Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 days

CUSCO - HUARAN - QUISHUARANI - OLLANTAYTAMBO - SUNGATE - MACHU PICCHU -CUSCO

Overview

The Lares Trail and the Short Inca Trail are one of the most popular substitutes for the 4-day Classic Inca Trail and the Salkantay Inca Trail because it is less strenuous, closer to Cuzco, and are a perfect combination of the first 3 days with a lot of culture live. and the last 2 days are of Inca ruins and Machu Picchu. We offer the classic 5-day Lares trek with a short Inca Trail that you will surely enjoy.

The 5-Day Lares Trail and Short Inca Trail is a hidden gem that offers hikers a glimpse into the timeless world of traditional Andean life, where farmers still tend the fields their ancestors worked and herds of llamas and alpacas graze. Beneath the sacred snow-capped peaks, they worshiped like gods. The Incas initially used this trail during the height of their empire.

Lares is a valley near Cuzco inhabited by weavers and farmers who still use ancestral methods and languages (Quechua and Spanish) and tools (ancestral, knitting needles and agricultural implements) developed by the Incas.

Peasants, many of whom are descendants of the Incas, still use it today. The road links Cuncani, Huacahuasi, Quisuarani, Patacancha, and Lares with the Sacred Valley. We will board the train very early on the fourth day towards km 104 where the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will begin. On this day we will visit Inca remains such as Chachabamba, Wiñay Huayna, and the famous Puerta del Sol (INTIPUNKU) and then descend to Machu Picchu to take some photos and board the bus to the town of Aguas Calientes to check in at the hotel. Take a hot shower and then have dinner at night and the next day visit the Inca city of Machu Picchu again.

LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL 5 DAYS HIGHLIGHTS

Walking to the Lares Valley Indigenous Settlement and visiting the short Inca trail is a rewarding journey and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Hot springs: Here we can take our time to relax in each of the baths, whose temperatures vary between 28 and 34 degrees Celsius and have unique natural charms.
The trekking route is pleasant and takes us to a small community in the Andes, north of the city of Cusco.
We will witness stone huts with thatched roofs surrounded by herds of llamas and alpacas as we begin our journey. Guinea pigs will be able to roam freely in their homes.
The trek takes place in a remote valley that has been visited by only a select few people from outside the area.
There is amazing mountainous beauty, glacial lagoons, cloudy valleys, and genuine Quechua textile settlements.
The trek culminates in the town of Machu Picchu, part of the Urubamba Valley.
Short Inca Trail: Walk the original Inca trail and visit the different Inca centers such as (Chachabamba, Wiñayhuayna, Inti Punku, Machu Picchu
Peruvian Gastronomy: you will taste Peruvian food for 5 days and one of the most popular dishes are Ceviche and Lomo saltado and very delicious soups
Visit Machu Picchu after an incredible hike

5 DAYS LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL 5 DAYS ITINERARY

Day 1: Travelling from Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – HuacaWasi
Day 2 : Huaca Wasic- Abra Ipsay – Patacancha
Day 3: Patacancha – Willoq to Pumamarca – Ollantaytambo
Day 4: km 104 – Chachabamba – wiñayhuayna – Intipunku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Aguas Calientes- Machu Picchu – Cusco

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Tour Price 5 Days Tour 4 Nights

Lares Trek Inca Trail 5 Days Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 days

Price From

^$ 750 per Person

Group SizeUP TO 8

Activity LevelMODERATE

Trip StylesHIKING

Lodging TypeCAMP AND HOTEL

Trip Itinerary

DAY 1: DAY 1: CUSCO – HOT SPRING – WACAWASI

We will take a bus from Cusco in the wee hours of the morning. While traveling through the Incas’ Sacred Valley, we will see several historical sites, small handicraft stores, and vast stretches of farmland. The Sacred Valley is home to some of the richest agricultural resources in all of South America, including the region’s primary export—maize.

We’ll enter and explore the province of Calca (elevation: 2,940 meters), halfway through the Sacred Valley, before switching routes and riding up to Huacacasi, the highest point of the adventure, at 4,400 meters. We’ll descend from this pass into the sparsely populated Lares Valley (at an altitude of 3,250 meters). In a short while, we will reach the Lares (3200m) hot medicinal springs WILL VISIT. Here we may take our time relaxing in each of the baths, which range in temperature from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius and include unique natural charms. We will leave the hot springs after lunch and hike to the high-altitude campsite at HuacaWasi (3,600 m).

It will take us about 5 hours to get there by car. We’ll be out on the trail for perhaps three hours in the chilly weather.

Hiking distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles.
Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours.
Lowest elevation: 3,200m / 10,496ft (hot springs)
Highest elevation: 3,800m / 12,464ft (campsite)
Highlight: Hiking in the Andean valleys with pretty scenic views, interacting with local people (children), llama and alpaca herds along the trail, and camping in a highland village.

DAY 2: DAY 2: WACAWASI – ABRA IPSAY – PATA CANCHA

The hardest part of the Lares walk occurs today when we begin our moderately steep ascent to Ipsay Pass (4,550m/15,017ft) after an early breakfast. From this vantage point, we can see snow-capped mountains, lakes, remote villages, natives of the Andes, llamas, and alpacas.

We take some time to admire the view, and then head down to Ipsay Lagoon for lunch. After that, keep going downhill until you reach the true Inca descendant. We made it to Patacancha (3,750 m / 12,377 ft), where we camped for the night.

Hiking distance: 12 km / 6.97 miles.
Hiking time: 7 hours.
Lowest elevation: 3,200m / 10,496ft (hot springs)
Highest elevation: 3,800m / 12,464ft (campsite)
Highlight: Hiking in the Andean valleys with pretty scenic views, interacting with local people (children), llama and alpaca herds along the trail, and camping in a highland village.

DAY 3: DAY 3: PATA CANCHA – WILLOQ – PUMA MARCA – OLLANTAYTAMBO

The trail takes us through a number of tiny towns and villages today, including Willoq (3400m), Pumamarca (3200m), and many more. Traveling from Patacancha into the countryside and via these settlements, we get a taste of the customs our ancestors brought with them from the days of the Tahuatinsuyo Empire (Inca culture and customs).

Ollantaytambo (2850m), which we will reach after a couple of hours of hiking and seeing the land, tells a broad picture of Andean history and anthropology of these periods through its archaeological monuments. where we stay this third night, after a deserved relaxation at hotel, we’ll go for an exploration of the authentic Incan streets in the same town. At night, We’ll have dinner at one of the many restaurants the town has.

Hiking distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles.
Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours.
Lowest elevation: 3,200m / 10,496ft (hot springs)
Highest elevation: 3,800m / 12,464ft (campsite)
Highlight: Hiking in the Andean valleys with pretty scenic views

DAY 4: DAY 4: KM 104 – WIÑAYHUYNA – INTIPUNKU – MACHU PICCHU AGUAS CALIENTES

Since the trip will be 2 days, we have to use our time in the best possible way to make the trek more efficient and fun.

We will have breakfast very early at the hotel and then head towards the train station to take us to km 104 where the short Inca trail begins.

On the first day, there will be a 3 to 4-hour hike to the Winayhuayna mountains, and on the way you will find many incredible views of the ruins such as Chachabamba, Intipata seen in the distance, and the famous Puerta del Sol (INTIPUNKU). The tour guide will explain the views and their significance in the civilization of the Inca people.

Then you will arrive at Wiñayhuayna where you will have lunch and then continue towards the Puerta del Sol (INTIPUNKU) where you will have the first incredible view of Machu Picchu, after the photos you will be able to continue the trail to Machu Picchu once there you will take photos and then end the day with the fascinating views of Machu Picchu. You will spend the night in the local village hotel, and the next day you will have a full view of Machu Picchu and then see the ruins in their true beauty and richness of the ancient Inca culture.

Hiking distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours.
Lowest elevation: 2,150 m / 7,052 ft.
Highest elevation: 2,650 m / 8,692 ft.
Physical rating: Moderate.
Highlight: Original section of Inca Trail, exploration of two Incan ruins before Machu Picchu, first views of Machu Picchu from the Gate of the Sun, and gaze out Machu Picchu in the late afternoon.

DAY 5: DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

We will rise early and eat breakfast before catching the first bus to the Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,400 meters above sea level). A trained guide will lead us around this pristine Inca refuge shortly.

You’ll have plenty of opportunity to explore the remains on your own after our two-hour tour… Huayna Picchu and the neighboring Temple of the Moon offer a challenge to the most daring of us. After that, we’ll all head back down to Aguas Calientes (2050m) to catch the train and bus back to Cusco.

Tour Inclusions

Lares Trek Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Day Includes

A pre-trek briefing the night before the start of your Lares trek short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
One English-speaking guide.
Private transport from Cusco to the trailhead.
Horses and Horseman guides. Horses are for carrying supplies and 8 kg / 16 pounds of your personal items.
Camping equipment along the Lares Valley hike.
1-night accommodation in Ollantaytambo town (Based on Double / Triple room).
Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 (the trailhead of the short Inca trail).
A box lunch for Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
1-night hotel in Aguas Calientes (Based on Double / Triple room).
Round trip bus ticket to Machu Picchu ruins – Aguas Calientes.
Entrance fee of Machu Picchu.
Private guided tour at Machu Picchu Inca citadel.
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 afternoon tea, and 3 dinners.
4-person capacity tents. 2 people will be assigned per tent.
Foam sleeping mattress.
Water supply (boiled) after every meal.
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Transfer from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.
Dining tent with camp tables and chairs.
A duffle bag, to put in your personal belongings, which will be carried by pack horses.
First Aid Kit & oxygen bottle.

Not Includes

Entrance ticket of Huayna Picchu Mountain.
Gratuities for the crew (muleteers, cook, guide).
Hotel accommodations in Cusco.
Day 4 dinner in Aguas Calientes (There are several tourist restaurants that you can choose for you).
Day 5 lunch in Aguas Calientes.
Personal expenses (Internet access along the trail, laundry personal taxis).

Starting at

_$ 750 _USD

Per person (Group service)

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Additional Information

PACKING LIST TO LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL 5 DAYS

Personal trekking gear and a sleeping bag are required for the 5-day lares trek with the short Inca Trail. We include sleeping bags for those who don’t bring their own, as well as trekking pole rentals for those who prefer them. We give the necessary downtime for this hike.

For your convenience, we’ve compiled the following suggested items to bring on the Lares trek:

Clothing:

Footwear suited to hiking
Wool or synthetic hiking socks
Long trousers (like leggings or hiking pants)
T-shirts or other lightweight tops
A sweater or coat made of fleece
A raincoat or poncho is required.
Wear a warm hat and gloves
Clothing suited for swimming or use in hot springs.
Flip-flops or sandals
Wet towel

Gear:

Daypack (20-30L)
Bag for sleeping in (good for temperatures between 32 and 41 degrees F, or 0 and 5 degrees C).
You can rent one from the business if you do not already have one.
Flashlight or headlamp (with spare batteries)
Trekking poles (preferred but optional), which the company can provide if you don’t already own a set.
Sunglasses
Hat or cap to protect from the sun
Hydration pack or water bottle (at least 1.5 liters)
Individual hygiene items (such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and soap)

Optional:

Imaging device or mobile phone
Power bank or portable charger
A book or e-reader to pass the time with
Feast on some trail mix, dried fruit, or energy bars as a snack.
Soles (for spending on souvenirs and other goodies)
Dress in layers, and carry both warm and waterproof clothing or rain ponchos, as the weather in the Andes can be unpredictable.

Document you must have with you on the trek

First Edition Passport
To receive a student discount, you must have a valid, original student ID.

Note: You can bring up to 7 kg of personal items with you on the trek, and INCA TRAIL HIKE will give a duffel bag for you to use. A day hike requires only the essentials, all of which you will take in a tiny backpack. The duffel bag will be easily accessible at each campground, so you may keep all of your other items in there.

Price per person: LaresTrek Short Inca Trail

750.USD for adults
700. USD for children and students

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LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL 5 DAYS FAQS

HOW DO I RESERVE A SPOT ON THE 5-DAY LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL WITH INCA TRAIL HIKE?

To reserve your spot on the 5-day Lares Trek with us, first click the BOOK NOW button located at the top of this page. Next, choose the day that you want to depart, and then proceed to fill out all of the personal information required for each participant. The final step is the payment, which you can do using either your credit card or your debit card.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Yes! During the four-day hike with Lares to Machu Picchu, you have the option of storing your belongings either at our office or at your hotel, depending on which option is more convenient for you. Please pack only the items that you absolutely require for the four-day walk to Machu Picchu.

AFTER I HAVE BOUGHT THE PERMITS, IS IT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE?

We regret to inform you that this cannot be done. After purchasing permits for Machu Picchu, the government of Peru does not allow us to make any changes to our itinerary. Machu Picchu permits are not transferable nor refundable. Passport numbers are the only pieces of information that can be updated with the government’s permission.

DO I NEED TO BRING THE ORIGINAL COPY OF MY PASSPORT ON THE LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU THAT LASTS FOR FOUR DAYS?

Yes! You need to bring the original copy of your passport, and it is of the utmost significance that it should be the same passport that you submitted to us in order to reserve your Lares trek permit for four days. Both at the Machu Picchu checkpoint and again when you board the train, your passport will be thoroughly inspected.

UPDATING PASSPORT NUMBERS

If you are planning to get your passport renewed, you can go ahead and book your Lares trek 4 day permits by sending us an email with a copy of your old passport. If you do not have your previous passport with you, any other form of government-issued identification will suffice as long as the name is the same. Once you acquire your new passport. To update the information on your permit, kindly send a copy of your new passport to our email address as soon as possible.

IS IT POSSIBLE FOR ME TO SPEND ALL 5 DAYS OF MY LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL IN THE SACRED VALLEY?

Sadly, this is not the case. Every one of our excursions begins in Cusco.

THERE ARE TOILETS IN THE LARES TRAIL

Yes there are rustic toilets in the campsites, but in the lunch places especially on the 2nd day, you will have to use the Inca toilets, that means in nature and don’t forget to take with you the toilet paper.

THERE IS ELECTRICITY ON THE LARES TRAIL

Fortunately, there the different campsites where you can charge your phone or camera batteries, but in case there are, you can bring your portable batteries or power banks.

THERE ARE STORES TO BUY ON THE LARES TRAIL

Yes, you can buy some snacks or some rehydrating drinks but because of the distance, it is more expensive than the normal price.

WHAT EXACTLY IS THE INCA TRAIL?

The Inca trail is one of the most beautiful ruins of Peru where you would see the mountains and ancient beauty of the trail. There are several ways to complete this trail and the trail can be seen in 2 days

THE INCA TRAIL OF 2 DAYS IS ENOUGH?

Yes, 2 days is enough for all the important sightseeing on this trail. You can see almost all the important parts of the civilization.

Is there any official document required for the trek?

There is a requirement for a permit for this trek. You should prepare beforehand before starting this trail. You can easily get it through your tour guide.

How difficult is the Inca trail for a normal person?

For a person with no medical condition, the Inca trail is a fairly easy trail. You can easily do it.

Should I do the hike on my own?

No, you should always have a tour guide for the most efficient and safe experience.

What is the best time of year to do the Inca trail?

Mostly during April to September as it is called the dry season. The trail is often closed during winter.

What is the highest altitude of the trail?

The highest point of the trail is 2700 meters.

How much does it cost to do the hiking for 2 days?

The cost depends upon the tour guide and the length of the trail. The 2-day trek generally costs less than the 4-day one.

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