Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days
Combine the remote landscapes and traditional communities of the Lares Trek with the historic Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Hike through peaceful Andean valleys, high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and traditional villages where local life remains closely connected to the land. Relax in the Lares Hot Springs, cross the impressive Condor Pass, and continue along the Short Inca Trail past Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. The journey ends with an unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, followed by a second guided visit to explore the citadel in greater depth. Tour Highlights:Hike through remote Andean valleys, lakes, and traditional communities along the Lares Trek.Cross Condor Pass at 4,750 m / 15,584 ft, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.Walk the Short Inca Trail, visiting Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate.Experience Machu Picchu twice, with a panoramic arrival on Day 4 and a guided visit on Day 5.
What you'll see & do
- ✓Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani – Blue Lagoon - Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel at approximately 4:30 am (depending on your location). As the sun rises, we’ll journey through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, arriving at the renowned Lares hot springs around 8:00 am. Imagine starting your day soaking in the therapeutic waters, set at varying temperatures, with the majestic Andes surrounding you. These thermal baths are not only relaxing but offer natural healing benefits—perfect for your muscles, bones, and any travel stress. After this refreshing experience, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast in a stunning location before we set off on the next leg of our journey. A short, scenic drive brings us to the trailhead, where we begin a 2-hour hike through picturesque landscapes, making our way to the charming village of Kiswarani. Here, your chef will prepare a well-earned lunch with fresh, local ingredients. But the day doesn’t end there! We continue with another 2-hour trek, passing through postcard-perfect scenes of potato farms, vibrant waterfalls, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Your destination? A tranquil campsite perched on the shores of the enchanting Blue Lagoon at 3,900 meters (12,795 ft). Upon arrival, your tent will be ready, and a steaming cup of tea will be waiting for you—just the thing to unwind after a day of adventure. As night falls, immerse yourself in the magic of the Andean sky. Stargaze under the pristine heavens and let our guides introduce you to the fascinating world of Inca astronomy. * Campsite Altitude: 3,900 m (12,795 ft) * Distance: 10 km (6 miles) * Duration: 7 hours * Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner * Accommodation: Camping
- ✓Blue Lagoon – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha Community - Wake up with hot coffee or coca tea before beginning the most challenging section of the Lares Trek. After breakfast, climb steadily for around 4 hours toward Condor Pass, the highest point of the trek at approximately 4,750 m / 15,584 ft. Along the way, pass high-Andean lakes, grazing llamas and alpacas, and enjoy views of snow-capped peaks including Pitusiray, Sawasiray, and Qolquecruz. After resting at the summit, descend through remote valleys toward Cancha Cancha. This traditional Quechua community offers a closer look at life in the Andes, including farming, weaving, and the daily care of llamas and alpacas. Spend the night camping near the community, surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery. * Duration: Around 7 hours * Accommodation: Camping * Meals: Camping breakfast, lunch and dinner * Difficulty: Moderate to challenging * Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
- ✓Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Maras Salt Mines – Ollantaytambo - After breakfast, begin the final descent of the Lares Trek. Before leaving Cancha Cancha, spend some time learning about the traditions and daily life of this remote high-Andean community. As you descend, the scenery gradually changes from mountain pastures and potato fields to the warmer farmland of the Sacred Valley. The trek finishes in Huaran, where lunch will be served before saying goodbye to the trekking crew. Continue by private transport to the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools cover the mountainside and are still worked by local families. Finish the day in Ollantaytambo, where you can walk through its historic streets and original Inca water channels before resting at your hotel. * Duration: Around 4 hours * Accommodation: 2-star hotel in Ollantaytambo * Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner * Difficulty: Easy to moderate * Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 mi
- ✓Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Short Inca Trail – Aguas Calientes - After breakfast, board an early train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Present your original passport at the checkpoint and begin hiking through the cloud forest. Start with a visit to Chachabamba, then follow the original Inca Trail uphill through lush vegetation and mountain scenery toward Wiñay Wayna. Explore its impressive terraces, temples, and water channels before enjoying a picnic lunch. Continue along the trail toward Intipunku – the Sun Gate, where you will get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Walk down toward the citadel and enjoy the panoramic route assigned for Short Inca Trail arrivals. Afterward, take the bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner and a comfortable night at your hotel. * Duration: Around 7 hours * Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes * Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner * Difficulty: Moderate * Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mI
- ✓Day 5: Discover Machu Picchu (Lost City of the Incas) – Return to Cusco - After breakfast, take an early bus back to Machu Picchu for a more complete guided exploration of the Inca citadel. Follow the assigned entry circuit, usually Circuit 3 for this itinerary, and explore important temples, terraces, residential areas, water fountains, and ceremonial spaces while learning about Machu Picchu’s history and architecture. If booked in advance and available, you may add an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time for lunch. In the afternoon, board the panoramic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transportation back to Cusco. Arrival at your hotel is usually around 7:30 p.m. * Duration: 2.5 hours in Machu Picchu * Meals: Breakfast * Difficulty: Easy
What's included
- ✓Safety briefing the day before the tour
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop-off
- ✓Complimentary luggage storage
- ✓Professional bilingual tour guide in English and Spanish
- ✓Door-to-door service
- ✓Bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
- ✓Entrance ticket to the Short Inca Trail
- ✓Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- ✓2 nights of camping in the mountains
- ✓1 night in a hotel in Ollantaytambo
- ✓1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- ✓Comfortable tents for camping
- ✓Foam sleeping mat
- ✓Duffle bag for up to 7 kg / 15 lb of your personal belongings
- ✓Trekking chefs, muleteers, and support staff for the Lares section
- ✓Horses and cargo mules to carry food and camping equipment during the Lares section
- ✓First-aid kit, oxygen bottle, and satellite phone
- ✓Rain poncho, pillow, dining tent, chairs, and tables
- ✓Fresh meals during the trekking days
- ✓Vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary options available with advance notice
- ✓Train ticket to Km 104 for the Short Inca Trail
- ✓Vistadome train return to Cusco
What's not included
- ✓Sleeping bag, air mattress, and trekking poles (available to rent from us)
- ✓Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket (optional)
- ✓Machu Picchu Montaña ticket (optional)
- ✓Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- ✓Travel insurance
Good to know
Book Early: Reserve your tickets and tour in advance, especially during peak season.
Passport Details: Required for each traveler at the time of booking: Full name as shown on passport
Passport number
Date of birth
Country
Walking: Travelers should be comfortable with stairs and uneven stone paths at Machu Picchu.
Children: Must be accompanied by an adult.
Vegetarian Meals: Available upon request; please advise us when booking.
Optional Mountains: Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Montaña require separate tickets and advance booking.
Hotel Accommodation: Based on double or twin occupancy; a US$35 single-room supplement applies.
Acclimatize First: Spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before your visit.
Requirement
Passport or ID: Bring the original passport or ID used to make your booking; it is required to enter Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Ticket: Provided on the day of your tour.
Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers for changing temperatures.
Rain jacket or poncho: especially during the rainy season
Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Insect Repellent: Recommended for mosquitoes and other insects.
Water Bottle: Carry a refillable bottle to stay hydrated.
Snacks: Bring light snacks or energy bars.
Camera: Perfect for capturing the scenery and special moments.
Cash: Carry some cash, as card payments may not always be available.
Weather around Machu Picchu and can change quickly, so comfortable layers and rain protection are always recommended.
Good to know before you go
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Cancellation policy
- •A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
- •No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days
Combine the remote landscapes and traditional communities of the Lares Trek with the historic Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Hike through peaceful Andean valleys, high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and traditional villages where local life remains closely connected to the land. Relax in the Lares Hot Springs, cross the impressive Condor Pass, and continue along the Short Inca Trail past Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. The journey ends with an unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, followed by a second guided visit to explore the citadel in greater depth. Tour Highlights:Hike through remote Andean valleys, lakes, and traditional communities along the Lares Trek.Cross Condor Pass at 4,750 m / 15,584 ft, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.Walk the Short Inca Trail, visiting Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate.Experience Machu Picchu twice, with a panoramic arrival on Day 4 and a guided visit on Day 5.
What you'll see & do
- ✓Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani – Blue Lagoon - Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel at approximately 4:30 am (depending on your location). As the sun rises, we’ll journey through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas, arriving at the renowned Lares hot springs around 8:00 am. Imagine starting your day soaking in the therapeutic waters, set at varying temperatures, with the majestic Andes surrounding you. These thermal baths are not only relaxing but offer natural healing benefits—perfect for your muscles, bones, and any travel stress. After this refreshing experience, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast in a stunning location before we set off on the next leg of our journey. A short, scenic drive brings us to the trailhead, where we begin a 2-hour hike through picturesque landscapes, making our way to the charming village of Kiswarani. Here, your chef will prepare a well-earned lunch with fresh, local ingredients. But the day doesn’t end there! We continue with another 2-hour trek, passing through postcard-perfect scenes of potato farms, vibrant waterfalls, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Your destination? A tranquil campsite perched on the shores of the enchanting Blue Lagoon at 3,900 meters (12,795 ft). Upon arrival, your tent will be ready, and a steaming cup of tea will be waiting for you—just the thing to unwind after a day of adventure. As night falls, immerse yourself in the magic of the Andean sky. Stargaze under the pristine heavens and let our guides introduce you to the fascinating world of Inca astronomy. * Campsite Altitude: 3,900 m (12,795 ft) * Distance: 10 km (6 miles) * Duration: 7 hours * Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner * Accommodation: Camping
- ✓Blue Lagoon – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha Community - Wake up with hot coffee or coca tea before beginning the most challenging section of the Lares Trek. After breakfast, climb steadily for around 4 hours toward Condor Pass, the highest point of the trek at approximately 4,750 m / 15,584 ft. Along the way, pass high-Andean lakes, grazing llamas and alpacas, and enjoy views of snow-capped peaks including Pitusiray, Sawasiray, and Qolquecruz. After resting at the summit, descend through remote valleys toward Cancha Cancha. This traditional Quechua community offers a closer look at life in the Andes, including farming, weaving, and the daily care of llamas and alpacas. Spend the night camping near the community, surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery. * Duration: Around 7 hours * Accommodation: Camping * Meals: Camping breakfast, lunch and dinner * Difficulty: Moderate to challenging * Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
- ✓Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Maras Salt Mines – Ollantaytambo - After breakfast, begin the final descent of the Lares Trek. Before leaving Cancha Cancha, spend some time learning about the traditions and daily life of this remote high-Andean community. As you descend, the scenery gradually changes from mountain pastures and potato fields to the warmer farmland of the Sacred Valley. The trek finishes in Huaran, where lunch will be served before saying goodbye to the trekking crew. Continue by private transport to the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools cover the mountainside and are still worked by local families. Finish the day in Ollantaytambo, where you can walk through its historic streets and original Inca water channels before resting at your hotel. * Duration: Around 4 hours * Accommodation: 2-star hotel in Ollantaytambo * Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner * Difficulty: Easy to moderate * Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 mi
- ✓Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Short Inca Trail – Aguas Calientes - After breakfast, board an early train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Present your original passport at the checkpoint and begin hiking through the cloud forest. Start with a visit to Chachabamba, then follow the original Inca Trail uphill through lush vegetation and mountain scenery toward Wiñay Wayna. Explore its impressive terraces, temples, and water channels before enjoying a picnic lunch. Continue along the trail toward Intipunku – the Sun Gate, where you will get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Walk down toward the citadel and enjoy the panoramic route assigned for Short Inca Trail arrivals. Afterward, take the bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner and a comfortable night at your hotel. * Duration: Around 7 hours * Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes * Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner * Difficulty: Moderate * Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mI
- ✓Day 5: Discover Machu Picchu (Lost City of the Incas) – Return to Cusco - After breakfast, take an early bus back to Machu Picchu for a more complete guided exploration of the Inca citadel. Follow the assigned entry circuit, usually Circuit 3 for this itinerary, and explore important temples, terraces, residential areas, water fountains, and ceremonial spaces while learning about Machu Picchu’s history and architecture. If booked in advance and available, you may add an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes and enjoy free time for lunch. In the afternoon, board the panoramic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transportation back to Cusco. Arrival at your hotel is usually around 7:30 p.m. * Duration: 2.5 hours in Machu Picchu * Meals: Breakfast * Difficulty: Easy
What's included
- ✓Safety briefing the day before the tour
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop-off
- ✓Complimentary luggage storage
- ✓Professional bilingual tour guide in English and Spanish
- ✓Door-to-door service
- ✓Bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
- ✓Entrance ticket to the Short Inca Trail
- ✓Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- ✓2 nights of camping in the mountains
- ✓1 night in a hotel in Ollantaytambo
- ✓1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- ✓Comfortable tents for camping
- ✓Foam sleeping mat
- ✓Duffle bag for up to 7 kg / 15 lb of your personal belongings
- ✓Trekking chefs, muleteers, and support staff for the Lares section
- ✓Horses and cargo mules to carry food and camping equipment during the Lares section
- ✓First-aid kit, oxygen bottle, and satellite phone
- ✓Rain poncho, pillow, dining tent, chairs, and tables
- ✓Fresh meals during the trekking days
- ✓Vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary options available with advance notice
- ✓Train ticket to Km 104 for the Short Inca Trail
- ✓Vistadome train return to Cusco
What's not included
- ✓Sleeping bag, air mattress, and trekking poles (available to rent from us)
- ✓Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket (optional)
- ✓Machu Picchu Montaña ticket (optional)
- ✓Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- ✓Travel insurance
Good to know
Book Early: Reserve your tickets and tour in advance, especially during peak season.
Passport Details: Required for each traveler at the time of booking: Full name as shown on passport
Passport number
Date of birth
Country
Walking: Travelers should be comfortable with stairs and uneven stone paths at Machu Picchu.
Children: Must be accompanied by an adult.
Vegetarian Meals: Available upon request; please advise us when booking.
Optional Mountains: Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Montaña require separate tickets and advance booking.
Hotel Accommodation: Based on double or twin occupancy; a US$35 single-room supplement applies.
Acclimatize First: Spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before your visit.
Requirement
Passport or ID: Bring the original passport or ID used to make your booking; it is required to enter Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Ticket: Provided on the day of your tour.
Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers for changing temperatures.
Rain jacket or poncho: especially during the rainy season
Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Insect Repellent: Recommended for mosquitoes and other insects.
Water Bottle: Carry a refillable bottle to stay hydrated.
Snacks: Bring light snacks or energy bars.
Camera: Perfect for capturing the scenery and special moments.
Cash: Carry some cash, as card payments may not always be available.
Weather around Machu Picchu and can change quickly, so comfortable layers and rain protection are always recommended.
Good to know before you go
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Cancellation policy
- •A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
- •No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.