Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 4 Days
Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 4 Days

Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 4 Days

4 Days
Altitud Maxima
4,215 m / 13,829 ft
Duracion del Tour
4 Days
Tamaño de Grupo
Up to 10 people
Nivel Fisico
Easy
Tipo de Tour
Adventure
Tipo de alojamiento
Camping & Lodges

Resumen

This plan follows a route through the Lares Valley combined with a brief Inca path. Participants travel from Cusco to several Andean locations. The sequence starts with lakes, then alpacas. Next are local groups in Lares. Waterfalls come after. The short Inca trail follows. Ollantaytambo appears later. Sun Gate leads to Machu Picchu.

Peru Qantu Adventures operates this 4-day journey to Machu Picchu. The track offers sights of ice fields and water bodies. Animals such as llamas graze in the area. On the Inca section, walkers use ancient stone paths. They pass old Inca religious areas. Arrival happens through the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu Inca City. A guide explains the place fully. Time alone allows personal exploration. Visits occur twice before the trip back to Cusco.

The combination provides varied experiences in a compact time. Natural elements mix with cultural ones. The Lares part focuses on remote living. The Inca trail adds historical depth. Two stops at Machu Picchu give more chances to see details. This setup suits those wanting both nature and history without longer commitments.

Groups remain limited to 8 members. This size helps with close interactions. The peak elevation hits 4700 meters above sea level. Service options include shared or private. Movement involves vans, private vehicles, and trains. The challenge level demands preparation for extended hikes and heights.

Peru Qantu Adventures supplies the private transportation. Drivers undergo thorough training for Andean conditions. Guides handle multiple languages and lead travelers from various countries. They share in-depth knowledge of the paths.

A team member monitors your schedule throughout. This oversight keeps everything on track. Quick responses handle any changes.

Meals draw from natural sources with organic local components. Dishes reflect Andean flavors. International choices are possible at certain meals. These may involve added fees depending on the location. Contact our reservations group for specifics.

4 Days
Mapa no disponible

Lo mas destacado

  • Blends Lares Valley with short Inca trail, unlike single-focus trips from Peru Qantu Adventures, offering both remote communities and ancient paths in one package.
  • Two visits to Machu Picchu, more than standard one-day entries from other agencies, allowing deeper exploration.
  • Small group cap at 8, smaller than many competitors’ 12-16, for better guide engagement.
  • Agency-owned private transportation, more dependable than rented options used elsewhere.
  • Multilingual guides with worldwide experience, surpassing basic monolingual staff in rival tours.
  • Organic local meals, fresher than typical catered food in similar itineraries.
  • Emergency horse and oxygen included, a safety feature not standard in all budget alternatives.

Detalles del Tour

  • Length: 4 days and 3 nights, beginning in the morning of day 1 and concluding in the evening of day 4.
  • Spots Visited: Lakes, alpacas, local groups in Lares, waterfalls, short Inca trail, Ollantaytambo, Sun Gate, Machu Picchu Inca City.
  • Group Number: Up to 8 people, promoting individual care and group dynamics.
  • Top Height: 4700 meters above sea level, achieved on day 2, calling for air adjustment.
  • Service Kind: Group or private, with private adding $100 per person for exclusive setup.
  • Movement Methods: Private transportation from Peru Qantu Adventures, train services, and foot travel.
  • Fitness Need: Challenging, involving hikes up to 7 hours on varied terrain with inclines.

Resumen del Itinerario

Day 1: Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

  • 6:00 a.m.: Pickup from Cusco hotel.
  • 2-hour drive to Huaran, meet team and horses.
  • 3-hour gradual climb to Cancha Cancha.
  • Lunch by river.
  • Settle tents, afternoon tea.
  • Visit family home.
  • Dinner, star viewing.

Day 2: Cancha Cancha – Quiswarani – Ollantaytambo

  • Breakfast, start 7-hour hike.
  • Reach Pachacutec Pass at 4500 meters.
  • 3-hour descent to Quiswarani.
  • See waterfalls.
  • 2-hour private transportation to Ollantaytambo.
  • Dinner, hotel stay.
  • Optional pool or sauna if at Veronica View.

Day 3: Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

  • 5:30 a.m.: Guide pickup.
  • Train at 6:10 a.m. from Ollantaytambo.
  • Off at KM 104, start trek.
  • 1.5-hour gentle climb.
  • Next 1.5 hours steeper to waterfall.
  • Visit Wiñayhuayna.
  • Lunch.
  • Flat walk to Sun Gate.
  • 1-hour down to Machu Picchu.
  • Photos from platforms.
  • Bus to Aguas Calientes, dinner, hotel.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

  • Early breakfast.
  • Bus up to Machu Picchu.
  • 2-hour guided tour.
  • Free time.
  • Bus down for lunch (own cost).
  • Train at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. to Ollantaytambo.
  • Private transportation to Cusco, arrive by 7:00 p.m.

Itinerario

DAY 1:

Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 6:00 a.m. Private transportation drives for 2 hours to Huaran. Meet horsemen and horses there. Prepare for the hike. Start a 3-hour steady upward path to Cancha Cancha. Lunch occurs beside the river. The chef makes it to restore strength.

Cancha Cancha sits at 3900 meters. The group sustains itself traditionally for generations. No vehicle access exists. Power arrived in 2019. Tents get set up. Afternoon tea follows. Visit a household. Guide interprets to describe Andean routines. Dinner comes next. Guide explains star groups for Inca farming, practices continued now.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner. Camping with bathroom. Distance: 9 kilometers. Time: approximately 3.5 hours. Level: moderate.

Breakfast energizes for the 7-hour northeast hike. Path rises sharply to Pachacutec Pass at 4500 meters. Sights include ice areas, far lakes, animal clusters, valleys, peaks. Watch for falcons and geese above.

Descent takes 3 hours to Quiswarani at 3700 meters. Trail remains secluded. Observe locals in customary attire with llamas and alpacas. They use Quechua. Guide translates and shares phrases. Seven waterfalls signal near end.

At Quiswarani, private transportation goes 2 hours to Ollantaytambo. Group dines together. Hotel stay. If at Veronica View, use heated pool or sauna pre-dinner. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Hotel: Andenes del Inca. Distance: 12 kilometers. Time: approximately 7 hours. Level: challenging.

Guide collects you at 5:30 a.m. At station, receive lunch for pack. Train leaves Ollantaytambo at 6:10 a.m. Ride lasts over 1 hour. Enjoy views. Breakfast not provided; hotel may give picnic or pack own.

Exit at KM 104, 2000 meters. Cross Urubamba on footbridge. Show passport at control. See nearby Inca site. First 1.5 hours climb gently. Stop at overlooks for river views. Pass cloud forest; expect moisture anytime.

Next 1.5 hours steeper to waterfall. Bridge below it offers photo spots. Look up to Wiñayhuayna at 2600 meters. Guide details its past and plants, animals. Questions welcome. Short walk to lunch area.

After lunch, mostly level path to Sun Gate. First Machu Picchu view there. Walk rolls slightly, ends with stone steps. Turn corner for full sight. Pause to absorb, photograph.

Last hour down offers more angles. Pass Inca spots; guide explains. At Machu Picchu, photograph from high platforms like House of Guardians. Afternoon arrival means fewer visitors. Better light for pictures.

Bus down to Aguas Calientes. Check hotel. Dinner at restaurant. Explore town, hot springs, or rest. Meals: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner. Hotel: Ferre Machu Picchu. Level: moderate. Leave duffel at Ollantaytambo station for train to Aguas Calientes.

Breakfast early at hotel. Take initial bus to Machu Picchu. See dawn light. Guide conducts 2-hour walk. Cover main Inca constructions. Our experts provide thorough details on routes and history.

Free time follows to view more. Bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch at own expense. Time permitting, shop or see museum, hot springs.

Train departs at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. to Ollantaytambo. Follows Urubamba River. Canyon narrows near start with rapids. Spot Wiñayhuayna on cliff.

Driver meets at station. Private transportation to Cusco. Arrive by 7:00 p.m. Meal: breakfast. Level: easy.

Inclusions

Incluye

  • Transfer from airport to hotel: Arranged for your arrival day, ensuring easy transition to lodging.
  • Private transportation from hotel to Huaran start: Agency-owned, with capable drivers for secure trips.
  • Licensed guide fluent in English, Spanish, Quechua: Skilled in directing international groups, offering full explanations at Inca sites.
  • Round trip Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo: Choose PeruRail or Inca Rail; PeruRail has frequent schedules, Inca Rail emphasizes comfort.
  • 3 bus tickets Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back: For convenient access on days 3 and 4.
  • Admission to Machu Picchu area: Permits exploration with guide’s detailed narrative.
  • Entrance to Inca Trail park: Covers the short section on day 3.
  • 2 nights hotel with private bath, hot water, wifi, storage, buffet breakfast: Applies if selected in price; one 2-star, one 3-star.
  • 4-person igloo tents for 2 hikers: Roomy for rest during camp night.
  • Pillow and foam mattress: Enhance sleep quality.
  • Meals over 4 days as noted: Prepared with natural organic local elements.
  • Cook and equipment: Handles food preparation on site.
  • Horseman and mules for gear: Carry 7 kilograms personal items like bag, clothes (Lares part only).
  • Emergency horse with helmet: Available for fatigue or sickness (Lares part only).
  • First-aid kit with oxygen: Addresses health concerns, especially elevation.
  • Boiled water for bottles: Provided at meals for safe hydration.
  • Guided tour in Machu Picchu: 2 hours, in-depth on constructions.
  • Chef, tools, kitchen tent: For meal setup.
  • Transfer back to Cusco for group: Private and dedicated.
  • Interactions with local youth and residents: Share in Andean customs.

no Inluido

  • Sleeping bag: $20 per person, sanitized and insulated for nights.
  • Air mattress: $20 per person, for added ground cushion.
  • Walking poles: $15 per pair, adjustable for support.
  • Personal tent: $30, for individuals preferring solitude.
  • Vistadome train upgrade: $67 per person, return with enhanced scenery views.
  • Huayna Picchu mountain: $75 per person, book early.
  • Lunch last day in Aguas Calientes: Purchase independently.
  • Tips for staff, guide, cook, horsemen: Based on satisfaction.

Que llevar al tour

  • Original passport: Required for checks, must match booking.
  • Valid university card if student: For discount verification.
  • Good daypack: Compact, 30-40 liters, for daily essentials.
  • Water storage: 2-3 liters reusable containers to maintain supply.
  • Hiking boots with ankle support: Sturdy for terrain.
  • Sleeping bag: Rentable, suitable for low temperatures.
  • Headlamp: Vital for dim conditions.
  • Toilet paper: Necessary in remote spots.
  • Good rain gear: Protection from moisture.
  • 2 t-shirts: For layering and changes.
  • 2 hiking pants: Practical for movement.
  • 4 sets undergarments: Hygiene maintenance.
  • 3 sets hiking socks: Foot care.
  • Bathing suit: For Veronica View pool if applicable.
  • 2 fleece or thermals: Warmth layers.
  • Warm clothes like down jacket: For 3-degree Celsius nights.
  • Waterproof gloves: Hand coverage.
  • Comfortable camp shoes: Evening relaxation.
  • Quick-dry towel: Larger option over provided small one.
  • Small soap bottle: With daily warm water for cleaning.
  • Battery charger: Prepare for no power.
  • Large plastic bags: For organization.
  • Face moisturizer: Skin protection in dry air.
  • Hand sanitizer: Quick cleanliness.
  • Wet wipes: Freshening up.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste: Daily routine.
  • Personal medications: Health specifics.
  • First aid like band aids: Minor fixes.
  • Water until first lunch: Own initial supply.
  • Sun hat: Sun shield.
  • Sunscreen: Burn prevention.
  • Wool hat: Cold coverage.
  • Rain gear: Weather readiness.
  • Fleece: Extra insulation.
  • Snacks like bars or fruits: Quick energy.
  • Rain poncho: Additional cover.
  • Gloves: For chill.
  • Camera: Record moments.
  • Hand sanitizer: Repeated for safety.
  • Toilet paper and waste bag: Responsible disposal.
  • Extra money: For extras like tips.

Optional Upgrades

  • Vistadome train: $67 per person, return at listed times.
  • Huayna Picchu: $75 per person.
  • Extra night Aguas Calientes: From $60.
  • Single supplement: $40 for 3-star solo room.

What months turn the Short Inca Trail into pure magic?

May–October = dry-season heaven. Zero mud, 15–20 °C sunshine, and Wiñay Wayna ruins glowing gold at noon. Nights 3 °C → your tent becomes a private planetarium. Book 90 days early; only 250 trail permits drop daily. November–April? Emerald jungle + 2 p.m. showers → still stunning, just pack a poncho.

How much fitness does a 2-day Inca Trail actually need?

“Active couch potato” = perfect.

  • Walk 5 km 3× week
  • One weekend stair session (200 steps) Day 1: 3 h gentle uphill, 12 km total. Day 2: 4 h to Sun Gate → legs happy, lungs singing. Cusco 48 h early → altitude feels like a high-five.

Is the Short Inca Trail beginner-friendly?

YES—80 % of first-timers finish with giant smiles.

  • No camping, no 4 a.m. starts
  • Guides teach “rest step” in 60 seconds
  • Trekking poles = your new BFF on the 300 “Gringo Killer” stairs
  • 2024 stat: zero beginners tapped out

What food will make you forget you’re hiking?

Chef turns trail dust into Michelin vibes:

  • Breakfast: Andean oatmeal + passion-fruit parfait
  • Picnic lunch: quinoa tabbouleh + roasted chicken wraps beside 600-year-old aqueducts
  • Hotel dinner: lomo saltado + purple-corn flan Vegetarian / gluten-free? Swap in 5 seconds, zero surcharge.

Where does the water come from—crystal or sketchy?

Unlimited boiled + UV-treated from breakfast day 1.

  • Refill your 750 ml bottle 3× daily—free
  • Springs look like Evian ads; leave them for the photos One hydration rule: sip every 15 min → zero headaches.

How cold is “hotel at the end” night?

3 °C outside → 18 °C inside your Aguas Calientes room.

  • Fluffy duvet + hot shower waiting
  • Bonus: pisco sour on the balcony while Machu Picchu hides in the clouds

What if the sky decides to cry?

20-minute Andean sprinkle = free face wash.

  • Poncho + pack cover issued at the gate
  • Stone steps get glossy → guides count “1-2-3” for grip
  • Rainbow over Wiñay Wayna = instant National Geographic cover

Can I bring my 12-year-old mini-explorer?

YES—kids 11+ are trail rockstars.

  • 25 % discount
  • Private porter carries their gummy bears
  • Sun Gate high-five photos = family Christmas card gold Under 11? Email us their hiking résumé.

How to not turn purple at 2,700 m?

48 h pre-game:

  1. Cusco → nap, sip, stroll
  2. 3 L water + coca candy stash
  3. Zero ceviche the night before Dizzy? Guide’s oxygen bottle = 20-second superhero moment.

Which animals will photobomb your reel?

  • Llamas doing runway walks on Inca stones
  • Andean geese honking like they own the place
  • Falcons surfing thermals 10 m overhead Zero bugs, 100 % “awww” moments.

Will my phone survive the Insta detox?

Signal: 4G at Wiñay Wayna, zero in cloud forest.

  • Guides carry satellite SOS
  • Charge power bank in Cusco → 500 photos + boomerang at Sun Gate Pro move: airplane mode = battery lasts 48 h.

Can I upgrade my Aguas Calientes hotel to spa-level?

From “cute” to “cloud-nine”:

  • El MaPi → $65 pp → rooftop hot tub + free happy hour
  • Inkaterra → $180 pp → orchid bath + private train carriage Book with us → room key waiting when you stagger off the trail.

What if I wake up sick on day 1?

5-star safety net:

  • Guide = medic on speed dial
  • Oxygen + meds in every backpack
  • Train evac in 30 min → clinic in 90 min Insurance = zero drama, 100 % refund if you miss Machu Picchu.

How many new friends will I make?

4–6 adventurers = instant squad.

  • Max 8 → you’ll swap playlists by lunch
  • Private bubble for 2? Add $120 pp Sun Gate group hug = tears guaranteed.

Do I need shots to eat Peruvian potatoes?

  • Zero mandatory vaccines
  • Update tetanus (standard)
  • Hep A = smart for street-food lovers
  • Bugs? Altitude laughs at mosquitoes Pack a travel-size repellent for the train ride.

Weather Patterns

Lares region sees sun in days but quick changes. Wet months November-March bring more rain, up to 15 days monthly. Dry April-October has clearer skies, 2-5 rain days. Day temps 10-18 degrees Celsius, nights 0-8. Once, light hail surprised me mid-hike, but it passed fast.

MonthDay Temp Avg (C)Night Temp Avg (C)Rain Days
December17716
June1413

Local People

Residents farm and herd quietly. Quechua speakers in woven outfits. Warm once approached. Share stories over tea. I recall a weaver showing patterns tied to family history.

Common Foods

Quinoa stews, river fish, corn varieties common. Cuy roasted for special meals. Veggies abundant. Light portions help at height. Markets offer fresh avocados affordably.

Free Places to Visit

Cusco squares open always. Ollantaytambo Inca walls viewable nearby. Aguas Calientes river walks cost nothing. These provide extra insights into history.

Cheap Eating Spots

Aguas Calientes cafes do meals for $6-12. Cusco vendors sell soups under $3. Skip fancy places. Bargain for fruits. Local spots use fresh goods.

Dressing Year-Round

Base layers, then fleece, top with rain jacket. Breathable pants. Boots for grip. Hats both types. Wet season needs covers for mud. Focus on function.

Physical Effort and Health Needs

Daily 3-7 hours walking, peaks at 4500 meters. Steady heart, no major issues. Acclimate in Cusco. Hydrate, watch for dizziness. Train legs, lungs. Suits active folks; others prep months ahead.

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