Lares Valley and Short Inca Trail Tour 4 Days
4 Days from $ USD 595.00
Lares Valley and Short Inca Trail Tour 4 Days
4 Days from $ 595 | Lares Valley and Short Inca Trail Tour 4 Days
Introduction
The Short Inca Trail trek is for those who want to visit the most beautiful Inca sites in the Machu Picchu agrchaeological park. We will start at kilometer 104 or the Chachabamba archaeological site that is part of the Inca Trail. On the way we will find a large number of amazing landscapes that include snow-capped peaks and the green valley where the sacred river of the Incas runs, as well as a lot of flora and fauna where we will find more than 200 species of birds and a similar number of orchids. We explore the Inca Wiñayhuayna place which is a magical and mysterious place. We will also observe the hummingbirds with their beautiful colors and the spectacled bear. The part of the path that most amazes hikers is the moment we arrive at the “Puerta del Sol” and Machu Picchu and all its mystery are revealed before our eyes. The next day we will have time to explore Machu Picchu.
Reservations: The number of trekking permits is limited to 250 per day (about 200 tourists and 50 guides), it is important to book in advance, especially in the high season from May to September. In low season, between December and January, tickets can be purchased approximately 30 days in advance.
The Lares Valley Trek offers a combination of impressive landscapes, traditional cultures, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. On the fourth day, travel through beautiful mountainous terrain on elevated trails and spend two nights near traditional Peruvian villages.
Perhaps one of the most picturesque trekking routes in the Americas, the Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience not to be missed.
The route takes us through the protected nature of the Peruvian jungle and jungle-steppe, passing through several Inca archaeological sites and offering impressive panoramas. The Incas used this pilgrimage route to the holy city of Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
Cusco - Huaca Quasi Pass - Termas de Lares - Huachadas
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!
Huacawasi - Son - Sacsayllame - Aruray-Fluss - White-See - Red
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.
Pucará - Ollantaytambo - Km 104 - Wiñayhuayna - Machu Picchu Town
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.
Machu Picchu Town - Machu Picchu Sanctuary - Cusco
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.
- Hotel to Lares main street transfer
- Yanahuara city to Ollantaytambo hotel transfer
- Machu Picchu bus tickets
- Ollantaytambo to KM 104 train ticket
- Machu Picchu city to Ollantaytambo train ticket
- Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance ticket and permit
- 2 night hotel stays in Olantaytambo and Machu Picchu cities
- Train station to Cusco hotel transfer
- Professional hiking guide
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, and snacks, with vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free options
- 4 season camping equipment, including 4 person and 2 person tents
- Therma-Rest air mattresses with pillows
- Camping equipment, including dining tent with table and chairs and kitchen tent with professional kitchen crew
- Professional Quechua chef
- Horses and mules for Lares Trek section, with each horse carrying 8kg of luggage
- Oxygen balloon
- Accompanying rescue horse.
- Breakfast of the first day and last lunch in Machu Picchu Town
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Machu Picchu Town where the station is located; You can pay the bus service fee of $12.00 or walk back to Machu Picchu Town, which takes about an hour.
- Entrance to the thermal baths of Machu Picchu Town (cost S/10.00 nuevos soles)
What to Bring
Here is a list of recommended items to bring for the Lares trek:
- Backpack: A sturdy, comfortable backpack with enough room for all your gear is essential.
- Hiking shoes: Good quality hiking shoes with good grip and support are necessary for the trek.
- Clothing: Warm layers, such as a fleece or down jacket, as well as rain gear and waterproof pants.
- Headwear: A hat and/or beanie to protect from the sun and cold.
- Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm.
- First-aid kit: Basic supplies such as pain relievers, blister treatments, and any necessary medications.
- Hydration: A refillable water bottle and water purification tablets.
- Food: Snacks such as trail mix, energy bars, and fruit.
- Sleeping gear: A sleeping bag and a sleeping pad.
- Headlamp or flashlight: For evening and early morning.
- Personal hygiene: Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.
- Camera: To capture memories of the beautiful scenery.
- Passport or identification: For the entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Cash and credit card: For souvenirs, snacks, and any emergency expenses.
Recommendations
Here are some recommendations for hiking the Lares Trek:
- Physical preparation: It is important to be in good physical condition as the trek can be challenging, with steep and uneven terrain. Consider doing some light exercise, such as hiking or jogging, in the weeks leading up to your trip.
- Weather conditions: Check the weather conditions before your trip and pack accordingly. The Lares Trek can be chilly, especially at night, so be sure to bring warm clothing and waterproof gear.
- Footwear: Good hiking boots are essential to provide proper support and comfort for your feet. Make sure to break them in before the trek.
- Hydration: Hydration is key to a successful trek. Pack plenty of water and electrolyte drinks, and refill your water bottle whenever possible.
- Altitude: The Lares Trek reaches high altitudes, so be prepared for altitude sickness. To minimize its effects, take it slow, drink plenty of fluids, and eat light and nutritious food.
- Packing: Pack only what you need, as you’ll be carrying your own gear. Make sure to bring extra clothes, a hat, sunscreen, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and any other personal items you might need.
- Respect the environment: Take care of the environment by disposing of trash properly, respecting wildlife, and leaving the trail as you found it.
- Emergency: Make sure to inform someone of your plans, and bring a fully charged phone in case of emergency.
- Guides and support: Hiring a knowledgeable and experienced guide can enhance your experience and ensure a safe and successful trek. Having a rescue horse and professional support staff can provide peace of mind and help you handle any challenges that arise.
- Enjoy the journey: Last but not least, take time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and immerse yourself in the culture and history of the Lares Trek.
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