PRICE FROM
price per person in group service
The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail are two fantastic alternatives to the traditional Inca Trail, offering breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. The Lares Trek takes you through beautiful valleys, remote villages, and high-altitude mountains, providing a unique glimpse into Andean life. The Short Inca Trail combines stunning natural beauty with ancient ruins, culminating at the Sun Gate for an unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. Both treks offer a more serene and less crowded experience.
Click to see real travellers’ Reviews for a Wonderful Memorable Lifetime experience!
4 Days 3 Nights
60.5 km / 37.5 miles.
Moderate
4450 msnm
Trekking Nature & Culture
02 Min - 10 Max
The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail are two captivating alternatives to the traditional Inca Trail, offering unique experiences and breathtaking views of the Andes.
The Lares Trek takes trekkers through the stunning Sacred Valley, weaving through remote Andean villages, where you’ll experience the traditional lifestyles of the Quechua people. This trek offers a mix of high-altitude passes, lush valleys, and scenic mountains, all while immersing you in rich local culture. Along the way, you’ll visit ancient Inca sites, relax in natural hot springs in Lares, and see wildlife such as llamas and alpacas.
The Short Inca Trail combines the best of natural beauty and archaeological wonders. Starting at the famous Kilometer 104, this trek is perfect for those who want to visit Machu Picchu but with fewer crowds. You’ll hike through cloud forests, pass Inca ruins like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, and finish at the Sun Gate with a panoramic view of Machu Picchu, making for a truly unforgettable experience. Both treks offer a more serene and authentic journey to the iconic Inca site.
Please, Note: We need at least 02 of you and Leave any day you suit. All Departures 100% Guaranteed If You’re Booked, You are Going !!! To Confirm and Secure the Inca Trail Permits. Send us the filled out booking form as well as a deposit of 30% and you are ready to go..
We leave from Cusco early in the morning by bus and travel through the Sacred Valley arriving to the lares valley where will find some natural hot spring of lares community and spend the morning in the medicinal hot springs, after our lunch we keep going 4 hours walk to get the first camping spot of huacahuasi
1ST DAY:Total distance: 12 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 4 – 5 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,800 m (aprox.)[me
Campsite altitude: 3,800 m (aprox.)
After continuing up through the lares valley, we arrive to the community of Huacawasi. People here produce some of the finest weavings in Peru. Here, we can observe their great skills and brilliant techniques in the fabrication of ponchos and other garments. Passing the village we begin climbing up to Condor Pass, the second of the trip at 4300m.. From here, we catch a stunning view of the renowned Mount Veronica (5750m.) Descending gently for about one hour, we come to the beautiful Ipsaycocha Lake close to patacancha , our last campsite.
2ND DAY:Total distance: 15 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 7 – 8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,400 m (aprox.)
Campsite altitude: 3,850 m (aprox.)
Today our lares trail leads downhill to an overlook facing a wide valley. Descending into the valley, we eventually arrive to the community of willoc where we have lunch, from here takes two hours to arrive to Pumamarka and enjoy the inca terraces, finally we arrive to Ollantaytambo. Situated in a fertile river valley and sheltered by mammoth mountains, this ancient Inca village is considered one of the most important living museums in the world. This is a perfect place to appreciate the vast archeological remains and a wide variety of flowers and birds species and then camp at ollantaytambo village.
3RD DAY:Total distance: 12 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 5 – 6 hours
Maximum altitude point: 1,600 m (aprox.)
Hostel( aguas calientes) altitude: 2,500 m (aprox.)
Transfer to the train station of ollantaytambo. Train to KM 104. At this point we start trek for 3 hours approximately to the well preserved remains of the ruins of Wiñay Wayna (2900 mts. altitude). On the way we can see beautiful waterfalls. After lunch, we keep walking for about 2 more hours to get the sungate and then we go down to Machupicchu and explore the whole city and then down to aguas calientes where we take the train back to Ollantaytambo and bus back to cusco.
4TH DAY:Total distance: 14 km (aprox.)
Estimated walking time: 5 – 7 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,000 m (aprox.)
Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!
(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): (Group Size: 04 Minimum – 12ppl Average – 16ppl Maximum)
Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Persons Minimum)
If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
General Information:
What is the Lares Trek? The Lares Trek is a scenic hiking route through the Andes, offering cultural immersion in remote villages and stunning mountain views before reaching Machu Picchu.
What is the Short Inca Trail? The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day trek that takes you through ancient Inca ruins, culminating at the Sun Gate with a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.
How long is the Lares Trek? The Lares Trek typically lasts 3 days and 2 nights.
How long is the Short Inca Trail? The Short Inca Trail takes 1 day and is a shorter, faster route to Machu Picchu.
Which trek is better for beginners? The Short Inca Trail is generally considered easier and more suitable for beginners due to its shorter duration and lower altitude.
Difficulty and Physical Requirements:
How difficult are the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail? Both treks are moderately challenging, with the Lares Trek being more strenuous due to its high-altitude passes and longer duration.
Do I need prior trekking experience? No prior experience is necessary, but you should be in good physical condition, especially for the Lares Trek.
What is the altitude of the Lares Trek? The Lares Trek reaches altitudes of up to 4,500 meters (14,764 feet).
What is the altitude of the Short Inca Trail? The highest point on the Short Inca Trail is about 2,700 meters (8,858 feet), which is lower than the Lares Trek.
How can I prevent altitude sickness? Acclimatize for at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Consider bringing altitude sickness medication if recommended by your doctor.
Booking and Availability:
Do I need to book the trek in advance? Yes, both treks require advance booking, especially during peak season (May to September).
Is the Short Inca Trail available year-round? Yes, the Short Inca Trail is available year-round, except during the annual maintenance period (usually February).
How far in advance should I book the trek? It’s recommended to book at least 3-6 months in advance, especially during the high season.
Are permits required for the treks? Yes, both the Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail require permits that are limited in number and must be booked through an authorized tour operator.
Can I do the trek independently? No, both treks must be done with a licensed guide through an organized tour.
Packing and Gear:
What should I pack for the Lares Trek? You should pack sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing (layers), a rain jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a sleeping bag, and a water bottle.
What should I pack for the Short Inca Trail? Similar to the Lares Trek, but you might not need as many layers due to the shorter duration and lower altitude.
Is there a weight limit for my backpack? Yes, the maximum weight for your trek backpack is typically 5-7 kg (11-15 lbs), as porters carry your heavier luggage.
Can I bring trekking poles? Yes, trekking poles are allowed, but they must have rubber tips when entering archaeological sites.
Do I need a sleeping bag for the Short Inca Trail? No, since the Short Inca Trail is only one day, you don’t need a sleeping bag. You will sleep in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Food and Accommodation:
What kind of food is provided on the trek? Your tour operator provides nutritious meals, including local dishes, snacks, and plenty of water. Vegetarian and vegan options are often available.
Where do we sleep during the Lares Trek? On the Lares Trek, you’ll camp in tents or stay in basic, remote lodges depending on the operator.
Do I need to bring my own food? No, food is provided by your tour operator, but it’s always good to bring extra snacks for energy.
Where do we sleep on the Short Inca Trail? After the trek, you’ll sleep in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town near Machu Picchu.
Is there Wi-Fi or cell service on the trek? There’s limited or no cell service on the trek, but you’ll have Wi-Fi in Aguas Calientes.
Trekking Experience:
How much time do we spend hiking each day? On the Lares Trek, you’ll hike around 6-8 hours a day. On the Short Inca Trail, it’s about 6-7 hours of hiking in one day.
Can I take my children on these treks? Yes, both treks can be done with children, especially the Short Inca Trail, but it’s important to ensure they’re in good health and comfortable with the hike.
Is the Lares Trek or Short Inca Trail more scenic? Both are stunning, but the Lares Trek offers more varied landscapes, including high-altitude lakes and traditional villages, while the Short Inca Trail is famous for its ancient ruins and proximity to Machu Picchu.
Do I need to be in good shape to do these treks? Yes, a moderate level of fitness is required, particularly for the Lares Trek due to its altitude and terrain.
What happens if it rains during the trek? Both treks are done in all weather conditions, but your guide will take precautions. It’s essential to have waterproof gear, and the trekking experience may be adjusted depending on the conditions.
Book Now with Quechuas Expeditions
Traveler2024-02-28Verified Salkantay survivors We did the 5 days-salkantay trek to Machupicchu uin the rain season february, everything was awe-some, food, landscapes, tour services, the amazing guide Fernando, this guys Is actually amazing i recommend to him to every-body Spencer O2024-02-28Verified 5 Day Salkantay Hike to Machu Picchu It was a great time. Really enjoyed the experience with friends, something to cherish for the rest of my life. If you go I highly recommend you ask for Fernando. He was our guide for the entire trip. Extremely knowledgeable and made the experience that much more memorable. He started the trip as a guide and by the end became a friend, the time you spend on the trek, you really want someone who fits with your group and I can't imagine a better person who could fit better in anyone's group. As well, the trek itself was difficult but very enjoyable, something to push yourself to your limits. Every day was extremely rewarding, not to mention the hot springs was well worth it. Ted2024-02-24Verified Best Peru Experience Had an amazing trip. Fernando the tour guide was the highlight, and made our experience fantastic. I would recommend the trip simply for the quality of the guide. Tyrell T2024-01-27Verified Spectacular hike We had the opportunity to do the Inca trail to Machu Picchu with (QUECHUA EXPEDITIONS). Fantastic and absolutely recommended. They offer a very interesting package both for the price and for the service. Our guide Fernando Illapa taught us a lot about Inca history and the Andean way of life. He and our cook were very attentive and cordial throughout the experience. Our food was amazing and the camping equipment in perfect condition. D r2024-01-27Verified an unforgettable experience It was a wonderful experience. From the beginning Wayra gave us all the information, always attentive and answering all our questions. During the trip we had Fernando Illapa as our guide. We must say that he is a great professional, thoroughly knowledgeable about the path and with a great sense of humor and a lot of patience, which made everything easier in the most demanding moments of the Inca trail. The accompanying team is very organized and I must say that the food exceeded our expectations. Dishes that could well be served in a restaurant and extremely abundant. We did the road with my husband and there were very difficult sections of great physical demand, but the impressive landscapes and discovering archaeological sites along the way make it worth it. We were also fortunate to have excellent travel companions. An unforgettable experience with the help of a professional team that paid attention to all the details. Agnieszka Z2024-01-25Verified A must in Peru The whole experience was amazing! The trek can be tough but it’s doable even for not super fit people. The views are breathtaking! Thanks a lot to our super nice guide Jose and amazing chef Armando who made the whole tour even better. T D2024-01-18Verified we would do it again The trip and itinerary that they organized for us was incredible! Very organized, excellent guide named Fernando Illapa, who made us feel at home. Very attentive, smiling and charismatic. Everything was a dream trip. We visited the mountain of seven colors, we did the 4-day Inca trail, we went to the Puerta del Sol, to MachuPicchu, wayna picchu, to the hot springs of Machupicchu town, gampling; Anyway, we did everything and it was an unforgettable trip. Zach S2024-01-18Verified Una muy buena experiencia, gracias Hay muchas opciones de trekking para el Camino Inka, ¡pero no busques más que aquí! Cada persona en la organización es amable, profesional y servicial. ¡Nuestro guía, Fernando, fue fantástico! Fue informativo, paciente y nos guió de manera experta a lo largo del hermoso Camino Inka a Machu Picchu sin un solo problema. ¡Tener un guía que hable perfecto inglés y español es extremadamente necesario y tiene la experiencia para hacer que tu experiencia sea inolvidable! Zach S2024-01-18Verified What an otherworldly experience. We had an amazing experiencies with a great team in the inka trail, in Cusco there are many trekking options for the Inka Trail, but look no further than here! Every person in the organization is friendly, professional and helpful. Our guide, Fernando, was fantastic! He was patient and expertly guided us along the beautiful Inka Trail to Machu Picchu without a single problem. Having a guide who speaks perfect English and Spanish is extremely necessary and has the experience to make your experience unforgettable! Rachel Z2024-01-13Verified INCREDIBLE!! This tour company is truly the best. They took amazing care of us ensuring that we had everything we needed and made sure to help provide what we forgot to bring. The guide - Fernando - was so kind and knowledgeable. If you’re looking to hike to Machu Picchu this is the place to book!!! I can’t recommend them enough we had and amazing time.
Book your next adventure with us now!
Do you need help in choosing your trip or booking? We are at your disposal.
Our Partners
Quechuas Expeditions is a tour operator with more than 20 years of experience in the service and quality of attention to all our travelers; we are direct operators in all our routes; that is why we will always be with you.
We are a company committed with our workers, our environment and the commitment with our community; we offer responsible trips all over Peru; with us you can personalize your trip.
® Quechuas Expeditions 2000 – 2025 All Right Reserved | SEO by Onza