Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 4 days | Machu Picchu Lares trek

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$ 880
$ 780.00 USD

price per person in group service

Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 4 days | Machu Picchu Lares trek
Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 4 days | Machu Picchu Lares trek
Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 4 days | Machu Picchu Lares trek
Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 4 days | Machu Picchu Lares trek
Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 4 days | Machu Picchu Lares trek
Lares trek & Short Inca Trail 4 days | Machu Picchu Lares trek

Experience the Lares Trek | 4 days to Machu Picchu’s wonders

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.

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Cusco I Lares Valley I Huacawasi I Ipsaycocha I Patacancha I Willoq I Ollantaytambo I Km 104 Chachabamba I Sungate I Machu Picchu I Aguas Calientes
Duration of the trip:

4 Days 3 Nights

Total Distance

60.5 km / 37.5 miles.

Physical Level:

Moderate

Altitude:

4450 msnm

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

02 Min - 10 Max

Experience the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail | 4 days to Machu Picchu’s wonders

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.

Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 4 Days Overview:

  • TOUR NAME: Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
  • 100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Lares Trek Tour Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
  • GROUP SIZE: 02 People Minimum (04 – 06 Average) and 10 People Maximum
  • STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:00 am to 4:30 am
  • ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 10:30 pm
  • DEPARTURE: Daily. If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as large group service).
  • HIKING DISTANCE: 4 Days Time (44 kilometers, 27 miles)
  • PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 3. we Also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days before we begin the trek
  • MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,450 meters (14,600 feet) above sea level.
  • TRANSPORTATION: Private Van/Bus to Lares Village Trailhead (for our Passengers and staff) And Expedition Train Round Trip from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • ACCOMMODATIONS: 2 Nights in Camping in 4 Season Tents/02 ppl per Tent (Therm-a-rest Self-Inflating Air Mat is included)
  • PORTERING/HORSEBACK SERVICE: 7Kilos/14 Pounds Extra Portering service is included. We will provide you a duffel bag for your personal Stuff (This will be carried by the porter or Horses), Water Bottle, Rain Poncho & Lares Trek T-shirt will be given at the briefing time.
  • MEALS: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (Vegetarian, Vegan and Free Gluten with NO extra cost, Upon Request)
  • LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU: Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance fee Included. (Circuits to Visit Machu Picchu)
  • GUIDES & COOK: Professional Cheff, Professional bilingual local guide (well-equipped with guiding gear)

Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 4 Days Short Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Cusco – Calca – Hot Springs – Huacahuasi
  • Day 2: Huacahuasi – Ipsaycocha Lake
  • Day 3: Ipsaycocha -Patacancha – Willoq – Pumamarca – Ollantaytambo
  • Day 4: Ollantaytambo 104km – Wiñayhuayna – Sungate – Machupicchu – Cusco

Experience the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail | 4 days to Machu Picchu’s wonders Highlights

  • Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich traditions of remote Andean villages along the Lares Trek.
  • Stunning Mountain Views: Both treks offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes.
  • High-Altitude Passes: Challenge yourself with high-altitude hikes and alpine landscapes.
  • Hot Springs: Relax in the natural thermal hot springs of Lares after a day of trekking.
  • Ancient Inca Ruins: Explore the fascinating Inca archaeological sites along the Short Inca Trail.
  • Scenic Valleys: Trek through picturesque valleys with lush greenery and colorful flora.
  • Flora and Fauna: Spot unique wildlife and native plant species, including llamas and alpacas.
  • Solitude and Peace: Enjoy fewer crowds, providing a more tranquil experience than the main Inca Trail.
  • Sun Gate View: End the Short Inca Trail with a spectacular view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.
  • Rich History: Learn about the ancient Inca civilization and their incredible engineering feats throughout the journey.

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..

DAY 1
Cusco – Calca – Hot Springs – Huacahuasi+

DAY 2
Huacahuasi – Ipsaycocha Lake+

DAY 3
Ipsaycocha -Patacancha – Willoq – Pumamarca – Ollantaytambo+

DAY 4
Ollantaytambo 104km – Wiñayhuayna – Sungate – Machupicchu – Cusco+

Lares Trek Includes:

  • Private Transportation To Lares Valley (Trailhead)
  • English – Spanish speaking guide for 4 days of the Salkantay and Machupicchu.
  • Guided assistance
  • Thermarest air-inflate Confortable sleeping pad
  • Cook and assistance of the Cook.
  • Cooking equipment
  • Snacks
  • Daily tea service
  • Dining equipment including chairs and tables
  • Portable environmental Biodegradable toilet (The Pett)
  • Food service in the campsites (3 breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, 3 snacks) – nutritionally balanced menu
  • Vegetarian menu at no extra cost
  • Personal trekking food – nutritionally balanced menu(Buffet)
  • Two person tents (3-people capacity tent used as doubles – Kayla Doite)
  • Horseman and Horses.(To carry our camping equipment, food and 7 kilos of your personal stuff like: sleeping bag and mat as well as cothes) We Never overload our Horses(well Animal Welfare). During Choquequirao and Salkantay Sector.
  • Porters to carry all our camping equipment as well as food.
  • Lares Valley entrance fees, valid for 4 days
  • Camping equipment and basic field equipment for our Cook and horseman
  • Round Trip Expeditions train ticket from Ollantaytambo to aguas Calientes and aguas calientes to ollantaytambo
  • Private Transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco
  • First-aid kit
  • Emergency oxygen bottle
  • Rain waterproof cover for your day backpacks
  • Pre trek Orientation – briefing (Hotel or Office)
  • Insurance policy for our porters and Cooks.

Experience the Lares Trek | 4 days to Machu Picchu’s wonders  Doesnt Include: (Please, No hidden costs or surprises)

  • Breakfast – Day 1
  • Lunch and dinner – Day 4
  • Tips (optional)
  • Travel and health insurance.(bring copies with you please):Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance.

Experience the Lares Trek | 4 days to Machu Picchu’s wonders (Prices for 2025)

Availability: Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information as well as a Deposit of 30% and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$780

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): (Group Size: 04 Minimum – 12ppl Average – 16ppl Maximum)

Private Service: Price per person: US$880

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.

What you need to bring on Lares Trek:

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.

List of things you must bring:

  • Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
  • Travel insurance  is essential (and some copies)
  • Airline tickets (and some copies)
  • US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
  • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
  • Camera and Memory cards
  • Rechargeable batteries and adapters
  • Reading/writing material
  • Binoculars
  • Cover for backpacks
  • Pocketknife.
  • Fleece top
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket
  • Small towel and swim wear
  • Shirts/t-shirts
  • Sun hat
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • 2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
  • 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
  • Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
  • Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
  • Sport hiking sandals
  • Sun block
  • Sunglasses
  • Toiletries (biodegradable)
  • Watch or alarm clock
  • Water bottle
  • Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
  • Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
  • Flashlight (head light recommended)
  • Money belt
  • Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
  • Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
  • Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
  • Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
  • Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

(FAQs) about the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:

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.

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