The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days brings together the best of two unforgettable routes to Machu Picchu: the living culture and mountain beauty of Lares, and the iconic final stretch of the Inca Trail through Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate. You will soak in the Lares hot springs, hike past waterfalls, lakes, llamas, alpacas, and remote Quechua villages, then continue on the original Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu in one of the most beautiful ways possible.
This tour is designed for travelers who want more than a classic trek. It gives you culture, nature, history, comfortable camping, a hotel night, the Short Inca Trail, a first arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, a second guided visit the next morning, and a scenic return on the panoramic Vistadome train.
Tour Type Group / Private
Activities Adventure, Culture, History
Average Group Size 12 people
Difficulty Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation Camping, Hotel
Tour Language English, Spanish
Hiking Distance 54 km / 34 mi
Starts/Ends Cusco / Cusco
Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days Overview
The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days is one of the most complete and meaningful trekking experiences to Machu Picchu. It combines the cultural heart of the Lares Valley with the most iconic section of the Inca Trail, giving you a journey full of living Andean traditions, high-mountain landscapes, Inca history, and two unforgettable moments at Machu Picchu.
During the first part of the tour, you will relax in the Lares hot springs, visit remote Quechua villages, hike near waterfalls and high-altitude lakes, see llamas and alpacas along the trail, and cross Condor Pass. Then, after descending into the Sacred Valley and spending the night in Ollantaytambo, you will hike the Short Inca Trail from Km 104, visit Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Travel in a premium small group with TreXperience, a 100% Peruvian local tour operator based in Cusco. Our team takes care of the details that matter: hotel pickup, comfortable transportation, expert local guides, quality camping equipment, fresh meals prepared by trekking chefs, muleteers and horses for the Lares section, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tickets, hotel in Ollantaytambo, hotel in Aguas Calientes, train tickets, and safe support from start to finish.
Tour Highlights
- Two routes in one journey: Combine the cultural Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- Living Andean culture: Visit remote Quechua villages, meet local families, and experience traditional mountain life.
- Natural beauty of Lares: Enjoy hot springs, waterfalls, high-altitude lakes, llamas, alpacas, and open mountain views.
- Short Inca Trail included: Hike from Km 104 through Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
- Sun Gate arrival: Reach Machu Picchu through Intipunku, one of the most emotional entrances to the citadel.
- Two Machu Picchu experiences: Enjoy your first view on Day 4 and return for a guided visit on Day 5.
- Premium small-group service: Travel with expert guides, fresh meals, comfortable camping, hotels, and carefully managed logistics.
- Vistadome train return: Finish the journey with a scenic panoramic train through the Sacred Valley.
Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Puyas de Raimondi – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani – Blue Lagoon
Start early with hotel pickup, visit a local market and the Inca site of Ancashmarca, see the giant Puyas de Raimondi, relax in the Lares hot springs, and hike to the Blue Lagoon campsite.
Day 2: Blue Lagoon – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha
Cross Condor Pass, the highest point of the Lares section, enjoy lakes, mountain views, llamas, alpacas, and descend to the traditional village of Cancha Cancha.
Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Maras Salt Mines – Ollantaytambo
Descend into the Sacred Valley, enjoy a fresh lunch, visit the Maras Salt Mines, explore Ollantaytambo, and spend the night in a hotel.
Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Take the train to Km 104, hike the Short Inca Trail, visit Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, and sleep in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Return to Machu Picchu for your guided tour, explore the assigned circuit, and travel back by bus, Vistadome train, and private transportation.
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
Not Included
- Sleeping bag, air mattress, and trekking poles (available to rent from us)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain ticket (optional)
- Machu Picchu Mountain ticket (optional)
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- Travel insurance
Machu Picchu Circuits Included
- Circuit 1: On Day 4, you will arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate after hiking the Short Inca Trail. This circuit gives you the classic panoramic experience and beautiful viewpoints from the upper area.
- Circuit 3: On Day 5, you will re-enter Machu Picchu for a guided visit through the lower and central sectors, including important temples, palaces, terraces, and ceremonial areas.
The combination of Circuit 1 and Circuit 3 gives you a complete experience: the famous arrival through the Sun Gate and a guided visit inside the citadel the next morning. For more details, visit our Machu Picchu Tickets and Circuits guide.
Extra Upgrades and Private Service
- Private service: You can upgrade to a private experience. Contact us for special pricing.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: US$68 per person, approximately 2 hours round trip.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: US$68 per person, approximately 3 hours round trip.
You can only hike one of these mountains, and it is done after the guided tour in Machu Picchu. Advance booking is required because availability is very limited.
Why Book with TreXperience?
- 100% Peruvian local operator: Book directly with a Cusco-based company that knows Lares, the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and the Andes from the inside.
- Expert local guides: Our guides are professional, experienced, and fluent in English and Spanish.
- Responsible team welfare: We care for our guides, chefs, muleteers, drivers, and support staff with respect and fair treatment.
- Fresh food on the trail: Our trekking chefs prepare warm, varied meals using fresh local ingredients whenever possible.
- High-quality equipment: Sleep in comfortable tents and enjoy well-organized camp logistics during the Lares section.
- Vistadome train included: Return through the Sacred Valley on the panoramic Vistadome train.
- Prefer the classic cultural route? We also offer the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days.
Full Itinerary of the 5-Day Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail
Day 1: Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani – Blue Lagoon
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. and begin the journey into the Sacred Valley. Our first stop is Calca, where we visit the local market and choose fresh ingredients for the trek. This is a beautiful way to see local life before heading higher into the Andes.
From Calca, we continue to the rarely visited Inca site of Ancashmarca, where your guide will explain the importance of this old storage and control point above the valley. We then drive through high-mountain landscapes to see the impressive Puya de Raimondi, a giant native plant that grows in the Andes and blooms only once in its lifetime.
After about 3 hours on the road, we arrive at the Lares Hot Springs. Here, you will enjoy time to relax in the warm mineral pools while your trekking chef prepares a fresh breakfast. This is one of the best ways to start the adventure: warm water, mountain air, and the feeling that the journey has truly begun.
After the hot springs, we drive to Pampacorral, the trailhead. The first hiking section is a gentle 2-hour walk to Kiswarani village, where lunch will be waiting. In the afternoon, we continue for another 2 hours toward the Blue Lagoon campsite at 3,900 m / 12,795 ft. Along the way, you will see waterfalls, potato fields, llamas, alpacas, and peaceful mountain scenery. When you arrive, your tent, hot drinks, and a beautiful lakeside camp will be ready.
- Campsite Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
- Duration: 4 hours of hiking, plus scenic stops
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Blue Lagoon – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha
Wake up with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea in your tent and get ready for the most challenging day of the Lares section. After breakfast, we begin a steady 4-hour climb toward Condor Pass, the highest point of the trek at around 4,750 m / 15,583 ft.
The trail passes clear Andean lakes, open valleys, grazing llamas and alpacas, and wide views of snow-capped peaks such as Pitusiray, Sawasiray, and Qolquecruz. At the summit, we will stop to rest, enjoy the views, and share a warm coca tea. Your guide may also perform a traditional offering to the Apus, the sacred mountain spirits.
From the pass, we begin the descent toward Cancha Cancha. The trail opens into quiet valleys with lakes, birds, native plants, and traditional herding areas. This is a perfect day to feel the real beauty of Lares: wild mountains, silence, and local life still connected to the land.
Tonight’s camp is in Cancha Cancha, one of the most traditional villages on the route. You will have time to meet local families, see how people live in this high-Andean community, and learn about Quechua traditions, weaving, farming, llamas, alpacas, and daily life in the mountains. This is one of the most human and memorable moments of the tour.
- Campsite Altitude: 3,750 m / 12,303 ft
- Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
- Duration: 7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Maras Salt Mines – Ollantaytambo
After breakfast with mountain views, we begin the final descent of the Lares Trek. Before leaving Cancha Cancha, there may be time to visit the village, meet local families, and learn more about the traditional lifestyle of this remote community.
The trail gradually changes as we descend from high-altitude landscapes into the warmer Sacred Valley. You will pass from potato fields and mountain pastures into greener valleys where corn, avocados, and other crops grow. This natural transition is one of the most beautiful parts of the route.
The hike ends in Huaran, where we enjoy a fresh lunch and say goodbye to our chef, muleteers, and horses. After lunch, private transportation takes us to the Maras Salt Mines, where thousands of salt pools are still harvested by local families using traditional methods.
We then continue to Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved living Inca towns in the Sacred Valley. We will walk through its ancient streets, original water channels, and stone walls before dinner at a local restaurant. Tonight, you will rest in a comfortable hotel and prepare for the Short Inca Trail the next morning.
- Lowest Altitude - Huaran: 2,700 m / 8,856 ft
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
- Duration: 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: 2 star hotel in Ollantaytambo
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Short Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast at the hotel, we board one of the first trains from Ollantaytambo toward Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. At the checkpoint, you must show your original passport before entering the trail.
We begin with a visit to Chachabamba, an Inca site located in the cloud forest. From here, the trail climbs gradually for several hours through beautiful vegetation, mountain views, and sections of original Inca path. This is where the tour changes from cultural trekking to sacred Inca history.
After the climb, we arrive at Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. Your guide will explain the terraces, temples, water channels, and meaning of this impressive place. After the visit, we enjoy a fresh picnic lunch before continuing toward the Sun Gate.
Reaching the Sun Gate is one of the most powerful moments of the tour. From here, you get your first view of Machu Picchu from above. We then continue down toward the citadel, following Circuit 1 for the panoramic arrival experience. Because we usually arrive later in the afternoon, the light is beautiful and the site feels quieter. After enjoying the views, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, have dinner, and spend the night in a 3-star hotel.
- Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
- Highest Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
- Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
- Duration: 7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 5: Explore Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
On the final day, we rise early and take the bus back to Machu Picchu. After your first arrival through the Sun Gate the day before, this second visit gives you time to explore the citadel more deeply with your guide.
We follow the assigned Machu Picchu circuit, usually Circuit 3 for this itinerary, which allows you to visit important lower and central sectors of the citadel, including temples, terraces, palaces, water fountains, and ceremonial spaces. Your guide will explain the history, architecture, and meaning of Machu Picchu so the site feels alive, not just beautiful.
After the guided tour, and if you booked the extra ticket in advance, you may hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These hikes are optional and depend on official availability. After the visit, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch at your own pace.
In the afternoon, we board the panoramic Vistadome train and continue by private transportation back to Cusco. The expected arrival time at your hotel is around 7:30 p.m.
- Guided Tour Duration: 2 to 3 hours in Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
- Difficulty: Easy
Important: Machu Picchu circuits depend on official availability. This tour usually includes the panoramic Short Inca Trail arrival through Circuit 1 on Day 4 and a guided visit through Circuit 3 on Day 5. If the planned circuit is sold out, we will secure the best available alternative and confirm the final circuit once tickets are issued.
Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days Price and Booking
Join one of our premium small-group departures for a more complete Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days experience, or choose a private tour if you prefer extra flexibility and a more exclusive service. This tour includes expert guiding, transportation, camping equipment, fresh meals on the trail, Lares Hot Springs, Maras Salt Mines, Short Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu ticket, hotels in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, train travel, and Vistadome train return.
Group Tour:
| Traveler Type | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| Adults | From US$ 930 |
| Children and students | From US$ 900 |
Private Tour:
| Number of Participants | Price Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 traveler | US$ 2450 |
| 2 travelers | US$ 1550 |
| 3 travelers | US$ 1300 |
| 4 travelers | US$ 1150 |
| 5 travelers | US$ 1050 |
| 6 travelers | US$ 1000 |
| 7 travelers | US$ 960 |
| 8 travelers | US$ 930 |
| 9+ travelers | Contact us for a personalized quote |
Booking and Payment
- Deposit: US$ 200 per person to secure your booking. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco by credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us if you need an alternative payment option.
- For each traveler, we require the full name exactly as shown on the passport, passport number, date of birth, passport expiration date, and nationality.
Student and Child Discount
- US$ 30 off
This discount applies to all travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. To qualify, the ID must include:
- The student’s name, photo, and university name
- A valid expiration date. Expired IDs will not be accepted
- ISIC cards are not accepted
The child discount is applied automatically. Students must send a copy of their university ID when booking. If the ID is not accepted, the adult rate will apply.
How to Book
- Click the BOOK NOW button on this page, choose your travel date, and select your preferred tour option.
- Fill in all required details with your passport information. If you need to rent a sleeping bag, air mattress, or trekking poles, you can add them during the booking process.
- Enter your payment details and complete the deposit payment to secure your spot.
- Our team will contact you to reconfirm your booking and provide the next steps before your trip.
Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days Packing List
For the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days, you will need to pack for two different experiences: remote mountain trekking in Lares and one full day hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Packing light and smart will make the route more comfortable.
During the Lares section, TreXperience will provide a duffle bag for the items you do not need while hiking. This bag will be carried by horses and muleteers during the camping section. For the Short Inca Trail, there are no horses or porters, so you will hike only with your daypack and travel light.
TreXperience Includes
During the safety briefing the day before the tour, your guide will provide final details and give you a duffle bag for up to 7 kg / 15 lb of personal belongings. This weight includes your sleeping bag and air mattress if you bring or rent them.
Your main luggage can stay safely at your hotel in Cusco or in the TreXperience storerooms. For the Short Inca Trail and the hotel nights, we recommend keeping only what you truly need.
Essentials
On the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail, you will be far from towns, with limited phone signal and no nearby stores. Bring good-quality gear so you can enjoy the hike safely and comfortably.
What to Wear?
Dressing in layers is the best option. The Lares section includes cold high camps and mountain passes, while the Short Inca Trail is warmer and more humid near the cloud forest. Choose light, breathable layers that are easy to add or remove.
Here’s what we suggest you wear:
What to Put in Your Daypack?
Your daypack will always be with you while hiking. Keep it light, comfortable, and organized. We recommend a 30- to 40-liter backpack with a rain cover.
Carry water, snacks, rain gear, warm layers, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medication, camera, passport, and anything you may need during the day. For the Short Inca Trail, your daypack is especially important because your duffle bag will not be with you on the trail.
What to Put in the Duffle Bag?
TreXperience will provide a duffle bag for items you won’t need during the day. Our horses and muleteers will carry it during the Lares camping section. The weight limit is 7 kg / 15 lb, including your sleeping bag and air mattress if you bring or rent them.
During the Short Inca Trail section, we recommend traveling light. If needed, we can help coordinate luggage transfer to your hotel in Aguas Calientes, but you should keep your backpack simple and practical.
What We Provide
TreXperience provides the following items to make your Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail experience safer, more comfortable, and better organized.
What Can You Rent with TreXperience?
If you prefer to travel lighter or need a few extra items, you can rent the following camping equipment from us for an additional cost.
See our complete guide on the blog: Peru Packing List.
Travel Information for the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days
This section gives you the practical information you need before, during, and after the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days: route conditions, altitude, hot springs, community visits, Short Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu circuits, weather, packing, train logistics, and how to choose the right Lares experience.
What makes this tour different?
This tour combines two powerful experiences in one itinerary. The Lares section gives you living Andean culture, remote villages, hot springs, high-mountain lakes, waterfalls, llamas, alpacas, and beautiful camping. The Short Inca Trail section gives you original Inca paths, Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and the classic arrival to Machu Picchu.
Choose this tour if you want a more complete route than the classic Lares Trek. If you prefer a shorter cultural trek without the Short Inca Trail, consider the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days.
Lares route and Short Inca Trail route
The Lares section begins with a scenic drive into the Sacred Valley and the Lares area. You will visit Lares Hot Springs, hike to the Blue Lagoon, cross Condor Pass, visit Cancha Cancha, and descend into the Sacred Valley through Huaran.
The Short Inca Trail section begins at Km 104. From there, you visit Chachabamba, hike to Wiñay Wayna, continue to the Sun Gate, and arrive at Machu Picchu through one of the most beautiful entrances in Peru.
Short Inca Trail permit and passport rules
The Short Inca Trail requires an official permit, and your passport details must match the information used for booking. You must bring your original passport for the checkpoint at Km 104.
Permits are linked to your name, passport number, travel date, and nationality. If you renew your passport after booking, contact us as soon as possible so we can advise you on the correct process.
For more background about the route, you can read our Short Inca Trail tour page.
Lares Hot Springs
The Lares Hot Springs are one of the best ways to begin the journey. You will have time to relax in warm mineral pools before the hiking section starts.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sandals, and a change of clothes. The official MINCETUR inventory recognizes the Lares Hot Springs as a thermo-mineral water resource in the district of Lares, Cusco. You can check the official resource here: Lares Hot Springs - MINCETUR.
Altitude and acclimatization
The Lares section reaches high elevations. Condor Pass is around 4,700 m to 4,750 m / 15,354 ft to 15,583 ft, depending on the final route conditions. The Short Inca Trail is lower, but it still requires several hours of hiking.
We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek. During your first days, drink water, eat light, rest well, and avoid excess alcohol. A gentle Cusco City Tour or Sacred Valley VIP Tour can help you acclimatize before the trek.
For general health guidance, review the official CDC Travel to High Altitudes information.
Weather and best months to hike
The best months are usually from May to September, when the trails are drier and the skies are often clearer. Nights can be cold in the high camps, especially from June to August.
April and October are good shoulder months with greener landscapes and some rain. From November to March, rain is more frequent, trails can be muddy, and cloud cover may affect views. This tour can operate in different seasons, but you should always bring rain protection and warm layers.
Community visits and cultural respect
Lares is a living cultural route. You may visit Quechua communities, meet local families, see traditional weaving, walk through farming villages, and learn how people live with the mountains, animals, and seasons.
Responsible travel matters. Always ask before taking photos of people, support local artisans when possible, stay on marked trails, and follow your guide’s advice during community visits. TreXperience works to create respectful experiences that protect local dignity and benefit communities.
You can also read about our work with Lares in this article: TreXperience and the Municipality of Lares Agreement.
Machu Picchu circuits included
This tour usually includes two Machu Picchu experiences. On Day 4, you arrive through the Sun Gate after hiking the Short Inca Trail and follow the panoramic Circuit 1 experience. On Day 5, you return for a guided visit, usually through Circuit 3.
Machu Picchu tickets are limited and assigned by date, time, and circuit. Since June 1, 2024, the official system works with 3 circuits and 10 routes. We strongly recommend booking early to secure the best possible entry. You can read our Machu Picchu Tickets guide or check the official Machu Picchu circuits and routes.
Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate
Wiñay Wayna is one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. It has impressive terraces, temples, water channels, and a powerful location above the cloud forest.
After visiting Wiñay Wayna, you continue to the Sun Gate, also called Intipunku. This is where you get your first view of Machu Picchu from above. For many travelers, this is the most emotional moment of the entire tour.
Camping, hotels, and comfort
This tour includes 2 nights of camping during the Lares section, 1 hotel night in Ollantaytambo, and 1 hotel night in Aguas Calientes. The camping section includes comfortable tents, sleeping pads, dining equipment, fresh meals, and support from our trekking team.
The hotel nights help make the experience smoother before and after the Short Inca Trail. You will sleep in Ollantaytambo before the early train to Km 104 and in Aguas Calientes before the final Machu Picchu visit.
Train travel and luggage
Train travel is part of this itinerary. You will take a train to reach Km 104 for the Short Inca Trail and return on the panoramic Vistadome train after Machu Picchu.
Train luggage is limited, so travel light for the final part of the tour. Your main luggage should stay in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. For the Short Inca Trail, carry only what you need in your daypack.
Food, water, and dietary needs
Fresh meals are prepared by our trekking chefs during the camping section. During the hotel section, meals are arranged according to the itinerary. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special diets can be prepared with advance notice.
Please tell us about allergies or dietary restrictions when booking so the team can prepare properly.
Physical preparation before the trek
This tour is moderate to challenging. The Lares section includes a high mountain pass, and the Short Inca Trail includes several hours of hiking on stone paths and cloud forest trails.
The best preparation includes regular hiking, stairs, long walks, hill training, and walking with a daypack. Trekking poles are strongly recommended for the Lares section. You can read our guide on how to use trekking poles in the Andes.
Choosing between Lares 4 Days and Lares + Short Inca Trail 5 Days
Choose the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days if you want a cultural trek, beautiful mountain scenery, and a guided Machu Picchu visit with a comfortable train connection.
Choose the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days if you want the same cultural experience plus the Short Inca Trail, Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate arrival, and two Machu Picchu moments.
For comparison, read our Lares Trek vs Inca Trail guide.
Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days Frequently Asked Questions
These are the questions travelers usually ask before joining the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days, including details about difficulty, permits, altitude, cultural visits, Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, Machu Picchu circuits, camping, hotels, trains, and preparation.
What is the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days?
It is a 5-day tour that combines the cultural Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. You hike through remote Quechua villages, hot springs, lakes, waterfalls, and high mountain passes, then continue on the Inca Trail from Km 104 to Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and Machu Picchu.
Why choose this tour instead of the regular Lares Trek?
The regular Lares Trek is a beautiful cultural route that ends with a guided visit to Machu Picchu. This 5-day version adds the Short Inca Trail, Wiñay Wayna, and the Sun Gate arrival, giving you a more complete and emotional journey to Machu Picchu.
If you want culture, nature, Inca history, and the classic arrival through the Sun Gate, this is the stronger option.
Does this tour include the Short Inca Trail?
Yes. On Day 4, you hike the Short Inca Trail from Km 104. You visit Chachabamba, hike to Wiñay Wayna, continue to the Sun Gate, and arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon.
Do we visit Machu Picchu twice?
Yes. You arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate on Day 4 and enjoy the panoramic experience. On Day 5, you return for a guided tour inside the citadel through the assigned circuit.
This is one of the main reasons travelers choose this 5-day itinerary.
What Machu Picchu circuits are included?
This tour usually includes Circuit 1 for the Sun Gate arrival on Day 4 and Circuit 3 for the guided visit on Day 5. The exact circuit depends on official availability at the time tickets are issued.
Machu Picchu circuits can sell out, especially in high season. For more information, read our Machu Picchu Tickets guide.
Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes. The Short Inca Trail requires an official permit. This permit is included in your TreXperience tour, but availability is limited and linked to your travel date and passport details.
We strongly recommend booking in advance, especially from April to October.
Is the Inca Trail open in February?
No. The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance and conservation. This means the Short Inca Trail section is not available during that month.
If you are traveling in February, we can recommend alternative Lares or Machu Picchu tours without the Short Inca Trail.
How difficult is the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days?
This tour is moderate to challenging. The Lares section includes high-altitude hiking and Condor Pass, while the Short Inca Trail includes several hours of hiking on original Inca paths.
You should be comfortable walking for several hours per day and arrive in Cusco at least 2 days early to acclimatize.
What is the highest altitude of the tour?
The highest point is Condor Pass, at around 4,700 m to 4,750 m / 15,354 ft to 15,583 ft, depending on the route conditions. The highest point of the Short Inca Trail section is much lower, around the Sun Gate area.
How should I prepare for the altitude?
Arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek. Drink water, rest well, eat light, and avoid excess alcohol during your first days at altitude.
If you are concerned about altitude sickness, speak with your doctor before traveling. You can also review the official CDC Travel to High Altitudes information.
Where do we sleep during the tour?
You spend 2 nights camping during the Lares section, 1 night in a hotel in Ollantaytambo, and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes before the final Machu Picchu visit.
Are the Lares Hot Springs included?
Yes. The Lares Hot Springs are included on Day 1. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sandals, and a change of clothes so you can enjoy this experience comfortably.
Will we see llamas and alpacas?
Yes. The Lares route passes through high-Andean areas where llamas and alpacas are part of daily life. You will usually see them grazing near villages, lakes, and mountain trails.
What is special about Wiñay Wayna?
Wiñay Wayna is one of the most beautiful Inca sites on the Short Inca Trail. It has impressive terraces, ceremonial spaces, water channels, and a powerful location above the cloud forest.
For many travelers, visiting Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate is one of the most memorable parts of the entire tour.
What is the Sun Gate arrival like?
The Sun Gate, or Intipunku, is the traditional Inca entrance to Machu Picchu. After hiking the Short Inca Trail, you arrive at this viewpoint and see Machu Picchu from above.
It is a powerful and emotional moment because the citadel appears at the end of the trail, surrounded by mountains and cloud forest.
What kind of food is included?
During the trekking days, our chefs prepare fresh and warm meals. Breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks are included according to the itinerary.
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and special dietary options can be arranged with advance notice. Please tell us about any allergies when booking.
Can solo travelers join this tour?
Yes. Solo travelers can join our small-group departures. This is a great option if you want to meet other travelers while still enjoying a well-supported trekking experience with a local team.
What if I walk slower than the rest of the group?
That is completely normal. Hikers naturally walk at different speeds, especially at altitude. Our guides manage the pace, set regrouping points, and support travelers throughout the route.
You should still arrive physically prepared because this is a real multi-day trekking experience.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes. You can add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if tickets are available. These hikes take place after the guided tour on Day 5 and must be booked in advance.
You can only hike one of these mountains. Read more about Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain.
Is there phone signal during the trek?
Phone signal is limited or unavailable in several sections of the Lares route. Electricity is also limited during the camping nights, so bring a fully charged power bank.
You will have better services in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
Should I book a flight out of Cusco the same night I return?
We do not recommend it. The return day includes Machu Picchu, bus, train, and private transportation back to Cusco. Weather, train schedules, road conditions, or group timing can cause delays.
It is better to spend one more night in Cusco and continue your journey the following day.
Why choose TreXperience for this tour?
TreXperience is a 100% Peruvian local tour operator based in Cusco. We organize premium small-group treks with expert local guides, fresh meals, comfortable camping equipment, careful logistics, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu planning, hotel arrangements, train tickets, and responsible travel practices.
This is not just a trek. It is a meaningful journey through living Andean culture, Inca history, mountain scenery, and the human warmth of our local team.