LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 5D/4N

Highlight of the day: Walk among beautiful mountains, snow-capped peaks and crystalline lagoons until you reach the village of Wacahuasi.

The second day of the Lares Machu Picchu trek is an opportunity to get up close and personal with the culture and nature of the Peruvian Andes. The trail descends from Puyoc to the village of Cuncani (3,800 meters/ 12,464 feet). On the way, we will cross the Sicllakasa pass (4,830 meters/ 15,846 feet), from where we will enjoy a privileged view of the imposing Pumahuanca mountain (5,330 meters/ 17,486 feet), and we will pass near the Yanacocha lagoon (4,500 meters/ 12,476 feet).

Following the described route, we will reach the village of Cuncani (3,800 meters/ 16,467 feet), where we may be able to observe the daily life of the Andean villagers. Approximately 7 hours of walking are required on the second day’s hike, which covers a distance of 12 kilometers/ 7.46 miles.

• Walking Distance: 12 km./7.46 mi.
• Initial elevation: 4,300 m./14,108 ft.
• Maximum elevation: 4,830 m./15,845 ft.
• Difficulty: Challenging.
• Overnight: Campsite at Cuncani.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Highlight of the day: Relax at the Lares’ Hot Springs.

For the third day of the trek from Lares to Machu Picchu, we will start with a nutritious breakfast. Then, we will leave Cuncani behind and head towards the relaxing hot springs of Lares (3,200 meters / 10,498 feet). On the way, we will have the opportunity to pass through several local communities, where we will admire the cultivation of native products such as quinoa, potatoes and tarwi. The entrance to the hot springs of Lares is optional, so each hiker will be responsible for the corresponding payment. Who knows, we may even be lucky enough to spot some of the characteristic birds of the region, such as hummingbirds, cock-of-the-rock and other species.

After enjoying some time in the hot springs of Lares, our transportation will be ready to take us to the living Inca city of Ollantaytambo (2,700 meters / 8,858 feet), where we will recharge our batteries for our next adventure.

• Distance covered: 8 km / 4.97 miles
• Initial Elevation: 3,800 meters / 12,467 feet.
• Maximum Elevation: 3,800 meters / 12,467 feet.
• Difficulty: Light (2/5)
• Accommodation: 3-star Hotel (Aguas Calientes).

Highlight of the Day: Discover the Inti Punku or Sun Gate and take the best pictures of Machu Picchu from the Guardian’s House.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will head to the Train Station in Ollantaytambo to board the train that will take us to KM 104 (2,200 m/7,218 ft), also known as Chachabamba; the average time for this journey is approximately one hour.

Once we arrive at kilometer 104, we will begin the wonderful hike along the Inca Trail. Please remember that upon reaching the state control point, you will be asked to present your identification documents (passport, foreigner card, or identity document). After 15 minutes from the starting point of the hike, we will be able to visit the Chachabamba Archaeological Center (2,200 m/7,218 ft), located within a beautiful, evergreen, humid valley.

After exploring Chachabamba, we will ascend through the Inca stairs amidst lush vegetation. Along this route, we will witness a stunning waterfall and learn about the orchids found along the Inca Trail. After approximately 4 hours of hiking, we will reach a spectacular and historically significant archaeological site exclusive to the Inca Trail, the famous Wiñaywayna (2,650 m/8,694 ft). We will explore the site and then enjoy lunch to replenish our energy.

After a restful break at Wiñaywayna (2,680 m/8,792 ft), we will resume the hike for an additional 2 hours, exploring the surroundings and the “tambos,” which in Inca times were known as resting places. The next stop on our visit will be “Inti Punku” or the Sun Gate (2,720 m/8,924 ft). In ancient times, this was a control point for access to Machu Picchu, offering an exceptional and impressive panoramic view of the Wonder of the World.

We will then descend for approximately 30 more minutes to Machu Picchu (2,490 m/8,169 ft), where we will have a privileged view of the “Llaqta”. Finally, we will take the descent bus, which will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes (2,160 m/7,087 ft). Upon arrival at Machu Picchu town, a pleasant dinner awaits you at a tourist restaurant and a comfortable room at a 3-star hotel.

Note: If you still have energy left, you can visit the hot springs, which are only a 15-minute walk from the hotel, and the entrance fee is 10 soles (approx. 3 USD). Alternatively, you can stroll through the streets of the town and enjoy the night.

Hiking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
Initial Altitude: 2,200 meters / 10,990 feet.
Maximum Altitude: 720 meters / 8,924 feet.
Difficulty Level: Light (2/5)
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (3-star hotel).

Highlight of the Day: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Incas on a tour of the magnificent constructions of Machu Picchu.

This day will start early with breakfast before heading to the first buses that will take us from Aguas Calientes to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft). Once at the entrance, we will present our tickets and passports to begin the tour with our guide, who will give us a detailed explanation about the history of this Inca wonder. During the visit, we will explore the most emblematic places of Machu Picchu, such as the classic viewpoint, the Guardian’s House, the viewpoint of the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Rock and the Water Mirrors Complex.

At the end of the tour, you will have free time to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, if you have purchased the corresponding tickets. These additional excursions are optional, have an extra cost and require advance reservation due to the limited availability of spaces.

After the visit to this wonder of the world, we will return by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes to enjoy lunch. Afterwards, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo and finish the day with our private transportation back to your accommodation in Cusco.

• Includes: 1 breakfast (at the hotel)
• Initial Elevation: 2,050 meters / 6,561 feet
• Maximum Elevation: 2,400 meters / 7,873
• feet Difficulty: Easy (1/5)

The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour is an exclusive combination of the Andean routes with exceptional culture and traditions and a preserved section of the great Qhapaq Ñan´s road network.

These are memorable treks through captivating landscapes and ancient trails. With small groups, expert guides, and quality campsites, you will delve into local culture and explore fascinating archeological sites. The trip culminates in a stunning view of Machu Picchu. It’s a journey that combines adventure, history, and nature.

The altitudes range from 2,200 m./10,990 ft. to 4,830 m./15,845 ft. During the trek, we will experience significant changes in altitude, especially when they reach the highest point at the Sicllakasa Pass. This requires good acclimatization.

The Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu presents different levels of challenge. Throughout the trek, you will experience different terrains, altitudes, and weather conditions. Generally, it is considered a moderate to challenging trekking route.

The second day is usually the most challenging because it has steep terrain and the highest point at Sicllakasa Pass.

Yes, it’s recommended that you do pre-training exercises, such as regular walking, and cardiovascular and muscle strengthening exercises, to overcome the physical challenge. Also, it’s imperative to speak with your doctor before starting the trek to check for any medical conditions that may affect your health during the trek.

The Lares Trek begins at Pumahuanca (3,150 m/ 1,034 ft). and the end is at Lares’s Hot Springs (3,200 m/10,498 ft).

The Short Inca Trail begins at the KM 104 also known as Chachabamba (2,200 m / 7,218 ft) and the end is at Machu Picchu´s entrance (2,400 m/7,873 ft).

As for the tour, it begins and ends at your hotel.

The only way to find out about availability for the Inca Trail is through an authorized travel agency. Contact our sales team at Waman Adventures for more information.

The only way to secure your Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu entrance fees is through Waman Adventures, an agency authorized by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.

To book your trip, please follow the steps below:

• Contact our sales team and agree on the date of your trip.
• Once agreed, you will be sent a payment link.
• Fill in the form with your correct details.
• Click on BOOK NOW and you are ready to go!

Note: For any further information, our staff will be available for you 24/7

In the high season (June, July, and August), we suggest that you book 3 – 5 months in advance, while for the low season, 3 months in advance is advisable.

Yes, a group tour involves joining other travelers with the same itinerary and date. It is ideal for those looking to meet new people and share experiences.

Private tours offer a personalized and exclusive experience for you and your friends or companions.

Unfortunately, it´s not possible to make changes to dates once entry permits or tickets have been purchased, due to government restrictions. It is therefore crucial to ensure that you select the correct dates when booking. As space is limited, we purchase permits as soon as we receive your form and deposit.

It is important to note that once the deposit for the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour has been paid, this amount is non-refundable and non-transferable. This deposit is used to purchase the entrance permit to the trek and secure your space on the date you have requested.

You must acclimatize in the city of Cusco, at least 3 days before you do the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour so we recommend these tours:

City Tour Cusco, Explore the city of Cusco with a guided tour in the afternoon.

Sacred Valley + Chinchero Tour, if you take this tour and plan to stay in Ollantaytambo, we will organize your pick up in this place, after coordination with our travel agents, to start your Inca Trail trek.

Our sales agents will contact you to offer alternative treks or dates if your travel date is sold out. It is imperative to note that payment does not guarantee an Inca Trail Hike permit. Therefore, you must wait for confirmation from our team, which indicates that we have successfully obtained the permit. This process usually takes approximately 24 hours and if it is a weekend, confirmation will be sent on Monday.

You can do these treks:

• SALKANTAY TREK 5 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU
• TOUR LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 04 DAYS
• INCA TRAIL SHORT TREK TO MACHU PICCHU IN 2 DAYS
• INCA JUNGLE 04 DAYS 3 NIGHTS

The best time to do the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, weather conditions are more stable, with less chance of rain and milder temperatures (very important for the nights on the Lares Trek). This provides a more favorable environment for enjoying the trek and the panoramic views of the Andean Mountains.

However, it is important to note that during June to August, which corresponds to the high season, demand is higher and bookings need to be made further in advance.

There are no age restrictions for this tour. However, Waman Adventures, as a licensed and responsible travel agency, will only accept bookings for children under 12 if parents assume full responsibility for them during the trek.

Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

To ensure optimal adaptation to altitude and minimize altitude sickness symptoms (soroche), we advise you to spend at least two days in the charming city of Cusco before starting your Inca Trail adventure. This additional period will allow you to gradually acclimatize to the mountainous elevation of the imposing Andes Mountains.

It is possible to suffer from altitude sickness when you arrive in Cusco if you are not used to altitudes above 3,000 meters. This usually manifests itself with symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath, and nausea. Although not a cause for great concern, it is essential to be alert to these signs to ensure that they do not impact your experience.

To counteract this discomfort, here are some tips:

• Maintain adequate hydration.
• Avoid alcohol consumption before and after arrival; wait to adjust.
• Limit consumption of red meat for the first few days.
• Consider fruits and light soups at first.

Coca tea is beneficial, but avoid drinking it at night, as it can cause insomnia. Do not consume large amounts during the day, as it speeds up the heart rate.

At Waman Adventures we take into account your dietary preferences and offer a variety of foods on the treks. If you are vegetarian, vegan, or other, please let us know so that we can guarantee you a personalized dining experience.

The menu includes breakfasts complete with coffee, coca-tea, hot chocolate, tea, eggs, fruit, quinoa, juices, and more.

Lunches are diverse, with choices of meat, chicken, fish, salads, soups, chifa, vegetables, and desserts.

Dinners also vary, with salads, Andean pizza, chicken, pasta, pork, soups, and delicious desserts.

At the end of the day, at happy hour, you can enjoy hot drinks, biscuits, popcorn, and stuffed wontons. The agency personalizes your meals so you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.

If you have luggage that will not be needed during your Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour, you can leave it stored at your hotel in Cusco (most hotels provide this service free of charge).

In case your hotel does not offer this option, we will take care of storing your luggage safely in our facilities.

Trekking poles are highly recommended for the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Tour. These poles provide additional support when walking on varied and steep terrain, reducing stress on the joints and offering improved balance.

During the Lares Trek, Waman Adventures gives you portable toilets and hot showers. For the Short Inca Trail Tour, you can only find toilets at the beginning of the trek (km 104) at the Ministry of Culture control point, at Wiñay Huayna, Machu Picchu, and at the end (Aguas Calientes Town).

While trekking the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour, you are likely to encounter limited or no phone signal and internet connection due to the mountainous and forested geography. It is important to remember that the purpose of trekking the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour is to appreciate the nature and history of these iconic Inca trails.

The briefing is really important because in this meeting you will have the opportunity to meet your guide. Throughout this meeting, your guide will explain important details about the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour.

During this meeting, you will be able to pay the outstanding balance of the tour.

Yes, although it is true that your luggage will be carried by our arrieros, we highly recommend carrying a medium backpack of 20 to 30 liters, as you will need to have on hand, those personal items that you will need throughout the journey as snacks, cleaning kit, rain poncho, water bottle, etc.

If you intend to change your choice of train company or route (whether it be Peru Rail’s Vistadome, the Ollantaytambo route, or the option to Poroy), or if you wish to adjust your departure time, additional charges may apply. For detailed information on availability and additional costs, we recommend contacting our sales team.