4 Days from $ USD 595.00
4 Days from $ 595 | Lares Valley and Short Inca Trail Tour 4 Days
| Min Altitude: 2200msnm (3545 fasl) | Max Altitude: 2200msnm (3545 fasl)
IntroductionThe 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.
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.
What to BringHere is a list of recommended items to bring for the Lares trek:
RecommendationsHere are some recommendations for hiking the Lares Trek:
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