers receive complementary 24/7 emergency assitance from english - espeaking staffr

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Inca trail 4 days - itinerary.

• Why Explore

The Lares Trek with Inca Trail. Taking you off the beaten track with visits to authentic Andean communities whilst being surrounded by stunning mountains, lakes and valleys this fabulous trek offers a real insight in to the lives of the people of Cusco region as it once was.

LARES VALLEY & INCA TRAIL ITINERARY:

DAY 1. CUSCO/ HUACAHUASI VILLAGE/QOMERCOCHA LAKE  

Distance: 7 Km.Walking Hours: 4-5 hours Low Altitude: 3750 m.  High Altitude: 4000 m.  Campsite Altitude: 3750 m. 

Lares trek Day 1 highlights

Herd of llamas, and alpacas

Remote village of Huacahuasi

Local Quechuan people

DAY 2. QOMERCOCHA LAKE - IPSAYCOCHA LAKE/- OLLANTAYTAMBO SACRED VALLEY

Distance: 11 Km. Walking Hours: 6 -7 hours Low Altitude: 2800 m. High Altitude: 3350 m. Campsite altitude: 2800m.

lares trek Day 2 highlights

Remote villages of Huacahuasi

Local Quechuan communities

Sunsets paint the Sacred Valley

Ollantaytambo old town

Day 3: OLLANTAYTAMBO SACRED VALLEY – 104kms – WINAYHUAYNA – SUNGATE - MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES

Meals: breafast Box lunch & Dinner Accommodation: Private hotel Minimum Altitude:2040m/6000ft Maximum Altitude: 2720m/8160ft Distance: 12 kms/ 7.5 miles Time: 6hrs approximately Difficulty: Moderate.

Highlights: Train ride – Archeological site of Wiñaywayna – Sun Gate – Sunset over Machu Picchu

Day 4: AGUAS CALIENTES/ LOST INCA CITY, MACHU PICCHU

Meal: Breakfast Difficulty: Easy

Highlights: Sunrise at Machu Picchu – Private guided tour of Machu Picchu – Ascent of Wayna Picchu (optional) – Early return trip by train expedition

Day 01 Cusco – Wacawasi– Qqomercocha lake

We leave from Cusco early in the morning by bus and travel through the Sacred Valley arriving to Community of Huacawasi. People here produce some of the finest weavings in Peru. Here we can observe their talented skills and brilliant techniques in the fabrication of ponchos and other garments. Passing the village, we begin climbing up to Qqomercocha lake at 4,000 masl. From here, we catch a stunning view of the renowned Mount Veronica (5,750 masl).From here, we catch a stunning view of the renowned Mount Veronica (5,750 masl). Qomercocha is small lake with an abundance of high-altitude birds, including the Andean goose, known for its color and size; the Puna ibis, and other aquatic birds that soar through the mountains also you will see large herds of alpacas and llamas. where we will stop for campsite for the night.

Day 02 Qomercocha lake - Iqsaycocha lake- Patacancha Village -Ollantaytambo sacred valley

Best morning with coca te breathtaking views after breakfast we start ascending for approximately 1-2 hours, we will arrive at the highest pass on our trek- Ipsaycochaccasa (4,400 masl). Here we will rest for a bit, feeling the cold of the air high in the Andes, almost touching the cloudand after all nice views and pictures we descending into the Ipsaycocha lake here we will have our first campsite, close to the Lake of Ipsaycocha. After lunch we descending to valley of Patacancha village where we will be able to appreciate the typical life of the locals; then we will do a small walk through the village, after we will take a local bus to Ollantaytambo  sacred valley(approximately a 40 min. ride).  we eventually arrive to the Ollantaytambo tonw. The view from the top of the ruins at Ollantaytambo at sunset is outstanding: the valley turns golden from the reflection off the hillsides, and bright greens from terraced agriculture that goes for miles. Here we will set our campsite for the nigh

Day 3: OLLANTAYTAMBO  SACRED VALLEY– 104kms – WINAYHUAYNA – SUNGATE - MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES

Distance: 12 Kilometers / 7.5 Miles We take the early morning Expedition train from Ollantaytambo through the picturesque Sacred Valley to Km 104, where we enter the trail. Our hike continues gently upwards for approximately 4 hours until we reach the beautiful Inca complex of Winay Wayna, where we stop to eat a nutritious and plentiful bagged lunch. Sub-tropical flora and fauna surrounds us as we continue 2 hours to the Sun Gate, from where we will see Machu Picchu. We will walk down past the majestic ruins, and then take the bus to Aguas Calientes to spend a relaxing night in a comfortable hotel.

After breakfast and an early start, we take a 30 minute bus ride up to the Machu Picchu ruins, where we will tour the amazing architecture and mysterious temples left by the Incas. A professional, English-speaking guide will help us understand the sophisticated ideas and technology of this highly-advanced culture. Once the official tour is completed, we will have plenty of time to explore the Sanctuary on our own before returning to Cusco by train in the afternoon.

ALL-INCLUSIVE INCA TRAIL TREK

With the Lares Trek package you will receive:

Transportation and Tickets

Private transport from your Cusco hotel to the start of the trek

Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machupicchu

Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Cusco

train tickets to km 104

Transfer from Cusco train station back to your Cusco hotel

Entrance tickets to Machupicchu

Entrance tikets to Inca Trail 

Camping Equipment

We use four-season Eureka tents with two entrances and a capacity for four people (for comfort, only two people per tent)

Foam mattresses, tables, and seat for each tent

Food and drink utensils

Dinner tent and kitchen tent for the group

First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle

Professional, knowledgeable bilingual guide

A cook to prepare your meals

Porters to carry provided equipment and food (additional porters can be hired to carry your personal belongings)

Our guides are professional and multilingual. Not only do they possess an excellent knowledge of the Inca Trail, but they’re also wholly familiar with all of the intricate archaeological, historical, and cultural Inca traditions. All of our tour personnel are also highly qualified in tour group management and in first

Basic hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes

High quality meals to provide the necessary energy for this challenging trek

In addition to three meals daily, you will be given revitalizing snacks

Hot drinks such as tea and coffee, as well as enough water for your canteens, water bottles, or hydration packs (collected from local streams and boiled while on the trek)

Price per person: US$ 720 (Minimum 2 persons; departures all year) 

* We include duffle bags 8kls and a horse that will carry your personal belongings in all of our treks at no additional cost.

*Emergency horse available throughout the trek, in the event someone is not feeling well.

Student Discount (with valid ISIC card) – $25

Under 15 Discount – $25

Under 7 Discount – $35

Black Diamond Hiking Poles- US$15.00 (pair)

Sleeping bag -4 season - US$25.00

Private Tent - US$30.00

Air mattress -$15

Would you also like to hike Huayna Picchu? Sure you we can make it! Its price is US$85.00 per person and there are 2 turns (at 7 am and 10am),   Only 400 people can hike Huaynapicchu per day. You will climb it on your own after the tour in Machu Picchu, starting around 10:00 a.m. We recommend that you book your tickets in advance to let us know  of your interest in Huayna Picchu. Machu Picchu Mountain is an alternative climbing mountain, which also offers fantastic views of Machupicchu. We recommend it if Huayna Picchu Mountain is full.

THE EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU® DIFFERENCE - DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE

Explore Adventures Peru® has been setting the standard for Trekking Peruvian Andes since 2010. As one of the few specialist companies organizing high quality expeditions, we are recognized as one of the best operators on the Peruvian Andes. Come see why we are the premier Andes outfitter. When you travel with us, you gain access to people and places. You’re enriched by the knowledge of our experts and guides, and by local experts we meet along the way. And you give back. Simply by taking a trip with Explore Adventures Peru, you support the work of our explorers and indigenous Quechuas villages.  We are a 100% locally owned and operated company! Proud  to be Quechuas!!!

WE HAVE A 99.8% CLIENT SATISFACTION RATE!

Undoubtedly, the most honest and accurate feedback comes from our clients themselves. With the goal of constantly improving our service, a post-Hiking survey is taken from each client in order to assess our staff, equipment, and food.

LOCAL GUIDES

KNOWLEDGE: LET OUR EXPERTS GUIDE YOU - Professional, experienced, licensed local Quechuan guides - Our guides are formed by expert Photographers, Explorers, History teachers, Archaeologists - Honest, hardworking, team oriented support staff - Over 600 times hikes on Inca Trail success experiences and client satisfaction

QUALITY EQUIPMENT HIGH QUALITY EQUIPMENT & SERVICE.

• Rugged, four season North face, Mountain Hardwear, Doite, Vango tents • Super warm North face, Mountain Equipment, Mountain Hardwear -30F sleeping bags • Spacious mess tents and private toilets • Outdoor utensils in stainless steel

FANTASTIC MEALS

• Delicious meals made from fresh, local ingredients • Clean water treated with Water Guard • we customize our menus depending on the preferences of the group, • we never use freeze-dried backpacking meals • Hearty, delicious meals that will optimally fuel and inspire you during your trip! • We also regularly accommodate vegetarian, vegan, kosher, non-gluten and other specialty diets

FOCUSED ON SAFETY

WE HAVE MANY LAYERS OF SAFETY BUILT INTO OUR OPERATIONS TO MINIMIZE THE RISKS ON INCA TRAIL AND BEYOND .

• We have established protocols for handling emergencies on the mountain, including rescue and evacuation • Certified Wilderness First Responders • Certified of the oficial firemen of Peru • Daily pulse and oxygen saturation monitoring • We provide evacuation by helicopter Andes Corp. For hikers seriously injured or sick. • Emergency oxygen, portable stretchers and medical kits • Emergency horse available in all our Alternatives treks

RESPONSIBLE TREKKING

GIVE BACK: WHEN YOU TRAVEL WITH US, YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE

• Environmentally and socially responsible company • Member of Inca Trail Porters Welfare • Member of Leave No Trace • Fair and ethical treatment of porters • Empowering Peruvian women

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION By EXPLORE

Instead of local buses, which other companies use to reduce their costs, we always provide private transportation. This service allows our clients flexibility and privacy.

HAPPY CUSTOMERS

• "Great experience!" • "Very well planned & organized" • "Excellent service all around" • "A solid company" • "Highly recommended!" • Genuine, authentic, and flexible with deep local knowledge • Absolutely Amazing

Finally, EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU strives to provide top quality service to its clientele and will continue to listen to their comments on how to improve our services and take it to a higher level. Our clients are extremely satisfied as our numerous testimonials prove. Please read their trip reports on the Testimonials section of our website and also on Tripadvisor.

Inca Trail & Alternative & Adventure Trek to MachuPicchu Packing Check LIST

During the Alternatuve Trek or Inca Trail to Machu Picchu your main luggage will be stored in Cuzco at your hotel or free storage in our office and you will receive a small duffle bag at your trek briefing (which will be help briefing day  before you start the trek) to pack clothes and sleeping bag for 3-4 days.

Gear Checklist

Provided gear.

Cooking and eating utensils while camping

Sleeping pad (you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer)

Duffel bag, medium-size (used while trekking, approximately 65 liter)

Official Papers

Valid passport

Airline tickets

Luggage, one piece, wheels and handle ok

Daypack 2000 cu. in. to carry your camera, water bottles, extra clothing

Luggage tags and luggage locks

Passport pouch or money pouch

Camping Gear

Sleeping bag with stuff sack (rated to 10°-20°F)

CHECK LIST FOR YOU TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

PASSPORT:   You MUST take your passport and a photocopy is not sufficient. (Keep it in a plastic bag in case of rain).

Clothing -Inca Trail

City Clothing

Bring a few lightweight, easily washable items for travel and daily wear when not trekking

Trekking Clothing

Midweight fleece or wool sweater

Fleece pants or tights

Midweight thermal underwear tops and bottom, synthetic or wool

Hiking pants

Hiking shorts

Long-sleeve shirts

Casual socks

Hiking socks

Liner socks, synthetic

Clothing Accessories

Wool or fleece hat

Wool or fleece gloves

Rain jacket, waterproof and breathable

Rain or wind pants, waterproof and breathable. Side-zip pants are highly recommended.

Insulated jacket, down or synthetic

Sturdy hiking boots, waterproof, lightweight, broken-in, aggressive tread

Camp shoes such as tennis shoes or sandals or other comfortable footwear for use in town and/or campsites

Travel Accessories

2 one-quart water bottle(s) or hydration system

Flashlight or headlamp and spare batteries/bulb

Watch with alarm or travel clock

1 roll of toilet paper

Sunglasses and retainer strap

Sunblock and lip balm

Toiletry kit

Small washcloth and small towel

Personal first-aid kit

Hand sanitizer gel

Insect repellent

Several Ziploc plastic bags

Large, heavy-duty plastic trash bags

Optional Field Gear

Camera, spare media card and batteries

Electrical adapter plug

Spare contact lenses or glasses

Reading and writing materials

Knee supports

Travel pillow

Hiking stick or trekking poles (metal tips not allowed on Inca Trail; points must be rubber or covered with duct tape.)

Favorite energy snacks and drinks.

DIFFICULTY :  Moderate - Challenging

DURATION: 4 Days / 3 Nights

HIGHLIGHTS:

Rewarding days of moderate to rigorous trekking

3 nights of camping with stunning views 

Machu Picchu and other important archeological sites 

Spectacular scenery 

Quality equipment and comfortable campsites

We also provide camping chairs and tables for dining and resting

DON'T JUST TRAVEL. EXPLORE! - Explore Adventures Peru Team!!

Discover the you you never knew... Discover yourself in Peru ALL DEPARTURES 100% GUARANTEED - IF YOU'RE BOOKED, YOU'RE GOING

Book now for trek or tours.

All tours WILL NOT BE CONFIRMED without a completed booking form and deposit sent to Explore Adventures Peru. All deposits are $200 per person and are non-refundable. We accept payments through PayPal and they do charge 6% so the total per person is $212 and should be sent to [email protected] . We will email you your booking invoice and confirmation once your details and deposit are received.

Deposit for Trek by Paypal:

The deposit for all of our tours and treks of greater than or equal to 2 days in length is US $200 (plus the PayPal fee of US $12) per person.

Inca Trail Explore Difference

We are a 100% Quechua locally owned and operated company. EXPLORE ADVENTURES PERU offers an assortment of adventurous treks and exciting tour packages in Peru. Started by Ruben Quispe Quispe , a best tour guide on the Inca Trail. By believing in us, a 100% formal and Under Indigenous Quechua Management company, you are contributing in strengthening and benefitting the communities we work with, including local suppliers on the adventures we undertake, which we have worked with for many years.

BEST CAMPING EQUIPMENT

Equipment for inca trail or orthers treks so really important, As any hiker knows, good equipment makes all...

EXPERT TOUR GUIDES

Our tour guides highly recommended, fluent and clear English experienced and very knowledgeable, passionate for...

PERSONAL PORTER 7 KG. INCLUDED

A porter is the most important person on the Inca Trail trek, and perhaps the most misunderstood both by tourists as well

SOCIAL PROJECT

We work to make your trip, as well as safe and fun, overall responsible and conscious promote the welfare of

ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS

Inca Trail have both positive and negative effects on the landscape and the wildlife. Since tourists mainly

BEST FOOD ON THE INCA TRAIL

We have one of the most outstanding meal services in the field: Our chefs have been highly trained by several institutes

Meet the Inca Trail Explore Trekking Team!

Our Porters Team

Ours Guides

Similar inca trail tours that you may like

Machu Picchu and Inca trail is home to lots of beautiful natural and sanctuary Parks;This place was the cradle of the great empire of the Incas, leaving a valuable legacy to humanity.

Inca Trail Explore Recognitions

Iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Inca Trail Explore has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Inca Trail Explore is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS

Inspiring adventures.

We are a boutique tour operator offering a selection of the best private adventure trips in Peru. Join us for a hiking adventure you'll never forget!

Our Top Line of gear

We recognize that quality gear can make or break an outdoor adventure experience, and have hand-selected the top quality products to ensure you have the best possible experience on your adventures with us.

Who We Are?

[email protected] Cell: (+51) 984804470 Main Office: Main Square Plaza de Armas; Cusco - Perú

Tickets for Machu Picchu

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Inca Trail Information

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Lares Trail & 2-Day Inca Trail with Camping 5 Days / 4 Nights

Our Lares and Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu fuses two memorable Andean trails into one unforgettable trip.

Start your adventure on the Lares Trail, the most cultural trek we offer, where trekkers will spend 2.5 days experiencing the lifestyle and customs of traditional Peruvian villages. Then, you’ll start your adventure on the iconic Inca Trail for a day of hiking and a campsite that overlooks the backside of Machu Picchu.

This Lares and Inca Trail Trek is the perfect balance of connecting with the local people of Peru, connecting with nature in the Andes, and walking the famous Inca Trail footpath into historic Machu Picchu.

Tour Location: Lares Trail, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Tour Type: This tour combines our Lares trek (2.5 days) with the short Inca Trail allowing you to spend time under the stars while camping and still walking through the Sun Gate for that first glance of Machu Picchu. Good For: All hikers, including families with younger, active children Difficulty: Moderately challenging, but suitable for families Considerations: An emergency horse is available only until you enter the Inca Trail. Inca Trail requires a permit

• See Top 50 Questions about the Inca Trail
• See How Inca Trail Permits Work

Inca Trail is waiting for you!

We have special deals for the following dates in March.

24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31

Lares Trail & 2-Day Inca Trail Trip Details

Travel info, packing list, eqp & food, porters & horsemen.

Make the most of your Peru adventure with a trek that incorporates the best of the Lares Trail and the Inca Trail in one unforgettable experience.

Enjoy A Slower Pace And Less Technical Trail: While all treks in the Andes are challenging, The Lares Trail moves a bit slower than others making it a favorite for families with young hikers. However, you’ll still get to experience the exciting views and scenery from the Inca Trail for a full day during the Inca Trail section of this tour.

Soak in Calming Hot Springs: We help you prepare your muscles for the trail with a relaxing soak in locally-loved thermal baths. With pools ranging from invigoratingly cold to luxuriously hot, this is the perfect way to wake up your body and kick off your trek.

Learn About The Local Villages On Our Most Cultural Trek: The Lares Trail section of this trip passes through multiple remote mountain villages. The great Lares trek lets you interact with small remote local communities in the Andes. You can meet local people and participate in their traditional Peruvian lifestyle. The Lares Valley’s incredible landscapes, views, flora, and fauna will leave you speechless.

Visit Historical Peru Salt Mines: During your Lares Trek, you will also visit the Salt mines in Maras, where you will see the traditional way the locals still get salt to this day. You’ll even have the option to purchase some to take back home.

Spend a Day Hiking The Inca Trail And Camp Under The Stars with your Lares Trek: The world-renowned Inca Trail is a must-see when visiting Peru. With this tour, you’ll get to experience an entire day and night on the trail, taking in the astounding scenery this area provides, in addition to the magic of the Lares Valley trek. After a full day of hiking, you’ll relax at a gorgeous campsite with Machu Picchu waiting to welcome you the next day.

Explore Machu Picchu: Wake up for an early morning visit to Machu Picchu for your guided walking tour of this incredible site. This tour of Machu Picchu is the best way to finish your amazing adventure with Alpaca Expeditions.

Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Thermal Baths – Kiswarani Waterfalls – Camping (Trekking Distance: 10 km/ 6.21371 miles)
• Day 2: Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha Village – Camping (Trekking Distance: 14 km/8 miles)
• Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Maras Salt Mine – Ollantaytambo (Trekking Distance: 9 km /6.2 miles)
• Day 4: Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (15 km / 8 miles)
• Day 5: Visit Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco

Day 1: Soak in Famous Hot Springs and Reach Your Campsite Under The Falls

Famous thermal baths – kiswarani waterfall campsite.

To begin the Lares Trail trek we will pick you from your hotel at 5 AM to begin the famous Lares Trail. Pickup can be done from any hotel, condo or apartment within Cusco, Urubamba, Huaran or Pisaq. It will be a three-hour drive along the beautiful landscape of the Sacred Valley and through the Andes until we arrive at the Lares Hot Springs where you will enjoy your first breakfast accompanied by amazing views of the Andes Mountains. After breakfast, you will have time to enjoy the hot springs, which are divided into various pools ranging from freezing cold to boiling. They are all composed of pure volcanic water, which is medicinal in nature and considered to be good for your bones, stress, muscles, and headaches. After soaking in the baths for a while, you will drive 20 minutes to the trailhead, Punta Carretera at 3,300 m/ 10,827 ft above sea level. It is here that you will meet up with your horses and horsemen. You will give your duffel bags to the horsemen to be transported to the campsite. Your trekking will begin with a two-hour gradual uphill hike, until lunch at our first village, Kiswarani. They consider this part of the hike the potato valley section, where people farm many varieties of organic potatoes. Your guide will also point out some indigenous medicinal plants growing along the way. Lunch will be excellent and prepared by your trekking chef.

After lunch, our horsemen (llameros) will do a ceremony with llamas showcasing these beautiful animals. Llamas were considered sacred to the Incas and fundamental to their economy. Our llameros will introduce you to these animals and discuss their importance and why owning one was a sign of privilege. Today they are disappearing, constantly breaded with smaller animals. We hope to continue the tradition of the Incas and give some llamas work. We do this to support the community that helps protect them. Llamas are pleasant to walk with and are friendly animals. Just don´t get too close, they might try to kiss you.

You will also have time to explore the village and visit some local homes, where you will learn about the lifestyle and ancient traditions of the local people. If there is time, we will visit the schoolhouse where the kids still speak Quecha, their native language. You may also bring toys, notebooks, or school supplies to distribute. Perhaps you may even teach them a few words in English. It will be another two hours, gradually uphill hiking until we arrive at the campsite. There you will be welcomed by our trekking staff, who will have your tents set up. We’ll enjoy some hot drinks, as the sky darkens and the stars start appearing. Finally, you will enjoy a lovely dinner prepared on-site. If you want to keep star-gazing, you may stay up for a while longer or, if you’d rather, you can turn in to your tent.

Trekking Distance:  10 km/ 6.21371 miles Camp Elevation:  3,850 meters / 1,2631 ft Weather:  Cold

Day 2: Summit Condor Pass and Explore a Traditional Andean Village

Quiswarani – condor pass – cancha cancha village.

Today you will be woken up around 5 a.m., with our service of hot drinks. You will have spectacular views of the colorful lake and the valley of Kiswarani. You will see the local people will already be up and about, taking their llamas and alpacas out to graze. Breakfast will be served once you have finished packing your gear. Then we’ll fill up our water bottles, organize snacks, and you will begin your expedition to Machu Picchu. It will be a three or four-hour climb to get to the summit of the mountain. This pass is called Pachacute, or Condor Pass. We’ll zigzag our way up to compensate for the steep uphill. The views of the area are stunning. You will see lakes, waterfalls, llamas, and alpacas. We will have an emergency horse to ride in case you are tired. Once you arrive at the Condor Pass, you will be above the clouds, above the mountain peaks, and the surrounding 360-degree views are astounding. In front of you will be the beautiful mountain of Pitusiray, which is at 5,700 m/ 18,700 ft high, and the Condor pass is at 4,680 m/ 15,354 ft high. Afterward, we will enjoy a hot drink service that your porters will carry with them. We will take advantage of some phenomenal photo opportunities and start our descent. You will begin the one hour, downhill, descent towards El Mirador (Vista Point), where you will enjoy lunch. There will be some llamas grazing nearby. After lunch, you will hike the last three hours downhill, with fantastic views of many lakes, llamas, and alpacas, before arriving at your campsite, the village of Cancha Cancha, which is the only village that does not have modern technology. Located at (3,750 m / 12,303 ft), where people still practice original Inca traditions. In this Incan village, 85 percent of the houses are still built by ancient construction methods, made of stone and grass-thatched roofs. Unlike any other village in the Lares Valley, this village has no electricity or cars. Here, you will not only enjoy the wilderness, but your porters will also set up your tents. You will have some time to meet with the local children. We provide them with food and school supplies, so we invite our travelers to share this support in the education and the health of this native village. You can bring anything you would like to give to these Quechuan-speaking children that you think they could use for school or home. When you are done, your guide will take you to one of the local family’s houses, where you will learn about the lifestyle of the locals. You will see how they raise their guinea pigs, and learn about the traditional hand-woven textiles made of llama and alpaca wool. In the evening you will enjoy hot drinks and dinner.

Walking Distance:  14 km/8 miles Elevation Gain:  830 meters / 2,723 ft Camp Elevation:  3,750 meters / 12,303 ft Weather:  Cold

Day 3: Visit The Maras Salt Mines And Reach The Sun Gate

Cancha cancha – huaran – maras salt mine – ollantaytambo.

Our porters will wake you up with a hot drink, and you will have some time to pack your bags and enjoy breakfast. After breakfast, you’ll have time to explore the village and visit the local elementary school, where the ancient Inca language, Quechua, is still taught. Once you are ready, you’ll begin the last leg of your Lares trek. It will be four hours of walking downhill along this lovely path where you will pass by more llamas and alpacas. We’ll pass by farms where they grow potatoes, fava beans, and many other traditional crops the traditional Incan style. You will have the chance to learn about Peruvian agriculture from people who still farm by hand with traditional Inca farming tools. Now, we will start to descend to the warmer area of the Sacred Valley. You will start to feel the changes of the micro-climate and start seeing crops that are different from in the high mountains. Around the Sacred Valley, people farm corn, quinoa, kiwi, peaches, avocados, and other types of fruit. This area has a lot of Inca history, and you will end your tour at the little Sacred Valley village of Huaran that sits at 2,700 m / 8,858 ft. Here you will say goodbye to your horses, horse riders, chef, and porters. From Huaran, we will catch a van and make the short drive into the valley to visit the Salineras salt pans, in the town of Maras. Here, at 11,000 feet above sea level, a saltwater spring gushes forth and spills down the side of the mountain. Over 3,000 small evaporation chambers have been created and look as if they are tumbling down the mountainside. These have been in use since pre-Incan times. The salt is said to have healing properties because it´s filled with natural minerals, some of it even comes out pink. Local families each own one of these pans and make their living supplying salt to the towns around the area. There is a small shop on-site if you care to take some salt home with you.

After visiting Salineras, we will head to our hotel in Ollantaytambo for the night at the hotel.

Walking Distance:  9 km /6.2 miles Aguas Calientes Elevation:  2,000 m / 6,562 ft Weather:  Cold in the morning, warm in the afternoon. Watch out for mosquitoes this day. Hotel in Ollantaytambo. Included

Day 4: Hike the Iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Ollantaytambo – inca trail – sun gate.

You will be picked up for your short Inca trail hike from your hotel at 5:30 a.m. Following, we will go to the train station and leave on the 6:10 a.m. train from Ollantaytambo. This is one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, with its extraordinary views of the Urubamba River, the snow-capped mountain peaks, and cornfield farms. As we descend, you will see the micro-climate changes, from the mountains and cornfields to green jungle valleys with ferns, bromeliads, and orchids, as the temperature starts to get warmer. This train ride is one hour and 45 minutes to Km 104, where we’ll disembark to meet your trekking chef and porters. You will also enjoy breakfast before starting your trek. Be sure you bring your original passport since this is the very first checkpoint along the Inca Trail. After breakfast, you will have some time to prepare before beginning the hike. Soon after, we will get to explore the first Inca site Chachabamaba. Chachabamaba was the first ancient Incan checkpoint for entering to the Inca trail. Your tour guide will give you some background history on this ruin, followed by the three-hour climb up to the most famous Inca site along the trail, Wiñay Wayna. You will see amazing views of the Machu Picchu Valley and the Urubamba River along the trail, as well as the flora and fauna native to the area. There are also waterfalls and spectacular views of the Machu Picchu Mountain. The trail itself has some flat areas, as well as some short uphill and downhill hikes. It also has steps arranged in sections that can be narrow in some areas, but not dangerous.

Once you arrive at the Wiñay Wayna Inca site, you will have time for a tour by your tour guide. He will also provide time for exploring the Inca site, temples, waterfalls, gardens, storehouses, watchtowers, and farming terraces. It is only a short walk to the lunch spot, where your trekking chef and porters will be ready with cold drinks and delicious, fresh food, prepared by our cook, and served buffet-style. After lunch, there will be time for a short nap. Following, it will be a one hour, gradual up and downhill hike to get to the Sun Gate, where you will have spectacular views of Machu Picchu,  Huayna Picchu , and the surrounding valleys. The Sun Gate was used by Incas to observe the sunrise from Machu Picchu during the summer solstice. From here, it is another hour hike to the Machu Picchu ruins.

Once in Machu Picchu, you can explore the watchtower area where you can get charming pictures of Machu Picchu (without crowds). We’ll then take the 20-minute bus ride to the campsite of Puente Ruinas. When you arrive at the campsite, your tents will be all set up. You will meet your porters, and enjoy a social happy hour with hot drinks and dinner. Later in the evening, we’ll have a small ceremony with your chef and porters to say goodbye to them. They will still be there the next morning to cook breakfast. This is the proper goodbye.

* This hiking route is identical to our 2 Day Inca Trail with Hotel.

Lares Trail Highlight:  Trekking the Inca Trail, enjoying the views from the Sun Gate, sunset views from Machu Picchu, camping at the foot of Machu Picchu

Walking Distance : 15 km / 8 miles Meals : Included Elevations : Trek starting point 2,000 m, the highest point is Sun Gate 2,720 m, the camp is at 1,900 m Weather : Hot and humid

Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco

Machu picchu – aguas calientes – ollantaytambo – cusco.

There will be an early wake-up call with hot drinks. You will have time to prepare your duffel bags and day packs and enjoy breakfast. We’ll walk 30 minutes to the bus station to be one of the first in line to go up to Machu. The first buses will depart at 5:30 a.m. and arrive at 6:00 a.m., into Machu Picchu. You must have your original passport at the checkpoint. Your tour guide will take you to the perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise over the mountains (weather permitting). We’ll then have a two-hour, private, guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins, with all of its fascinating history. You’ll also have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. If you have booked a permit to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, this is a good time to climb (in the second slot which starts at 10:00 a.m.). You will need to catch your bus back down to the town of Aguas Calientes for lunch and to catch the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo. From there, you will go by private van back to Cusco, where we will drop you off at your hotel. Lares Trail Highlight : Arrive early to Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise Temperature : Warm and humid Meals : Breakfast Only Train : Expedition tourist class

Included in your Trek

• Lares Trail Professional Guides:  All of our guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in the Cusco region, and are committed to teaching others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional and will ensure you are safe and happy.
• Lares Trail Permits : Since this tour enters the Inca Trail on Day 4, you do need us to secure a permit for the government. As soon as we receive your details and a deposit, we will purchase your permits (pending availability, check our Inca Trail Availability link). These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They can’t be changed once confirmed. Only your passport number is allowed to be updated. The permit includes an entrance to Machu Picchu.
• Lares Trail Porters & Horsemen:  We include a personal porter, who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag containing your personal items. There is no additional fee for this. We will give you your duffel bag at your briefing the night before, to be filled with the things you will need for the next night and day. You will not have access to your duffel bag until your arrive at your evening campsite.
• Hotel : This trek includes one night hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. We include, Inti Punku or something similar and one night in Ollantaytambo  el Tunupa or el sol hotel  – the hotel name will be listed on your confirmed invoice. Upgrades are always possible.
• Transportation : You will have transportation included for this trek. You will be picked up directly from your hotel around 4:30 a.m. ( unless you are staying in Ollantaytambo, before ) and brought to the trailhead to begin your trek. Hiking will end on day three, and you will head to Ollantaytambo. Once your hike is over, you will take the train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the evening in a hotel. Your departure and return train to Aguas Calientes & back to Ollantaytambo will be the Expedition Class Train. Your return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo can be upgraded to the Vistadome Class Train for $75 per person. Once you arrive at the train station, you will be brought back to your hotel in Cusco. Also included is your round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
• Food : We will make sure that you enjoy some amazing food on the way to Machu Picchu. Lunch will be served around Wiñay Wayna ruins, and dinner will be in the best restaurant in the town of Aguas Calientes, called Indio Feliz. Breakfast will be enjoyed at your hotel the next morning. Lunch the last day is not included.
• Water : We will give you a bottle of water for your morning hike and another bottle during lunch. We encourage you to bring extra on your own, as being well hydrated is the key to feeling great in the mountains.
• Emergency Horse : Horses are not allowed on the Inca Trail, so you will only have this available for the 2 days of hiking Lares.
• First Aid:  Every Alpaca Expeditions guide has received training in first aid from a physician. We conduct mandatory training sessions every February, which every single Alpaca tour guide must attend. Your tour guide will always have a first-aid kit for basic medical situations (traveler´s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. We will get you off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible if needed, and ensure you get directly to a clinic for treatment.
• Satellite Phones :  Our top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While all our guides are prepared and trained to deal with most issues clients have on the mountain. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have, are limited in how far they can reach, so Alpaca Expeditions has added Satellite Phones to every trek. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to connect us anywhere in the world. And they can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well. While they are not cheap to use, they are available just in case you need to check in on the puppy you left at home with grandma.
• Lares Trail  Extras:  We believe it´s the attention to small details that separates us from other tour companies. Every trekker receives a small pillow to sleep with, a foam mattress for insulation, a day pack cover to protect their things while hiking, and a rain poncho. We will work hard to create your best vacation.

Not Included

• Rentals : Every trekker needs a sleeping bag, when camping. Inflatable air mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional, but encouraged. If you don’t want to bring any of the above, they are all available for rent: Sleeping Bag: $25 Inflatable Air Mattress: $20 Walking Sticks (Pair): $20
• Huayna Picchu :  Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45 minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep, if you are scared of heights. This is done after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is $75. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance, due to popularity. Please understand that weather is out of our control.

We really can do this Lares Trail tour any day of the week, any month of the year other than February, when the Inca Trail is closed.

Group Tour:

$905 per person

A group tour means that it is open for other trekkers to join you. This means that your group will have varying hiking and fitness abilities. All our guides are experts on how to keep the trek moving and happy no matter how fast you hike.

* All our tours are priced in US Dollar.

Accommodations:

Ollantaytambo:  Sol Natura Hotel or similar

Room all include private bathrooms, hot showers and wifi. Prices are based on a shared room (Double, Matrimonial or Triple available) and single rooms are available for a $30 US supplement (a ll solo travelers are given a single room ). Other hotels are available upon request at the prices listed below.

Student Discount:

$25 off per person.

Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.

Please send all to  [email protected] .

More Information about   STUDENT CARD

Additional Items:

There are several optional upgrades you can include in this trip. Below is a quick list of prices, but check our Overview section for more details.

Huayna Picchu : $75 per person Montana: $75 per person Vistadome Train (one way): $75 per person

Getting to Cusco

The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.

The best way to get to Cusco is by air, and there are several options in airlines. LAN tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land, and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic. Bus travel is always available, and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.

Luggage Storage

Any extra luggage you have with you can be left safely in Cusco at either your hotel or with us at the Alpaca Expeditions while you trek. We will store your luggage on the morning of your trek and return it once you are back in Cusco. Make sure your bags have tags on them, so they are easy to locate.

Alpaca Expeditions does not provide daypacks, so you need to bring your own. Try not to pack large items, to keep your pack light, while trekking. Machu Picchu does not allow packs larger than 25L. You will need to check your bag at the entrance if it does not meet the size regulations. Checking your bag is inexpensive but often has long lines.

As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate, you won´t be bored.

With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.

Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee, since they will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.

Remember, the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medication such as Acetazolamide and Dexamethasone to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to high altitude, and continue to take it while you are at high altitude. You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Alpaca Expedition guides are trained to help you get through it.

Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December, so just be prepared. No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.

Also, be ready for four seasons. Treks in the Andes involve various microclimates, and you will need to be prepared for each one. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold. As far as Lares is concerned, this is one of our colder treks – trekking through the alpines for two days. We will place in your sleeping bags insulated warm bottles to help you sleep at night, but also remember your extra layers to keep cozy.

Every Alpaca Expeditions guide has received training in first aid from a physician. We conduct mandatory training every February, and every single Alpaca guide attends. When guiding you, they will have with them a first aid kit for basic medical situations (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. They will take good care of you.

In case something unexpected happens, and you feel you can no longer complete the trek, they will figure out the safest and quickest way off the trail and to a clinic. You will never be left alone; you will have a member of the team escort you every step of the way until safely with a doctor. When you are feeling up to it, we will make sure that you still have the chance to visit Machu Picchu and re-connect with your group. This way, you can finish your trip, traveling by train comfortably.

We ask that all clients help us keep them safe by letting your guide know of any chronic medical issue you may have before the trek, so we are prepared to help if something happens.

Travel Insurance

To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Getting travel insurance before you leave home is strongly encouraged and very easy. We work with a great agency in the United States, that has helped to make it easy and affordable. What an excellent way to protect yourself while you are visiting Peru.

If interested in booking through our trusted partner, Ahart, Frinzi & Smith,  CLICK HERE .

Environmental Impact

Alpaca Expeditions uses biodegradable soap and transports all our garbage back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to look after the trail and pick up any waste from other groups, as well. We also use environmentally-friendly chemical portable toilets that allow us to pack waste out. We believe in leaving no footprint behind.

Alpaca Expeditions is proud of the work we do for our community, as this is the main focus of our company. We have worked with villages directly to help supply them with the needs their families were missing. We have supported local schools by giving them computers and books. Alpaca Expeditions also sponsors a teacher at the village where most of our porters come from and ensures their children have the best opportunity for education.

We buy all our food from local farmers and markets and serve the freshest ingredients. We provide English classes for all our team: guides, porters, chefs, and drivers. We are also building a house for our porters. By giving them a safe and comfortable place to stay before and after our treks, they no longer need to sleep on the floor at a friend’s house. And twice every year we bring our porters and their families to Machu Picchu. The men and women who work tirelessly have never visited the Lost Citadel of the Incas. So that makes this trip our favorite to-do. It is an honor to show them this place.

We are always looking to do more for our partners. Please let us know about your ideas, and we will work to help.

Personal Porter Included

All of our camping treks include porters, who are responsible for carrying and setting up all equipment. They will additionally carry the duffel bag you receive at your briefing the night before your trek. Each duffel bag  CAN NOT  exceed  7kg/14lbs  and must include your sleeping bag and air mat. Alpaca Expeditions gives each porter a proper uniform, salary, and insurance. They are the backbone of our company.

ESSENTIALS for the Lares Trail :

• Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
• Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
• Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
• Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks are encouraged – but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
• Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)

FOR YOUR DUFFEL:

Remember you are packing for 2 nights of camping and 1 night in a hotel. Porters will carry up to 8 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt (if you bring/rent one). From us these two items weigh 3.5 kg.

• 2-3 wicking t-shirts
• 2-3 hiking pants
• 5 sets of undergarments.
• 3 sets of hiking socks
• 1 Warm, down jacket: this trek includes 2 cold nights camping
• 1 Rain jacket and pants
• Headlamp: essential
• Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
• Comfortable shoes for camp
• Walking boots
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
• Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might enjoy something a little larger.
• Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to clean – might make you feel fresh if you had a little soap.
• Battery Charger: There is no place to plug in while trekking!
• Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.
• Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for -10C at least

TOILETRIES:

• Face moisturizer
• Handsanitizer
• Toothbrush and paste
• Toiletpaper
• Personal medication
• First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

INSIDE YOUR Lares Trail DAYPACKS:

Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always recommend the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, no bag larger than 25L will be allowed in. If larger, you will need to store outside citadel gates.

PassportValid, STUDENT  CARD (if you booked as a student)Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)Good daypack (the smaller, the better)Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks are encouraged – but enough for at least 2-3 liters.Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)

• Water: we supply clean water at each meal. You are responsible for your first morning of water only as we won’t have time to filter water until your first lunch.
• Music (IPhone)
• Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
• Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips

Another highlight of booking with Alpaca Expeditions to hike the  Lares Trail  is getting top equipment and probably the best food you will eat while in Peru.

Every camping tour includes a spacious 4 man tent that will be shared by only two people so you can spread out a bit. These are all Eureka Timberline Tents made for all seasons. Our rentals are top of the line: Black Diamond Adjustable Walking Sticks and Thermarest Luxury Air Matts. Sleeping Bags rented from us are mummy style down bags for -15C and liners are always included.

For more information on our equipment,  CLICK HERE .

Every trek includes a chef that has been trained in culinary school. They have learned the magic of mountain cooking and you will be amazed. You will enjoy full breakfast, lunch and dinner all served hot and tasty. We also include  Happy Hour  with snacks and some hot tea before dinner. The key to feeling good on a trek like this is eating well and staying hydrated.

Meals are all served family style – large plates for everyone to take what they like. And all food restrictions are honored. No matter if you are vegetarian or gluten free, you will always be well fed.

Water is provided by Alpaca Expeditions at every meal. We will boil, filter and cool down all water before distributing out to our clients to ensure that its healthy for drinking. Because of this process, you do need to provide your own water for the very first morning of your trek. We won’t have a chance to get you clean water until lunch on Day 1.

You should always begin your hike with 2-3 liters of water – so make sure you have a large enough water bottle or camelback to store this.

For more information on our Food & Water,  CLICK HERE . 

The Lares Trail trek will include a combination of porters and horsemen to help carry all the needed equipment and bags. We also include an extra emergency horse that can be used at any time if you need a break from hiking.

Our porters, who we lovingly call the  Green Machine , are the pride and joy of our company and what separates us from others. We are dedicated to making a difference in their lives and their family’s life and for that, we are rewarded with the hardest working team in the mountains.

Alpaca Expeditions Porters:

Raul Ccolque Ccolque, the owner & general manager of Alpaca Expeditions, worked as a porter from 2000 to 2003. While he saw some companies treating their porters better than others, he felt there was not enough done for them and their families. We could not have a company without our porters, and because of that, we want them to be part of our family. We want to know them, listen to them, and follow through on our promise to make their lives better.

Our porters range from 18 years old until 55 and come from different villages in the Cusco region. We employ approximately 250 porters from the following communities:

• Comunidad Wakatinku 25 porters, located at 3800 meters
• Comunidad Llullucha 20 porters, located at 3700 meters
• Comunidad Choquekancha 25 porters, located at 3400 meters.
• Comunidad Pumapunko $ 25 porters located at 3700 meters
• Comunidad Kachin 25 porters located at 3700 meters
• Comunidad Anparaes 25 porters located at 3500 meters

Quechua is their main language and farming is their main economic activity. Being a porter is a second income for them.

Our Promise to Our Porters:

We clearly understand that we would not be successful without our team of porters. They have promised us that they will continually work hard to make sure each trekker has a magical journey. In return, we made a promise to them that we will do what we can to make this difficult job a little less daunting.

As we explained earlier, most of our porters live in a village outside of Cusco – typically 2 to 4 hours away. We cover all entrance fees (45 soles – $15 US per porter) and transportation to and from the trek for our porters, separate from their salary. They are paid promptly after the trek eliminating the need to travel back to Cusco before heading home. Unfortunately, this is not common. They receive better wages, health insurance, and all their equipment for free, including great food to eat. We make sure they have a comfortable bed and a nice room to sleep in before (and after if needed) the trek instead of sleeping on the floor. We visit the communities they live in and provide needed supplies to their families, like toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and books for students. This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more.

How much does the Alpaca Expeditions Porter Carry?

While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25kg, we keep our limit at 20kg. Each porter will carry up to 15kg from the company and 5kg of their stuff. The reason why it´s so important to keep your duffel light and not exceed our allowed 7kg. You will see other companies carrying more than the allotted weight – we will not allow our porters to carry this burden.

Keeping them Comfortable

Every year Alpaca Expeditions provides a new sleeping bag and sleeping pad for each porter. Our jackets are all lined and warm, and the boots that we provide are all waterproof.

What do the Porters Eat?

Our porters will eat the very same amazing meals you have. Our chef buys enough food to cook for all our trekkers and porters and makes enough for everyone to be full at the end of the day. We serve large portions, and none of it is wasted. Whatever is left over after you and our team eats will go directly back home to the families of the team for them to enjoy themselves.

Helping Their Families

All our porters are Quechua language speakers who come from farming villages. They take advantage of the seasons to grow their crops, and Alpaca Expeditions helps them in many ways to keep growing their community. In education, health, and culture. We have different ongoing projects and hope to add many more. Some of the projects we have completed or continue doing are:

Every three months, we take a kit of toiletries to Wakantinku elementary school for 204 Quechua speaking children. They range from 3 – 12 years old from kindergarten to 6th grade. When we arrived at this village for the first time a few years ago, kids had trouble keeping up with daily hygiene. We make sure they always have toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and hand sanitizer.

We planted more than 3,000 native trees, Queuña (Andean Polylepis), in the community of Wakatinku to reforest their village. This tree will be more sustainable than others they have used and will eventually be a fertilizer for their village to help grow more grass for their Alpacas, which are the most common and typical animals located at this village. We covered the 2015 salary of a full-time teacher in the High School of Wakatinku to teach math, art, and English. This teacher has done great work and helped to graduate the first class from the village. We plan to continue this sponsorship and supply another year’s salary.

Every February, we invite our porters and their families to come with us to visit Machu Picchu. Last year we went with families from Wakawasi village, a community we visit on the Lares Trek. It was their first time in the ruins. We plan on doing this trip every February with new families to help them enjoy their history.

In October 2015, we helped celebrate the end of the school year with 17 students and their parents and some of our porters for a trip through the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. This 2-day trip followed the same itinerary that our clients enjoy.

Often our clients have asked how they can help. Some Alpaca Expeditions trekkers raised money back at home to buy some computers to donate to a local village. We matched their donation and went together to donate four computers to the school in Wakatinku village for the kids to enjoy. Being their first time donating computers, this was something new. We know it is hard for 204 students to use four computers. That is why we have provided computers in 2019.

To help celebrate the anniversary of Llulucha village this last July, we booked and provided transpiration for a local band, Alicia de Acomayo, to play. It was a great party for everyone to enjoy.

We are working with a local clinic in Cusco to provide dental care and provide skin examinations for the children of each of our porter’s villages.

We have recently bought land in Cusco that is currently being constructed to create dormitory classrooms and teaching kitchens for our team. We created this for our porters outside of Cusco to have a place to sleep before their treks. We will have free English, computer, and cooking classes for any member of our team and their family to use. We are excited about this big project.

Those are just some of the projects we have done and continue to do. We are a small local company here in Cusco, who promises to be as dedicated to our team as they are to us. We are lucky enough to have the best porters in the region, and we feel it´s necessary to make sure they are healthy, stable, and capable of providing for their families the best life possible.

THE GREEN MACHINE

Lares & 2 Day Inca Trail with Camping 5D/4N

Please fill in our BOOKING FORM carefully with your correct personal details.

Inca Trail Trek Daily Videos: See What Each Day Is Like!

The Alpaca Difference

Alpaca Expeditions is a 100% peruvian, indigenous owned company. Started by Raul Ccolque, a former porter and tour guide, Alpaca Expeditions separates ourselves by our dedication to both our customer and our team. We work very hard to make sure that all our clients needs are taken care of throughout the tour with us. At the same time, we never forget about our brothers and sisters working tirelessly for us to make all of this possible. Responsible and sustainable tourism that gives as much to our community as to our clients.

Camping Equipment

Personal Porters of 7 kg Included

Private Toilet Tents

Safety on the Trail Satellite Phones

The Best Trekking Food in Peru!

Meet the ae trekking team.

Everyone on the Alpaca Team is from Cusco region, living the traditions and history they share with you while on one of our tours. Our guides are all graduates of university studying tourism, history and english. Our chefs are trained every February by a professional cooking team learning new meals, adding varieties of entrees for all types of eating. And all our porters are from HUARQUI, HUACAHUASI, PATACANCHA, QUISWARANI, CANCHACANCHA, QUEYUPAY, UMACHURCO and CCACCACCOLLO villages, very often working this job on top of maining their farms back at home. Most of our team has been with us for years, as we have the most loyal, hard working, happy employees in Cusco. We know how lucky we are to have the best team trekking and you will immediately fall in love with all the men and women who call Alpaca Expeditions their home.

AE súper porters

Our Porters represent the Peruvian people, both men, and women who are at the heart of our...

Equality Matters

Alpaca Expeditions aims to promote gender equality and empower women, hiring first Peru Wo...

Travelling and trekking along the mountains is one of the best activities in the World. Co...

Trekking along the mountain on your way to conquer Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime ex...

What do we do for our porters?

Alpaca Expeditions would not be where we are today without these hardworking men and women. We could not imagine a harder job and our team does it smiling. We do our best to thank them for their hard work and loyalty by doing as much as we can to make their lives and their families lives better. All our porters receive all their equipment for free from warm winter hats to proper hiking boots. They sleep in proper tents and are given warm sleeping bags for night. They enjoy the same food we serve our clients and all leftovers are donated to their families. We visit their villages with doctors and dentists, donate school supplies and sports equipment. And our favorite time of the year is when we bring a group of porters and their families to Machu Picchu to visit the ruins for the first time.

Our Porters represent the Peruvian people, both men, and women who are at the heart of our company. It is not possible to ...

Alpaca Expeditions aims to promote gender equality and empower women, hiring first Peru Women as Porters opening the door ...

Free Medical Assistance to Porters

In 2019, we hired our first Alpaca Expeditions Medical Doctor to help tend to our guides, drivers, chefs…

Our Porter’s bus

We treat our porters with the same dignity and respect as we do our clients. Just as our clients enjoy our…

Our Porter’s House

As we mentioned above, our Porters like many Peruvian people come from distant villages to work our treks…

Tents and Sleeping bags

Again, this is something unique that Alpaca Expeditions provides, and sad others are not doing. We supply…

Proper Equipment for our Porters

Every porter of ours receives proper equipment. That includes moisture-wicking long/short sleeve shirts…

Nutritious Meals for our Porters

A general comment from trekkers on an Alpaca Expeditions tour is that we serve too much food. Well…

Videos of our Porters

Extra information

Alpaca Expeditions is always ready to make your trip safe and as easy as possible for you. Because these trips are a bit more complicated than your typical tour, we have put together some notes on logistics, storage, and even recommendations on where to stay in Cusco. And of course our team is ready to answer any other question, as we promise to be your partner from the moment you first contact us to our last goodbye in Cusco.

Sustainable Tourism

Leave your bags with us

Trek Packing List

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Alpaca Expeditions Recognitions

Iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS

Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

As Featured In

Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.

The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu offers a unique experience for hikers to combine the beauty of the Andean mountains, local villages, and the  Inca Trail 2 days , arriving at Machu Picchu twice. You will enjoy the natural gems of the Andes, visit local villages, and explore the Iconic Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

• Full Itinerary
• Packing List

Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 days 

Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 days trek combine a cultural hike in the most remote mountains and villages with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . You will be able to visit local villages, beautiful glaciers, piercingly blue lakes, and stunning waterfalls, hike the Short Inca Trail , arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate in the afternoon of day 4, and go back to Machu Picchu on the last day to enjoy the sunrise.

Tour Highlights:

• Visit the natural hot springs of Lares
• Hike the iconic  Short Inca Trail
• Arrive at Machu Picchu twice (sunset & sunrise)
• Vistadome panoramic train to return (Vistadome or 360°)
• Book with Confidence and Flexibility

Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail at a Glance

Day 1: cusco – lares thermal baths – kiswarani - blue lagoon (10 km, 4 hrs).

Pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 am and drive for 3 hours to Lares thermal baths. The hot springs of Lares are perfect for your bones, muscles, stress, and headaches. After breakfast, we started the first day with a 2-hour hike until lunch in Kiswarani village—next, another 2-hour hike to the Blue Lagoon at 3900 m (12795 ft).

Day 2: Blue Lagoon – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha (16 km, 7hrs)

Wake up early with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea in your tent. You will hike for 4 hours to  Condor Pass at 4750 m (15583 ft). After exploring the summit, you will continue for 3 more hours to the campsite located at Canchacancha Village (3750 m / 12 303 ft).

Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Ollantaytambo (12 km, 4 hrs)

After breakfast, you will visit the local houses, experience their way of life, and interact with villagers to start descending for 4 hours into the Sacred Valley for a special picnic lunch. After lunch, you will drive to the Salineras of Maras and Ollantaytambo to stay in a 3-star hotel.

Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (16km, 7hrs)

Breakfast in the hotel, board the first trains to Km 104 and start the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for 7 hours. You will visit Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Spend the night in a hotel in Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).

Day 5: Discover Machu Picchu (The lost city of the Incas) – 3 hours

On the final day, board the first buses, and explore the best of Machu Picchu, visiting the terraces, temples, palaces, and most important places in Machu Picchu. Return on the Vistadome Panoramic Train, finishing the tour around 7.30 pm in your hotel.

• Pick up from your hotel for the tour
• Free luggage storage
• Professional tour guide
• Door-to-door service (hotel to hotel)
• All bus tickets to Machu Picchu
• Entrance ticket to Inca Trail
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
• 2 nights of camping in the Mountains
• 2 nights 3-star hotel
• Eureka tents for camping
• Sleeping Foam Mattress
• Duffle bag for your stuff up to 8 kilos
• Chef, Porters, horse riders.
• Cargo mules to carry food and equipment
• Emergency horse in case someone needs
• First-aid kit, satellite phones, oxygen tank
• Rain Ponchos, pillows, dining tent, chairs, tables
• Panoramic Trains to return
• All taxes and booking fees

Not Included:

• Sleeping Bag, Air Mattress, Trekking Poles (Can be rented)
• Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Machu Picchu Mountain  (different from Machu Picchu citadel)
• Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
• Travel Insurance
• Tips (Optional)

Extra hikes after the Machu Picchu tour:

• Huayna Picchu Mountain  $75 per person. you need to book far in advance; climbing takes 2 hours round trip
• Machu Picchu Mountain  is $75 per person. You need to book in advance; it takes 3 hours to hike round trip.

Full Itinerary of the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail

Day 1: cusco – lares thermal baths – kiswarani – blue lagoon.

TreXperience team will pick you up from your hotel at around 4:30 am (depending on your location) and drive you through the beautiful landscape of the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the famous Lares thermo-medicinal baths – arriving at approximately 8:00 am. We will jump straight into the medicinal pools set at different temperatures. The water is excellent for your bones, muscles, stress, and headaches; therefore, this is the perfect way to prepare for your TreXperience ! after soaking our bodies, we will enjoy breakfast in a beautiful location surrounded by the majestic Andean mountains.

After breakfast, we will drive 30 minutes to the trailhead and start with a 2-hour hike to the Village of Kiswarani, where your chef will be waiting for well-deserved lunch. The second part of the day it's another 2-hour hike to the campsite on the shores of the Blue Lagoon at 3900 m (12795 ft). We will pass picturesque landscapes, potato farms, and fantastic waterfalls.

In the Lares region, villagers survive by farming potatoes and raising llamas and alpacas. On reaching our campsite, your tents and a hot cup of tea await you. This is a perfect place to relax, stargaze, and learn about Inca astronomy.  

• Campsite Altitude:  3900 m (12795 ft)
• Distance:  10 km/6 miles
• Duration:   7 hours
• Meals:  Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation:  Camping
• Difficulty:  Moderate

Day 2: Blue Lagoon – Condor Pass – Canchacancha Community

We will wake you up early with a hot coffee or coca tea. This is our longest and most challenging day, and after breakfast, it is a 4-hour hike uphill to Condor Pass at 4750m (15583 ft) – the highest point of this journey. Along the way, we will enjoy beautiful lakes where Wallatas (Andean geese or 'love birds') swim in the crystal clear waters and pass the imposing Andean mountains of Pitusiray, Sawasiray, Qolquecruz, all of which are over 18,000 ft. At the summit of Condor Pass, we will serve you a well-deserved cup of coca tea, and you can take some time to rest while your tour guide performs a spiritual offering ceremony to the sacred mountains. It is then over a 3-hour descent through the breathtaking scenery to the second campsite. You can see lagoons, exotic birds, llamas, alpacas, vizcachas (which look a lot like rabbits), and Wallatas along the way.

Our campsite is at Canchacancha (3750 m / 12 303 ft) –  the only Lares Valley village completely isolated from modern technology. This includes no drainage system, computers, internet connection, or cellphone service. Here they speak only Quechua – the ancient language spoken by the Incas. You will have time in Canchacancha to meet and interact with the local people, visit a local school, and help teach and play games with the children.

The villagers will welcome any donations of food, school supplies, or anything else you would like to give to help support this isolated community's health and education. Your guide will visit one of the family's homes late afternoon. Here you can first experience their traditional lifestyles passed down from the Incas, sample traditional food, and see how they raise guinea pigs, llamas, and alpacas. Our chef will have prepared dinner to enjoy together before a well-earned night's rest by the evening.

• Campsite Altitude:  3750 m / 12303 ft
• Distance:  16 km/ 910 miles
• Duration:  7 hours
• Accommodation:  Camping
• Difficulty:  Moderate to challenging

Day 3: Canchacancha – Salineras of Maras  – Ollantaytambo

Start the day with a beautiful view of the mountains and a delicious breakfast while you prepare for the final descent from the highlands into the Sacred Valley. First, we will say goodbye to the villagers still practicing Inca traditions and isolated from modern technologies.

Along the way, you can observe different ecosystems – from the cold mountains, where only potatoes are grown, to the fertile soils of the Sacred Valley, where corn is the primary product. Our TreXperience concludes in a small town called Huaran (2700 m / 8856 ft), and from here, a private bus will drive us to Salineras of Maras and then to Ollantaytambo "Last Living Incan City." or as it is sometimes known, "World Capital of the Native American." We will take some time to explore these ancient streets and the water channel that has been in use since Inca time. We will have dinner in a local restaurant in Ollantaytambo and spend the night in a hotel.

• Campsite Altitude:  2700m / 8856 ft
• Distance:  12 km / 7.4 miles
• Duration:  4 hours
• Accommodation:  Hotel
• Difficulty:  Easy to moderate

Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Short Inca Trail – Aguas Calientes

After an early breakfast in your hotel, we will take the train for 1 hour 30 minutes along the Urubamba river from Ollantaytambo (in the mountains) to km 104 at Chachabamba (in the cloud forest). We will head straight to the checkpoint at Chachabamba to start your TreXperience to Machu Picchu ! Please note you will need your original passport to pass through the checkpoint. Our first stop is a beautiful Inca site at km 104 called Chachabamba. From here, we will hike along an ancient Inca Trail abandoned in the 16th century.

The first section of the trail is a gradual uphill hike for 4 hours until we arrive at Wiñaywayna (the place that never gets old). At this point, we will take some time to explore this stunning archaeological site and enjoy the Andes' spectacular views. A packed lunch and refreshments will be provided. Once fed and energized, we will continue our hike to the Sungate to catch your first glimpse of the Lost City of the Incas – a truly unforgettable sight. It's a one-hour downhill walk to the city from the Sungate, with breathtaking views. We will arrive at Macchu Picchu in the afternoon and have the unique opportunity to experience the city almost empty. This is the perfect photo-taking opportunity! We will then take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, have dinner and spend the night in a hotel.

• Aguas Calientes:  2000m / 6561ft
• Highest altitude:  2700m / 8858ft
• Distance:  16km / 10 miles
• Duration:  7 hours
• Meals:  Lunch, snacks, dinner

Day 5:  Discover Machu Picchu (Lost City of the Incas) – Return to Cusco

On the last day, we have to get up very early and get ready to experience the highlights of the  Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail tour , visiting Machu Picchu. We will go straight to the queue and wait for the first buses to Machu Picchu at 5:30 am. As the sky brightens, we will enjoy incredible city views.

On a clear day, you can watch the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu, an unforgettable sight. Your guide will take you on a 2 to 3-hour comprehensive tour of the city before leaving you to Machu Picchu to explore on your own or climb  Huayna Picchu  or  Machu Picchu Mountain   (tickets must be booked in advance if possible). Your guide will explain how to take the bus from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and return on the Vistadome train and private van back to Cusco. The estimated arrival time is 7.30 pm.

• Duration:  3 – 4 hours
• Meals:  Breakfast (hotel)
• Difficulty:  Easy

Price of the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 days

Price per person:.

• From US$ 798 - Adults
• From US$ 758 - Children and students

To book the Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 200 per person; the remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco with any card and without booking fees. 

Student Discount:

• 40$ off per person

All travelers under 17 will have a $40 discount. If you are 25 years old or under when traveling, you can get a 40$ discount with your  Student ID .  Please advise by email to give you a code for the discount.

Valid Student ID for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu

To get the student discount, travelers should have a Valid ID with the following:

• 25 years or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu. Older than 25 can not enter as a student
• The ID must have the Name of the university, name, and photo of the student
• The ID must have a valid expiration date

Invalid Student IDs

Student IDs are not eligible for a discount when:

• Traveler is older than 25
• Student Id without expiration date
• ISIC cards are not valid. 

Similar tours you might be interested in: 

• Classic Inca Trail 4 days
• Short Inca Trail 2 days
• Rainbow Mountain 1 day
• Humantay Lake 1 day

Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour Packing List

For the Lares Trek,  you will have your daypack that you will carry every day and a duffel bag provided by TreXperience during the briefing at our office in Cusco the day before the trip. Your main luggage will remind at your hotel or in our lockers in Cusco, and you will only travel with the duffel bag with a maximum of 7 kg. Our porters will carry the duffel bag, food, and camping equipment.

During the Short Inca Trail, we will not have porters anymore. You will only travel to the IncaTrail with your backpack; the duffle bag must return to Ollantaytambo. On request, we can transfer the duffle bag directly to the hotel in Aguas Calientes. However, we recommend traveling light. 

Essentials for the Lares trek and Short Inca Trail

This is the equipment that every hiker should have: 

• Original Passport
• Small hiking backpack
• Hiking pants
• Hiking boots
• Trekking poles
• 2 liters of water
• Extra money

What to put in the bag for the Lares Trek.

The backpack will always be with you. Your responsibility is to carry it with you when hiking during the day must be as light as possible. Remember that you can only find duffel bags at campsites, and everything you need during the day must be in your backpack.

• Passport . –  The original passport must always be in a safe and dry place.
• Student card . – If you have booked a student ID, you must also bring your student ID.
• Water bottle.  – Reusable water containers for at least 2 litters must be carried
• Poncho, raincoat . – Plastic poncho will be provided to you together with the duffel bag.
• Sunscreen, a hat, and a long-sleeved shirt . -You will hike in open spaces without shelters and must always be protected.
• Warm jacket . -In the early morning and late afternoons, the weather is freezing.
• First Aid Kit: You must always carry personal medicine, band-aids , painkillers, Cipro, allergy medicine, Diamox, etc.
• Headlights, cameras, mobile phones, sunglasses
• Toilet paper . -Must be carried at all times
• Extra cash . -Be sure to bring money with you in small denominations.

What to put in the duffle bag during the Lares Trek?

• Sleeping bag . – 4 seasons (-10°) sleeping bags are required for hiking; you can bring your own or rent them from us.
• Air mattress . -We will provide foam mattresses; however, if you want extra comfort at night, we recommend bringing or renting an air mattress.
• Pillows .- During this trip, we will provide you with small camping pillows.
• Shoes .- For this hike, we strongly recommend that you wear hiking boots
• Socks .- You need about 6 thick wool hiking socks and 4 light socks to walk around at night or after hiking.
• 3 pairs of trousers , hiking pants, or ladies' leggings are also suitable.
• Thermal underwear .- This is very important at night.
• Swimsuit . -We will visit Lares Thermal baths.
• Sandals . -Change after hiking and in the hotel.
• Toiletries . – Toothpaste, soap, shampoo, lip balm, moisturizer
• Towel . – Small and light towels
• Hand sanitizer and toilet paper

What to pack for the Short Inca Trail?

Remember that we don't have porters for the Short Inca Trail; you must carry your belongings. Below is a list of recommended items to bring:

• A small day pack or large fanny pack to carry your belongings while trekking
• Original passport
• Walking sticks or a hiking pole
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Sunscreen and hat
• Sunglasses -Bug spray
• Candy, snacks, and energy bars
• Water bottle or camelback
• First Aid kit, including supplies for blister care
• Jacket or poncho in case of rain

Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail - Frequently Asked Questions

The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu takes you off the beaten path to explore remote villages in the Peruvian Andes, visit pristine glacial lakes, hike with llamas and alpacas in their natural habitat, and hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Below you will find the most common questions about this fantastic trek. 

What is the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail is a combination of 2 of the most popular treks to Machu Picchu:

• The Lares Trek is a 3-day trek that takes you through the stunning Andean mountains and into the heart of the Inca Empire.
• The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day trek that takes you to Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world.

Both treks are an incredible way to see Peru's most beautiful scenery and learn about its rich history and culture.

What are the differences between the two treks?

A few key differences exist between the Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail.

• The Lares Trek is more of a cultural trek where you visit isolated Andean villages, explore beautiful lakes, and hike in the remote mountains in solitude. The Short Inca Trail follows the ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, full of history and Inca sites.
• The Lares Trek is less crowded; few people will be hiking this trail compared to the Short Inca Trail , which can have up to 250 people daily.
• The Lares Trek is a high-altitude hike, while the Short Inca Trail is located in the Cloud forest region close to the Amazon basin. 

What is the Lares Trek?

The Lares Trek is a popular alternative to the classic Inca Trail hike. It is a less crowded, more authentic Andean experience that takes you through beautiful mountain scenery and traditional villages. The trek starts in Lares, about 3 hours from Cusco, and follows a valley up to the pass at 4,750 meters. From there, it descends into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, finishing at Ollantaytambo or Aguas Calientes.

What is the Short Inca Trail?

The Short Inca Trail is a 4-day trek that starts in Cusco and ends at Machu Picchu. The trail is shorter and less crowded than the Classic Inca Trail , making it a good option for those who want to avoid the crowds but still experience the Iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . The Short Inca Trail includes all major sites along the Inca Trail, such as Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and Inti Punku (the Sun Gate).

When is the best time to hike the Lares Trek?

The best time to complete the Lares Trek is during the dry season, from May to September. The weather during this time is more predictable, with lower rain chances, making for a more enjoyable trekking experience. Even though it may be hot during the day, the nights can still be cold, so it is important to pack accordingly.

When is the best time to hike the Short Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is in the dry season, from May to September. The weather is milder, and there is less chance of rain. However, it is also the busiest time of year, so you must book your trip well in advance.

What is the highest altitude on the Lares Trek?

The highest altitude on the Lares Trek is Condor Pass  at 4750m (15583 ft)

What is the highest altitude on the Short Inca Trail?

Sun Gate is the highest altitude on the Short Inca Trail, with 2700m / 8858 ft.

How long does the Lares Trek take?

The Lares Trek is a 3-day hike and covers a total distance of 38 km (24 miles). The trek is challenging but incredibly rewarding, and you'll experience traditional Peruvian culture firsthand.

How long does the Short Inca Trail take?

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu takes 1 day to hike and covers 16 km (10 miles). 

How to prepare for either trek?

Assuming you have a basic level of fitness, preparation for either the Lares Trek or the Short Inca Trail should not be too daunting. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Prepare in advance for the trek by going on regular hikes back home
• Bring proper hiking equipment for the trip
• Both tours are at high altitudes, so give yourself plenty of time to acclimate before undertaking either.
• We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before your trek starts.
• Pack plenty of layers, as the temperature can vary significantly throughout the day, especially in the Lares Trek.
• Make sure your footwear is well broken in and comfortable - you'll be doing a lot of walking!
• Listen to your body and take it easy if you're not feeling 100%. It's better to rest up and be ready for your hike than push yourself too hard and risk getting sick or injured.

How many people can go on the Lares Trek?

A maximum of 16 people can go on the Lares Trek at once. However, groups are usually very small, and we seldom get full groups.

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Tour Valle Sagrado con Moray y Machu Picchu 2Dias/1Noche

Lares trek & short inca trail 4d/3n, lares trek and short inca trail..

The  Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail offers trekkers a unique opportunity to hike their way through the Sacred Valley to the gates of Machu Picchu, starting with a relaxing dip in the volcanic thermal baths in the mountain town of Lares.

Along the trail you will pass by shimmering glacial lakes, skyscraper mountains and herds of resident llamas and alpacas. Aswell as encountering some of the most isolated indigenous communities of the Valley that keep the ancient Inca traditions alive.

On day 3 your guide will lead you on a 13km day hike along part of the most famous trail in Peru, the  Inca trail to Macchu Picchu! Journeying through the best of Inca history, whilst visiting the impressive sites of Wiñayhuayna  and  Inti Punku sun gate before reaching the gates of Machu Picchu.

Day 4 will provide you with a second opportunity to visit one of the 7 wonders of the world, only this time at sunrise!

Places to visit :

• Sacsallaully Pass
• Ollantaytambo
• Inti Punku Sun Gate
• Machu Picchu
• Aguas Calientes
• Huayna Picchu

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Our dedicated team of travel experts is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey.

• It Includes

Price and Options

Packing list.

• Day 1 : Cusco – Calca – Lares – Huacahuasi 
• Day 2 : Huacahuasi – Sacsallaully Pass – Yanahuara
• Day 3 : Yanahuara – Inca Trail – Km 104 – Wiñaywayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
• Day 4 : Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Tour – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

DAY 1 – CUSCO – CALCA – LARES – HUACAHUASI 

The  Lares Trek and short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu  begins with pick up from your hotel in  Cusco  at 5:30am.

After a 1-hour drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you’ll briefly stop in the town of  Calca  to visit the local market and take breakfast. From there your private transport will drive you a further 2-hours through a picturesque Andean valley to the town of  Lares  at 3,100m / 10,170 ft. Here you will be greeted by our chef and horses man who will accompany you throughout the hike. You will also be treated to a relaxing dip in the thermal baths of Lares, where the volcanic water reaches temperatures of 34 ° C. Allowing its therapeutic waters to rejuvenate your body and mind.

The first day of the trek will start with an opportunity to acclimatise along a 2-hour stretch of flat trail to the bridge of  Vilcabamba . Delightfully, your chef will be waiting there with hot tea to warm your chilly bones and a delicious lunch to re-energise you for the afternoons’ trek.

After lunch you will continue along the trail for a further 3-hours, gradually ascending to camp in  Huacahuasi  at 3,750 m / 12,303 ft. Along the way, you will encounter a number of local communities and herds of their resident alpacas. The local Andean residents will be wearing the traditional clothing of the mountains and will speak in the native Quechua dialect, offering you a rare insight into the native way of life in the Andes. 

In late afternoon you will arrive in the majestic village of Huacahuasi to set up camp, enjoy a hearty dinner, and sleep under the starlit Andean sky.

• Food :  Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• Estimated walking time :  5 hours
• Total distance :  11 km
• Accommodation :  Camping
• Altitude of accommodation :  3,750 m / 12,303 ft

DAY 2 – HUACAHUASI – SACSALLAULLY PASS – YANAHUARA

Day 2 of the tour to Machu Picchu will be the most challenging. Therefore you will awake with the first light of dawn for a freshly cooked breakfast amidst the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. 

The trail begins ascending through sweeping Andean landscapes, dotted with colorful native flora and herds of grazing alpacas and llamas. The sacred creatures of the Inca empire, were once sacrificed in honour of the Inca Gods. However these days they tend to serve the local people of the region, who keep them for clothing, food, fuel and transportation. 

After traversing up the valley for 3-hours, you will reach the highest point of the tour, the Sacsallaully Pass at 4,646 m / 15,242 ft, where the mountains seem to touch the sky. At the viewpoint on the summit, you will be treated to spectacular views of the valley below and the glistening waters of Laguna Auroraycocha at 4,470 m / 14,665 ft. Here you can take the souvenir photos you have been waiting for, before descending for an hour to the shores of the Lagoon to appreciate a well earned lunch.

The afternoons’ hike consists of a 4-hour descent through magical cloud forests, woodlands of Queuña (tree of the Incas) & alongside another stunning lagoon named Yuracocha . Upon arrival at the cosy settlement of Yanahuara at 2,780 m / 9,120 ft, you’ll find rest and a hot dinner at the campsite for the night.

• Food : Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• Estimated walking time : 8 hours
• Total distance : 18 km
• Accommodation : Camping
• Altitude of accommodation : 2,780 m / 9,120 ft

DAY 3 – YANAHUARA – INCA TRAIL – KM 104 – WIÑAYWAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES

Day 3 of the Inca trail to Machu Picchu  will begin with an early breakfast at camp in Yanahuara. Afterwhich your private transport will drive you to the train station in  Ollantaytambo  where you will board an early train to Kilometer 104. The 1-hour train journey will take you to the start of the hike at  Km 104  at 2,200m / 7217 ft.

After crossing the bridge over the  Willkamayu River  (Sacred River in Quechua), you’ll arrive at the first checkpoint of the Inca trail. Here you will show your Passport, Registration Card or National Identity Document, to pass into to the national park. The first archeological site of the day,  Chachabamba  (valley of the trees in Quechua), is a 15 minute walk away, inside a pristine semi-tropical Andean forest, surrounded by fertile land and lush vegetation.

Once you have had chance to explore the ruins of Chachabamba, you’ll begin the 3-hour climb up the mountain trail to Wiñaywayna. The hike is tough but steady, and will treat you to spectacular views of agricultural stepped terraces, cloud forests and glistening waterfalls. Along the trail you will also get to know the local collection of flora and fauna that is unique to the region. Such as the Wiñay Wayna orchid, the Molle shrub and the Qeuña (Polylepis racemosa).

At around midday, you’ll arrive at the impressive archaeological site of  Wiñayhuayna . The name means Forever Young in Quechua and is inspired by the beautiful orchids that surround the site. Located at 2,650 m / 8,694 ft , the complex is situated upon the steep slopes of the hillside, amongst 40 levels of agricultural stepped terraces, overlooking the Urubamba river. Built by the Emperor Pachacutec in the 15th century, the citadel is one of the most famous sites within the sanctuary of Machu Picchu, and was once an important venue for agriculture, religion and administration. Here your guide will take you on a journey through its history and provide you with an opportunity to rest and eat the lunch box we have prepared for you.

After lunch in Wiñayhuayna , you’ll begin the afternoons’ hike to the  Inti Punku Sun Gate . The andean path and stone steps will be a challenge to the best of us, but after enduring the climb for an hour or so, you will be greeted by the most breathtaking, panoramic view of  Machu Picchu . At 2,720 m / 8,923 ft, the sun gate is strategically located to welcome noble visitors of the Inca citadel, acting as a control gate for its elite visitors. As well as offering one of the most stunning views of the sanctuary and its surrounding mountains, the sacred site is also famed for framing the sunrise during the winter solstice in June.

With a camera full of photos of that unforgettable view, you will follow the trail onward to Machu Picchu. Descending for 45 minutes, to the gates of the Lost city of the Incas at 2,490 m / 8,169 ft. Your first encounter with the citadel will be a relatively short one, but since our arrival will be late in the afternoon, there will be few tourists around to share it with.

As there will be plenty more time to befriend the Inca city on day 3, you and your guide will take the 30 minute tourist bus from Machu Picchu entrance to the town below,  Aguas Calientes .

Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes) is situated at 2,160 m / 7,086 ft, 300m lower than Machu Picchu, and will be your resting place for the night in one of our recommended hotels. It is also home to a public ATM, a collection of thermal baths (hot springs) and a multitude of bars and restaurants. Once your guide has accompanied you to your hotel for check in, they will also direct you to the restaurant where you will be treated to an a la carte menu that evening, and possibly a celebratory drink.

*If you wish to relax in the thermal baths (hot springs), they are only a 10 minute walk from the town center and are open for visitors until 8pm. Entrance fee is 10 soles (optional extra cost).*

• Total distance : 13 km
• Accommodation : Hotel
• Altitude of accommodation : 2,000 m / 6,561 ft

DAY 4 – AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU TOUR – CUSCO

After taking breakfast in your hotel, your guide will meet you at reception and escort you the bus station where you will board the tourist bus to  Machu Picchu . The scenic route from Aguas calientes takes you on a 30 minute bus ride up the mountainside to the entrance of the Inca citadel. Once inside, you will be taken on a 3-hour  tour of Machu Picchu , journeying through its rich history, as you make your way through the Inca city with your personal tour guide. Aswell as visting the famous sites of the temple of the sun, the central plaza and the stepped terraces, you will have plenty opportunity to take the bucket list photos you came for atop the panoramic viewpoint of Machu Picchu. Before boarding the bus back down the mountain, your guide will also allow you time to explore the mysteries of the sanctuary alone.

Once you have regrouped with your guide and taken the bus back to  Aguas Calientes , there will be time to take lunch in one of Machu Picchu towns’ many restaurants (optional extra), before boarding the train back to  Ollantaytambo.  There you will be greeted by your guide and private transportation who will take you on the 2-hour drive back to your hotel in  Cusco . Arrival time in Cusco is approximatley 6.30pm.

*There will also be time to climb  Huayna Picchu   mountain  or  Machu Picchu mountain  in this tour after your guided tour of the Inca citadel. However please be aware, this will be an extra cost of $70 USD per person and will involve an extra 2-hours hiking. Return to Cusco will therefore be aboard a later train and arrival time in Cusco will be approx 8.30pm.*

• 6:00pm Briefing at your hotel in Cusco the night before the trek
• Private transport from hotel in Cusco to Lares
• Professional English/Spanish speaking tour guide
• Trekking poles – 2 poles per person
• Sleeping bags for entire trek – suitable for  -15° C / 5° F.
• All camping equipment : 3 person tents (with enough space for belongings)
• Dining and cooking tents with tables and chairs
• Muleteers & horses to carry tents, food, and cooking equipment – 7kg per person
• 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (All prepared by our chef)
• Vegetarian/vegan and special diets requested
• 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes 3***
• Entrance ticket to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
• 3-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Transport form Yanahuara to Ollantaytambo
• Bus ticket : Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
• Train ticket : Ollantaytambo – Km 104
• Train ticket : Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo 
• Private transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
• Oxygen and first aid kit

Not Included

• Food not included in the itinerary
• Breakfast in Calca on first day
• Lunch in Aguas Calientes on fourth day
• Hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain : $ 70 USD (upon client request)
• Optional entrance to thermal baths in Aguas Calientes (S / .10 soles)
• Gratuities / Tips for the guide, porters and cook

Recommendations to bring

• Original passport – expiration date no less than 7 months
• Valid Student ID card (if student booking)
• Good quality walking boots or shoes
• Sandals for down time (very important)
• Baselayers of varying temperatures, especially for the night
• Thermals, gloves, scarves, wooly hat
• Good quality trekking socks to avoid blisters
• Raincoat or long poncho (for rainy season)
• Waterproof trousers (for rainy season)
• Long sleeve shirts
• Long trousers
• Shorts suitable for hiking
• Wide-brimmed hat – UPV is strong at altitude
• Canteen water bottle as you should drink plenty of fluid on the trail
• Headlamp/Torch (very important)
• Insect repellent
• Medicine/personal effects (eg. contact lense liquid)
• Personal First Aid Kit
• Camera or phone camera
• Portable battery charger
• Toilet paper (not usually found on trail)
• Small travel towel
• Cash/coins – small denominations – soles & dollars
• Swimming suit for the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes (optional)

(2 to 3 people)

(4 to 5 people)

(6 to 8 people)

• TOILET ARTICLES
• IN YOUR BACKPACK

ESSENTIAL ITEMS:

• Original Passport
• VALID STUDENT ID CARD (if booked as a student)
• Immigration card (delivered on the airport upon entering Peru)
• Good quality backpack (medium sized)
• Water storage bottle or canteen: Camelbak bottles are recommended, but all need to be sufficient to hold 1-2 litres
• Comfortable shoes, preferably light with good soles (waterproof goretex for rainy seasons)

FOR YOUR BAGGAGE:

The horses and the train have a luggage limit of 7kg. We therefore recommend only bringing essentials with you to Machu Picchu.

• 4 Long sleeve shirts
• 4 Breathable t-shirts
• 4 Sets of underwear
• 4 Pairs of socks
• 2 Hiking trousers
• 1 Shorts (suitable for hiking)
• 1 Waterproof coat and pants (for rainy seasons)
• Sandals – In case you want to visit the hot springs in Machu Picchu town
• Small quick-drying travel towel
• Portable battery charger for your phone and cameras

TOILETRIES:

• Facial moisturiser
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Toilet paper
• Personal medication
• First aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc.

ITEMS TO TAKE INSIDE MACHU PICCHU:

We recommend taking a backpack into the citadel, however please be aware that bags of more than 25 liters will not be allowed. Larger backpacks will need be stored outside the gates of the citadel.

• Water canteen
• Rain clothes
• Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for waste
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips

Additional Information

Extra options, huayna picchu and machu picchu mountain.

• Extra tickets will need to be purchased to climb  Huayna Picchu  or  Machu Picchu mountain
• There are limited number of spaces available per day, so we recommend requesting booking the tickets in advance
• Once the mountain tickets are sold out for that day, there are no options available for extra tickets
• The cost to climb the Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu mountain is $ 70 USD per person. This will be added to the total cost
• Those hiking Inca Trail that wish to do Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, will also be charged an extra $ 70 USD
• IMPORTANT : Before requesting tickets to the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, check availability by contacting us!

• Departure dates:  We have groups for the Inca trail every day of the year. except February, when the Inca Trail is closed throughout the month. The month of February you can visit Machu Picchu by train. is not possible to do the Inca Trail on february.
• Availability : To the Inca road of 2D / 1N Only 250 people per day are allowed. This figure includes tourists, guides, porters and cooks. The quotas are for all the people who wish to carry out the Inca Trail. So to make the Inca Trail it is essential to book months in advance. The availability of seats for the Inca Trail is the same for all agencies. Therefore before making your reservation, please check availability by contacting our email: [email protected]

Frequently Questions

Where does the tour start and end.

• All ours tours begins with the pick up to the tourists at the door of their hotels “We pick up to our clients from any hotel located in the city of Cusco”, We recommend to stay close to the historical center of the city of Cusco, it will make it easier to find your hotel.
• All our tours ends at the door of the hotels, it means the tours will finish with transfer to your respective hotel located in Cusco.

How to prevent altitude sickness?

• The altitude sickness or soroche can cause you some discomfort during your visit such as dizziness, fatigue or nausea. Try to avoid alcoholic beverages and fatty foods before the visit.
• To reduce symptoms, try to acclimatize yourself one day before to the altitude of the city of Cusco. We recommend to drink infusions of coca leaf (natural plant used by the Incas) is an excellent option to avoid the actitude sickness.

How is the accommodation?

• For all the tours which include hotels. We offer hotels of 3* and 4* category, it has spacious and comfortable rooms, bathrooms, hot showers and bueffet breakfast. If the tourist like, you can change the accommodation to a better service. You just have to request it via email for an additional cost.

Which season is the best time to visit Cusco and Machu Picchu?

• The dry season months between April to December are the best time to come and visit Cusco. During those days the possibility of rain is very little, so the roads are not swampy and the landscapes can be better to enjoy and takes the best pictures. On the other hand, the months with the most rain are January, February and March.

What are the coldest months in Cusco Peru?

• The coldest season in Cusco are in the months from May to July. During this time the sun is strong in the day, but once it goes down or you spend much time in the shade, it can get very cold. It can go below zero at night, so warm clothes and Jackets are necessary to bring during these months.

How long in advance can I request the tour?

• We recommend to purchase the tours weeks or months in advance, this because the train and Machu Picchu tickets has a limit of spaces, dont wait until the lust minute to book your tour, other ways you will not be able to find spaces.

During the trip to Machu Picchu, where the big luggages will stay?

The train company that operates to Machu Picchu does not allow the traveler to carry a suitcase that weighs more than 7 kilograms. To go up and visit the city of Machu Picchu, it is recommended to carry a light and small backpack for your convenience; the rest of the luggages you can leave them without any problem at the storage of your hotel in Cusco, or you can also leave at our office in Cusco city, we have an storage too.

Very Important in case you want to book the Inca trail to Machu Picchu:

• CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS: If you want to book the Classic Inca Trail 4 days, you must to book early to get your desired date. Depending on the month you prefer to do the hike, you may need to book 6 months or more in advance, the limit of spaces for the inca trail 4 days is 400 people per each day.
• SHORT INCA TRAIL: If you are booking the 1 or 2 day Inca Trail, it is preferred that you also book in advance, however 2 to 4 month in advance would be good, the limit of spaces for the short inca trail is 200 people per each day.

When is the best season to hike the Inca Trail?

• The best time of year to do the inca trail is between May to October, with August and September being the best months of all. The trail is dry and the weather is lovely. During the rainy season between November to April  the trail will be wet and can make it more difficult.

What will you live in the Tour Lares and Short Inca Trail 4 Days

• We will meet Andean people dressed in their traditional costumes.
• We will visit local communities and see houses with thatched roofs made of stones and surrounded by llamas and alpacas.
• It is an experience for those who want to experience the traditional life of the people of the Lares Valley.
• This place is perfect for photographers because you can meet local people and see amazing landscapes.
• The walk to these two beautiful places will make you feel a sense of peace and tranquility thanks to its natural and archaeological beauty.

What Our Clients Say In Tripadvisor

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Why choose "Machu Picchu Viajes Peru"?

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We have the highest social and environmental standards in the market of tour operators, which means that we practice a sustainable and responsible tourism with the environment.

Certificates and Authorizations

We are a tour operator company, which has all the authorizations from the Peruvian government, authorizations that certify us as a legally constituted company .

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We are one of the few companies in Peru certified by TourCert, European certifier with a management system oriented to work on aspects of Business Social Responsibility (BSR).

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A breathtaking view of this incredible mountain

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Unlock the hidden gems of Peru on a 4-day trekking adventure around Lares, the Short Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain! Don’t miss out on this life-changing experience.

4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail

4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail: Venture through the northern Andes on the Lares Trek, then enter the cloud forest on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and culminate in the southern Andes on the lovely Rainbow Mountain Trail for a combination of top-notch hiking trails .

Discover Peru’s vibrant culture and history with this best-of-Cusco four-day trek combo between the guided hike around the Lares Trek connecting with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu , culminating in glory on the Rainbow Mountain of Peru .

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If you’re looking for an adventure combining breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and physical challenge, the 4 Days Lares Hike with the Short Inca Trail in Peru is perfect.

Lares Trek Short Inca Trail Overview 

Experience the best of both worlds with our Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail tour packages. This 4-day adventure takes you through the stunning Andean mountains, past remote villages, and ancient Incan ruins. You’ll also experience the iconic Machu Picchu.

• Day 1: Hike to Lares Trek
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4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Highlights

• Take your exploration to new heights with a four-day journey, including the Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail, ending with a visit to glorious Rainbow Mountain. It’s an adventure that’ll be talked about forever!
• Enjoy a combination of culture, nature, hiking, and adventure on this immersive 4-day tour through Peru—experience the Lares Trek, the Short Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain!

4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail Itinerary 

This immersive expedition takes you on a remarkable adventure through the heart of Peru, where you’ll experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Andean mountains, the remnants of the mighty Inca civilization, and the best landscapes.

Cusco – Lares Trek to Patacancha

At 5:00 , we start the vehicular journey from Cusco to Calca and continue to the Andean community of Wakawasi. From Huacawasi, we begin the one-day Lares trek until we reach the Ipsay Pass, 4410 meters (15,431 feet). We descend towards the IPSA COCHA lagoon at 4,200 meters. We continue the walk until we reach Patacancha, the neighboring community of Rumira. In Rumira, our tourist vehicle awaits us to complete the trip until we get to the “site of our overnight stay” in Ollantaytambo.

Informational note: The walking route takes hikers through two attractive weaving communities in Huacahuasi and Patacancha. We will be able to observe alpacas grazing in their natural habitat.

The Lares route is easily accessible from Cusco.

• Travel distance from Cusco to Huaca Wasi: “Huaca Wasi: 03 hours, 20 minutes
• Hiking route: From Huacahuasi to Rumira (Patacancha)
• Walking distance: 14km (9 miles)
• Hike Elevation Start: 3,750 meters (12,303 feet)
• Ipsay Pass Elevation: 4,440 meters (14,435 feet)
• Elevation at the end of the walk: 3,800 meters (12,467 feet).
• Hike difficulty: challenging to moderate (depending on your fitness level).
• Ollantaytambo Elevation: 2,851 meters (9,353 feet).
• Adventure: Absolutely, completely satisfactory

Lares Information

Physical Level

Walking distance.

14km (9 miles)

Hiking Time

Starting altitude.

Huaca Wasi: 3,750m (12,303 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Patacancha: 3,800m (12,467 ft)

Highest Altitude

Ipsay Pass: 4,400m (14,435 ft)

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

At 06:00 , we walk to the Ollantaytambo train station (a 12-minute walk)

• Train company: INCA RAIL
• Service: OLLANTAYTAMBO-KM 104 (01 hour and 20 minutes of train ride)
• Class: The Voyager 41
• Departure:  06:40. We start the train journey.
• At Station: 06:10; otherwise, you may not be allowed to board.
• KM 104 Arrival: 07:50

Onboard, at km 104, you will find our starting point for trekking. SERNANP MACHU PICCHU, where you must register and show your permits and passports. Right after the first checkpoint are the ruins of Chachabamba.

The path climbs gradually, taking three hours to reach the Wiñay Wayna complex. The walk offers breathtaking views of the ruins of Choquesuysuy and the Urubamba Valley.

Wiñay Wayna was mainly agricultural, and the curved terraces on the incredibly steep slope are impressive. Given the importance of water, this seems to indicate a religious preference.

After a packed lunch, continue the trail and walk from Wiñay Wayna to the Intipunku “Sun Gate,” taking two hours. The path to the ruins itself lasts about half an hour. You descend by CONSETUR bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night at our hotel.

Hiking data:

• Height of the start of the walk: 2100m/6900ft. (Chachabamba, Km 104)
• The highest point of the walk is 2730 m/8,792 ft. (Inti Punku)
• Hiking distance: 10 km/6.3 miles (Chachabamba to Machu Picchu)
• Hiking difficulty: moderate.

2, Moderate

10km (6.3 miles)

KM 104: 2,000m (6,560 ft)

Machu Picchu Ruins: 2,400m (7,874 ft)

Inti Pinku: 2,720m (8,920 ft)

Machu Picchu Guided Tour and Return Cusco

Finally, we have the principal day of all vacations in the Andes of Peru: the visit to Machu Picchu.

At the chosen time of the group organized with our tour guide, we start the tour by tourist bus that takes us to the entrance gates of Machu Picchu. We enter the Inca citadel, ascending in a walk of about 15 minutes to obtain the best panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

We explore the Inca citadel thoroughly from above to cover all the important sites like the Inca quarry area, the temple of the sun, the sundial, the temple of the condor, etc.

After the spectacular visit to Machu Picchu, we can put the stamp of the Machu Picchu logo “optional stamp; it is free; it is interesting to put it in the passport (the real proof that Machu Picchu visited).”

At noon or early in the afternoon, we began to return to the city of Cusco. It takes three and a half hours by “train and ground transportation.” Thank you for exploring the Andes and the jungle of Cusco.

• Service: MACHU PICCHU-OLLANTAYTAMBO (1 hour and 40 minutes of train ride).
• Class: The Voyager 44
• Departure: 14:30
• At Station: 14:00; otherwise, you may not be allowed to board.
• Ollantaytambo arrival: 16:04
• Cusco arrival by transport: 17:50

A light walk

2-hour guided tour

Machu Picchu Pueblo: 2,065m (6,774 ft)

Cusco: 3,350m (10,990 ft)

Adventure of the Rainbow Mountain

Hikers begin the expedition at 5:00 in the morning. You will see hundreds of alpacas throughout the trip. On top of the colored mountain is a 360-degree view to enjoy.

OPTIONAL THE RED VALLEY: Highly recommended; this extension takes 35 minutes of additional walking. The Red Valley has an incredible view. From here, we continue our way back to the beginning of the trail to return to the imperial city of Cusco.

Helpful information about the trek.

• Travel time: Cusco to Llactoq, 3 hours
• Height of the starting point of the walk: 4,900 m/16,076 ft. (El Parqueo – Llactoq)
• Tour Circuit Max Elevation: 5,100 meters (16,732 feet).
• Hiking distance: 7 kilometers
• Hike difficulty: challenging “uphill”; easy “downhill.”
• Meals: Box lunch.
• Return time to Cusco: Arrival in Cusco between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

5, Challenging

7km (4.3 miles)

100-minutes

Llactoq: 4,900m (16,076 ft)

Rainbow Pass: 5,100m (16,732 ft)

4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail INCLUSION

• Outdoor activities on treks through the Andes
• A bilingual local tour guide who speaks Spanish and English has a “current card to enter the tourist circuits.”
• Private tourist transport for transfer services (according to the itinerary)
• Authorization and payment of entry to the tourist area of Lares via Patacancha
• Food: 1 box lunch prepared in a tourist restaurant in Cusco; “hikers take their box lunch on the hiking trail.”
• Breakfast buffet at the hotel
• Train by Inca Rail: Outbound Journey: OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM 104: Train Class: Voyager 61, at 07:22
• The tour guide travels on the same train as the walkers to make the stop at kilometer 104 of the railway.
• Authorization to get off the train at km 104
• Entrance tickets plus approval to enter the Inca Trail network
• Box lunch: “Visitors carry in their backpack.”
• Bus ticket down from the ruins to Aguas Calientes
• 2 bus tickets (up and down)
• Guided tour: 2 hours
• Train by Inca Rail : Inbound Journey: Machu Picchu-Ollantaytambo: Train Class: The Voyager 44, at 14:30
• Private transfer service from POROY train station to CUSCO
• Entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain
• First aid kit and medicated oxygen “just in case.”

4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail NO INCLUSION

• Hotels, Hostels, Airbnb, or Lodges for stays in CUSCO, OLLANTAYTAMBO, AGUAS CALIENTES OR MACHU PICCHU PUEBLO
• Drinking water
• For food not described in the itinerary, “there are several alternatives to cover it daily.”
• Tip for your guide(s) and driver

What should I bring to the 4-Day Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail?

Important checklist

• Original passport (keep it in an airtight plastic bag in case of rain). We used our passports to board the train to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• COMFORTABLE DAY BACKPACK : A small, comfortable, and light backpack with an adaptable waist strap to balance the weight and enjoy the walks. A waterproof backpack cover is also great for keeping all your gear dry and dust-free.
• Plastic bags : Keep your belongings and clothes dry.
• WALKING POLES : It is highly recommended to have walking poles for your trek. At Lares and Rainbow Mountain, you can use metal spikes, but for the Inca Trail, use rubber bands to protect the trail and preserve the Inca Trail. In Machu Picchu, canes are prohibited.
• WALKING BOOTS : Select comfortable, lightweight, good-quality shoes. Booties and waterproofs are recommended, but if you already have something comfortable and grippy, don’t rush to buy new boots; they’re better than the old ones!
• REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE:  Fill your bottle with bottled water to recycle plastic and pristine hiking trails.
• WARM CLOTHING FOR LARES AND RAINBOW MOUNTAIN : fleece, jacket, wool hat, gloves, and bandana.
• Waterproof Clothing : The rainy season is from December to March, but it can rain in the Andes any day of the year. It is better to be careful.
• TOILET PAPER : This is an essential item on the hike! We take plastic bags for garbage to keep the planet blue and green.
• PERSONAL MEDICATIONS AND BASIC FIRST AID KIT : Band-Aids for blisters that can be generated when walking, stomach upsets, or altitude sickness, among other medications prescribed by your doctor.
• FOR THE SUN : Solar radiation in the Andes is intense. Bring excellent sunscreen and apply it occasionally to protect yourself from the sun. Also, bring sunglasses and a hat.
• INSECT REPELLENT : In the Lares Valley, sometimes through Ollantaytambo, the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu, there are some flying insects or mosquitoes, so it is advisable to bring a good insect repellent.
• SNACKS : chocolates, chips, crackers, granola bars, or energy bars. “Bring a few extras, just in case—just what you need.”
• EXTRA MONEY : Most businesses handle US dollars and Peruvian soles in Peruvian national currency and dollars.

Travel Guide

Facts about the 4-day lares trek and short inca trail.

Get off the beaten path on a 4-day trekking adventure through some of Peru’s most iconic trails. You’ll be surrounded by incredible beauty, from the Lares Trek to the Short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain. Explore with us!

What is the best time of the year to book the 4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail?

The dry season begins in May and typically ends in September or October. During these months, the Inca Trail is the best alternative since good weather allows you to appreciate the majestic valleys and beautiful mountains along the way without clouds or fog.

In other months, the rainfall increases.

How far in advance should I book the 4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail?

We recommend that you make your reservation at least twelve months in advance because tickets for this incredible hike are sold out months in advance due to its great popularity.

In our experience working with travelers worldwide, many enthusiastic travelers have sadly tried to book a month in advance. We have told them there are no more spaces, so please follow our recommendation to book many months in advance.

Three hundred admission tickets are reserved for agency personnel, i.e., porters, cooks, helpers, porters, and other staff.

Two hundred admission tickets are available for sale to the general public.

Does the 4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail operate all year round?

The Inca Trail closed annually in February due to maintenance work in various route sectors.

What is the difficulty level of the 4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail?

According to the international classification on the level of difficulty of a hike, we have the following:

On the other hand, the Inca Trail is considered by travelers and experienced hikers to have a degree of difficulty of three because the Inca Trail route passes through various types of climates and different altitudes.

What should I bring for the 4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail?

• The maximum weight to carry on the Inca Trail is 5 kilograms.
• Please take into account this weight restriction.
• The following should be considered for this route:

The most important thing is that the original ID card or passport is valid and that it is the document with which we made our reservation. Otherwise, we will not be allowed to enter.

• Sleeping bag.
• A medium backpack of approximately 30 or 40 liters
• Toiletries, including toilet paper and wet wipes, as there are no toilets along the route.
• Underwear, especially microfiber socks or any specific material for this type of use
• Insect repellent.
• Bottle or canteen
• Flashlight with spare batteries
• Cash in Peruvian soles
• Wide-brimmed hat

What footwear should I wear on the 4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail?

Kondor Path Tours recommends wearing boots one size larger than usual that are not new or have had some use, as wearing new boots can cause scrapes on the ankles or heel of the foot.

Can I do the 4-Day Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail alone?

In 2000, the Peruvian government made it mandatory for travelers to enter the Inca Trail route through a tourist agency.

What is the highest point on the 4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail?

Lares Trek: Ipsay Pass Short Inca Trail: Inti Punku Pass

Are the 4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail dangerous?

The entire Inca Trail is properly signposted, and the guides and tour operators are the first responsible for the care of the traveler during his journey. However, this does not guarantee that travelers always follow the indications, and in some cases, accidents have occurred due to the imprudence of the visitor.

It is essential to consider that the physical condition of the traveler must be adequate, as well as having previously done two or three days of acclimatization in Cusco.

Location of Machu Picchu

The Inca City is located within the so-called ‘Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu,’ which covers 35 thousand hectares (350 km2).

Machu Picchu is located in the Aguas Calientes province of Urubamba, in the department of Cusco, Peru.

Its coordinates are 13º 10′ 19” and 13º 14′ 00′ (south latitude). It is also located at 72º 30′ 5” and 72º 36′ 33” (west latitude).

The mountains in Machu Picchu

• Three mountains surround the Inca City: the Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Putucusi mountains.
• The Salkantay is the closest mountain to Machu Picchu (6,271 m.a.s.l.).
• The Inca City hills belong to the ‘Salkantay Massif.’
• The rivers in Machu Picchu
• The distance from the citadel of Machu Picchu to the river is 500 meters, the Vilcanota River (also known as Urubamba).
• Besides Machu Picchu, the Vilcanota River crosses other Inca archaeological sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo.
• The river’s flow increases considerably between December and April (rainy season). The river maintains its usual flow for the rest of the year (dry season).

What is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

• Due to its location, Machu Picchu enjoys a very peculiar climate.
• Machu Picchu has two very marked climatic seasons: dry and rainy.

The dry season in 4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

• The dry season is between April and October. Many people think it is the best time to visit Machu Picchu.
• During these months, the day is exceptionally sunny, and there is almost no rain, allowing the tourists to have a pleasant tour of the Inca City.
• In June and July, daytime temperatures can reach 25 °C (77 °F). In the early mornings, the lowest temperatures can reach 0ºC.
• There is also the “high season of tourism” during the dry season, in which Machu Picchu supports the highest number of visitors.
• The rainy season in Machu Picchu
• The rainy season is between November and March. During these months, Inca City can be covered with fog. During the day, the mist will clear.
• In February and March, the rains are more frequent than in the rest of the year. The maximum temperature can reach 22 °C. Minimum temperatures can reach 8 °C.
• The rainy season is known as the “low season for tourism.” And that is why you can find meager prices for all tourist services.

What’s it like?

• Embark on an incredible journey to discover Peru’s unique cultural heritage and beautiful scenery. This 4-day Lares Trek, Short Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain Tour will take you on a magical journey!
• The 4 Days Lares Trek Short Inca Trail offers us one of the alternatives in only 4 days. We will cross beautiful waterfalls, Inca archaeological remains, and varied flora and fauna until we reach the Inti Punku, where we will have an impressive view of Machu Picchu.
• Experience the beauty of Peru’s mountains in just four full days. Go on a tour of the breathtaking Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail, plus an excursion to the majestic Rainbow Mountain!

Pricing Breakdown

4 days lares trek and short inca trail cost.

HIKING SERVICE Season 2024

Embark on a 4-day trekking adventure through Peru’s most spectacular scenery. From the Lares Trek to the short Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain, this is a fantastic journey you won’t forget!

4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Upgrade

Explore four of Peru’s most breathtaking sites on one unforgettable trekking journey! Enjoy the Lares Trek, the Short Inca Trail, and Rainbow Mountain in four days.

TRAIN SERVICES (Train upgrades) 

PERU TRAINS By PeruRail 

Upgrade your journey with our three Vistadome train options on Peru Rail, each available at these extra prices: per person

• $80. $95. $105.

+$498.00 Hiram Bingham train ( Inbound Journey : Train MACHUPICCHU-POROY)

EXTRA TICKETS

+$75 Huayna Picchu +$75 Montaña +$60 RE-ENTRY TO MACHU PICCHU

4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Discounts

This applies to the following services: Machu Picchu Fee

Colleges and students$20 off

* Kondor Path Tours operates the 4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail

INQUIRE ABOUT THE 4 DAYS LARES TREK SHORT INCA TRAIL

4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail:  Embark on a thrilling 4-day adventure to discover some of Peru’s hidden gems! Experience unique ancient sites with stunning views and marvelous hidden hiking treasures.

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4 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail plus the Rainbow Mountain

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• Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days
• Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days
• 1 Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
• Sacred Valley Tour & Short Inca Trail 3 Days
• 2 Days Short Inca Trail With Camping
• Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail with Camping
• Machu Picchu Hike 2 Day and Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Sacred Valley & 1 Day Inca Trail , Rainbow Mountain 4 Day
• Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days
• Salkantay & Inca Trail Expeditions 6 Days

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Lares trek and short inca trail 4 days, lares trek hot springs & short inca trail 5 days, salkantay trek to machu picchu 5 days, salkantay trail to machu picchu 4 days.

• Alternative Salkantay Trek via Inca Trail 4 Days
• Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days
• Ausangate Trek 5 Days
• Rainbow Mountain Tour – Full Day Trip
• Rainbow Mountain Hike Peru 2 Days
• Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain 3 Days
• Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 Days
• Inca Quarry 4 Days
• Sacred Valley Tour 1 Day
• Cusco City Tour Half Day
• Maras Moray Salt Mines Tour 1/2 Day
• Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2 Days 1 Night
• Machu Picchu Tour by Train
• Cusco, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Experience 4 Days

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Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail 5 Days

Our amazing Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail 5 Days is a mix of the vibrant culture and rich history of the Incas. Hiking this stunning trek allows you to learn and appreciate a bit more of Peru. Most notably, on this Cultural Lares Trek, you will get a taste of the fourth day of the Inca Trail including passing through the important Sungate entrance, which was the only entrance during the Incas period.

This unique and tranquil Lares Trail Valley with Hot Springs covers 37km with 12km of short Inca Trail. The range of altitude on the trek is 3,000m to 4800m. This alternative trek shows you the highlights of Peru from 600 years ago and while hiking you will be surrounded by wild mountains, lagoons, and waterfalls, and encounter beautiful indigenous people as well as llamas and alpacas in their natural habitats.

This Five Day Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail Tour is the best option after the 4 Day Inca Trail Peru . While alternative treks such as the Salkantay Trek Cusco can be very busy and crowded, our Lares Trek with Hot Springs is calm and peaceful. You will see the highlights of the Inca Trail Route to Machu Picchu and have the chance to see the infamous Incan ruins twice – once in the afternoon and again at sunrise the following day.

NOTA:  If you have limited time in Peru and you want to complete the full Route send a message and we going to arrange the Lares Trek 4 day with Hot Spring of course you can skype Short Inca Trail but still you will visit Machu Picchu and Sun

Lares Trek 5 Days – Highlights

• Amazing views of Colque Cruz peak
• Amazing mountain ranges of Vilcabamba
• Beautiful cloud forest and lush vegetation
• Amazing lagoons
• Traditional  cultural immersion
• Beautiful streams and waterfalls
• Flora and fauna
• Delicious food and culinary
• Hiking the unique route
• Amazing wonder of Lares Trek Hot Springs

Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail 5 Days – Summary

• Trip style:  adventures, active & cultural immersion
• Length : Salkantay trek 5 days/ 4nights
• Frequency : All year around
• Group : 2 persons min, max 10 persons
• Phhysical Grading:  moderate, challenging
• Total distance hiked: 40  km /24 miles
• Beginning altitude:  3,800 m /12,467 ft
• Maximun altitude:  4;800 m /15,451 ft

Lares Trekking Hot Springs – Itinerary 

• Day 1:  Cusco –Pumahuanca -Tocopampa (Meals: /L/D)
• Day 2:  Tocopampa – Pumahuanca pass – Cuncani (Meals: B/L/D)
• Day 3: Lares Trek Hot Springs – Ollantaytambo (Meals: B/L/
• Day 4:  Ollantaytambo – km104 – Short Inca Trail – Aguas Calientes (Meals: B/L/D)
• Day 5:  Machupicchu Wonder of the World – Cusco (Meals: B)

DAY 1: Cusco - Pumahuanca - Tocopampa

On the first day you will be picked up early in the morning and driven through the Sacred Valley all the way to Pumahuanca until we reach the starting point of our trek to Lares Hot Springs. Our first day of trekking will be gradually uphill. The first Incan site we will pass is Ttica where your expert guide will share with you the rich history of the Incas and you will have the chance to explore the ruins and take photos. After a further hour of trekking along the path we will arrive at our lunch spot where a delicious lunch prepared by our talented chefs will be enjoyed by all and this will fuel us for the final two hours trekking of the day until we reach our first camping site at Sondor. The first day of the hike is plentiful in natural scenery and hikers are treated to the natural beauty of the forest of Queweña as well as a waterfall.

WALKING DISTANCE: 10 km / 7.45miles STARTING ELEVATION: 3350 m / 12477 ft HIGHEST ELEVATION: 3850 m / 12690 ft DIFFICULTY: Moderate to challenging MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (including a snack and afternoon tea) ACCOMODATION: Camping

DAY 2: Tocopampa - Pumahuanca Pass – Cuncani

The second day of our trek starts with an early wake up call followed by breakfast prepared by our cook to prepare us for the hiking ahead. The terrain is uphill for two and a half hours until we reach Pumahuanca Pass, which, at 4,800 metres (15,100 feet) above sea level, is the highest point of our trek. From here you will be spoiled by the best views surrounding us, including a snow-capped mountain in the distance. After taking photos from this point we continue trekking downhill for three hours to our lunch spot at Cuncani, encountering llamas and alpacas in the wild en route and passing by picturesque lakes with the Urubamba mountain ranges in the background. After enjoying our second lunch prepared by our chef we continue our journey downhill for two hours until we reach the hot springs. At last, after two days trekking we can enjoy the hot springs (even jump into the hot water!) and relax for a couple of hours before dinner.

WALKING DISTANCE: 22 km / 13.7miles STARTING ELEVATION: 3800 m / 12467 ft HIGHEST ELEVATION: 4650 m / 15255ft DIFFICULTY: Challenging / Moderate MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (including a snack and afternoon tea) ACCOMMODATION: Camping

DAY 3: Hot Springs - Lares - Ollantaytambo

The third morning of our trek starts as a relaxing one as we enjoy the hot springs, the sunshine by the river bank and our last breakfast prepared by our cook. This is followed by a 30 minute uphill hike to a lookout point from where we can appreciate the Lares Valley and Hot Springs down below. An early lunch on this day is the last of the meals prepared by the travelling cook as we part company with the cook and horseman directly after our midday meal. Following our goodbyes we catch our coach to Ollantaytambo town where tourists are free to enjoy the afternoon as they please.

WALKING DISTANCE: 7 km / 4.2miles HIGHEST ELEVATION: 3850 m / 1131ft LOWEST ELEVATION: 3350 m / 7022 ft DIFFICULTY: Easy MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch (including a snack and afternoon tea) ACCOMODATION: Hotel **

DAY 4: Ollantaytambo – Km104 - Short Inca Trail - Machu Picchu

On day four we catch an early morning train from Ollantaytambo train station to KM104. This train journey follows the sacred Urubamba River and the views of rugged mountains and Incan terraces are a treat for the eye. Our One Day Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu starts where we disembark the train at KM104. The hike is gradually uphill for three hours until we reach the first Incan site of Wiñayhuayna, however, you will be pleasantly distracted while trekking with unique views of the cloudforest, orchids and a waterfall. On arriving at Wiñayhuayna you will enjoy a guided tour of the ruins with your expert tour guide after which you will continue the hike to the famous Sungate for approximately 90 minutes from where you will get to view Machupicchu for the first time down below. From here we travel to Aguas Calientes town where we spend the night.

WALKING DISTANCE: 11 km / 6.2miles STARTING ELEVATION: 2750 m / 7231ft HIGHEST ELEVATION: 2150 m / 8022 ft MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner   DIFFICULTY: Easy ACCOMMODATION: Hotel

DAY 5: Machu Picchu Inca Site – Cusco

The fifth day is the last day of our Lares Trek with Hot Springs and One Day Hike to Machupicchu and on this day the pinnacle is the guided tour of Machupicchu where we visit the highlights of the famous Incan ruins such as temples, palaces and urban areas. Upon completion of the guided tour you will have free time to explore a bit more of Machupicchu then it is back to Aguas Calientes town for lunch and back to Cusco by train and coach.

WALKING DISTANCE: Bus STARTING ELEVATION: 2115 m /6542 ft DIFFICULTY: Easy MEALS INCLUDED: Breakfast ACCOMODATION: N/A

• Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
• Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+for the treks
• Chef and Assitant Chef
• Professional Horse Carer
• Mules to carry 7kg of your personal items
• Pick-up from your hotel
• Private bus from your hotel to Soraypampa
• Train back to Ollantaytambo
• Private bus from Ollantaymbo to Cusco
• Water (excluding the first 4 hours of the trek when you need to bring your own)
• 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Afternoon Snacks and 4 Dinners.  If you have a dietary request such as vegetarian food please let us know.
• Kitchen tent and Dining tent with tables and chairs
• 4 man tent for every 2 trekkers
• 3 star hotel for final night
• Sleeping mattress for the route
• Oxygen bottle
• First aid kit
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
• Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes round trip

Doesn`t Includes

• Sleeping Bag (Can be rented from us : US$20.00)
• Hiking poles ( can be rented from us : US$15.00)
• Air mattress ( can be rented from us : US$ 20.00)
• Breakfast on Day 1, Dinner day 3 and lunch and dinner on Day 5
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain
• Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your Lares   Trek Hot Springs .

What do I need to bring?

• Original Passport
• ISIC card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
• Walking boots
• Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hat and gloves
• Comfortable trousers
• Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
• Insect repellant
• Toiletries and hand sanitiser
• Personal medication
• Camera and film with extra batteries
• Torch with spare batteries

Group Service

• Price service per person  US$ 750.00 (adults)

Private Group Price

• Price service per person US$ 850.00 ( adults)

Optional Extras

Optional upgrade (Need to book in advance):

• Machu Picchu Mts climbing:  USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
• Huayna Picchu Mts climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
• Vistadome Train Aguas Calientes-Cusco: USD50.00 (Need to book in advance)
• Extra Night in Aguas Calientes: Depends on the type of Hotel desired (Need to book in advance)
• Rainbow Mountain Hike
• Sacred Valley Tour

Related Tours

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5 Days Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

The Lares Valley Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu gives the trekker the best of both worlds in 5 days.  You pass through the most isolated indigenous communities, which are still keeping the Inca culture alive, and get the privilege to meet and interact with them.

Our own unique route is incredibly picturesque, with majestic glaciers, shockingly blue glacial lakes, waterfalls, llamas, and alpacas. You will really feel that you are out in the wilds of the Andes!

On the Inca Trail, you will hike on the original Inca Trail just like in ancient times, explore the ancient Inca religious cities along the way and enter through the Sun Gate directly to Machu Picchu Citadel. You get to visit Machu Picchu twice! How could you want more?

From $757.00 per person

Important Info

Packing list, day 1: cusco – huaran – cancha cancha.

Your Lares Trek & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu combo trek begins early with your pickup at 6:00am from your Cusco hotel. Then we will drive to Huaran where will start our hike. We will meet your horsemen and horses.

Time to get ready! Once your boots are on, we will 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 only 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 constellations on which they depended for their agricultural guidance and still do to this day.

• Meals included : 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 – Quiswarani

Your guide will wake you with a hot mug of tea or coffee to enjoy in your sleeping bag before you get up for breakfast. Feeling all revved up to begin our second day, after another delicious breakfast, we begin our 7 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 3 hours until we reach our campsite located by the Quiswarani community , (3,700m/12,139ft). On the way, we will be taking an isolated trail where we will see indigenous highland people in their traditional outfits herding their llamas and alpacas.

The local indigenous people will open their hearts and talk with you in the Quechua language (the Incas’ language). Your guide will act as your interpreter to translate and teach you some Quechua words. When you arrive at the spectacular seven waterfalls, you are almost at the campsite!

At the campsite, everything will be ready. Enjoy hot drinks and appetizers before dinner, then snuggle in for a comfortable night sleep.

• Meals included : Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
• Distance : 12kms / 7.5 miles
• Time : 7hrs approximately
• Difficulty : challenging

Day 3: Quiswarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo 

Your adventure continues as you begin the most scenic day yet!  We begin our ascent for 3 hours until we reach the Willqaqasa Pass , (4,200m/13,779ft) getting a bird’s eye view of the reflections of the mountains in mirror images in the glacial lakes.

The majestic Colquecruz and Pitusiray Mountains  are awe inspiring to admire from the pass. We continue our trek through the  Puna grasslands,  undulating and productive  agricultural sites  and natural pristine lakes.

Time to descend for 2 hours to the  Cucani community . Connecting with the local indigenous children, you may have the opportunity to visit their school and share in some quality time with the students.

From  Cuncani  we meet our driver and ride down through a lush valley  with extensive agricultural areas, fruit bearing trees, varied flora, and native flowers like begonias and wild orchids.

Finally, we reach our destination, the  Lares Hot Springs (3,100m/ 10,170ft),  where   we cannot wait to soak in the  natural volcanic hot springs  for an hour, have lunch and relax.   Time for our goodbyes for our remarkable chef and horsemen. 

After lunch in Lares, we take our private transport to 2.5 hours Ollantaytambo , where we have dinner together and spend the night in our hotel.

• Meals included : Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
• 2* Accommodation : Veronica View Hotel 
• 3* Accommodation:  El Alberge or Pakaritampu
• Distance : 15kms / 9.3 miles
• Time : 6 hrs approximately
• Difficulty : Moderate

Day 4: Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Wiñay wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

We start this exciting day early; your guide will leave the hotel with you at 5:30am. When you arrive at the train station, your guide will give you your lunch to add to your daypack.

Your train departs Ollantaytambo at 6:10am and you will have just over an hour on the train to enjoy the scenery and have breakfast (not included). Your hotel can provide you a picnic breakfast to take with you or you can pack your own breakfast.

You get off the train at the famous Km104, where your trek begins! (2,000m/6,560 ft. above sea level). After crossing the Urubamba River on a picturesque foot bridge, you will show your passport at the checkpoint and visit your first Inca site nearby.

The first hour and a half are a gentle upward climb. Along the way, you will stop at several outlooks where you have an expansive view of the Urubamba River. You also pass through several microclimates, including cloud forest, so be ready for damp or even rain during any season of the year.

The next hour and a half are a slightly steeper uphill with a beautiful waterfall as your reward at the end of the hike!

When you cross the bridge below the waterfall, be sure to take some time for photos and as you do you will find yourself gazing up at the spectacular Wiñay Wayna! (2,600m/8,500ft above sea level) These amazing Inca ruins have a fascinating history and some parts are still hidden by the dense jungle.

This close to Machu Picchu, you are hiking through lush sub-tropical jungle. Your guide will tell you all about the ruins, plus the incredible flora and fauna of this microclimate and answer any questions you have before the short 5-minute walk to your lunch spot.

You have lunch at a covered shelter at the Wiñay Wayna campground, which is the last campground for those hiking the Classic Inca Trail . Nearby are outdoor sinks to wash your hands and also restrooms.

Take your time enjoying your hearty, gourmet lunch and admiring the tropical flowers around the campground. Be sure to notify us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions when you book!

After lunch, you have a mostly flat walk to the Sun Gate, from which you have your first view of Machu Picchu. Though the hour-long walk is a gentle rolling up and down, it does end with a set of steep stairs carved directly into the bedrock by the Inca.

Once you reach the stairs you will know that you’re almost at the Sun Gate! As you turn the corner from the Sun Gate, you will enjoy your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. So, take some time to savor the moment and take photos.

The last 60 minutes down from the Sun Gate provide many opportunities to take more photos of Machu Picchu from this unique vantage point. There are also a couple more important Inca sites between the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu, so make sure to go slowly, enjoy your time walking in the footsteps of the Inca on the Inca Trail and ask your guide questions about these historical places on the final stretch of your hike to Machu Picchu.

Once you reach Machu Picchu, you will have time to take more photos from the viewing platforms, “House of the Guardians” where you can take the famous postcard pictures of Machu Picchu above the site.

You will arrive in the afternoon, as the archeological area starts to empty of tourists, which gives you the opportunity to take beautiful photos in the afternoon light with fewer people in your shots.

Take your time to enjoy this magical experience before you take the bus down to Aguas Calientes to check into your hotel. Your will have a delicious dinner, then have time to walk around this picturesque little town, visit the hot springs or just go to your hotel to rest after such an exciting day.

• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes
• Distance : 12 kms/7.5 miles
• Time : 6hrs approximately
• 3* Accommodations: Ferre Hotel Machu Picch
• Difficulty: moderate

You will leave your duffel from the trek at the Ollantaytambo train station to be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes.

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

This is the day you’ve been waiting for! After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu so that you can be there to witness the sunrise. It is a truly extraordinary site and not something you’ll want to miss. Your guide will give you a guided tour of Machu Picchu, which takes about two hours. You will see many of the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel. 

After your tour, those who have booked in advance for the extra hikes up Huayna Picchu Mountain will have time to enjoy those views on their own. When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing or a visit to the museum or hot springs. 

The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. You can also see Wiñay Wayna from the train, if you look up high on the steep canyon wall!

Back at Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:00pm.

• Meal included: Breakfast
• Difficulty: Easy

***IMPORTANT:

•  On the 2 day Inca Trail, we will be doing the circuit #3 and there is no way to do another circuit unless you buy an additional entrance to Machu Picchu.
• You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55pm or 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm. The cost is $67 USD.
• Early trains can be organized by requested and it has to be done by booking time.
• The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike  depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time.

WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR THE LARES TREK & INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

• Transfer from the airport to your hotel
• Private transportation from the hotel to the Huaran trailhead
• Licensed guide fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua
• Round trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
• Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
• Admission ticket to the Machu Picchu Archeological Complex
• Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail national park
• 2 nights hotel with private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, storage and buffet breakfast included
• 4 person Igloo tents (4 person tent for only 2 people)
• Camping pillow and foam mattress
• Delicious meals during the 4 days as indicated in the itinerary
• Chef and cooking equipment
• Horseman and mules, to carry all camping and personal equipment (7 kilograms of your personal items such as extra clothes, sleeping bag, these will be carried by our mules) (on Lares Trek portion only)
• Provision of a horse in case of emergency (with helmet) in case of illness, to ensure the trek can be completed by all participants (only on the Lares portion of the trek)
• First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
• Boiled water to fill your drinking bottles
• Guided tour in Machu Picchu
• Chef, cooking equipment and kitchen tent
• Transfer back to Cusco for our group
• Local interaction with the local kids and the community .

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED FOR THE INCA TRAIL & MACHU PICCHU 5 DAYS?

• 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)
• Vistadome Train Upgrade: $67 USD per person (Return Only)
• Huayna Picchu Mountain : $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
• OPTIONAL UPGRADES: Hotel
• Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters of SAM TRAVEL PERU

Huayna Picchu Mountain is optional trek 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. 

BEST PRICE FOR THE LARES TEK & INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

• Only $827 per person with 3* hotels
• Only $757 USD per person with 2* hotels
• Only $697 USD without hotels

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

Private price is $150 USD extra per person. 

• 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 is required at booking for 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 people or more: $30 USD. All you need to do is book the trek together at the same time.

***  The Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu is almost always available year round as long as tickets are available except when it is closed in February for maintenance.  

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 (Return Only)
• Huayna Picchu Mountain  : $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
• Single Supplement:  $40 USD 3* for single travelers

**Huayna Picchu Mountain is optional trek 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

Comfortable foam mattresses for every hiker, camping pillow, transfer airport to hotel (only in Cusco), duffel bags, plastic liner bags, and extra blanket for the tent are included in the trekking price!

• EXTRA PACK HORSE  is included in the price, the porter will carry your things up to 7 kgs / 14lbs  sleeping bag, mattress, clothes etc. (Lares Trek portion only)
• COLD BOILED WATER will be provided along the trek. There will be hot and cold water at each meal time.
• OXYGEN TANK will be available
• EMERGENCY HORSE is included which can be ridden if you feel tired or sick. (Lares Trek portion only)
• BEST ITINERARY operated by Lares Trek specialist only

WHY CHOOSE US?

We are a  family owned travel agency  and a local tour operator based in Cusco with personal experience over many years of trekking. We are a 100% Cusqueñian Company  without any shareholders.

 Our vision 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 our reputation as 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 so proud of our team! Without them, we wouldn’t be able to offer the best service and lifetime experiences to our clients .

SMALL GROUPS

To ensure a more personalized service for our guests we have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people. This fact alone sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups.

BEST LARES TREK ROUTE + SHORT INCA TRAIL 

We are the only tour operator which TREKS OFF THE BEATEN PATH with the LARES TREK MACHU PICCHU, passing through the most isolated communities, ending at the hot springs. Now you get the best combination possible, our incredible LARES TREK PLUS SHORT INCA TRAIL.  It is the best of both worlds and NO ONE HAS A BETTER DEAL than us for this combination trek.

OUR  TREKKING GUIDES

We are so proud of our guides! They are  highly professional and   speak fluent English.  They are very knowledgeable and  passionate for Inca 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 Inca and Andean culture. Our crew is  fun loving ,  great sports  and  well-educated. They all hold degrees in one of the following: Archeology, Tourism, Botany, History or Anthropology.

OUR PACK HORSES

Trekking the Lares with Short Inca 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 pack horses will carry your gear and are well cared for.

OUR COOKS ON THE LARES TREK 

The food on the trek 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 dietary 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 MATS: 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

We 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.

We are 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!

Please read carefully the following information. It will help with your questions about our services and the trek to Machu Picchu. .

THE BRIEFING

The briefing will take place the night before the trek at 6pm in our office, which is located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Of course! During the Lares trek Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.

HOW TO BOOK THE LARES TREK & INCA TRAIL 

FIRST, to book your Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW tab 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 & Inca Trail permits and entrances without the following information:

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

SECOND, we require a deposit of  $211.00 USD per person in order to purchase a permit for the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail.  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?

If you would like to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATMS within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL  online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service fee, charged by VISA  and PAYPAL.  

HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

According to Peruvian Law, you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek or tour to Machu Picchu (students 18 & above need student cards). For example: if you book a trek at the age of 17 but you turn 18 before you do your trek, you must have a valid university ID card to qualify for the student discount.

• University students must provide a copy of their ID card showing a photo, University name and card expiration date. Cards must be valid for the current academic year only.
• All students from 11 to 17 years, the discount is $30 USD.
• For children from the age of 2 to 11 the discount is $40 USD.
• Children from the age of 0 to 2 are free.

All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of their booking to get the student discount.

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

Unfortunately the answer is No. Once the tickets for the Inca Trail have been bought the government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any departure dates. Permits and entrance tickets are not transferable nor refundable.  If you cancel your Lares Trek & Inca Trail , 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 number you sent to us to book your Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail, permit, entrances and reservations.  

If 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 the Inca Trail, 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 LARES TREK MACHU PICCHU?

The weather is very unpredictable and forecasts are often innaccurate. We recommend that you plan to always dress in layers to accomodate to the quickly changing weather conditions.

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 to acclimate.

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 PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?

The maximum group size is 8 persons. Our groups are usually between 2-6 persons. We specialise in SMALL, PRIVATE groups and provide a personalized service.

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 TO LARES TREK 

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 pack horses 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 TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The Lares trek + Short Inca Trail is a 39 km hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is (4,700m/15,419ft).  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 exercise regularly. To prepare: Try walking 15kms  a day or go to the gym 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 (3,350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.

ARE THERE TOILETS ON THE LARES TREK?

This has been highly appreciated by most of our clients, especially by our trekkers, who want a private, clean and sanitary toilet! Our 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.

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 TREK?

In the unlikely scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to a health issue, we 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 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 AFTER THE LARES TREK & INCA TRAIL ?

Absolutely!! Included in the package and on the last day we will drop you at your hotel! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there too! If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, for sure we will pick you up there!

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 14:55 or 15:20.

 HOW MUCH IS THE VISTADOME UPGRADE?

The Vistadome train service has nicer seats, panoramic windows and ceiling. You will be offered snacks and a dance show will take place on board. You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $67 USD. These trains run from Aguas Calientes to Poroy. We will pick you up in Poroy and drive you back to Cusco, which takes about 25 minutes. Please request in advance.

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek.

It inspires them to give excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you feel appropriate, 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 local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator for that we incorporate the 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.

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU FOR THE LARES TREK & INCA TRAIL?

• Original passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
• Valid university card (if you booked as a student)
• Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
• Water storage:  2-3L  (please bring reusable, not disposable, bottles)
• Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
• Sleeping bag (can be rented from SAM Travel)
• Headlamp: essential
• Toilet paper
• Good rain gear

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG

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.

By Peruvian law, a duffel bag must not weigh more than 7 kilograms (15lbs). This limit is set to protect the health of the porters or horses. All bags will be weighed before being accepted. If you require more than 7 kilograms, it will then be your responsibility to carry the extra weight with your day pack.

In this 7 kilos, please count 2 kilos for your sleeping bag and 1 kilo for your sleeping pad. This leaves you about 4 kilos for your personal gear.

• 2 hiking pants at least
• 4 sets of undergarments
• 3 sets of hiking socks
• Bathing Suit for the thermal waters
• 2 fleece or 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 to line your duffel
• Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us
• Face moisturizer
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Personal medications
• First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK

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 spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water  at every meal time. Please bring your canteens
• Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
• Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

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• Travel Guide

+51 984 315 337

• +51 972390728

[email protected]

Lares Treks

Lares trek 4 days with short inca trail, lares trek to machupicchu 4 days.

The Lares Trek is a spectacular alternative trekking route in Peru that offers a unique and immersive experience in the Andean highlands. This trek allows you to explore remote indigenous communities, witness stunning mountain landscapes, and discover the rich culture and traditions of the local people.

The Lares Valley, located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas near Cusco, serves as the starting point for this trek. The journey typically takes about three to four days to complete, depending on the specific itinerary. Throughout the trek, you’ll have the opportunity to hike through breathtaking mountain passes, visit traditional Andean villages, and soak in natural hot springs.

One of the highlights of the Lares Trek is the chance to interact with the local Quechua-speaking communities. These communities have preserved their ancient way of life and continue to practice traditional weaving, farming, and textile production. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about their customs, taste authentic local cuisine, and even stay overnight in their traditional homes, known as “homestays.”

• Lares Trek FAQ´s

LARES TREKS PERU

The Lares Trek is a breathtaking and off-the-beaten-path hiking experience in the Peruvian Andes. Unlike the famous Inca Trail, the Lares Trek offers a more authentic and culturally immersive journey.

Lares Treks Peru

Our experienced team has been leading tours through this breathtaking landscape since 2006, and we’re committed to providing you with an unforgettable experience. From the rugged terrain to the diverse flora and fauna, our expert guides will help you navigate this incredible route, ensuring your safety and enjoyment every step of the way.

We offer a range of tour packages to suit any budget and preference, including both group and private tours, as well as a variety of trekking routes to choose from. And with our commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, you can feel good knowing that you’re making a positive impact on the local community and environment.

So whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer, join us on the adventure of a lifetime. Book your Salkantay Trek with Salkantay Trekking today and discover the beauty of Peru like never before.

Local Tour Operator

As you traverse through ancient pathways, you’ll be greeted by stunning landscapes of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and serene alpine lakes.

What makes the Lares Trek truly special is the opportunity to connect with local Andean communities. Along the way, you’ll encounter indigenous people in traditional dress, witness their unique way of life, and engage in heartwarming interactions. Visiting local villages grants you a glimpse into their customs, crafts, and time-honored traditions.

As you continue your trek, be prepared for a sense of tranquility as you disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature. Each step takes you closer to ancient Incan ruins and hot springs, offering a chance to unwind and relax amidst breathtaking surroundings.

The Lares Trek may be physically demanding, but the rewards are unparalleled. Experience the magic of the Andes, bond with fellow trekkers, and create lasting memories on this remarkable journey. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a culture seeker, the Lares Trek is an experience that will leave you with a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for the richness of Peru’s natural and cultural heritage.

OUR LOCAL GUIDES

Our local guides are experts in the history and culture of Cusco, having grown up and lived in the area their entire lives. They have an intimate knowledge of the city’s hidden gems, as well as the best places to eat, shop, and explore. They are committed to providing you with an authentic and unforgettable experience, tailored to your interests and preferences.

With our local guides, you can explore the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, as well as the bustling markets and colorful neighborhoods of Cusco. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and traditions, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

OUR SPECIALIAZED CHEFS

Nuestros chefs especializados no sólo saben cocinar, sino también adaptarse a las restricciones y preferencias dietéticas. Tanto si es vegetariano, vegano o tiene otras necesidades dietéticas, nuestros chefs se comprometen a crear comidas sabrosas y adaptadas a sus necesidades.

Contar con un chef especializado en su viaje significa que podrá disfrutar de comidas caseras abundantes incluso cuando esté a kilómetros de la civilización. Desde desayunos calientes hasta deliciosas cenas, nuestros chefs se asegurarán de que tu hambre esté saciada y tus niveles de energía altos durante toda la ruta.

En nuestra empresa, creemos que la comida adecuada es clave para el éxito de un trekking, y ponemos mucho cuidado en la selección y formación de nuestros chefs especializados. Así que, ¿por qué conformarse con comidas insípidas y poco estimulantes en su viaje cuando puede disfrutar de las creaciones culinarias de nuestros talentosos chefs? Reserve hoy mismo su viaje con nosotros y compruebe usted mismo la diferencia.

Lares Peru Treks

Pasaje Pumacchupan 196, Centro Historico Cuco

+51 972 390 728

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Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail

This is the package we recommend to travelers who want to trek to Machu Picchu, but without the challenge of the 4-day Inca Trail . This route combines the Lares trek plus one day on the Inca Trail for a two-in-one hiking experience that will enrich any trip to Machu Picchu .

Part one consists of 3 days of trekking, 2 night of camping in the Lares Valley north of Cusco, home to indigenous communities famous for weaving colorful textiles. The route includes incredible views of glacial lagoons and valleys filled with flocks of sheep and llamas as well as a chance to see unique flora that thrive at high altitude. You will pass by different archaeological sites and have a chance to share local experiences in Quechua villages.

The Lares trek can also be extended from 3 to 4 days. Although the Lares trek is at higher altitudes than the 4-day Inca Trail , it’s considered an easier trek than the latter. This is because the Inca Trail has unrelentingly up and down climbs whereas the Lares takes place at relatively gentler inclines. And for Lares you can always rent a horse if the high altitude becomes too much. This is also true for diffrent Alternative Treks , but not for the Inca Trail.

From Lares, the group makes it’s way to Ollantaytambo to spend the night there, nestled among the peaks of the Sacred Valley. The next morning, catch the train in the direction of Machu Picchu and alight at Kilometer 104 to begin the Inca Trail. This short section of trail includes stops at archaeological sites, lunch at Wiñay Wayna, and entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate in the afternoon. The group spends the night in Aguas Calientes and returns for a tour of Machu Picchu on the next day.

Sample itinerary for Lares trek

• Day 1: Cusco to Calca and Huacawasi and Ipsaycocha Lagoon
• Day 2: Huacawasi – Yanacocha lagoon – Mantanay
• Day 3: Mantanay – Yanahuara – Ollantaytambo
• Day 4: Train to Km 104 – Inca Trail
• Day 5: Machu Picchu Tour

Note that for this trek, an Inca Trail permit is required for Day 4. The 1-day permit is a bit easier to get than the 4-day Inca Trail permit, but you should nonetheless plan to book a few months in advance.

The Lares and Inca Trail combination are just two of the alternative treks that get you to Machu Picchu. In Cusco and Machu Picchu, high season is in full swing and now is a good time to start planning your trip for this year.

Plan Your Trip:

Want to see the incredible Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail  for yourself? Don’t hesitate to contact us   so that one of our expert travel advisors can start planning your trip today!

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• Packing List
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• Get A Trek Quote

Lares Trek vs Inca Trail – Choosing Between 2 Epic Routes

Lares Trek or Inca Trail? That is the question.

It can be intimidating trying to make a choice between two of Peru’s most famous hiking routes. How you reach Machu Picchu comes down to a matter of taste.

Ultimately, you need to look at the pros and cons of each route. In this article, I’ve compiled some unbiased comparisons to help you choose between the Lares Trek vs. the Inca Trail.

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Start planning your Machu Picchu hiking holiday.

Lares Trek Vs the Inca Trail

What are the main differences.

As a summary there are four main differences between the Lares trail and the Inca trail are as follows: 

• The Lares trek is through a valley where you pass many traditional villages. The Lares Trek is ideal for getting a taste of true Peruvian culture.
• The Inca Trail is through remote areas. The trail passes through different biomes and several Incan ruin sites . The Inca Trail is more focused on natural scenery and history than culture.
• The Lares Trek is only 3 days of hiking compared to the Inca’s four days . This makes it shorter (33km for the Lares vs 41km for the Inca trail) and easier than the Inca trail. 
• Finally, there is no permit required to hike the Lares Trek, but you do need a permit for the Inca Trail.

Please Note: Inca Trail permits sell out months ahead of time. See Inca trail availability .

A Side By Side Comparison of the Lares Trek Vs the Inca Trail

Routes and difficulty, lares trek - fair.

Firstly, it's essential to know that the Lares Trek has multiple variations. This is because there are many Incan paths through the Lares valley. You can read more about the Lares Trek variations here.

The most popular 4-day Lares Trek is 20 miles / 33km and ends at Aguas Calientes. You will spend three days hiking and the fourth day touring Machu Picchu .

There is only one real steep part on the Lares trek - Ipsaycocha Pass (4,500m / 14,764 ft). Ipsaycocha is higher than any point on the Inca Trail. Unlike the Inca Trail, there are no stone stairways. Hiking up the pass is a steady progression on a dirt track.

You will spend more time at higher altitudes on the Lares trek compared to the Inca Trail. This means there is an increased risk of getting altitude sickness. To help you prepare, we have a list of precautions to avoid altitude sickness.

Inca Trail: Moderate

The classic 4-day Inca Trail covers 26miles / 41km through remote areas. There is only one pathway with no alternative options.

The Inca trail trek is the more difficult route of the two trails. You will be going up and down more than on the Lares Trek. You can expect to be trekking up and down around 1000s of stone steps.

Day 2 on the Inca Trail is the most difficult part of the hike. On this day, groups climb the stairs up to 4,215m (13,829 ft) above sea level on Dead Woman’s Pass.

See : How hard is the Inca trail

Looking for a day tour? Here are my 5 favourite day tours around Cusco: 

• Rainbow Mountain day trip (with meals)
• Moray and Salt Mines Quad Bike Tour
• Sacred Valley day tour
• Humantay Lake day tour
• Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu entrance tickets

See more Cusco day trips .

Costs And Availability

Lares trek costs.

The Lares Trek generally costs between $400 and $650 per person. Most companies sell this trek for roughly $550 per person.

The trail is open year-round. Most agencies require hikers to sign a wet season policy agreement. These policies protect companies from client cancellations due to wet weather conditions.

See:  weather on the Inca trail .

Inca Trail Costs

With most Inca Trail Tours , a budget Inca trail tour will cost you between $550-$650 per person. If you are looking to hike the Inca Trail in luxury , expect to pay about $1000-$2000 per person. For this price, you will get a private guide and a more cushy camp setup.

The Inca Trail closes over February. This is when the area experiences the heaviest rainfall.

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Guides And Porters

Lares trek guides and porters.

Most people do the Lares Trek with a guided tour, but it is possible to hike it solo.

Please Note: If you choose to trek solo on the Lares Trail, you will be carrying all your own gear. You should have some experience trekking to take this option.

Tour operators usually hire mules to do the heavy lifting. These surefooted animals carry equipment and extra baggage between camps.

Inca Trail Guides and Porters

As of 2014, hikers are not allowed to walk the Inca Trail solo . You may only do this hike through a tour operator or by working with a registered private guide.

Horses or mules are not allowed on the Inca Trail as they would cause too much damage to the environment. Local porters carry equipment and food between camps.

Read about Inca trail porter welfare and tips .

Where to stay? Here are 5 of my favourite accommodation options in Cusco: 

• Sonesta Hotel (great 4-star hotel)
• Antigua Casona San Blas
• El Mariscal Cusco (very good value)
• Hotel Paradis (good 3-star hotel)
• Quechua Hostel Recoleta (cheap and cheerful)

See more Cusco accommodation options .

Accommodation and Facilities

Lares trek accommodation.

You will be camping on the first two nights of the Lares trek. Campsites are not strictly regulated on this trail. Each company has a preference for where to set up their tents. You will likely spend one of these nights sleeping above 4,200m (13,780ft).

Some tour operators have an arrangement with the locals and can also organize homestays. This way, people in remote villages benefit from tourism.

You will be staying in Aguas Calientes for the final night. Usually, this is in a mid-range hotel. In some circumstances, you may have the option to upgrade to a luxury lodge.

On the Lares Trek, there are no bathrooms. Some companies set up a toilet tent for privacy while in the campsites.

Inca Trail Accommodation

During the Inca Trail, you will be camping all three nights. Due to high numbers of walkers, Inca trail campsites are restricted to designated areas. The highest campsite is at 3600m (18,111 ft) above sea level.

There are several available camping zones for each night. However, you will not be able to choose your campsites on the Inca Trail . Authorities allocate the most convenient sites first.

Please Note: Inca Trail campsites are crowded and noisy in the evenings. The good news about regulated camps is that some have showers and toilets.

Highlights and Negatives Of The Lares Trek Vs The Inca Trail

Lares trek highlights.

The best thing about the Lares Trail is experiencing the authentic Andean culture. You will get to interact with local farmers and craftsmen. The lifestyle in this valley has barely changed over hundreds of years.

Hikers often get to try their hand at weaving and other traditional activities. This is a more authentic Andes hiking experience as you will see very few other tourists on the trail.

The Lares Trail passes by stunning waterfalls and lakes. These bodies of water are held sacred by local people. On the third day, you will get to soak your sore muscles in the Lares Hot Springs, which is a refreshing experience.

• What to do and see in the Sacred valley
• Paragliding in the Sacred valley

Negatives To The Lares Trail

The biggest downside to hiking the Lares Trek is that it does not end at the Sun Gate. There are also no significant ruins along this trail.

Most of the Lares Trail is in the same valley. This area is inhabited by communities that practice subsistence farming. The landscape of this trail is not nearly as wild and diverse as that of the Inca Trail.

Inca Trail Highlights

Finishing the trail through the Sun Gate is the main attraction of this trail. The Inca Trail is the only route option to enter Machu Picchu on foot. Hikers often describe coming through the Sun Gate as one of the best moments in their lives

The Incan trail is the best route for seeing Incan ruins. You will pass by several fascinating archeological areas on the way to Machu Picchu. These ruins are only accessible to Inca Trail Hikers.

Another highlight of the Inca Trail is getting to see a wide variety of landscapes. The trail will take you through Andean highlands, cloud forests, and tropical forests.

Negatives To Hiking The Inca Trail

The Inca trail is a bit more expensive than the Lares Trek. This trail is also a lot more popular. You share the trail and campsites with hundreds of other tourists and porters.

There are regular checkpoints and you will need to take your passport along for this trail. These document check-points take some of the fun out of the experience.

Lastly, it is not possible to book the Inca Trail on short notice. You need to plan months to a year ahead for your trip.

Lares Trail Or Inca Trail - Which Should You Choose?

Who should hike the lares trek.

The Lares is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in authentic Peruvian culture. This is also the better option if you like peace and solitude on a hike.

Do your travel plans change on a daily basis? This trail offers the flexibility you need. This is the best alternative to the 4-day Inca Trail over the same length of time.

Another reason to consider the Lares Trek over the Inca Trail is the lack of stairs. This trek is easier for people who suffer from knee issues.

Who should Hike The Inca Trail?

Stick with the Inca Trail If you feel there is no substitute for Peru’s most famous hike. This is for those who want to lay eyes on Machu Picchu for the first time through the Sun Gate at first light.

Can you afford to plan months in advance? Do you want bragging rights to one of the world’s most famous trails? Then, go ahead and book your spot on the Inca Trail.

• How many miles is the Inca trail

Follow the footsteps of Monarchs or see life through the eyes of Incan descendants. Only you can make the choice on how to reach Machu Picchu - the Lares Trek vs. the Inca Trail.

Whichever trail you choose, I can guarantee that it will be one of the best experiences of your life.

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison works as a guide for a 5-star reserve. She enjoys sharing her passion for all things nature-related. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking.

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The Lares trek was amazing. The families we met on the way through, the scenery, all fantastic.

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Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

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OUR LARES TREK IS THE MOST UNIQUE PATH AVAILABLE WITH THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

The Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu gives you the best of all worlds in four days. Our own unique route is incredibly   picturesque, with majestic glaciers, shockingly blue lakes, waterfalls, llamas, and alpacas. On the Inca Trail,   hike on the original Inca trail just like in ancient times. You  explore the ancient Inca religious cities  along the way and enter through the Sun Gate directly to Machu Picchu Citadel . Have a guided tour of the Inca city and spend time alone exploring.  Visit Machu Picchu twice! before returning to Cusco. How could you want more?

• Important Info
• Packing List

Day 1: Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

Your Andean Mountain adventure through the Lares Valley to Machu Picchu begins early with a pickup at 6:00am from the Cusco hotel. Then drive for 2 hours toward Huaran, meet your horsemen and horses. Time to get ready, boots on, 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 constellations on which they depended for their agricultural guidance and still do to this day.

• Meals included : 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 – Quiswarani – Ollantaytambo

Feeling all revved up to begin our second day, after another delicious breakfast, we begin our 7 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). 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, descend for 3 hours until we reach our campsite located by the Quiswarani community at (3,700m/12,139ft). On the way, we will be taking an isolated trail where we will see indigenous highland people in their traditional outfits herding their llamas and alpacas. The local indigenous people will interact with you in Quechua (the Incas’ language). Your guide will act as your interpreter to translate and teach you some Quechua. When you arrive at the spectacular seven waterfalls, you are almost to the end of the trail!

Finally we arrive to Quishuarani and take our transportation for 2 hours to Ollantaytambo where we will have dinner together and stay the night. If you are staying at the Veronica View, you will have time to enjoy the heated swimming pool or sauna before dinner.

• 2* Accommodation : Veronica View Hotel 
• Distance : 12kms / 7.5 miles
• Time : 7hrs approximately
• Difficulty : Challenging

DAY 3: Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – WIÑAYHUAYNA – SUN GATE – MACHU PICCHU

We start this exciting day early; the guide will pick you up at 5:30. When you arrive at the train station, your guide will give you your lunch to add to your daypack. The train departs Ollantaytambo at 6:10am and you will have just over an hour on the train to enjoy the scenery and have breakfast (not included), or your hotel will provide you a picnic breakfast to take with you or you can pack your own breakfast.

You get off the train at the famous Km104, where your trek begins! (2,000m/6,560 ft. above sea level). After crossing the Urubamba River on a picturesque foot bridge, show your passport at the checkpoint and visit the first Inca site nearby. The first hour and a half are a gentle upward climb. Along the way, you will stop at several outlooks where you have an expansive view of the Urubamba River. You also pass through a cloud forest, so be ready for damp or even rain at any season of the year. The next hour and a half are a slightly steeper uphill with a beautiful waterfall as your reward at the end of the hike!

When you cross the bridge below the waterfall, be sure to take some time for photos and as you do find yourself gazing up at the spectacular Wiñay Wayna! (2,600m/8,500ft above sea level) These amazing Inca ruins have a fascinating history and some parts are still hidden by the dense jungle. This close to Machu Picchu, you are hiking through lush sub-tropical jungle. The guide will tell you all about the ruins, plus the incredible flora and fauna and answer any questions you have before a short 5-minute walk to your lunch spot.

After lunch, you have a mostly flat walk to the Sun Gate, here you have your first view of Machu Picchu! Though the hour-long walk is a gentle rolling up and down, it does end with a set of steep stairs carved directly into the bedrock by the Inca. As you turn the corner from the Sun Gate, you will enjoy your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. So, take some time to savor the moment and take photos. The last 60 minutes down from the Sun Gate provide many opportunities to take more photos of Machu Picchu from this unique vantage point. There are also a couple more important Inca sites between the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu, so make sure to go slowly, ask your guide questions about these historical places on the last bit of your hike to Machu Picchu.

Once you reach Machu Picchu, you will have time to take more photos from the viewing platforms above the site, “House of the Guardians” where you can take the famous postcard pictures of Machu Picchu.  You will arrive in the afternoon, as the archeological area starts to empty of tourists, which gives you the opportunity to take beautiful photos in the afternoon light with fewer people in your shots. Take your time to enjoy this magical experience before you take the bus down to Aguas Calientes to check into your hotel. Have a delicious dinner, then have time to walk around this picturesque little town, visit the hot springs or just go to your hotel to rest after such an exciting day.

• Meals included:  Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes
• 3* Accommodation: Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu
• Difficulty: moderate

You can leave your duffel from the trek at the Ollantaytambo train station to be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes.

DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

This is the day you’ve been waiting for! After an early breakfast at the hotel, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise. It is a truly extraordinary site and not something you’ll want to miss! The guide will give you a guided tour of Machu Picchu, which takes about two hours. You will see the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel. 

When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing or a visit to the museum or hot springs. 

The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. See Wiñay Wayna from the train, if you look up high on the steep canyon wall! Back at Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:00pm.

Meal included:  Breakfast

• Difficulty:  Easy

***IMPORTANT:

• You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55pm or 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm. The cost is $67 USD.
• Early trains can be organized by requested and it has to be done by booking time.
• The  Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike  depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

• Transfer from the airport to your hotel
• Private transportation from the hotel to Huaran – Trail head
• Licensed guide fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua.
• Round trip Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• 3 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to  Machu Picchu  and return to Aguas Calientes
• Admission ticket to the Machu Picchu Archeological Complex
• Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail National Park
• 2 nights hotel with private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, storage and buffet breakfast included (This applies ONLY if you are choosen the price which includes hotels)
• 4 person Igloo tents for 2 trekkers (large and comfortable)
• Pillow and foam mattress
• Delicious meals  during the 4 days, as indicated in the itinerary
• Cook and cooking equipment
• Horseman and mules, to carry all camping and personal equipment (7 kilograms of your personal items such as extra clothes, sleeping bag, these will be carried by our mules) (on Lares Trek portion only)
• Provision of a horse in case of emergency  (With helmet) in case of illness, to ensure the trek can be completed by all participants (on Lares Trek portion only)
• First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
• Boiled water to fill your drinking bottles
• Guided tour in  Machu Picchu
• Chef, cooking equipment and kitchen tent
• Transfer back to Cusco for our group
• Local interaction with the local kids and the community

WHAT IS 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)
• Vistadome Train Upgrade: $67 USD per person (Return only)
• Huayna Picchu Mountain :  $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your trek)
• Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
• OPTIONAL UPGRADES: Hotel
• Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters of SAM TRAVEL PERU

**Huayna Picchu Mountain is optional trek 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. 

***  The  Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu which is included in this trek is almost always available year round except it is closed in February for maintenance.  

• $717  USD per person  without hotels
• $797 USD per person 1 nights 2* and 1 night 3* hotels

Personal porter included!

• ***  This price includes the pack horse who will carry your belongings up to 7 kilograms. We will provide you a duffel bag, to put your belongings in.
• ***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.  
• ***Private service is $100 USD extra per person 
• 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 is required at booking for 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.

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 (Return only)
• Huayna Picchu Mountain  :  $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your trek)
• Single Supplement:  $40 USD 3* for single travelers Ferre´ Hotel 

**Huayna Picchu Mountain is 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

Comfortable foam mattresses for every hiker, camping pillow, transfer from airport to hotel (only in Cusco), duffle bags, plastic liner bags, and extra blanket for the tent are included in the trekking price!

• EXTRA PACK HORSE  is included in the price, the pack horse will carry your things up to 7 kgs / 14p  sleeping bag, mattress, clothes etc. (Lares Trek portion only)
• COLD BOILED WATER  will be provided along the trek, there will be hot and cold water at each meal time.
• OXYGEN TANK  will be available.
• EMERGENCY HORSE  is included which can be ridden if you feel tired or sick. (Lares Trek portion only)
• BEST ITINERARY  operated by Lares Trek 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  100% 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 our reputation as 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 so 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:    Trek de Lares 4 hours , “ It’s the journey, not the destination…” ,  Lares Pass – Day 3 ,  Trekking in the Sacred Valley .

SMALL GROUPS

To ensure a more personalized service for our guests, at  SAM Travel Peru  we have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people. This fact alone sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups.

BEST LARES TREK ROUTE + SHORT INCA TRAIL 

SAM Travel Peru  is the only tour operator which  TREKS OFF THE BEATEN PATH  with the  LARES TREK MACHU PICCHU,  passing through the most isolated communities, ending at the exclusive Veronica View Hotel swimming pool. Now you get the best combination possible, our incredible  LARES TREK PLUS SHORT INCA TRAIL.   It is the  best of both worlds  and  NO ONE HAS A BETTER DEAL than SAM Travel Peru  for this combination trek.

OUR TOP TOUR GUIDES

We are so proud of our guides! They are  h ighly professional and   speak fluent English.  They are very knowledgeable and  passionate for Inca 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 Inca and Andean culture. Our crew is  fun loving ,  great sports  and  well-educated.  They all hold degrees in one of the following: Archeology, Tourism, Botany, History or Anthropology.

OUR  PACK HORSES

Trekking the Lares Trail and Short Inca Trail with SAM Travel Peru  is a life changing experience!  This is 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 pack horses will carry your gear and are well cared for.

OUR COOKS ON THE LARES TREK 

The food on the trek 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 dietary restrictions or have food allergies of any kind, we can cater to your needs.

OUR  EQUIPMENT

Our team (Guides, cooks, 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 MATS:  They are used to separate and insulate you from the ground. They all are comfortable.
• AIR MATTRESSES:  They can be rented for $20 USD. OUR KITCHEN & DINING TENTS:  The dining tent is used as our meeting room at meal time. It is 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

At SAM Travel Peru,  we have always believed that we should  give back  to the local mountain 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 our local people, not only by employing them but also by going back to our own grassroots as they share with their families. It makes us happy to have this holistic approach with our highland employees and their families!

Please read carefully the following information as it will help with your questions about our services and the Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!

THE BRIEFING

The briefing will take place the night before the trek at 6pm in our office, which is located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 207 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Of course!   During the Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.

HOW TO BOOK THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL 

FIRST,  to book your Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 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 + Short Inca Trail  permits and entrances without the following information:

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

SECOND,  we require a deposit of  $211.00  USD per person in order to purchase a permit for the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail.   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?

If you would like to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATMS within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by  VISA  or  PAYPAL  online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service fee, charged by  VISA  and  PAYPAL .   To pay your balance through  PAYPAL,  you need to log into your  PAYPAL account and use our email address [email protected]. 

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

Unfortunately the answer is No.  Once the tickets have been bought the government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any departure dates. Permits and entrance tickets are not transferable nor refundable. If you cancel your Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 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 number you sent to us to book your Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail, permit, 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 the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or the train.   If you do not have both you will not be allowed to enter the Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or get on the train.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend that you plan to always dress in layers to facilitate adjusting to the quickly changing weather conditions.

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. See our detailed information about Altitude Sickness under FAQS.

HIKING TO LARES TREK 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 pack horses 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 horses will always be ahead of the group. During the Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, 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 40L  backpack is sufficient.

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 39 km hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is (4,700m/15,419ft).  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  a day or go to the fitness club 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 (3,350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.

ARE THERE TOILETS ON THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

This has been highly appreciated by most of our clients, especially by our 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.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE TREK?

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 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 AFTER THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

Absolutely!!  Included in the package and on the last day we will drop you at your hotel! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there too!   If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, for sure we wil pick you up there !

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. 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 feel appropriate, 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 local,  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.

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU

• Original passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
• Valid university card (if you booked as a student)
• Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
• Water storage:  2-3L (Please bring reusable, not disposable bottles)
• Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
• Sleeping bag (can be rented from SAM Travel)
• Headlamp: essential
• Toilet paper
• Good rain gear.

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG

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. By Peruvian law, a duffel bag must not weigh more than 7 kilograms (15lbs). This limit is set to protect the health of the porters or horses. All bags will be weighed before being accepted. If you require more than 7 kilograms, it will then be your responsibility to carry the extra weight with your day pack. In this 7 kilos, please count 2 kilos for your sleeping bag and 1 kilo for your sleeping pad. This leaves you about 4 kilos for your personal gear.

• 2 hiking pants at least
• 4 sets of undergarments
• 3 sets of hiking socks
• Bathing Suit for the Veronica View swimming pool
• 2 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
• Face moisturizer
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Personal medications
• First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK

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 spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water  at every meal time. Please bring your canteens.
• Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
• Rain plastic poncho 
• Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

Our tours are Fully Customizable and leave 365 days a year! Our travel experts are happy to help.

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WHY BOOK WITH SAM TRAVEL?

SAM Travel was born of our love for sharing these beautiful places with travelers. Our owner ( Saúl Alvarez ) went from porter to guide to business owner, without losing sight of his roots. We know how to show you the most beautiful places and give you the most authentic experiences. For Sam Travel our guides are the most important in the business , they all are fluent in Ingles and passoinated about teh culture. They are all trained and retrained in first aid and carry satellite phones for any emergency to be connected to a medical professional when or if needed. We can guarantee our guides will make you feel like hiking with your own family or friends

EXPERT Direct & 100% Local Tour operaor

All our Tours & Treks are provided only by SAM Travel Peru staff and professional guides. What that means for you is that SAM Travel Peru will never pass you onto another company or 3rd Party .

Our Camping Equipment

Enjoy a good night sleep in our 4 season igloo waterproof, spacious and professional EUREKA tent. All our tents are 4 person tents. ONLY 2 people will sleep in each, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bag.

Small Groups for Big Wows

To ensure a more personalized service for our guests, at SAM Travel Peru we have a policy that our groups will not exceed 8 people. This fact alone sets us apart from other companies that operate departures with bigger groups..

Unique Tours & Trekking Packages for all budgets

We have the most customized tours and packages for all budgets. They are created to meet our clients’ desires and needs when looking for something unique in a travel experience.

Gourmet and Hearty Meals

SAM TRAVEL PERÚ has one of the most outstanding meal services. Our chefs have been highly trained to prepare the best peruavian food our treks.

Our Commitment to the Environment

SAM Travel Peru has annual clean-up campaigns that creates awareness towards people across the planet that have the same desires to help protect the environment. It is our commitment in creating a positive and sustainable contribution towards the quality of life for rural Andean communities. .

Join the thousands of satisfied customers who rate us #1 on TripAdvisor

• Trip Advisor

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

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

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.

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

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!

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!

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.

Reviews by Google

My wife and I just completed two excursions with SAM Travel Peru and we absolutely loved them. We did the 4 Day Salkantay Wilderness + Machu Picchu and then the 2-Day Rainbow Mountain + 7 Lakes trek with guide Carlos Estrada, chefs Nerio & Lucio, and horseman Unarato. Over the last 6 days we have learned so much about the Inca culture, discovered some of the most incredible sights, and ate delicious food every step of the way. We would definitely recommend SAM Travel (especially with Carlos!) to anyone that wants an incredible Peruvian adventure. The Wilderness trek is a much quieter trail than the standard Salkantay and goes a bit higher elevation, but camping at the base of Salkantay was incredible. Carlos's guided tour through Machu Picchu was so informative. We would have missed so much without him taking the time to share his knowledge.

Big thanks to David he was an amazing tour guide who really cared for our group. He allowed us to go at our own pace and was a brilliant photographer He was really funny and is full of interesting information & his passion for his inca ancestors is very obvious and warming. He also brought us to great restaurants! This company are very good and from what I can recall were cheaper than most. Thank you!

They took care of everything! Saul the owner is very responsive and helpful. Johnny our guide was fantastic, as were our chef, assistant chef and horsemen. I can’t recommend them highly enough and will definitely use them again if we return to Peru!

Three of us decided to choose Sam Travel Peru, reason being is it is a local travel company that help indegenious communities. We picked Lares Trek 4D3N to have cultural experience while hiking. Good foods provided by talented Mario Chef! Johnny is our tour guide, very helpful tour guide. He even helped me to carry my daypack as I was too exhausted to carry it on day 1 hiking. Strongly recommend to those like to have local experience while hiking.

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Our Peru trek, Peru Tours

Our packages range from short day tours to longer expeditions, and cover destinations such as Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon, Huacachina Nazca, Lima and more. We also offer adventure tours, trekking tours, and cultural immersion experiences, as well as tailor-made itineraries to meet specific requests.

Our trips are well organized and on time. No need to worry. We do it all!

We offer guaranted trips and safe travel for all clients!

Join us on a journey of discovery and adventure in Peru, and let us create a personalized package that exceeds your expectations. Contact us today to start planning your dream trip!

PERSONALIZE YOUR TRIP

We stand out for the environmental care & dedication to our clients and work team.

We are ISO 9001 certified, which ensures that all our customers get consistent, good quality services and products. Sam Travel honors and is committed to these principles.

ISO 14001 sets an internationally agreed upon standard for Environmental sustainability. They encourage organizations to protect the environment through the efficient use of resources and reduction of waste. Sam travel adopts a holistic approach to environmental sustainability and management.

We are honored to have been chosen by our travelers as their travelers’ choice of 2022. Trust us to plan your travel, for an unforgettable, once in a lifetime experience. We are humbled and proud to provide the best tours to Machu Picchu, trekking the Inca trail and other tours and treks throughout the Cusco region and beyond.

Sam Travel is committed to a greener earth. We make direct contributions to counter the carbon emissions created by our website and its foot traffic. We play our part in reducing the impact on our environment by neutralizing our carbon emissions.

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Permits will be released in October 2023, secure your Inca Trail ticket now. Don't miss out. They sell out extremely quickly.

 INCA TRAIL VS LARES TREK

Perhaps you wanted to hike the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, but just then heard about Lares trek. So the question arises immediately: Which hike should I take?. Well, In this Lares Trek vs Inca trail post, we will come up with some of the main highlights to see if you finally end up choosing one of these treks.

Book your Inca Trail as soon as with a local Company AB EXPEDITIONS !. Permits will sell out fast in Peru, due to continued government restrictions of 50% fewer permits available for 2022. Book here .

Inca Trail.- The famous Inca Trail is undoubtedly one of the top hiking routes in the world that leads you straight to Machu Picchu on foot, and of course, entering through the famous Sun Gate . Before getting to Machu Picchu, you will hike through various Inca ruins and inhabited areas unreachable to tourists by any other means. The most common package is the 4-day hike Inca trail hike.

Lares Trek.- By comparison, the Lares Trek is a much less discovered hiking route to Machu Picchu so at times you will feel like you are alone with the mountains. The real highlight of Lares Trek is hiking through small farming villages with no electricity or water and interacting with the children, making the lares trek a cultural experience in a way that the Inca Trail is not.

Inca trail highlights

• You will catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate on the last day of your hike. The views of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate are amazing and give a good perspective of the splendour of the Inca ruins.
• The Inca Trail is the only trekking in which you hike until you get Machu Picchu, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment that you have reached your objective.
• You will see a lot of uninhabited landscapes, stunning Andean vistas, and mysterious cloud forests while trekking.
• Along the route, there are various Inca-ruins built into the mountainside that you can visit.
• The diversity of the nature on the trail is beautiful: from high Andes-passes (highest point is about 4200 meters above sea level) to the exuberant nature of the Rain forest.
• Hike to Machu Picchu on mystical, stone-paved paths built by the Incas.

Inca trail Lowlights

• The Inca Trail doesn’t have the cultural interaction like the Lares Trek.
• Remember to book well in advance since the permits are limited and they are sold out months beforehand.
• You should not expect solitude or peace and quiet on the trail as you will be hiking with many other trekkers and many porters.
• The campsites along the route are all busy.
• You have to hike down stairways made by the Incas on a large part of the Inca Trail, especially on day 03. The stairs are not easy and you have to make big steps, so you will get a lot of pressure on your upper legs and knees.

Lares trek Highlights

• On the Lares Trek, you are surrounded by pristine wilderness deep in the Andes Mountains with lakes, Glaciers, valleys, Viscachas, and grazing llamas.
• You will hike through small villages where there are opportunities for cultural interaction with the local families, Specially with children.
• Lares trek route takes hikers off-the-beaten-path and along the trail where fewer tourists venture while still not straying too far from civilization. The only people that will you see are the local people in the mountains

Lares trek Lowlights

• you don’t arrive at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate. The last night of the trek ends in Aguas Calientes town, after which you will visit Machu Picchu on the following day.

MOUNTAIN SCENERY

Inca Trail.- On the Inca trail hike, the mountain slopes surrounding are mostly overgrown with bushes and trees, so it is greener in coloration, and on a good winter day, you even have a glimpse to see the snow-covered peaks far away.

Lares Trek.- Hiking the Lares trek, you can expect to see spectacular mountain sceneries, snow-covered peaks near as you hit the mountain pass, glacier-fed lagoons, and so on. 

AVAILABILITY / FLEXIBILITY

Inca Trail.- Only 500 people are allowed to enter the Inca Trail per day, including tourists, guides, porters, and cooks. If you really want to do this hike, plan well in advance to secure your Inca trail permit. Otherwise, you will arrive at taking alternative treks.

Lares Trek.- There is no need to pre-book the tour months before, as it receives unlimited tour groups year-round. Just look for a reliable tour operator and ask for the tour, then they will begin to organize the hike. There is always availability.

Inca Trail.- Just like on the Lares Trek, winter months on the Inca trail are just the right time to go. Although the temperature is cold at night, the day hike is mostly enjoyable, having sunny days. However, if you are planning on hiking the Inca trail in summer, the weather is still nice (warm) but rain and fog can obscure the scenic views. See more about the best time to hike the Inca Trail .

Lares Trek.- Expect cold temperatures at night and early hours in winter running from May-August, but it turns out to be advisable months for doing the hike. (Temperature can dip below zero degrees). Whereas, in the summer months from December – March, the temperature gets warmer but followed by downpours. The rest of the year is mild.

MOUNTAIN VILLAGES AND LOCAL PEOPLE

Inca Trail.- Since the Inca trail surroundings are overgrown with bushes and vegetation, there is no mountain village settled, therefore no family is living in those secluded mountains. Only the first day you see some local stores and family houses, but nothing of that captures your attention much. 

Lares Trek.- You will surely see local people, focused on their daily duties, most of them are farmers and llama herders worn in their traditional clothes as it is supposed to be in the great Incan times. Living in some adobe huts plastered with mud and securing the llamas and alpacas in compounds chained with stone or into woven wired fences in summer months.

Inca Trail.- No pack animal is allowed to enter the Inca trail. Besides protecting the damage that these animals can cause on the trail, the fact is that they can’t climb up and down on some of the steep stairs of the trail. Only manpower carries the hiking gear and food. All the tour operators hire the famous Inca trail Porters . 

Lares Trek.- At the start of your hike, you will be presented with your Lares trek muleteers, and they will carry the food and the campings gear for the hike. Most of them come from the Lares valley, and after 3 days of work, they have to climb the high passes again back home. When work is low, they work on farming native potatoes and cereals.

TRAIL CLOSURES IN FEBRUARY

Inca Trail.- Yes, it closes for upkeep procedures. 

Lares trail.- No, it doesn´t close in February.

HOW ABOUT CAMPING ESTABLISHMENTS?

Inca Trail.- The Inca trail porters set up the camping tents, one kitchen tent, dining tent, and passenger tents for overnight. For those who would like to take shower after the hike (nighttime shower), there are some shower stalls. As for the restrooms, there are only squat toilets, unless you find some proper toilets in the first-day hike but bear in mind these are private, so you will be charged by someone else.

Lares trail.- The camping sites are less crowded as the trail is less trodden and has several versions. About bathroom facilities, drinking water, and showers, there are only outhouse toilets so go prepared for it. Water may not be safe, therefore needs to be purified too. As for taking shower, it will depend on the time and weather. Usually, the temperature is cold, so you barely take a birdbath.

THERMAL HOTSPRINGS

Inca Trail.- It is important to clarify that you won’t find any hot springs in the mid-hike. The way you can get it is if you have an extra night at Aguas Calientes, so you can visit the Hotsprings just a few minutes away from the main square.

Lares Trek.- Whichever Lares trek version you take, you will have a chance to soak in the Hotsprings near Lares Town. It is a very nice spot where to relax. And Before starting the tour ask your tour operator if there will be time for it. 

WHO SHOULD CHOOSE THE INCA TRAIL? 

Now, if you are sticking more to the Inca trail hike than the Lares trek and want to enter Machu Picchu through the sun gate, it can´t be a bad choice. Now look, Unlike the Lares trek, the Inca trail boasts the incredible Inca trail ruins , and it is worth the hype to see them along the way. If you care more about History and like a jungle landscape than a high altitude trek, then book the Inca trail before the permits run out.

WHO SHOULD CHOOSE LARES TREK?

Take the Lares Trek to get to know about life in the Peruvian Andes mountain, because you will witness a more authentic way of life of the Quechua People living in this part of Cusco; and there you will have a chance to learn about their wisdom, religion as well as their philosophy. Besides only mountain villages and the local culture, enjoy the clear blue lakes, valleys inhabited by Alpacas , the alluring mountain peaks, and many marvels this trek has yet to offer. 

written by our Tour guide Aldair

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NCM Moscow Plus

An e-mountain bike equipped with high-end brake and drive systems, the NCM M5 is for adventurous riders who want to hit the trails comfortable in the knowledge that their ebike can handle whatever they throw at it.

BIKE COMPONENTS

Frame: Alu. 6061, 26"*17.3 inches / Alu. 6061, 27.5"*18.9 inches / Alu. 6061, 29"*20.5 inches

Suspension Fork: Suntour, XCM-HLO-26/27.5/29, with hydraulic lock system

Brake: F/R: Tektro Hydraulic Disc Brakes,HD-E350

Freewheel: LY, 8 Speed, 11-32T, Silver

Tire: Schwalbe, Black Jack, 26"*2.1/Smart Sam, 27.5"*2.35/29"*2.35, Black

Saddle: Selle Royal, Lookin-A200UR, Black

Crank: Das-Kit, CM48,28/38/48T

Derailleur: F: Shimano, Altus, FD-M310, R: Shimano, Acera, RD-M360

ELECTRIC COMPONENTS

Battery: Das-Kit, i5-4816, 48V 16AH, 768WH

Hub Motor Rated / Peak Power: Das-Kit, X15, 48V 500W / 900W

Controller: Das-Kit, CT-i5, 48V 18A

Charger: Das-Kit, 48V3A

Display: Das-Kit, C7 

Net Weight (with battery): 57.0 lbs

Battery Weight: 9.1 lbs

Max Load (driver+bike): 275.0 lbs

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Our on-line store is open 24/7 and we ship Monday through Friday, excluding some holidays. Orders received for products without shipping restrictions on its product page will ship the same business day when received before 12:00 p.m. PST. Orders in high demand will have an estimated production time listed on its product page and will ship according to the date listed.

Customer Reviews

Very happy with my new M7 and wife's Moscow Plus

We purchased the NCM Moscow 29 E bike from Leon Cycles earlier this month. Communication was via 'Whatsapp' which I initially thought a little odd but worked out well. Once communication established the transaction was completed quickly and easily. We were able to arrange for the team to assemble the bike for us and we picked it up from the warehouse without an issue. We love the bike and are continuing to find new places to discover using it. Competitive price and great service.

I ordered the bike 4 days ago and today it arrived. Now my first impressions: it is easy to assemble, looks great, is cleanly finished and after a first short driving test I have to say, the hammer. It's totally easy to drive. If it stays that way, I can only say thank you Leon Cycle. Now I can cycle again, despite knee problems. Price-performance top

Great bike, this is my second e bike and by far the best. Watching e bikes over the last 10 years I think the Moscow 29er is fantastic. I live in the Dandenongs outside Melbourne with big steep hills and the Moscow takes them all on with great pulling power and gear range. 48v with 16 amps means over 750 watts of power. The bike is big and serious so getting on and off can be tricky but you do get used to it. With the previous bike (36v at 8amps) I was scared of running out of battery on a big hill and having to push the bike home but not with the Moscow. Also if you take the front wheel off you can get it in a hatchback like my Mazda 3 Which is nice. At $2200 it is a great buy.

Purchased two Moscow 27.5. One for my wife, one for me. Fast delivery, well boxed and easy assembly. Absolutely FANTASTIC to ride and use. Great range, and enough power for steep hills and tough terrain. I highly recommend them. Exactly as advertised and brochure. Looked at many options from other suppliers but these are the best value for money. If anyone wants a little extra range and a few more features then a Moscow Plus may suit. 48 Volt is the way to go. Great support and assistance from the team at Leon to make the right purchase decision. Hope other people may enjoy the ride and quality product. Harry G

Highlighted Features

Das-Kit 500W Motor

Ergonomic handlebar grips

Moscow 48V disc brake

Product specifications.

Battery: Das-Kit, i5-4816, 48V 16Ah, 768Wh

Hub Motor Rated / Peak Power: Das-Kit, X15, 48V 500W / 750W

Display: Das-Kit, C7

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