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 our Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail gives us the opportunity to learn more about the culture and nature of the Peruvian Andes. On the way, we will pass through the Sicllakasa Pass (4,830 m/15,846 ft), from where we will have a privileged view of the Pumahuanca Mountain.

From this point we will begin the descent, passing near the Yanacocha Lake (4,500 m/12,476 ft), famous for its waters of a peculiar black color, until we reach the village of Cuncani (3,800 m/16,467 ft) where we will learn about the daily life of the Quechua People; and if we have enough time, the villagers will gladly teach us some words in Quechua. We will end the day with a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest.

• Walking distance: 12 km./7.46 mi.
• Starting altitude: 4,300 m./14,108 ft.
• Highest altitude: 4,830 m./15,845 ft.
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Overnight: Campsite at Cuncani.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Highlight of the day: Relax in the Lares’s Hot Springs.

After a nutritious breakfast, we will begin the morning of the third day of our Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail, visiting one of the homes of a local family, where we will be received with kindness and hospitality. This will be an opportunity to interact and share cultural experiences with the villagers before we say goodbye to them; it is likely that we will learn words and phrases in Quechua.

We will then leave Cuncani behind, aiming to reach Lares (3,200 m/10,498 ft), along the way, we will have the opportunity to pass through more local communities and admire native cultivations of crops such as quinoa, potato and tarwi. Perhaps, 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; to finally enjoy a relaxing bath in Lares’s Hot Springs (entry ticket not included).

After enjoying the relaxation time, we will go to our transportation, which will be ready to take us to Ollantaytambo (2,700 m/8,858 ft). Here we have a delicious dinner in a restaurant and a relaxing night in the hotel reserved preview.

Note: Depending on the arrival time to Ollantaytambo, we can do a visit to the archeological site (entry ticket not included)

• Walking distance: 8 km./4.97 mi.
• Starting altitude: 3,800 m./12,467 ft.
• Highest altitude: 3,800 m./12,467 ft.
• Difficulty: Easy
• Overnight: Hotel at Ollantaytambo
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Highlight of the day: The hike will be climbing the Inti Punku or Sun Gate to watch the beautiful sunset over the Machu Picchu Llaqta, and also entering the Guard’s house!

After breakfast in the hotel, it will be time to arrive at Ollantaytambo train station and board the train to km 104, also known as Chachabamba (2,200 m / 7,218 ft); the average travel time to km 104 is approximately one hour.

Once we arrive at KM 104 (2,200 m/7,218 ft) we will start a wonderful hike. I must mention that when you get the state control, you will be asked to present your identification documents (passport, foreigner’s card, or identity card). After 15 minutes from the starting point of the hike, we will be able to visit Chachabamba’s archaeological center (2,200 m/7,218 ft), which is situated inside a beautiful evergreen humid valley.

After exploring Chachabamba, we will ascend the Inca stairs through lush vegetation. Along this route, we will witness an impressive waterfall and learn about the orchids found along the Inca Trail. After 4 hours of hiking, as a result, we will arrive at a spectacular and historic Wiñaywayna’s archaeological site (2,650 m/8,694 ft). In Wiñayhuayna, we will enjoy the visit for about 1 hour and then revitalize ourselves with our yummy box lunch.

After a restful break at Wiñaywayna (2,680 m/8,792 ft), we will return to the hike for an additional 2 hours, exploring the environment and “tambos” that in Inca times were known as resting places until we reach “Inti Punku” or Sun Gate (2,720 m/8,924 ft). This place was an access control point to the Machu Picchu citadel, offering an exceptional and breathtaking panoramic view of the World Wonder along with the surrounding forest and mountains.

We will then descend for approximately 30 minutes to Machu Picchu (2,490 m/8,169 ft), where we will have a privileged view of the “Llaqta”. Finally, after taking the bus for 25 minutes, we will head to Aguas Calientes (2,160 m/7,087 ft). Upon arrival in Machu Picchu town, a nice dinner and comfortable room in a 3-star hotel awaits you.

Note: If you still have some energy, you can visit the thermal baths which are only 15 minutes walking from the hotel, and the entrance ticket is 10 soles. On the other hand, you can also walk through the town streets and enjoy the night.

• Hiking distance: 10 km/6.21 mi.
• Starting altitude: 2,200 m./10,990 ft.
• Highest altitude: 2730 m./8,956 ft.
• Difficulty level: Moderate to Challenging.
• Includes: Breakfast, box lunch, dinner.
• Overnight: Hotel at Aguas Calientes (3-star hotel).

Highlight of the day: Guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the modern world.

You are finally here! You will wake up in a beautiful town that offers one of the best climates and locations in Peru.

Once you have breakfast, you will take the bus back to Machu Picchu’s entrance gate. There, to enter you will have to present the short Inca Trail ticket, and then you will enjoy a professional guided tour inside Machu Picchu for two hours. After the guided tour, only if you have the corresponding entrance tickets, you will have the opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain.

As we leave Machu Picchu with unforgettable memories, we will return to Aguas Calientes town, from which we will take the train to Ollantaytambo a few hours later. Once you arrive at Ollantaytambo, we will continue our journey in our private transportation back to Cusco City. Unfortunately, Cusco is the end point of our exciting Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Starting altitude: 2,050 m./6,561 ft.
• Maximum altitude: 2430 m./7,873 ft.
• Meals: Breakfast (Hotel).

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.