The Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 4 Days, is a great way to combine the best of breath-taking landscapes, archeological ruins, and immersion in traditional cultures.
Firstly you will experience the beautiful landscapes and traditional cultures of Lares, where you will have the opportunity to get to know the traditional culture of the region. Then you will do the Inca Trail, visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Huayna and hike to Machu Picchu, then continue through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where we can see the citadel of Machu Picchu for the first time.
Discover the incredible trekking through the Lares Valley and the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 4 days
Overview
Day 1: Cusco – Huacawasi – Sondor
- 5:30 AM Pickup at your Hotel
- Meals: (optional Breakfast), 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner & Snacks
- Approximate hiking time: ~5-6 hrs.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Climate: Warm and Cold at night
- Highest elevation: 3800 m / 12467 ft
- Sleepover in communal house in Sondor
Day 2: Sondor – Paso Sacsaylame – Aruray Cocha – Miski Unu- Pucara
- Meals: 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner & Snacks
- Approximate hiking time: ~7-8 hrs.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Climate: Cold
- Highest elevation: 4400 m / 14435.7 ft
- Sleepover in camping ground Pucara
Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Km. 104 – Aguas Calientes
- 6 AM Pickup at Campingsite
- Meals: 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunchbox, 1 Dinner & Snacks
- Approximate hiking time: ~6-7 hrs.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Climate: Humid with mosquitoes
- Highest elevation: 2780 m / 9120.7 ft
- Sleepover in Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Meals: 1 Breakfast
- Approximate hiking time: ~3 hrs.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Climate: Temperate to Warm
- Highest elevation: 2430 m / 7972.4 ft
- Transportation back to Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Huacawasi – Sondor
We will begin the Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu by picking you up from your respective hotel at 5:30 AM. You can sleep in the car while we will drive to the town of Calca (2926 m / 9599.7 ft). Here we will make the first stop, you can check out the local market and do some shopping before we will have a delicious breakfast.
After that, we will continue our journey to the village of Lares (3150 m / 10334.6 ft) where we will have the opportunity to visit the thermal medicinal baths of Lares and enjoy a relaxing bath, the temperature varies between 28 °C and 34 °C.
Hereafter we will have a tasty lunch to prepare us for the hike. Then we will start hiking to the first campsite of Sondor (3800 m / 12467 ft). The hike will be gradually uphill so that you can get used to the trek and prepare for the second day.
We will spend the first night in the house of our villagers who will cordially welcome us into their homes upon our arrival. They will be ready to show us the Andean weaving process and you will have the opportunity to participate in this process.
Day 2: Sondor – Paso Sacsaylame – Aruray Cocha – Miski Unu- Pucara
After breakfast, we will start the hike to the highest point, the Sacsayllame pass (4400 m / 14435 ft).
The hike will be a very steep ascent for about 1.20 hours. This is the most challenging part of the hike, which is why we will have an emergency horse, just in case, so that you can be confident to reach the top.
During this trip, you will be able to enjoy huge mountains, agricultural land, and breathtaking views. Take into account that we will reach great heights and the weather can be very cold.
After reaching the highest point we will descend and pass a beautiful lagoon before having lunch. You will have some free time to rest and recover while our cooks prepare a delicious lunch for you.
Afterwards we will descend further into a forest where you will be able to view the “Queuñas” (Polylepis) a typical Peruvian tree. This hike will take approximately 6 hours (camp Pucara 3000 m). A wonderful place in the middle of a forest, where you will receive a hot tea and some snacks before you can relish this fantastic afternoon by observing the endemic and migratory birds and hummingbirds in our primary forest.
Day 3: Ollantaytambo – Km. 104 – Aguas Calientes
We will pick you up from the camp at 6 AM and drive you in the direction of the village of Ollantaytambo for 45 min. Here we will take the train to KM. 104 where we will begin hiking the Inca Trail.
Please remember to bring your original passport! As each trekker can only enter the Inca Trail after identifying himself at the passport control. Then we will start hiking just a few meters next to the Vilcanota River.
At the beginning of the trail, we will see the ruins of Chachabamba, a stone altar that was used to worship the sun and the mountains and is still venerated by the local population.
We will continue our way south and begin a gradual ascent up the mountain. After walking for 3 hours, the path descends into an incredible forest. Here we will find a beautiful waterfall and arrive at the ruins of Wiñaywayna (2650 m / 8694.2 ft). Here you can appreciate the beauty of this place, while our expert guide will explain to you the historical and cultural importance of these ruins.
After breakfast (Lunchbox) in Wiñaywayna, we will continue the hike in the afternoon and trek through a beautiful forest, full of bromeliads, orchids, and ferns. As we walk along this last part of the road, we will pass by many impressive features, such as stone staircases and tambos (“resting places”).
You will descend 60 stairs before arriving at Inti Punku (“the Sungate”). From this point, you can contemplate and observe this marvelous place. Then we will descend for 45 minutes until we reach the viewpoint, from here you can see the sunset.
We will go down to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where we will board the bus to the village of Aguas Calientes.
** Lodging in Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We will have breakfast from 05:00 AM before we will board the first bus to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and start the guided tour in this enigmatic and mysterious citadel. You will have approximately 2 hours with a Professional Guide who will explain to you all the important information about this mystical place.
After the guided tour you will have some free time and can choose whether you would like to explore more of the place, such as the Sungate or Huayna Picchu Mountain.
Hereafter, we will return to the village of Aguas Calientes, where you will take the train back to the village of Ollantaytambo and from there to Cusco. We will drop you off at your respective hotel.
***Breakfast included.
Important:
*The times of the Tour schedule can vary according to your preferences and personal circumstances, which is why we will hold a previous briefing in order to discuss with you your wishes and accordingly determine the specific timetable of the tour
*The entrance to Huaynapicchu must be requested at the time of booking the tour and is subject to the given availability. (maximum 400 spaces per day)
includes
Includes
- Pick up your hotel and transfer to the first visiting point.
- Tourist Transportation Cusco – Quiswarani.
- Tourist transportation Lares – Ollantaytambo.
- Horses and Muleteer for the Camping and Food team.
- Camping equipment (kitchen tents, dining tent, bedroom tent, balloon, tables, benches, etc.)
- Train ticket to km 104 (starting point of the tour.)
- Entrance to the Inca Trail park and the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
- Professional Guide.
- Guided visits to Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna and Choquesuysuy.
- Guided visit to the Citadel of Machu Picchu on the second day.
- Food according to the itinerary 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners.
- 01 Box Lunch.
- 01 nights of basic accommodation in Ollantaytambo.
- Bus ticket Consettur RT Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Train ticket to and from Ollanta – Cusco.
- Transfer to the city of Cusco.
Does Not Include
- Services not detailed in the Valle de Lares – Inca Trail 2D / 1N program.
- 01 Breakfast on the first day.
- Dinner in Ollantaytambo.
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes (4th day)
- Life insurance.
- Extra nights due to bad weather
- Personal care items.
- Entrance to Huaynapicchu (+ 30.00 USD – depending on availability)
Contact Us
More Information
Altitude on the Lares Trek Peru
Lares is located at 3,150 meters above sea level (masl).
Altitude Sickness on the Lares Trek Peru
One of the main challenges during the Lares Trek Peru is altitude sickness (also known as “soroche”).
Our top recommendation to prevent soroche is to acclimatize in the city of Cusco. Most travelers who experience altitude issues manage it by taking short excursions around Cusco before starting the trek.
Another traditional option is coca tea, a natural drink made from coca leaves that effectively relieves the symptoms of altitude sickness. Since Inca times until today, coca leaves have been used as a remedy for altitude-related discomforts.
Acclimatization and Altitude Sickness
The Lares Trek Peru is a high-altitude hike that comes with evident risks of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization is a key factor to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to Machu Picchu.
| Inca Trail | Lares Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Hard | Moderate to hard |
| Duration | 4 days | 4 days |
| Remoteness | Remote mountain routes | Passes through villages |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,200 masl | 4,450 masl |
| Accommodation | Camping | Hotel |
| Best Season | April – October | April – October |
| Permit Required | Yes | No |
Inca Trail vs. Lares Trek: Key Differences
- On the Inca Trail, you will see 7 small ruins, accessible only on foot.
- The Lares Trek is unique because it passes through traditional mountain villages.
- The Inca Trail is the only trek that ends directly at the Machu Picchu ruins. The Lares Trek finishes in Aguas Calientes, followed by a Machu Picchu visit the next day.
- The classic Inca Trail is the most popular and crowded hike in the region. You should not expect solitude or tranquility.
- On the Lares Trek, you are unlikely to encounter many other groups, making it a more private experience with remote campsites.
- The Inca Trail is highly regulated, with limited permits that sell out months in advance.
👉 In terms of difficulty, the Lares Trek is slightly less challenging than the Inca Trail, but it is still not an easy hike.
Which One to Choose?
The classic Inca Trail is heavily regulated, which can reduce the overall authenticity of the experience. If you want a genuine taste of the wild Andes, the Inca Trail may not be the best option.
If you’re looking for a trek in the Sacred Valley and it’s not essential to arrive at Machu Picchu on foot, then the Lares Trek offers a more rewarding and authentic cultural experience. It’s also suitable for those with limited time, since it is shorter than some other alternatives to the Inca Trail.
What is the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek is a mix of adventure and culture through the heart of the Lares Valley, an Andean region filled with Quechua communities that preserve their ancestral traditions, weaving techniques, and way of life. Unlike the Inca Trail, this trek doesn’t follow the original Inca path but instead offers a more human and authentic experience connected with the local people. It’s ideal for travelers seeking something different, with fewer tourists and more cultural encounters.
What’s Included in the Lares Trek Machu Picchu?
The Lares Trek Machu Picchu is a full tour combining hiking, culture, and a Machu Picchu visit. It usually includes:
- 3 or 4 days of trekking through the valley
- Camping nights
- Meals
- Bilingual guide
- Transportation
- Access to hot springs
At the end of the trek, you take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and the next day you enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu. Everything is organized so you can relax and enjoy.
What Does “Inca Trail Lares” Mean?
The term Inca Trail Lares is sometimes used to describe the Lares Trek as a cultural alternative to the classic Inca Trail. While it’s not part of the official Inca path, it follows ancestral routes used by Andean communities for centuries. Many travelers call it that because it’s linked to Cusco and ends at Machu Picchu.
What is the Lares Valley Inca Trail?
The phrase Lares Valley Inca Trail refers to the Lares Valley as a parallel or alternative route to the official Inca Trail. It lies among high mountains, colorful lagoons, and traditional villages. While not officially part of the Inca Trail system, many agencies promote it as such because of its proximity to Machu Picchu. It’s a strong example of community-based and sustainable tourism.
How Long is the Lares Trek 4 Days?
The Lares Trek 4 days is the most complete version of the hike. It lasts 4 days and 3 nights, with daily walks of 5–7 hours. It begins in an Andean community, passes through hot springs, high-altitude lagoons, and villages known for their traditional weaving. On the fourth day, you take the train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu the next day.
What is the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu Like?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu combines nature, culture, and history. You’ll walk along traditional trails, visit families who live as they did centuries ago, take part in simple ceremonies, and enjoy untouched landscapes. At the end, you take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and then visit Machu Picchu with an expert guide.
What is a Lares Hike?
A Lares hike is a common way to refer to trekking in the Lares Valley. It’s not a short hike but a multi-day journey through rural areas, at altitudes between 3,800 and 4,600 meters. It’s quieter than the Inca Trail but just as beautiful, perfect for those who want to enjoy the landscapes and people at a slower pace.
What’s the Difference Between Lares Trek vs Inca Trail?
Inca Trail: follows the original Inca path, with ruins, stone stairways, and direct access to Machu Picchu on foot.
Lares Trek: more community-oriented, passing through villages, meeting families, shopping for handicrafts, and relaxing in hot springs. It does not end walking into Machu Picchu but offers more cultural immersion.
Is There a Lares Trek Permit?
There’s no official Lares Trek permit like the one required for the Inca Trail. However, you do need permits from the local communities along the route. Your tour operator arranges this, which includes passage rights, community support, and access to hot springs. This helps promote sustainable and responsible tourism that directly benefits local families.
Where Does the Inca Trail Lares Start?
There’s no official starting point called “Inca Trail Lares,” but the trek often begins in villages like Huacahuasi or Pampamarca. From there, the hike takes you past markets, lagoons, and weaving communities. The exact starting point depends on the operator, but all are located in the Lares Valley, about 3–4 hours from Cusco by road.
What to Pack for the Lares Trek?
The phrase what to pack for the Lares Trek refers to the essential gear you’ll need: thermal clothing, rain gear, hiking boots, backpack, water, snacks, documents, flashlight, and personal items. You don’t need to bring tents or food, as these are included in the tour. The most important thing is to be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Can You Take Photos on the Lares Trek Machu Picchu?
Yes, photography is encouraged on the Lares Trek Machu Picchu. It’s one of the most photogenic treks in Peru, with Andean landscapes, traditionally dressed communities, animals, lagoons, and sunsets. Always ask before photographing people, and if possible, offer a small tip as a thank you.
Lares Trek vs Inca Trail Difficulty
Both treks are challenging, but in different ways:
- Inca Trail: more stone stairways and a faster pace.
- Lares Trek: long uphill sections, fewer ruins, but more interaction with communities.
Both reach altitudes between 4,000 and 4,600 meters. Your choice depends on whether you prefer history (Inca ruins) or culture (local communities).
What Does the Lares Trek Tour Include?
The Lares Trek tour includes everything you need to enjoy the experience without worries: transportation from Cusco, bilingual guide, all meals, camping equipment (tents, sleeping pads), kitchen, pack mules, entrance fees, and access to hot springs. It also includes the train from Ollantaytambo and a guided visit to Machu Picchu. You only need to bring your personal backpack with essentials.
What is the Lares Trek Peru?
The Lares Trek Peru is simply another way of naming this trek within the country. It’s one of the most respected adventure tours because of its strong community focus. Located in the Cusco region but in a less touristy area, it attracts international travelers who search for it under this name to distinguish it from other treks in South America.
Can I Do the Short Inca Trail Lares?
There is no such thing as a “short Inca Trail Lares.” Sometimes people use this name by mistake to refer to a shorter version of the Lares Trek, but technically it is not part of the Inca Trail. If you’re looking for a shorter trek with cultural experiences, there are 2- or 3-day tours in the valley, but they don’t end by walking into Machu Picchu. These are ideal if you want to try trekking without committing to 4 full days.
Best Time for the Lares Trek
The best time for the Lares Trek is from May to October, during the dry season. These months bring less rain, sunny days, and safer trails. Since it’s also high season, make sure to book in advance. From November to April, there’s more rain, but the landscapes are greener and there are fewer tourists. The trek is available year-round, except in February when some sections close for maintenance.
How Difficult is the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek difficulty is considered moderate. It’s not as demanding as the classic Inca Trail but still requires good physical condition. Expect steep climbs, especially on day two, and daily hikes of 5–7 hours. The altitude (up to 4,600 masl / 15,092 ft) can affect some hikers, but the pace is more relaxed. If you arrive in Cusco well acclimatized and take it slowly, you can complete it without major issues.
Do I Need a Permit for the Lares Trek?
No official Lares Trek permit is required like with the Inca Trail. The Lares route is not under the Ministry of Culture’s control, so there are no limited spots or official reservations. However, you must book through an authorized agency since the trek passes through community lands and requires permission from local villages, which your operator arranges.
What to Pack for the Lares Trek
For the Lares Trek packing list, bring layered clothing: T-shirts, fleece jacket, waterproof outer layer, trekking pants, sturdy shoes, hat, sunscreen, headlamp, 1.5–2 liters of water, snacks, and personal documents. Trekking poles and a sleeping bag (rentals available) are also recommended, plus a small backpack. Everything else—tents, food, guide—is included in the tour.
Is the Lares Trek Safe?
Yes, the Lares Trek is safe when done with a professional agency. Guides are trained, carry emergency oxygen, and know the trails well. Camps have bathrooms and checkpoints, and if you feel unwell, support is available to help you descend or rest. It’s safe from getting lost, and encounters with local communities are always respectful and well organized.
Can I Do the Lares Trek Without a Guide?
No, you cannot do the Lares Trek without a guide. Although no official permit is required, the trail passes through Quechua community lands where an agency is mandatory. Guides also assist with altitude issues, provide meals, organize logistics, and share the history of the region. Going alone is not permitted and not recommended.
Are There Bathrooms on the Lares Trek?
Yes, there are basic bathrooms at campsites and in some stops along the trail. They are simple structures built by communities or agencies and kept clean. There are no showers, but wet towels are provided. It’s a good idea to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as supplies can sometimes run low.
What Clothes to Wear on the Lares Trek 4 Days
For the Lares Trek 4 days, the best option is layered clothing: short-sleeve T-shirt, warm fleece, waterproof jacket, and comfortable trekking pants. Nights and mornings are cold, so thermal wear is essential. Also bring a hat, light gloves, and broken-in trekking boots. The weather changes quickly, so be prepared for sun, wind, and rain.
Can You Reach Machu Picchu from the Lares Trek?
Yes, you can. At the end of the Lares Trek, you take a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. After an overnight stay, you go up to Machu Picchu (by bus or walking) the next morning for a 2–3 hour guided tour. This is the standard way to combine Lares with Machu Picchu.
What Will You See on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
On the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy breathtaking Andean scenery: high mountain lagoons, snow-capped peaks, green valleys, and traditional villages. You’ll meet communities who weave alpaca wool with ancestral looms, and you may be welcomed with music. You’ll also pass natural hot springs, ancient farmlands, and see llamas and vicuñas along the way. It’s a trek with soul.
Can You Do the Lares Trek in a Group?
Yes, you can join the Lares Trek in a group or private tour. Group tours usually have 6–10 people, making it easy to meet other travelers. For a more personal experience, you can choose a private trek with your own guide and flexible schedule. Both options include full equipment and services.
What Food is Included on the Lares Trek Machu Picchu?
On the Lares Trek Machu Picchu, meals are freshly prepared and nutritious. Breakfast includes fruits, quinoa, eggs, bread, and coca tea. Lunch is usually a buffet with soup, rice, pasta, meat, and vegetables. Dinner is lighter, with dishes like lentil stew or ají de gallina. Vegetarian or allergy-friendly menus are available on request.
What’s the Altitude of the Lares Valley Inca Trail?
The Lares Valley “Inca Trail” ranges from 3,800 to 4,600 meters above sea level. The highest point is usually a mountain pass at about 4,500 masl. That’s why it’s important to acclimatize in Cusco for 1–2 days before starting. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and walk at your own pace. Most people manage fine with preparation.
Are There Animals on the Lares Trek?
Yes, you’ll see animals on the Lares Trek such as llamas, alpacas, and sheep grazing in the fields. Wild vicuñas are also spotted in higher areas. Many communities raise alpacas for their wool. It’s common to see them along the trails, often cared for by children. This is part of the trek’s charm.
What to Do if You Feel Sick on the Lares Trek?
If you feel unwell on the Lares Trek, tell your guide immediately. Teams carry emergency oxygen, first-aid kits, and know evacuation routes. If it’s altitude-related, rest, hydration, or descending usually helps. If symptoms are mild, most people recover quickly. Your safety always comes first.
Can I Carry My Backpack on the Lares Trek 4 Days?
Yes, you carry your personal backpack on the Lares Trek 4 days. It should be 30–40 liters with essentials: clothes, camera, documents, snacks, and personal items. Pack mules carry the tents, food, and kitchen equipment, so you won’t have extra weight. Make sure to pack light and use a backpack with good support.
Price
How Much Does The Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail Cost?
We have price alternatives that accommodate all budgets, prices per person, expressed in US Dollars.
Make your quotes and reservations by email [email protected], you can also communicate with one of our sales executives at the telephones detailed below, we will be happy to assist you.
- Phone – WhatsApp: +51 969 787 221
- Phone – WhatsApp: +51 986 994 218
How To Book The Tour?
To start the reservation process, please send us the following information:
- Name and surname:
- Passport number:
- Nationality:
- Date of Birth:
- Phone:
- Very important – We need the address and information about the hotel that you are staying at, in the city of Cusco, to be able to pick you up at the time when the tour starts.
To confirm reservations it is required to pay 50% in advance and the other 50% can be paid upon arrival at your destination.
Payment Methods
- IZIPAY
- PAYPAL
- WESTER UNION
- MONEYGRAM
- TRANSFER TO OUR BANK ACCOUNT PERU
General Conditions
- All rates for our Peru Packages are expressed in US dollars (subject to currency exchange rates) and are priced per person
- The rates for Peruvians only include VAT
- All our rates are subject to availability and circumstances
- Children under 2 years and 11 months are considered INF (babies) and are not permitted on this tour
- Children from 3 to 10 years and 11 months are considered DCC (child) and thus eligible for special rates and obliged to share the room with their parents
- Children over 11 years old are considered adults
- Minors must travel with an identity document
- Rates do not apply to holidays, Easter, long weekends, national holidays, Christmas, or New Year
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