FROM THE LIVING ANDES TO THE INCA TRAIL
Lares Valley → Cuncani → Sicllaq’asa Pass → Sacred Valley → Maras Salt Mines → Ollantaytambo → Km 104 → Wiñay Wayna → Machu Picchu
Experience two extraordinary trekking routes in one unforgettable journey. Our 5-day Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu combines the remote beauty and living culture of the Lares Valley with the legendary final section of the Inca Trail. Cross the spectacular Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, walk through traditional Quechua communities, descend into the Sacred Valley, and visit the remarkable Maras Salt Mines before spending a relaxing night in Ollantaytambo, one of the Sacred Valley’s most remarkable living Inca towns. The following morning, board a train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and begin the Short Inca Trail, hiking through cloud forest to Wiñay Wayna and continuing to Inti Punku—the Sun Gate, where your first unforgettable views of Machu Picchu await. After completing the trail, descend to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved overnight stay before returning the following morning for a dedicated guided exploration of the legendary Inca citadel. Two iconic trails. One extraordinary journey.
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL?
The Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu operates most of the year. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred trek dates, Short Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu entrance, train schedules, and hotel accommodation.
- May–August: Book 4–8 months ahead.
- April & September–October: Book 3–6 months ahead.
- November–January: Book 2–4 months ahead.
- February: The trek operates during the rainy season, with wetter conditions and muddier trails.
- March: Book 2–4 months ahead.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
Book early, especially if you are traveling during peak season, have fixed travel dates, or want a specific Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance. This 5-day journey combines two popular trekking experiences, so advance planning gives you the best chance of securing your preferred dates and services.
YOUR JOURNEY AT A GLANCE
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Trekking: Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail
- Lares Trek Distance: Approximately 34 km / 21 miles
- Short Inca Trail: Approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Highest Point: Sicllaq’asa Pass — 4,800 m / 15,710 ft
- Short Inca Trail Start: Km 104
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Accommodation: 2 Nights Camping + 1 Night Hotel in Ollantaytambo + 1 Night Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Experience: Adventure • Culture • Nature • Inca History
- Departure: Daily, subject to availability and permits
- Two Iconic Trails in One Journey — Experience the living Andes of the Lares Trek and the historic pathways of the Short Inca Trail.
- Lares Valley & Quechua Culture — Travel through remote mountain communities where traditional Quechua culture and Andean ways of life remain deeply connected to the land.
- Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m — Challenge yourself at one of the highest points of the journey and take in spectacular high-Andean landscapes.
- Sacred Valley & Maras Salt Mines — Descend from the mountains into the Sacred Valley and visit the remarkable Maras Salt Mines.
- Historic Ollantaytambo — Spend the night in this extraordinary living Inca town, creating a natural transition between the Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail.
- Short Inca Trail Adventure — Board the morning train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and hike through cloud forest toward Machu Picchu.
- Wiñay Wayna — Discover one of the most impressive archaeological sites along the Inca Trail, hidden among lush mountain vegetation.
- Inti Punku — The Sun Gate — Reach the legendary gateway where your first unforgettable views of Machu Picchu
- Aguas Calientes Overnight — Relax after your trek with a comfortable night in Aguas Calientes before your dedicated Machu Picchu visit.
- Machu Picchu at Your Own Pace — Return refreshed the following morning for a dedicated guided exploration of the citadel.
WHY HIKE THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL WITH PERU HIKERS?
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE. REAL CONNECTION. TWO ICONIC TRAILS.
EXPERIENCE THE ANDES BEYOND THE CLASSIC ROUTES
Go beyond the usual path and experience two very different sides of the Andes. The Lares Trek takes you through remote mountain landscapes and living Quechua communities, while the Short Inca Trail leads you into the ancient world of the Incas on the way to Machu Picchu.
HIKE WITH LOCALS WHO KNOW THESE MOUNTAINS AS HOME
Our local guides know the trails, communities, history, and traditions of the region. They do more than lead the way—they help you understand the landscapes, connect with local culture, and experience Peru from a deeper perspective.
TWO TRAILS. ONE SEAMLESS JOURNEY.
This 5-day adventure combines the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail in one carefully designed journey. Cross the Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, descend through the Sacred Valley, visit the Maras Salt Mines, spend the night in historic Ollantaytambo, and then continue by train to Km 104 for your Short Inca Trail adventure.
SMALL GROUPS. MORE PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.
Travel with small groups, attentive local guides, and a comfortable pace. With fewer travelers, you have more time to appreciate the scenery, connect with your guides, and experience the Andes without feeling rushed.
FROM LIVING CULTURE TO ANCIENT INCA PATHWAYS
Experience the incredible contrast of the journey—from traditional Quechua communities and high mountain passes to the stone pathways of the Inca Trail. Walk through cloud forest to Wiñay Wayna, reach Inti Punku—the Sun Gate, and experience your first unforgettable views of Machu Picchu.
⭐ 5.0 RATED ON TRIPADVISOR & GOOGLE
Travel with a locally owned Cusco team trusted by travelers from around the world. From your first contact to your final day in Machu Picchu, we are here to make your journey personal, authentic, and meaningful.
TWO TRAILS. ONE EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY.
Lares Valley. The Inca Trail. Machu Picchu. Experience them together with Peru Hikers.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 — CUSCO → LARES → CUNCANI
ENTER THE HEART OF THE LIVING ANDES
Your adventure begins early, at approximately 5:00 AM, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Travel through the Sacred Valley toward Calca, where we make a convenient stop for water, snacks, or any last-minute essentials before continuing deeper into the spectacular Lares Valley. As the road climbs, the scenery transforms into a world of snow-capped peaks, remote villages, highland farmland, llamas, and alpacas. After reaching Lares, enjoy a delicious lunch before beginning your first hike toward the traditional Quechua community of Cuncani. Along the way, your local guide shares stories of the history, traditions, and way of life of the communities that call these mountains home. By late afternoon, arrive at your campsite surrounded by the high Andes, where you can enjoy a warm dinner, settle into your tent, and experience your first night beneath the vast Andean sky.
DAY 1 DETAILS
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours
- Highest Elevation: 3,800 m / 12,464 ft
- Accommodation: Camping in Cuncani
- Meals: Lunch & Dinner
DAY 2 — CUNCANI → SICLLAQ’ASA PASS → PACCHAYOQ
CONQUER THE HIGHEST PASS OF THE JOURNEY
Wake early to the peaceful silence of the Andes, enjoy breakfast and a warm drink, then begin hiking at approximately 6:00 AM toward the spectacular Sicllaq’asa Pass. The trail climbs steadily through dramatic high-altitude landscapes, with increasingly sparse vegetation and impressive mountain views as you gain elevation. After approximately four hours of climbing, reach Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, the highest point of your journey. Take a moment to breathe, celebrate your achievement, and admire the immense mountain panorama stretching in every direction before beginning the long descent toward lunch. As you continue downhill, the landscape gradually changes as you leave the highest mountains behind and make your way toward Pacchayoq, where your campsite awaits. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner and rest beneath the stars after an unforgettable day in the high Andes.
DAY 2 DETAILS
- Hiking Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
- Hiking Time: Approximately 9–10 hours
- Highest Elevation: 4,800 m / 15,710 ft
- Accommodation: Camping in Pacchayoq
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 3 — PACCHAYOQ → PUMA MARKA → SACRED VALLEY → MARAS SALT MINES → OLLANTAYTAMBO
FROM THE HIGH ANDES TO A LIVING INCA TOWN
After breakfast, begin the final trekking section of the Lares Trek, descending from the high Andes as the landscape transforms into greener valleys, streams, farmland, and native vegetation. Finish the trekking portion near Puma Marka, where private transportation meets the group and continues toward the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo, one of Peru’s most remarkable living Inca towns. After lunch, visit the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of traditional salt pools cascade down the mountainside, fed by mineral-rich spring water, while your guide explains how local communities continue this centuries-old tradition of salt harvesting. After exploring the salt mines, return to Ollantaytambo, check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by ancient Inca walls and dramatic mountain scenery. Tonight, rest well—tomorrow morning, you will board the train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 to begin your Short Inca Trail adventure.
DAY 3 DETAILS
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 8 km / 5 miles
- Hiking Time: Approximately 3 hours
- Highlight: Maras Salt Mines after lunch
- Accommodation: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 4 — OLLANTAYTAMBO → KM 104 → CHACHABAMBA → WIÑAY WAYNA → INTI PUNKU → AGUAS CALIENTES
WALK THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO THE SUN GATE
Today is dedicated entirely to the Short Inca Trail. After an early breakfast at your hotel in Ollantaytambo, board your confirmed morning train toward Km 104, the starting point of the trail. At Km 104, meet your trekking team and begin walking along the ancient Inca pathway toward Chachabamba, an impressive archaeological site surrounded by lush vegetation. From here, the trail gradually climbs through the cloud forest, where ancient stonework, waterfalls, orchids, tropical vegetation, and dramatic mountain scenery create one of the most beautiful sections of the Inca Trail. Continue toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the route’s most spectacular archaeological sites, hidden among the mountains with terraces, ceremonial structures, fountains, and stone stairways seemingly emerging from the forest. After exploring Wiñay Wayna with your guide, continue toward Inti Punku—the Sun Gate, the historic gateway overlooking Machu Picchu. Then comes the moment you have been waiting for: as you reach Inti Punku, the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu appears below, framed by the green peaks of the Andes. Take time to pause, enjoy the view, and celebrate completing the Short Inca Trail before continuing toward the designated exit and making your way down to Aguas Calientes. Check into your hotel, relax, and enjoy a well-deserved evening before returning to Machu Picchu tomorrow for your complete guided visit.
DAY 4 DETAILS
- Train: Morning train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104
- Trekking Distance: Approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Hiking Time: Approximately 6–7 hours
- Highlights: Chachabamba • Wiñay Wayna • Inti Punku • First views of Machu Picchu
- Difficulty: Moderate to demanding
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 5 — AGUAS CALIENTES → MACHU PICCHU → AGUAS CALIENTES → OLLANTAYTAMBO → CUSCO
THE GRAND FINALE: MACHU PICCHU
Today is the moment you’ve been waiting for. After breakfast, take the bus from Aguas Calientes up the winding road to Machu Picchu, where you’ll enter the sanctuary with your Peru Hikers guide for approximately 2–3 hours of dedicated exploration. Discover ancient terraces, temples, plazas, ceremonial spaces, and remarkable stone architecture as your guide brings the history and mysteries of the Inca civilization to life. As you explore the citadel, reflect on everything you have experienced over the past four days—from crossing the remote Lares Valley and meeting traditional Quechua communities to conquering Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, descending into the Sacred Valley, visiting the Maras Salt Mines, spending the night in historic Ollantaytambo, and walking the ancient Short Inca Trail through Wiñay Wayna to Inti Punku. Now, you stand inside Machu Picchu, the legendary culmination of your journey through the Andes. After your guided visit, return to Aguas Calientes and enjoy lunch on your own before boarding your afternoon train to Ollantaytambo, where your private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. Arrive in Cusco in the evening carrying the memories of an unforgettable journey from the living Andes to the legendary Inca citadel.
DAY 5 DETAILS
- Machu Picchu Guided
- Tour: Approximately 2–3 hours
- Meals: Breakfast
- Return: Train to Ollantaytambo + private transportation to Cusco
- End of Service: Cusco
WE TAKE CARE OF THE JOURNEY
WHAT'S INCLUDED
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Professional English-speaking trekking guide
- Professional trekking chef
- Experienced local trekking horse men and Elite Inca warriors
- First-aid trained trekking staff
- Emergency oxygen
ACCOMMODATION
- 2 nights camping during the Lares Trek
- Camping in Cuncani
- Camping in Pacchayoq
- Camping equipment and tents
- Sleeping mats
- 1 night hotel in Ollantaytambo
- 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
ENTRANCES & PERMITS
- Short Inca Trail permit
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Entrance to the Maras Salt Mines
- Bus ticket to Machu Picchu on Day 5
MACHU PICCHU EXPERIENCE
- Professional guided visit of Machu Picchu
- Approximately 2–3 hours of guided exploration
- Assistance from your Peru Hikers team throughout the journey.
TRANSPORTATION
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Private transportation from Cusco to the Lares Valley
- Private transportation during the Lares Trek
- Transportation from the trek to the Sacred Valley
- Transportation to the Maras Salt Mines
- Morning train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 on Day 4
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo on Day 5
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco after the trek
MEALS & WATER
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners during the trek as indicated
- Filtered and boiled drinking water during the trek
- Trekking snacks
BAGGAGE SUPPORT
- Duffel bag service up to 8 kg / 17.6 lbs
- Secure luggage storage for your main luggage in Cusco while you trek
NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Personal expenses
- Extra snacks, drinks, or alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides, chef, drivers, or trekking staff
- Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket
- Machu Picchu Mountain ticket
- Any service not specifically mentioned under What’s Included
Optional rentals: Sleeping bags, trekking poles, and other trekking equipment may be available for an additional cost. Please request them when booking or before your trek.
PACKING LIST
WEATHER & ALTITUDE
Weather in the Andes can change quickly. Pack for sun, cold, wind, and rain, even during the dry season.
Because the trek reaches 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, proper acclimatization is important. We recommend spending 2–3 days in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before starting the trek.
KEEP YOUR DAYPACK LIGHT
Your main luggage can remain safely stored with our team in Cusco. During the trek, carry only what you need for the day, while your duffel bag of up to 8 kg / 17.6 lbs is transported as part of the trekking service.
PACK LIGHT. HIKE COMFORTABLY. EXPERIENCE MORE.
ESSENTIALS
- Valid passport — required for the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Small daypack of approximately 20–30 liters
- Comfortable hiking boots with good traction
- Lightweight hiking shoes or sandals for the evenings
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system
- Personal travel documents and a small amount of local currency
TREKKING GEAR
- Trekking poles — highly recommended, especially for the long descents
- Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen — SPF 30 or higher
- Lip balm with sun protection
- Small personal first-aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Personal medications
- Small towel
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and personal hygiene supplies
FOR MACHU PICCHU & AGUAS CALIENTES
- Lightweight change of clothes for your hotel night in Aguas Calientes
- Comfortable shoes for the evening
- Small toiletry kit
- Camera or smartphone
- Portable power bank
- Extra charging cable
- Light rain protection
CLOTHING
The Andes can experience significant temperature changes throughout the day. We recommend dressing in layers.
- 2–3 moisture-wicking hiking shirts
- 1–2 pairs of hiking pants
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirt
- Fleece or warm mid-layer
- Warm jacket or down jacket
- Waterproof or rain jacket
- Waterproof hiking pants or rain pants
- Thermal base layers
- Warm hat or beanie
- Sun hat or cap
- Gloves
- Hiking socks
- Comfortable clothes for the evenings
- Underwear
FOR CAMPING
- Sleeping bag — not included
- Sleeping bag liner, if desired
- Small travel pillow or inflatable pillow
- Dry bags or waterproof bags to protect clothing and electronics
- Waterproof cover for your daypack
- Plastic or reusable bags for wet or dirty clothing
TRAVEL INFORMATION
PRE-TREK BRIEFING
Before your Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail, we will meet with you for a pre-trek briefing to review the itinerary, weather conditions, packing requirements, altitude, trail conditions, and important safety information.
Your guide will also confirm your pickup time, duffle bag, daypack, train schedule, Short Inca Trail arrangements, and any rented equipment so you are fully prepared for the journey ahead.
LUGGAGE STORAGE IN CUSCO
You do not need to carry all your travel luggage throughout the journey.
Peru Hikers provides secure luggage storage at our office in Cusco, allowing you to leave your larger bags behind while you travel with only what you need for the trek.
Your trekking duffle will be transported by our support team during the Lares Trek and delivered to your camps according to the itinerary. After the trekking portion, you will have access to your belongings during your hotel stays in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
ALTITUDE & ACCLIMATIZATION
The Lares Trek reaches Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, making altitude one of the most important factors to consider.
We strongly recommend spending at least 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before beginning the trek.
During the journey:
- Walk at a steady, comfortable pace.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Eat regularly, even if your appetite is reduced.
- Follow your guide’s recommendations.
- Tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell.
The Lares Trek is the most demanding high-altitude section of this journey. The Short Inca Trail follows at a lower elevation, but it still includes significant uphill and downhill sections.
Altitude affects everyone differently, regardless of age or fitness level. Good acclimatization is one of the best ways to prepare.
GETTING TO CUSCO
Your journey begins and ends in Cusco, so we recommend arriving at least 2–3 days before the trek.
This gives your body valuable time to adjust to the altitude and allows you to explore Cusco at a relaxed pace before beginning your adventure.
If you are arriving from Lima or another low-altitude destination, we strongly recommend not starting the trek immediately after landing in Cusco.
YOUR DAYPACK
During the trekking days, you will carry a small daypack with the essentials you need throughout the day.
We recommend a 20–30 liter daypack containing:
- Passport
- 2–3 liters of water
- Sun protection
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm layer
- Hat and gloves
- Snacks
- Personal medication
- Headlamp
- Camera or phone
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper
- Small amount of cash
Keep your daypack as light as possible. The lighter you walk, the more comfortable your trek will be.
DUFFLE BAG SERVICE
Peru Hikers provides a personal duffle bag of up to 8 kg / 17.6 lb for the Lares Trek.
Your duffle can contain clothing, toiletries, a sleeping bag, and other trekking essentials. Our support team will transport it between camps, allowing you to hike with only your daypack.
Important: Keep your passport, valuables, medications, and other essential personal items with you at all times.
WEATHER & TEMPERATURE
The Andes can experience rapid changes in weather, particularly at high altitude.
During your 5-day journey, you may experience strong sun, cold temperatures, wind, rain, cloud forest conditions, and changing weather within the same day.
The high sections of the Lares Trek can be particularly cold in the early morning and evening, while the Sacred Valley and lower sections toward Machu Picchu are generally warmer and more humid.
We recommend dressing in layers and carrying rain protection every day.
DRY SEASON
May–August: Generally drier conditions, clearer skies, sunny days, and cold nights.
SHOULDER SEASONS
April & September–October: A good balance of weather and fewer visitors, although rain is still possible.
RAINY SEASON
November–March: Greater possibility of rain, cloud, mud, and changing trail conditions. February is typically the wettest month.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The Lares Valley and Sacred Valley are home to traditional Andean communities, fragile mountain ecosystems, and landscapes that have been cared for by local people for generations.
We believe trekking should protect the places and communities that make the journey special.
During your journey, we ask you to:
- Carry out everything you bring in.
- Avoid single-use plastics whenever possible.
- Stay on established trails.
- Respect wildlife and vegetation.
- Avoid leaving food or waste along the trail.
- Ask permission before photographing local people.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Support local communities when appropriate.
We work with local guides, cooks, horsemen, drivers, and community members, helping tourism create opportunities within the region.
For us, responsible travel is not simply about leaving no trace. It is about traveling with respect, connecting with local communities, and helping preserve the Andes for future generations.
FIRST AID & EMERGENCY SUPPORT
Your safety is our priority.
Our trekking team carries a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen, and your guide is trained to monitor the group and respond to common trekking emergencies.
If you experience symptoms related to altitude, dehydration, exhaustion, or any other health concern, tell your guide immediately.
In the event of a serious emergency, our team will coordinate the appropriate evacuation or medical assistance.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes trekking at high altitude and emergency evacuation.
Your policy should ideally cover:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Emergency evacuation
- Trekking activities at high altitude
- Trip interruption or cancellation
- Lost or delayed luggage
Please carry your insurance information with you during the journey.
TRAVELING WITH RESPECT
The Lares Trek passes through communities where traditional Andean culture remains an important part of everyday life.
You may meet local families, farmers, children, and herders along the route. A friendly greeting, respectful attitude, and genuine interest in their culture can make a meaningful difference.
Remember that you are not simply passing through a landscape—you are walking through someone’s home and community.
FROM THE LARES VALLEY TO MACHU PICCHU
This journey is special because it combines two very different trekking experiences.
The Lares Trek takes you deep into the living Andes, where you will cross remote mountain landscapes, encounter traditional Quechua communities, and conquer Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft.
After descending into the Sacred Valley, the journey continues through the Maras Salt Mines and historic Ollantaytambo, where you spend the night before beginning the next chapter.
The following morning, you board the train to Km 104 and enter the world of the Short Inca Trail. Walk through cloud forest to Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, then continue to Inti Punku—the Sun Gate, where Machu Picchu first appears below.
After an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, return the next morning for a dedicated guided exploration of Machu Picchu.
Two trails. Two worlds. One extraordinary journey.
SMALL-GROUP TREK
Adults: From US$919 per person
PRIVATE TREK
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is the Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail difficult?
Yes. This is a demanding trekking adventure that combines the high-altitude Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The most challenging section is the ascent to Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, followed by a long descent on Day 2. The Short Inca Trail is generally moderate to demanding, with several uphill and downhill sections. Good physical preparation and 2–3 days of acclimatization are strongly recommended
How many days is the Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
The journey takes 5 days and 4 nights. You will spend 2 nights camping in the Andes, 1 night in a hotel in Ollantaytambo, and 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. The journey combines the Lares Trek, the Maras Salt Mines, the Short Inca Trail, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
What is the highest point of the journey?
The highest point is Sicllaq’asa Pass at 4,800 m / 15,710 ft, reached on Day 2 of the Lares Trek after approximately four hours of uphill hiking.
How far do we hike?
The Lares Trek is approximately 34 km / 21 miles, while the Short Inca Trail is approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles. Daily distances vary, with Day 2 being the longest and most demanding trekking day.
How many days should I acclimatize before the trek?
We recommend spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before starting the trek. Proper acclimatization can make the high-altitude sections more comfortable, particularly the ascent to 4,800 m.
When is the best time to do the Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail?
The journey operates most of the year. May through August generally offers the driest conditions and clearer mountain views. April and September–October are also good months for trekking. November through March can bring more rain, and February is typically the wettest month.
Is the Short Inca Trail open in February?
The Short Inca Trail is generally affected by the annual February closure of the Inca Trail network. Because regulations and operating conditions can change, we recommend checking availability for your specific travel date before booking.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
What is the difference between the Lares Trek and the Short Inca Trail?
Will we visit traditional Quechua communities?
Does the trip include the Maras Salt Mines?
Where do we stay each night?
When do we stay in Ollantaytambo?
What happens on the Short Inca Trail?
Will we see Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate?
When do we visit Machu Picchu?
Are meals included?
Is drinking water provided?
Do I need to carry all my luggage?
What size should my daypack be?
Can I leave my main luggage in Cusco?
Are sleeping bags included?
Are trekking poles included?
What happens if I feel sick from the altitude?
Is the trek suitable for families?
Can I do this trek as a private experience?
What time does the trek start in Cusco?
Is Machu Picchu included?
Which Machu Picchu circuit will we visit?
How far in advance should I book?
What should I pack?
Why choose Peru Hikers for the Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail?
Peru Hikers provides a personal duffle bag of up to 8 kg / 17.6 lb for the Lares Trek.
Your duffle can contain clothing, toiletries, a sleeping bag, and other trekking essentials. Our support team will transport it between camps, allowing you to hike with only your daypack.
Important: Keep your passport, valuables, medications, and other essential personal items with you at all times.
LOCAL ROOTS. REAL EXPERIENCE.
Born in Cusco and deeply connected to the Andes, Peru Hikers offers more than a trek— we create meaningful journeys.
Our local guides, trekking chefs, horsemen, and Elite Inca Warriors work together to provide authentic experiences, delicious meals, expert support, and genuine connections with the Andes.
