Duration: 4 Days From $ USD 595.00
Lares Valley and Short Inca Trail Tour 4 Days
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is designed for travelers who want to experience the most spectacular Inca sites inside the Machu Picchu Archaeological Park while enjoying breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Starting at Km 104 (Chachabamba), this legendary route leads through lush cloud forest, snow-capped peaks, and the green valleys of the sacred Urubamba River. Along the way, you will explore impressive Inca ruins such as Wiñay Wayna, a magical ceremonial complex hidden in the mountains, while observing hummingbirds, orchids, and even the rare spectacled bear in its natural habitat.
The most unforgettable moment of the Short Inca Trail is reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where Machu Picchu suddenly reveals itself in a dramatic panoramic view. This ancient gateway was once used by Inca pilgrims arriving at the sacred city, and today it remains one of the most powerful and emotional experiences of any trek in Peru. After spending the night in Machu Picchu Town, you will return the next day for a guided tour of the citadel, allowing you to fully explore its temples, terraces, and hidden corners.
This incredible journey is beautifully combined with the Lares Valley Trek, creating a unique adventure that blends high-Andes landscapes, traditional Andean villages, hot springs, and the historic Inca Trail. By traveling through remote mountain communities and pristine natural scenery before joining the Short Inca Trail, you experience both the living culture of the Andes and the legendary route to Machu Picchu — making this one of the most complete and unforgettable trekking experiences in South America.
Relax in the famous Lares Hot Springs surrounded by the high Andes
Trek through remote Andean communities and traditional weaving villages
Cross the spectacular Huacahuasi Pass (4,400 m / 14,435 ft)
Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine valleys, and colorful farms
Hike through rare Polylepis (Queuña) forests
Walk beside glacial lagoons and mountain rivers
Travel by scenic train through the Sacred Valley to the Inca Trail
Enter the legendary Short Inca Trail at Km 104
Explore Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna archaeological sites
Arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Guided tour of Machu Picchu Sanctuary with free time to explore
Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or the Inca Bridge
Early in the morning, we will meet you at your hotel to start our journey to the charming town of Lares. En route, we will make a pit stop in Calca, where you can explore the local market, grab breakfast or purchase any last-minute essentials. Your guide may suggest you purchase some bread to share with the children you will encounter on the trail.
Once we reach Lares, we will visit the hot springs where you can relax in the warm waters while our chefs prepare a delicious lunch for us. After the meal, we will commence our trek to our first camp at Huachadas (3600m/11811f). The journey will take us around 3 hours, as we gradually climb to acclimate ourselves for the higher elevations of the following day.
The first night, we will spend with our guides, who will provide us with a comfortable and memorable experience. Upon arrival, our tents will be set up and ready for us, and we will be served popcorn, candy, and hot tea for dinner.
In total, this leg of the journey will take us approximately 4 hours. So pack your energy and excitement, and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the stunning region of Lares!
After fueling up with a healthy breakfast, we embark on the journey to reach the summit of Sacsayllame or Paso Hucahuasi, towering at a height of 4400m / 14435ft. The climb is steep and challenging, but a trusty rescue horse will lead the way to ensure a safe ascent, which is estimated to take approximately 4 hours.
Along the way, you will be surrounded by towering peaks, colorful farms, and breathtaking views that will leave you in awe. Please keep in mind that the altitude can be quite high and the weather can be quite chilly. Upon reaching the summit, we will descend and cross a stunning lagoon before enjoying a delicious lunch by the river.
Take a moment to relax while our chefs whip up a delicious lunch, then continue the descent through a forest where you will have the opportunity to taste the unique “queuñas” (polylepis) tree, which is indigenous to Peru.
The hike will take around 4 hours before we arrive at our camp in Pucará (3100m/10170f), where you can warm up with a cup of hot tea and indulge in some pre-dinner snacks.
Expected travel time: 8 hours with a half-hour stop for lunch. The temperature can vary from hot to cold throughout the day and night.
Our early morning adventure starts promptly at 6:00 am, with transportation provided to the town of Ollantaytambo. Here, you’ll board a scenic tourist train to the starting point of the Royal Inca Trail, km 104.
At km 104, you’ll embark on a journey to Chachabamba (2270m/7448f), where your guide will enlighten you about the historical significance of this archaeological site.
Next up is Wiñayhuayna (2650m/8694f), considered to be the most crucial archaeological site after Machu Picchu. Your trail then leads you to Puerta del Sol “Inti Punku”, a breathtaking viewpoint offering stunning sunsets over Machu Picchu (2400m/7874f). Finally, you’ll conclude your day with a walk to your hotel located in Machu Picchu Town.
Travel time: approximately half an hour.
We embark on our Machu Picchu journey with a 5:30 a.m. departure from our hotel. The early hour is chosen to beat the crowds and enjoy the peace and serenity of the ancient site in the morning light.
As we reach the citadel, our knowledgeable guide will provide a comprehensive tour and enlighten us about the history and culture of the Inca civilization and Machu Picchu itself. This will be followed by ample time for individual exploration, during which you can cross the Inca Bridge, discover the diverse structures, or hike to the top of Waynapicchu for breathtaking vistas.
Later in the day, we will return to Machu Picchu Town via bus, with the option to visit the town’s thermal baths (cost: 10 soles). Our day at Machu Picchu will come to a close as we depart from Machu Picchu Town.
Weather: Warm with potential for mosquitoes Travel time: 2 hours Total distance: 4km.
Here is a list of recommended items to bring for the Lares trek:
Here are some recommendations for hiking the Lares Trek:
It is a unique 4-day trekking experience that combines the cultural Lares Valley Trek with the historic Short Inca Trail, finishing at the iconic Machu Picchu.
The Short Inca Trail begins at Km 104 (Chachabamba), part of the original Inca Trail network inside the Machu Picchu National Park.
The trek is moderate to challenging, with high-altitude mountain passes in the Lares Valley and a full day of hiking on the Inca Trail.
Yes. Short Inca Trail permits are limited to 250 people per day, so booking in advance is essential, especially between May and September.
Yes. Your tour includes Machu Picchu entrance tickets and a guided visit of the Inca citadel.
You may see orchids, hummingbirds, Andean birds, cloud forest vegetation, and possibly spectacled bears, depending on the season.
Yes. One of the highlights of the Lares Valley portion is the visit to the Lares hot springs, perfect for relaxing after trekking.
It is suitable for travelers with good fitness and altitude acclimatization. Some trekking experience is helpful but not required.
The best months are April to October, when weather is more stable and views are clearer.
Yes, but these must be booked in advance and are optional add-ons after your guided Machu Picchu visit.
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The best experiences in the Peruvian Andes
Real contact with the people of the Andean region
We believe in respect for the environment and its importance in our travels.
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