Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days

🗺️ Trek Details & Full 5-Day Itinerary

Embark on a truly unique and enriching adventure with our tailored Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This 5-day journey combines deep cultural immersion, stunning high-mountain trekking, and the historical prestige of the Inca Trail

Key Trek Information

• Location: The trek begins near Lares village, traverses the stunning Sacred Valley, and concludes at the iconic Machu Picchu via the Short Inca Trail.
• Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
• Level: Moderate to Challenging (requires a good physical condition to manage high-altitude terrain).
• Starting Point: Your hotel in Cusco City
• Ending Point: Your hotel in Cusco City
• Departure Dates: Fully customizable – choose a schedule that works best for you.
• Tour Type: Adventure, cultural immersion, and historical exploration.

This trek offers a perfect blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu.

🥾 Short Trek Itinerary: Day by Day

Day 1: Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha (Begin the Lares Trek)

Your guide will meet you at your Cusco hotel at 5:30 am. We journey 1.5 hours to the picturesque village of Huaran, the gateway to the Lares region. Here, we begin our ascent through lush valleys and breathtaking Andean landscapes. Our destination is the serene, remote village of Cancha Cancha, where we set up camp and begin to soak in the peaceful ambiance of the highlands.

Day 2: Cancha Cancha – Pachacutec Pass – Quiswarani (Conquering the Summit)

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day! We trek along tranquil mountain trails toward the high pass, crossing the highest point of the trek: Pachacutec Pass (4,500m / 14,800 ft). From this vantage point, witness stunning panoramic views of towering snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine lakes. We descend to the charming community of Quiswarani, nestled in a verdant valley. Here, you have the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily farming practices of the locals, sharing in their warm hospitality for an unforgettable overnight stay.

Day 3: Quiswarani – Cuncani – Lares Hot Springs – Ollantaytambo (Relaxation and Transition)

After a nourishing breakfast, our hike continues toward the village of Cuncani, offering awe-inspiring vistas along the route. From Cuncani, we head to Lares, famous for its therapeutic hot springs. Enjoy a well-deserved, rejuvenating soak in these natural waters. A comfortable transport then takes us to the historic town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, where you will check into your hotel and prepare for the history-rich segment ahead.

Day 4: Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (The Short Inca Trail)

Today, the history begins! We board a scenic train to KM104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. This iconic 7.5-mile route offers a unique opportunity to marvel at magnificent archaeological sites, including the enchanting terraces of Wiñay Wayna (‘Forever Young’). The pinnacle of the day is the arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where your first breathtaking, panoramic view of Machu Picchu unfolds before you. After exploring the mystic ancient citadel briefly, we descend to Aguas Calientes for a celebratory dinner and an overnight rest.

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Sunrise Exploration – Cusco (The Grand Finale)

We rise early to take the first bus back up to the citadel, aiming to witness the magical sunrise over Machu Picchu. The tranquility of the morning enhances the experience as you enjoy a final, detailed exploration with your guide, immersing yourself in the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After our final visit, we return to Aguas Calientes for a leisurely lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a final bus transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.

🌟 Trekking Highlights: More Than Just a Hike

The 5-Day Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail is a meticulously crafted journey designed to maximize your adventure, cultural learning, and scenic rewards. This trek isn’t just a route to Machu Picchu; it’s an exploration of the very soul of the Andes.

The Quintessential Andean Experience

This trek is the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical depth, creating an unforgettable and holistic adventure for all who undertake it.

📅 Detailed Itinerary: 

🏞️ Day 1.- Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha: Journey to the Authentic Andes

Morning: Departure and Sacred Valley Start

We begin the adventure bright and early! Our staff will provide a seamless hotel pickup starting at 5:00 a.m. (Please ensure we have your hotel details in advance). After collecting the group, we take a scenic 1-hour and 20-minute drive into the heart of the Sacred Valley to Huaran village (3,000 masl / 9,842 ft).

Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a substantial breakfast and meet our invaluable support team: the horsemen and their horses. Your horsemen will be responsible for transporting all camping and personal gear throughout the trek. Following a brief orientation from your expert guide, it’s time to lace up your boots!

Midday: Trekking to Phachayoc & Traditional Agriculture

The trek commences with a gradual three-hour ascent to the beautiful valley of Phachayoc. Here, beside the river, we pause for a delicious, freshly prepared lunch by our trekking chef—the perfect fuel for the trail ahead.

Post-lunch, we continue for another 1.5 hours through a scenic valley rich with local life. You’ll pass by family farms utilizing ancient Incan farming techniques, where potatoes and fava beans are still grown using traditional hand tools. This segment provides a fascinating insight into Peruvian agriculture and the enduring connection between the people and the land.

Afternoon & Evening: Cancha Cancha Cultural Immersion

Our destination for the night is the secluded community of Cancha Cancha (3,750 masl / 12,303 ft). This is a genuinely unique village—operating without electricity, cars, or modern technology—a living testament to Quechua heritage. Approximately 85% of the homes are still built in the traditional style, with stone walls and grass-thatched roofs.

Upon arrival, our team will have your comfortable camping tents set up. You will have free time to interact with local children; as we regularly provide them with food and school supplies, we welcome any thoughtful contributions (school materials, clothing, etc.) you may wish to bring for this Quechua-speaking community.

The day concludes with an intimate cultural experience: your guide will introduce you to a local family where you can observe the intricate process of creating hand-woven textiles from llama and alpaca wool. We wrap up with hot drinks, an abundant dinner, and a night of peaceful rest, preparing for the high-altitude challenges of Day 2.

Key Metrics

• Distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
• Time: Approximately 4 – 5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Altitude:
  • Start: 3,000 masl (9,842 ft)
  • Camp: 3,750 masl (12,303 ft)
• Accommodation: Premium Camping Tents
• Meals Included: Lunch, Afternoon Tea Time, Dinner

 🏔️ Day 2.- Cancha Cancha – Pachacutec Pass – Quiswarani: Conquering the High Andes

Morning: The Ascent to Pachacutec Pass

Your high-altitude challenge begins with a warm wake-up call at 5:30 a.m., accompanied by a hot cup of tea or coffee served right to your tent. After a hearty breakfast, we start our trek at approximately 6:30 a.m.

The morning involves an intense 4-hour ascent northeast. This segment is the physical apex of the trek, leading us toward the highest point: Pachacutec Pass (4,500m / 14,800 ft). We encourage you to hike at your own pace, taking necessary breaks to hydrate and capture the incredible mountain panorama where herds of llamas and alpacas graze freely.

The views are simply spectacular, featuring sweeping vistas of glaciers, pristine remote lakes, and dramatic valleys. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife, including soaring Caracara falcons and Andean geese. Upon reaching the summit, we’ll pause for a moment of celebration, soaking in the achievement before starting our descent.

Midday: Descent and Cultural Encounters

About an hour past the pass, we will stop for a well-deserved lunch break to rest, recharge, and refill water bottles. The afternoon hike continues with a gradual 2.5-hour descent to our next campsite near the Quiswarani community (3,700m / 12,139ft). Witness the incredible 7 waterfalls; this quieter, less-traveled trail offers invaluable cultural insight: you will frequently encounter indigenous highland people, often adorned in traditional attire, tending to their llama and alpaca herds.

Your guide will act as a key interpreter, facilitating genuine cultural exchanges by conversing in Quechua, the ancient language of the Incas, and even teaching you a few basic words.

Evening: Serenity in Quiswarani

We arrive at our campsite nestled amid the serene beauty of the highlands. Here, your gear will be waiting, and you can enjoy the rest facilities. The day concludes with a hot Afternoon Tea Time and a nourishing dinner, setting the stage for the easy transition day ahead.

Key Metrics

• Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
• Estimated Time: Approximately 7 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging (due to sustained ascent and high altitude)
• Altitude:
  • Start: 3,750 masl (12,303 ft)
  • Max: 4,500 masl (14,800 ft)
  • Camp: 3,700 masl (12,139 ft)
• Accommodation: Premium camping tents equipped with bathroom facilities
• Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea time, and dinner

🌄 Day 3.- Quiswarani – Willqaqasa Pass – Lares Hot Springs – Ollantaytambo: Relaxation and Transition

Morning: Scenic Ascent and Waterfall Descent

We begin the day with an early breakfast and bid farewell to the Quiswarani community. At approximately 7:00 a.m., we start a gentle 3-hour ascent toward the final high pass of the Lares Trek: Willqaqasa Pass (4,200m / 13,779ft).

From the pass, you are rewarded with a bird’s eye view of the mountains reflecting in pristine glacial lakes. Take your time to admire the stunning snow-capped peaks of Colquecruz and Pitusiray. After a break for photos, we begin a beautiful 2-hour descent toward the community of Cuncani.

The trail guides us through expansive Puna grasslands, where we witness the incredible lagoons and a breathtaking series of cascades flowing alongside the path. You’ll observe local agricultural sites, highlighting the harmonious relationship between traditional farming and the high-altitude environment.

Midday: Lares Hot Springs and Farewell

At the community of Cuncani, we meet our private driver and journey down through lush valleys, encountering a significant change in climate and vegetation—from high altitude grasses to fertile areas dotted with fruit trees, native flowers, and wild orchids.

Our reward awaits at the Lares Hot Springs (3,100m / 10,170ft). You’ll enjoy a well-deserved soak in these therapeutic volcanic pools, which range in temperature and are renowned for their medicinal properties, aiding muscle relaxation, stress relief, and bone health.

After the soothing baths, we enjoy a final, savory lunch with our dedicated trekking support team. This is the moment to bid a warm farewell to your remarkable chef and horsemen who have been instrumental in the success of the Lares portion of your journey.

Afternoon & Evening: Transition to Ollantaytambo

Following lunch, we take a 3-hour scenic drive through the beautiful Sacred Valley to the historic Inca town of Ollantaytambo.

Upon arrival, we check into our comfortable hotel accommodation, allowing you to relax and refresh after three days of camping and trekking. Later in the evening, we gather for a delicious dinner, soaking in the ancient charm of Ollantaytambo and preparing for the next thrilling phase: the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Key Metrics

• Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles (Trekking)
• Time: Approximately 6 hours (Trekking) + 3 hours (Drive)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Altitude:
  • Start: 3,700 masl (12,139 ft)
  • Max: 4,200 masl (13,779 ft)
  • End: 2,792 masl (9,160 ft)
• Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Ollantaytambo.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

✨ Day 4.- Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes: The Iconic Short Inca Trail

Morning: Train Ride and Trail Checkpoint

The history portion of your trek begins with an early breakfast at your hotel (or a picnic option to take with you). At 5:30 a.m., we head to the station for the picturesque train journey departing at 6:10 a.m.

This 1.5-hour train ride to KM 104 / Chachabamba (2,600m / 8,500ft) is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River. Notice the dramatic shift in microclimate as we descend into the cloud forest, where lush jungle valleys burst with native flora, including ferns, bromeliads, and orchids.

Crucial: You must have your original passport ready for the first checkpoint! After a brief orientation, we begin our historical trek.

Midday: Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna

Our first stop is the ancient archaeological site of Chachabamba, an essential checkpoint in the Inca road network. Your guide will provide fascinating historical insights before we start the challenging three-hour ascent to the celebrated site of Wiñay Wayna.

This hike takes you along the original Inca pathway, featuring a combination of gentle slopes and stepped sections. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Machu Picchu Valley, cascading waterfalls, and the vibrant local ecosystem.

Upon reaching Wiñay Wayna, meaning “Forever Young,” you will explore this magnificent complex of temples, agricultural terraces, and fountains—a stunning testament to Inca ingenuity. After a comprehensive guided tour, we take a well-deserved break for our box lunch amidst the incredible surroundings.

Afternoon: Triumph at the Sun Gate

The final leg of the trail is a gentle one-hour hike with mild ascents and descents leading to the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku).

This is the ultimate moment of triumph! From the Sun Gate, you are instantly rewarded with the stunning, iconic first views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and the surrounding valleys. This vantage point held immense ceremonial significance for the Incas, especially during the summer solstice.

We then take a gentle one-hour walk down to the Machu Picchu ruins. Here, you can explore the serene watchtower area, which is perfect for capturing iconic, crowd-free photographs and truly absorbing the site’s tranquility.

Evening: Rest in Aguas Calientes

Later in the afternoon, we take a short 25-minute bus ride down to the vibrant town of Aguas Calientes. You will check into your comfortable hotel for a well-deserved rest, preparing for the full, glorious exploration of Machu Picchu tomorrow morning!

Key Metrics

• Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
• Time: Approximately 6 hours (Trekking)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Altitude:
  • Start: 2,600m (8,500 ft)
  • Max: 2,720m (8,924 ft)
  • End: 2,050m (6,725 ft)
• Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes /3-star.
• Meals Included: Breakfast and box lunch

🌅 Day 5.- Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Sunrise – Cusco: The Grand Finale

Morning: Sunrise and Citadel Exploration

Begin your monumental final day with breakfast at the hotel. Don’t forget to store your larger luggage safely at the hotel reception. We’ll head to the bus station before dawn to board one of the early buses ascending to Machu Picchu.

Be ready for a truly magical experience as we aim to witness the stunning Andean sunrise over the citadel—a moment of serene beauty you earned by completing your trek. Remember your original passport for entry!

Your expert guide will then lead a comprehensive 2-3 hour tour of the site. Following the designated circuit route (Circuit #3), you will explore the most captivating areas, including the Temple of the Sun, the enigmatic Intihuatana Stone, and the Room of the Three Windows. Absorb the fascinating history, architecture, and cultural significance that brings the ruins to life.

• (Optional Activity: If booked in advance, those hiking Huayna Picchu will proceed immediately after the guided tour without the guide.)

Midday: Reflection and Relaxation

After the guided exploration, you will have some free time to wander the site at your own pace, capturing those final breathtaking views. We then take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy a relaxing lunch at your leisure.

The afternoon offers free time to soak in the charming atmosphere of Aguas Calientes. Browse the vibrant markets for authentic souvenirs, enjoy a coffee at a cozy café, or simply reflect on the extraordinary adventure you’ve just completed.

Afternoon & Evening: Return to Cusco

We board the scenic Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (departing typically at 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm). This 1-hour and 45-minute journey offers spectacular views along the narrow Urubamba River canyon, where you may spot stunning whitewater rapids and even the ruins of Wiñay Wayna high on the canyon walls.

Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, your private driver will be waiting to greet you and transfer you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco.

Anticipated arrival time in Cusco is approximately 7:00 pm, marking the conclusion of your extraordinary 5-day expedition filled with culture, challenge, and unforgettable memories.

Important Travel Logistics:

• Machu Picchu Circuit: Your 2-Day Inca Trail ticket grants access to Circuit #3 (no other circuits are available without an additional entrance purchase).
• Train Upgrades: You may upgrade to the panoramic Vistadome Train for a superior view (available for additional cost at 2:55 pm, 3:20 pm, 4:22 pm, or 4:43 pm departures). Early morning trains are available upon request at the time of booking.
• Huayna Picchu Hike: This optional hike depends strictly on availability and must be reserved well in advance when booking your trek.

✅ Inclusions & ❌ Exclusions: What’s Covered in Your Trek

We provide a comprehensive package to ensure your 5-Day Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is seamless, safe, and truly unforgettable.

✨ The Trek Includes: Full-Service Support

🚫 The Trek Excludes: Items to Plan For

⬆️ Optional Upgrades

• Hotel Upgrades: Select from a variety of higher-rated hotels in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes for enhanced comfort.
• Vistadome Train: Upgrade your return journey for a panoramic window experience.
• Guided Huayna Picchu: If you book the Huayna Picchu ascent, a guided experience is available upon request (additional fee applies).

🎒 The Essential Packing List: Be Prepared for 5 Days in the Andes

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just beginning your journey, having a concise checklist of must-haves is vital for high-altitude trekking.

For the exciting 5-Day Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you’ll need to strategically divide your gear between two bags: the Duffel Bag (carried by horses) and your Daypack (carried by you).

Crucial Note: The evening before your journey, your trekking guide will provide a duffel bag for your gear. This bag will only be accessible at the campsites, so pack your daypack with everything you need during the day!

📄 Essential Documents (Must be Carried in Daypack)

These items are non-negotiable and required for entry and official checkpoints.

• Passport: Original, valid passport (required for all checkpoints and Machu Picchu entry).
• Immigration Card: The small card you received upon arriving in Peru.
• Valid STUDENT CARD: (If you booked your trek using a student discount).

🧳 Duffel Bag Essentials (7 kg Limit)

Our trusty horses will transport up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings. This weight limit includes your sleeping bag and air mat if you are renting ours (which typically weigh about 3 kg combined). Plan wisely for 3 nights of camping and one leisurely hotel night.

🎒 Daypack Must-Haves (Carried by You)

A sturdy daypack (approximately 30 liters is ideal) should hold everything you need between camps.

💄 Toiletry Essentials

Keep these items organized and accessible:

• Bug Repellent (Crucial for the cloud forest/Machu Picchu area).
• Facial Moisturizer.
• Wet Wipes.
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste.
• Personal Medications.

Embrace the excitement and anticipation as you prepare for an unparalleled Peruvian adventure. Our expert team is here to ensure your journey is memorable, enjoyable, and stress-free.

Book your trek now and start packing for the experience of a lifetime!

📌 Important Information: Please Read Carefully (FAQ)

Preparing for a high-altitude trek requires specific knowledge. Here are the essential details, logistics, and policies for your 5-Day Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Booking, Permits & Policies

Trek Logistics & Group Size

Health, Safety & Difficulty

🗺️ What is the Lares Trek?

The Lares Trek is a renowned trekking route in the Peruvian Andes, celebrated for its unique blend of authentic cultural immersion and spectacular, unspoiled mountain scenery.

Often chosen as a captivating alternative or complement to the crowded Inca Trail, the Lares Trek takes you into the remote highlands northeast of Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

The Soul of the Lares Trek

The Lares Trek is fundamentally different from other Andean routes, focusing on an intimate, cultural experience:

• Cultural Immersion: The trail passes directly through several traditional, indigenous Quechua-speaking villages (like Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani). Trekkers have the rare opportunity to engage with local communities, learn about their ancient weaving techniques, and witness their daily subsistence farming life—a genuine look at Andean heritage untouched by time.
• Authentic Scenery: This route avoids tourist infrastructure, winding instead through dramatic mountain passes (reaching up to 4,700m / 15,420 ft), past shimmering alpine lakes, and alongside glaciers. You will share the trail with local llama and alpaca herds, offering a raw, beautiful high-altitude experience.
• A Quieter Path: The Lares Trek is not subject to the strict permitting or high traffic of the Classic Inca Trail. It offers a serene, less-crowded alternative, allowing you to fully absorb the tranquility and majesty of the Andes.

🤩 What to Expect: An Experience Beyond Hiking

Embarking on the 5-Day Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is more than just a hike; it’s a transformative journey where history, culture, and nature converge. Prepare for a rich, multi-faceted experience that will challenge you and reward you in equal measure.

The Journey: Expect Splendor and Challenge

• A Tapestry of Vistas: Expect your breath to be taken away daily! Each stride unveils magnificent vistas of the towering Andes, crystal-clear glacial lakes, mesmerizing waterfalls, and dramatic high mountain passes. You will trek through diverse ecosystems, from high puna grasslands to lush cloud forests.
• The Andean Wildlife: Keep your camera ready for encounters with local flora and fauna. The sight of llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully in their native habitat adds a special, tranquil charm to your adventure.
• High-Altitude Challenge: Expect to be physically challenged, particularly on Day 2 as you cross the high passes of the Lares region. However, this manageable difficulty is what makes the final reward all the more meaningful.

The Culture: Expect Authentic Connection

• Firsthand Cultural Immersion: You will interact directly with local Quechua communities, gaining firsthand insights into their ancient traditions, language, and the sustainable way of life they maintain in these majestic lands.
• Warm Hospitality: Expect genuine warmth and hospitality. The Lares Trek offers a rare, intimate chance to connect with the people who call the Andes home, enriching your understanding of Peru’s vibrant heritage.

The Reward: Expect Triumph

• The Triumphant Arrival: Expect the ultimate payoff! Concluding your trek by hiking the Short Inca Trail to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) provides a triumphant, earned first glimpse of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
• A Memory Etched Forever: Exploring Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, after days of trekking ensures an experience that will be deeply etched in your memory, solidifying your personal accomplishment.

Expect a journey that will not only show you Peru’s natural beauty but also connect you to its enduring soul.

✅ Why Choose the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail?

This isn’t just another route to Machu Picchu—it’s the superior choice for travelers seeking authenticity, intimacy, and historical reward in one incredible 5-day package.

The Perfect Blend: Culture, Scenery, and History

Choosing the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail offers a unique mix of adventure, culture, and logistical comfort that distinguishes it from more crowded paths.

• 1. Escape the Crowds, Find Authenticity: Unlike the heavily trafficked classic routes, the Lares Trek presents a quieter path. With fewer visitors, you’ll savor a closer, more intimate connection to nature and enjoy direct, authentic exchanges with local Quechua communities—a glimpse into traditional Peruvian life rarely seen by others.
• 2. Unparalleled Scenic Diversity: This combined journey offers the best of both worlds. You experience the rugged, pristine beauty of the high-altitude Andes (Lares segment) before descending into the lush, historical cloud forest (Short Inca Trail segment). This provides diverse environments and endless photographic opportunities.
• 3. The Triumphant Arrival: You still gain the immense prestige of hiking the Inca Trail and achieving the triumphant arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This critical historical component is seamlessly integrated after three days of rich cultural trekking.
• 4. Superior Comfort and Pacing: This itinerary offers a manageable pace, combining camping in spacious tents with the comfort of hotel stays in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. This balance allows you to test your endurance yet rejuvenate your spirit, leaving you enriched and satisfied.

Choose this trek if you seek authenticity and cultural depth without sacrificing the iconic, earned arrival at the legendary Machu Picchu.

Ready to secure your spot on the journey that truly goes beyond compare?

🎟️ How to Book Your Trek: Simple Steps to Adventure

Booking your 5-Day Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a straightforward and convenient process. Due to the high demand and limited government permits for the Short Inca Trail, we recommend booking 4 to 6 months in advance.

Start your unforgettable adventure today with these simple steps:

Step 1: Check Availability & Send Details

Reach out to our booking team via email or through our online form to check your preferred travel dates. We need the following details exactly as they appear on your passport to secure your government permit:

• Full Name: (First, Middle, Last)
• Gender
• Passport Number
• Date of Birth: (dd/mm/yyyy)
• Nationality

Step 2: Secure Your Reservation with a Deposit

A non-refundable deposit of US$250 per person is required to secure your spot. This deposit is essential for immediately purchasing your Short Inca Trail permit, train tickets, and Machu Picchu entrance fee.

• Payment Options: We accept secure payments via VISA or PAYPAL.

Step 3: Receive Confirmation & Trip Code

Once your deposit is processed and your permits are secured, you will receive an official confirmation email containing your itinerary details and a unique Trip Code. Keep this code for all future communications.

Step 4: Settle the Remaining Balance in Cusco

The remaining balance of the trip cost is due upon your arrival in Cusco.

• Payment: The balance must be paid in cash—either in local currency (Peruvian Soles) or US Dollars.
• Timing: Payment is collected by your guide during the mandatory briefing session the evening before your trek departure.

By following these easy steps, you can look forward to an incredible, fully planned journey through Peru’s breathtaking terrain and rich history!

Ready to reserve your permit?

🏕️ All-Inclusive Trek: Comfort Meets Adventure

Your comfort is our priority throughout this extraordinary 5-day journey. While you traverse the remote Lares highlands, we ensure your evenings are restful, comfortable, and well-organized, seamlessly blending adventure with exceptional service.

Superior Camping Experience

Forget cramped spaces. We elevate the traditional trekking experience by providing a comfortable and well-organized base camp environment:

• Spacious Tents: You will camp in high-quality, roomy four-person tents, designed exclusively for just two guests. This ensures plenty of space for sleeping, relaxing, and storing your day gear.
• Base Camp Amenities: Enjoy the convenience of a dedicated base camp setup, complete with separate kitchen and dining tents, tables, and comfortable chairs, allowing you to relax and socialize out of the elements.
• Convenient Hygiene: A portable camping toilet is included for your convenience and privacy throughout the Lares trekking days, enhancing your outdoor comfort.

Seamless Transition to Hotel Comfort

We understand the value of a hot shower and a real bed after days on the trail. Your journey includes a critical transition to quality hotel accommodation:

• Hotel Stays: Enjoy the comforts of a 3-star hotel on the nights you are not camping (typically in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes).
• Modern Facilities: These hotels seamlessly combine local charm with modern facilities, ensuring a well-deserved rest, private bathroom, hot shower, and Wi-Fi access as you prepare for the Short Inca Trail and conclude your adventure.

Rest assured, with our all-inclusive approach, you can focus completely on the breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion while we take care of your comfort.

🛌 Accommodation: Comfort on the Trail and in Town

Experience the great outdoors without compromising on comfort and convenience. Our accommodation package is designed to ensure you are well-rested and prepared for every stage of your trek.

On the Lares Trail (3 Nights of Camping)

We prioritize your space and comfort throughout the camping portion of your journey:

• Spacious Tents: Relax in our roomy, high-quality four-person capacity tents, which we reserve exclusively for just two guests. This generous space allows you plenty of room to unwind, store gear, and recharge comfortably after a day’s adventure.
• Dining Comfort: Enjoy your delicious meals in a comfortable, structured environment. We provide separate kitchen and dining tents, complete with tables and chairs, creating a home-away-from-home atmosphere.
• Convenience: For your essential needs in the wilderness, we include a clean, private portable camping toilet with your gear, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable outdoor experience.

In the Sacred Valley & Aguas Calientes (2 Night Hotel)

On the nights you are not camping, you will enjoy modern comfort:

• Hotel Stays: Enjoy comfortable 3-star accommodations—your cozy retreat—in both the historic town of Ollantaytambo and the gateway town of Aguas Calientes.
• Modern Comfort: These hotels offer the ideal balance where local charm meets modern comfort, featuring hot showers, private bathrooms, and a restful night’s sleep to prepare you for the triumphant arrival at Machu Picchu.

This comprehensive approach guarantees your camping experience is enjoyable and infused with the essential comforts you need.

🚫 Cancellation Policy: Important Permit Restrictions

Due to the strict regulations governing the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, please read our cancellation policy carefully:

All bookings for the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable.

By booking this trek, you acknowledge and accept these non-refundable terms.