Step off the beaten path into a world where time stands still “Lares Trek and Inca Trail trek“.
The air is crisp with the scent of eucalyptus and wild herbs, and the only sounds are the gentle tinkling of llama bells and the rush of crystal-clear rivers cascading down ancient valleys.
In the remote Lares region, resilient Quechua communities continue to farm terraced ancestral lands using time-honored techniques, tending to herds of fluffy llamas and alpacas that graze freely amid vibrant wildflowers and misty cloud forests.
These highland dwellers, descendants of the Inca, live beneath towering, sacred snow-capped peaks – such as the majestic Mount Veronica and Sawasiray – that their forebears revered as powerful Apus, or mountain gods, guardians of the land and its people.
Ancient trails, etched into the earth during the Inca Empire and still traversed daily by locals, weave through this untamed wilderness, connecting isolated villages like Cancha Cancha, Quishuarani, Cuncani, and Patacancha to the fertile Sacred Valley below.
Here, you’ll witness living traditions: families expertly weaving intricate textiles from naturally dyed alpaca and sheep wool, children dressed in colorful ponchos herding animals, and farmers cultivating over 3,000 varieties of potatoes in harmony with the rugged terrain.
This lesser-known path offers a profound blend of natural wonders and authentic encounters, where you might join a heartfelt ceremony honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth) at a lofty mountain pass, or share a simple meal with villagers whose Quechua language echoes the Inca past.
Unlike more famous routes, the Lares Trek emphasizes remoteness and genuine interaction, revealing the heart of Peru’s indigenous heritage amid sweeping panoramic views of lush valleys, sparse high-altitude expanses, and delicate ecosystems teeming with Andean wildlife like soaring condors and elusive spectacled bears.
This 5-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu adventure masterfully blends the authentic, crowd-free magic of the Lares Trek with the iconic final stretch of the Short Inca Trail (starting at Km 104).
You’ll trek Lares through pristine Andean wilderness, cross dramatic passes with jaw-dropping vistas – reaching heights like the Condor Pass at nearly 4,800 meters – immerse in genuine highland life, and finally arrive at Machu Picchu via the breathtaking Sun Gate – first glimpsing the ancient citadel exactly as Inca pilgrims did centuries ago, with its mist-shrouded terraces and enigmatic stone structures unfolding below.
This isn’t just a hike – it’s a profound cultural and natural immersion, far from the tourist crowds, culminating in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wonders, where history, spirituality, and breathtaking scenery converge to create memories that last a lifetime.
ITINERARY
Mandatory Pre-Trek Briefing
All adventurers must join a required briefing the day before departure at your Cusco hotel.
We’ll review the route, inspect gear, answer questions, and hand out a personal duffel bag (carried by pack horses).
Arrive in Cusco at least 2 days early to acclimatize to the altitude – your body will thank you!
Day 1: Cusco – Calca – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani – Yanacocha Lake
Your adventure ignites early!
Pickup at 6:00 a.m. from your Cusco hotel, grab a quick breakfast, then wind through the lush Sacred Valley to Calca’s vibrant local market – perfect for picking up coca leaves, bread, or small treats to share with trail families.
Next, head to Lares for pure bliss: soak in the mineral-rich hot springs (cool to steaming hot), easing muscles before the trek begins.
Our chef prepares a delicious lunch while you relax.
Then, drive to remote Kiswarani village – where locals still wear vibrant traditional clothing and live as their ancestors did.
From here, the hike starts gently, passing the stunning Seven Waterfalls, before climbing steadily to breathtaking Yanacocha Lake. Camp at 3,800 m (12,467 ft) beside this turquoise gem, surrounded by towering peaks.
Unwind by the water as the crew sets up camp, then savor dinner under a star-filled sky.
- Meals: Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Max Altitude: 3,956 m / 12,976 ft
- Distance: 12 km
- Walking Time: 3 hours
Day 2: Yanacocha Lake – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha Village
Wake to coca tea or coffee delivered to your tent, with breakfast served against a backdrop of shimmering lake and snow-dusted peaks.
The trail starts easy along the lake before the steady climb to Condor Pass (4,700 m / 15,354 ft) – a challenging but exhilarating 3-hour ascent. Watch for soaring caracaras and grazing llamas as you conquer the pass.
At the summit, join your guide for a heartfelt Pachamama ceremony, then refuel with snacks and drinks.
The reward? Epic 360° views of the Andes.
Descend 2 hours to Acopata for a hearty lunch, then continue 1 hour to Cancha Cancha – one of the most isolated villages in the region.
No roads, no cars – just stone houses, quiet mountains, and timeless Andean life.
Spend the afternoon visiting the local school or chatting with families.
Bring small gifts (school supplies, warm clothes, dental items) – the children’s smiles are priceless.
Relax at camp with hot drinks.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Max Altitude: 4,700 m /15,354 ft
- Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Walking Time: 7 to 8 hours
Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Ollantaytambo
After breakfast, visit a local home to witness daily life – potato farming with ancient tools, Quechua conversations, and timeless traditions.
Then begin a scenic descent through changing landscapes: high-altitude potato fields give way to corn, quinoa, and avocados.
Hike all downhill for 4 hours to Huaran (2,885 m), where the trek team serves your final trail lunch.
Say heartfelt goodbyes to the porters, chef, and horsemen before a scenic drive to charming Ollantaytambo.
Explore the town’s Inca ruins, artisan markets, and cozy cafes.
Check into your comfortable hotel, enjoy dinner at a local spot (drinks not included), and rest up for tomorrow’s grand finale.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner (dinner in town)
- Accommodation: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
- Max Altitude: 3,850 m / 12,631 ft
- Distance: 13 km
- Walking Time: 4 – 6 hours
Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Early breakfast, then a scenic train ride through dramatic valleys to Km 104.
Begin the Short Inca Trail – a thrilling 3-hour climb to Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), an enchanting Inca site perched at 2,680 m.
Continue along the historic path, anticipation building with every step.
Reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate) at 2,720 m for your first heart-stopping view of Machu Picchu – mist-shrouded terraces, soaring peaks, and the ancient citadel laid out below.
Capture endless photos, soak in the magic.
Descend the final trail section to the ruins, then take the 25-minute bus to Aguas Calientes.
Check into your hotel, explore the town, or soak in the hot springs.
Regroup for a celebratory dinner (drinks not included).
- Meals: Breakfast / Box Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
- Walking Time: 5 – 6 hours
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Rise before dawn for breakfast and the winding bus up to Machu Picchu.
Catch the sunrise (weather permitting) over the Andes, then enter the citadel via Circuit 3 (entry included).
Your expert guide leads a 2-hour walking tour, unveiling secrets of this legendary site.
Optional: Climb Huayna Picchu for panoramic views (extra cost, not included).
Otherwise, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (on your own), then board the expedition train to Poroy or Ollantaytambo, followed by private transfer to your Cusco hotel (arrival 8 – 9 p.m.).
- Meals: Breakfast
- Lowest Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
- Highest Altitude: 2,440 m / 8,052 ft
Services Included
- Pre-Trip Preparation: Pre-departure briefing at your Cusco hotel.
- Transportation: Pick-up from your hotel and transfer to Lares Hot Springs to begin the trek; private van transportation from Ollantaytambo or Poroy back to your Cusco hotel.
- Guiding: Bilingual English-speaking tour guide (additional guide for groups of 9 or more).
- Accommodations: High-quality 4-person tent for every 2 people; foam mattress and pillow; 1-night hotel in Ollantaytambo (double occupancy); 1-night hotel in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy).
- Camp Setup: Kitchen tent; dining tent with tables and chairs; eco-friendly portable toilet and toilet tent.
- Meals and Hydration: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners prepared by a professional chef and assistant; hot water for washing twice daily; daily morning boiled and cold water to fill your bottles.
- Support and Logistics: Wranglers and horses to carry all equipment; horse to transport up to 8 kg of your personal gear; duffel bag for your gear; emergency horse (if needed); emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
- Train and Bus Tickets: Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to KM 104; expedition return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy; one bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes after the Inca Trail hike; round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on Day 5.
- Entrance Fees: Entrance to Machu Picchu through Circuit 3.
Services Not Included
- Sleeping bag (available for rent from us).
- Trekking poles (available for rent from us).
- Ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain (can be purchased for an extra USD $75 per person).
- Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 5 in Aguas Calientes.
- Tips for the trek crew.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended for your safety).
What to Bring:
- Original passport: Essential for entry to Machu Picchu and checkpoints; bring both old and new if renewed post-booking to avoid issues.
- Down or synthetic feather sleeping bag: Provides warmth for cold nights at camp (rentable if you don’t own one).
- Trekking boots: Sturdy, waterproof footwear for rugged terrain and long hikes to prevent slips and blisters.
- Warm fleece jacket: Insulating layer for chilly evenings and high elevations to maintain body heat.
- Tops: Lightweight, breathable shirts for layering during the day to manage sweat and temperature changes.
- A few T-shirts: Quick-drying base layers for comfort under varying weather conditions.
- Socks: Multiple pairs of moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry and reduce friction on multi-day treks.
- Sun hat: Wide-brimmed hat to shield face and neck from intense Andean sun.
- Thermal underwear: Base layer for extra warmth during cold mornings or high-altitude sections.
- Light long pants: Versatile, quick-dry pants for protection against sun, insects, and brush.
- Gloves: Insulated for cold weather, especially at higher passes.
- Poncho: Compact rain cover for sudden showers common in the region.
- Rain jacket: Waterproof outer layer to stay dry during unpredictable mountain rain.
- Toilet paper: Personal supply for hygiene, as facilities are basic or eco-friendly.
- Wet wipes: For quick cleaning without water, ideal for trail conditions.
- Personal towel: Lightweight, quick-dry towel for washing up at campsites.
- Sun block (SPF 35+ recommended): High-SPF cream to protect against strong UV rays at altitude.
- Head lamp + batteries: Hands-free light for early starts, night camp activities, or emergencies; extra batteries ensure reliability.
- Sunglasses: UV-protective eyewear to prevent snow glare or sun damage in bright conditions.
- Camera + batteries: For capturing scenery; spare batteries combat cold-induced drain.
- Binoculars: Optional for spotting wildlife or distant views in the Andes.
- Trekking poles: Aid balance on steep descents and ascents (rentable; rubber tips prevent trail damage).
- Insect repellent (15% DEET): Spray or lotion to ward off bugs in warmer valley areas.
- Snacks: Personal energy boosters like bars or nuts to supplement meals and combat altitude fatigue.
PRICES & ADD-ONS
Group: USD $950 per person
Private: USD $1010 per person
Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?
- Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
- If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
- Minimum booking size is two people; one person may book a group trek if Action Peru Treks is able to join that person with additional groups.
Discounts
- Under 18 years discount: USD $20
- Under 7 years discount: USD $35
Rentals
- Hiking poles – USD $25 (pair)
- Sleeping bag – USD $30 per person
- Private Tent – USD $30 per person
Upgrades
- Return Vistadome train – USD $80 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $520 per person
- Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 per person per night (double occupancy)
- Inkaterra El Pueblo Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $250 per person per night (double occupancy)
- El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra (5-star hotel) – USD $115 per person per night (double occupancy)
- Tierra Viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $60 per person per night (double occupancy)
Frequently Asked Questions – The Ultimate Lares Trek and Inca Trail – 5 Days / 4 Nights
This trek combines the remote, cultural Lares Valley with the iconic Short Inca Trail, offering authentic Quechua village interactions, stunning Andean scenery, and a dramatic Sun Gate arrival at Machu Picchu.
1.- How difficult is this trek?
Moderate to challenging. The toughest is Day 2, climbing to Condor Pass at 4,700 m / 15,354 ft (7–8 hours, 800 m ascent).
Days 1 and 3 involve steady climbs to 4,460–4,700 m but are manageable with good fitness and acclimatization.
Day 4 (Short Inca Trail) is the easiest (mostly uphill for 3 hours then flat/downhill, 13 km / 8 miles, max altitude 2,720 m / 8,924 ft).
Overall, it’s easier than the full Classic Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek but still a true high-altitude adventure.
2.- What is the maximum altitude and how much time do we spend above 4,000 m?
Highest point: Condor Pass at 4,700 m / 15,354 ft on Day 2.
You’ll camp above 4,000 m only on Night 1 (near Yanacocha Lake at 3,956 m / 12,976 ft).
Night 2 is at Cancha Cancha (3,850 m / 12,631 ft).
After that, altitudes drop quickly, so only about 36 hours are spent at truly high elevations.
3.- Do I need to be fully acclimatized before starting?
Yes, absolutely. Action Peru Treks strongly recommends arriving in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft) or the Sacred Valley at least 2–3 days early, with a minimum of 2 full days for proper acclimatization.
Trekkers who fly in the day before or spend only 1 night in Cusco often struggle on Day 2 due to altitude sickness.
4.- Is this trek very crowded or is it really remote?
The first 3 days in the Lares section are genuinely remote – you’ll likely encounter more llamas, alpacas, and condors than tourists (often zero other groups).
The Short Inca Trail on Day 4 is busier (up to 250 permits per day) but far quieter than the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail (500 permits per day).
Enjoy the peace of Lares combined with iconic Inca Trail views without the crowds.
5.- Are permits required and are they included?
Yes, the Short Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance (Circuit 3) are required and included in the price – no need to book separately.
Optional Huayna Picchu Mountain tickets are extra (US$75 per person) and must be requested at booking, as they sell out months in advance.
6.- What type of accommodations do we get?
- Nights 1 & 2: Comfortable 4-season camping (4-person tent shared by 2 trekkers, thick foam mattress, pillow, dining tent, eco-friendly portable toilet).
- Night 3: Hotel in Ollantaytambo (double occupancy, private room, hot shower).
- Night 4: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy, private room, hot shower). This setup is more comfortable than all-camping treks, with hot water for washing twice daily.
7.- Are the hot springs on Day 1 really good?
Yes, the Lares Hot Springs are excellent, with multiple pools at varying temperatures, very clean, and rarely crowded.
You’ll arrive on Day 1 for a relaxing soak before starting the trek, making it a perfect highlight to ease into the adventure.
8.- Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes. Huayna Picchu is the steep, popular option with stunning overlooks of Machu Picchu (entry slots at 7–8 AM or 10–11 AM).
It costs an extra US$75 and must be booked simultaneously with the trek (availability checked upon request). Machu Picchu Mountain is a less crowded alternative.
9.- What train do we take?
Expedition class (Peru Rail tourist train) – comfortable with large windows and snacks included.
Upgrades to Vistadome Train (panoramic roof/windows) are available for US$80 extra, or the luxury Hiram Bingham Train for US$520.
10.- When do we actually get the full guided tour of Machu Picchu?
On the morning of Day 5 with fresh legs (2-hour private guided tour via Circuit 3).
You’ll see Machu Picchu twice: first on Day 4 afternoon from the Sun Gate (a magical initial reveal), then in-depth on Day 5.
Trekkers often prefer this over touring on tired legs after the full Classic Inca Trail.
11.- Is there an emergency horse?
Yes, an emergency horse is always available on the Lares section (Days 1–3). If you’re unable to walk due to fatigue or altitude, you can ride it.
12.- How big are the groups on this trek?
Maximum 8 – 16 trekkers per guide (with a second guide for groups of 9+).
Groups are typically small (4 – 8 people).
Choose group service (may include other travelers) or private for exclusivity (higher cost based on group size).
13.- Classic 4-Day Inca Trail vs Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail – Key Differences
Aspect: Culture Classic Inca Trail: Mostly tourists and porters; limited local interaction.
Lares + Short Inca Trail (5D/4N): Authentic Quechua villages (e.g., Kiswarani, Cancha Cancha—isolated, no roads); Pachamama ceremonies; family/school visits.
Aspect: Crowds Classic Inca Trail: 300 – 400 people/day; conga lines, shared campsites.
Lares + Short Inca Trail (5D/4N): Lares days often zero trekkers; Short Inca Trail quieter (250 permits/day).
Aspect: Scenery Classic Inca Trail: Cloud forest + nonstop Inca ruins.
Lares + Short Inca Trail (5D/4N): Glaciated peaks (e.g., Mount Veronica, Sawasiray), turquoise lakes (e.g., Yanacocha), waterfalls, alpaca herds, hot springs.
Aspect: Logistics & Comfort Classic Inca Trail: 4 days hard hiking (45 km / 28 miles), camping only, “killer steps,” permits sell out 8+ months ahead.
Lares + Short Inca Trail (5D/4N): 5 days (50 km / 31 miles), mix of camping/hotels, emergency horse, hot springs, easier permit availability.
14.- When is the best time to do this trek?
Dry season (May–September) for optimal weather and clearest views.
Shoulder months (April & October) offer fewer crowds and mostly dry conditions.
Rainy season (December–March) is feasible but brings muddy trails and occasional pass closures due to heavy rain.
15.- Is this better than doing just the Lares Trek or just the Short Inca Trail alone?
Absolutely – this combo is the “best of both worlds”: the remote, cultural immersion of Lares (including unique features like Pachamama ceremonies and visits to off-grid villages) plus the Short Inca Trail’s iconic Sun Gate entry and Wiñay Wayna ruins, without the crowds or permit hassles of the Classic Inca Trail.
Experienced hikers often rate it as one of Peru’s top Machu Picchu treks.
16.- Why Choose Action Peru Treks for Salkantay Trek?
Among 800+ Peruvian operators, Action Peru Treks is a Quechua-owned indigenous company that excels in authentic, ethical adventures.
- Ethical Roots: Fair wages, community fundraisers, sustainable Andean immersion.
- Top Reviews: TripAdvisor Excellence; raves for “exceptional service” and organization.
- Expert Guides: Locals deliver fun, cultural insights in small groups.
- Gourmet Comfort: Chef buffets for all diets, cozy camps, smooth logistics.
- Community Focus: Education aid in remote areas; adaptable treks with epic views.
