Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights
This 5-day expedition is, without a doubt, the most comprehensive trekking experience in the Peruvian Andes. It is meticulously designed for the traveler who wants it all: the solitude of glacier-capped peaks, a deep connection with Quechua-speaking communities, and the prestige of entering Machu Picchu on foot via the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Lares Valley: A Deep Dive into Living History
Your journey begins in the heart of the Lares Valley, a territory where time seems to have stood still. Unlike conventional routes, culture here is not found in a museum but in the hands of the master weavers of Cancha Cancha and Quishuarani.
- Authentic Immersion: You will hike alongside alpaca herders and learn about the profound symbolism of Andean textiles directly from the families preserving the Incan legacy. This is a genuine human exchange, far removed from mass tourism.
The Andean Odyssey: Glaciers and Sacred Lagoons
We will cross high-mountain passes that challenge the senses, such as the Pachacutec Pass (15,420 ft / 4,700 m).
- Crystal Landscapes: You will discover hidden turquoise lagoons and jagged snow-capped peaks that serve as the guardians of the route. The geography of Lares offers a sense of freedom and isolation found only in elite high-mountain expeditions.
The Convergence: Connecting with the Sacred Inca Trail
After the cultural immersion in Lares and a restorative session at the Lares Hot Springs, our premium logistics will transfer you to the connection point of the Short Inca Trail.
Overview
Overview
Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail: The Ultimate 5-Day Cultural Convergence
This exclusive program by Ali Perú Treks represents the definitive fusion of two worlds: the Living Culture of the high-Andean communities and the Archaeological Legacy of the Incan Empire. It is a curated expedition designed for the traveler who seeks to transcend conventional tourism, combining the profound solitude of glacier-capped peaks with the triumphant entrance to Machu Picchu via the legendary Sun Gate.
Strategic Expedition Highlights
- Dual Heritage Experience: The only route in Cusco offering a seamless transition from the ethnographic present in the Lares Valley to the glorious imperial past on the Inca Trail.
- The “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Advantage: Enjoy the first three days of trekking in total privacy, surrounded by turquoise lagoons and snow-capped peaks, far from the crowded Salkantay or Classic Inca Trail routes.
- The Sun Gate (Inti Punku) Entrance: Experience the mystical arrival at Machu Picchu on foot during the golden hour of Day 4—a privilege reserved exclusively for those walking the original Incan path.
- Andean Wellness Integration: A strategic hydrotherapy session at the Lares Hot Springs for muscular recovery before tackling the final stone steps of the Inca Trail.
Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail Summary
DAY 1: CUSCO – HUARAN – CANCHA CANCHA
- Hiking Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km.
- Trailhead Altitude: 9,514 ft / 2,900 m.
- Campsite Altitude: 12,631 ft / 3,850 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate (Gradual ascent through cloud forest).
- Highlights: Local school visit and authentic cultural immersion.
DAY 2: CANCHA CANCHA – PACHACUTEC PASS – QUISHUARANI
- Hiking Distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km.
- Highest Point (Pass): 15,420 ft / 4,700 m.
- Campsite Altitude: 12,103 ft / 3,690 m.
- Difficulty: Challenging (The highest peak of the trek).
- Highlights: Panoramic Pachacutec Pass views and glacier-fed lagoons.
DAY 3: QUISHUARANI – LARES HOT SPRINGS – OLLANTAYTAMBO
- Hiking Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km.
- Lares Hot Springs: 10,170 ft / 3,100 m.
- Overnight: Hotel in Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft).
- Difficulty: Moderate (Scenic descent).
- Highlights: Therapeutic volcanic baths and textile village exploration.
DAY 4: OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM 104 – MACHU PICCHU (SUN GATE)
- Hiking Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km.
- Starting Point: KM 104 (Chachabamba).
- Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft).
- Difficulty: Moderate (Authentic Inca stone steps).
- Highlights: Wiñay Wayna archaeological site and sunset view from the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
- Activity: 2-hour Professional Guided Tour.
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 7,873 ft / 2,400 m.
- Difficulty: Easy (Cultural exploration).
- Weather: Warm and Humid.
- Highlights: Main Citadel Tour (Circuit 2) and scenic train return to Cusco.
Important Logistics Note
Campsite & Permit Allocation: Please note that while campsite locations for the Lares segment are flexible, the Short Inca Trail (Day 4) requires a specific government permit that is non-transferable and strictly limited. We highly recommend booking at least 3–4 months in advance to secure your entry through the Sun Gate.
When is the Best Time to Hike?
Choosing the right time for your adventure is key to an unforgettable experience. In the Cusco and Lares regions, the weather is defined by two primary seasons:
- The Dry Season (April to October): This is the premier window for trekking. You will enjoy bright blue skies, crisp mountain air, and radiant sunshine—ideal for photography at the high passes and the Sun Gate.
- The Rainy Season (November to March): During this time, the Andes transform into a vibrant, lush paradise. While you should expect showers, you will be rewarded with flourishing flora and fewer crowds.
- Important Note: Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Lares Valley segment remains OPEN in February. This 5-day combination is the perfect alternative for travelers visiting in February, as it bypasses the trail closure by connecting through the Short Inca Trail route.
Why Choose Ali Perú Treks? The Gold Standard in Andean Expeditions
At Ali Perú Treks, we don’t just organize trips; we manage high-level expeditions with impeccable logistics and an unwavering commitment to human ethics. Here is why we are the leading operator for the Lares Trek:
100% Direct Local Operator (No Outsourcing)
Your reservation is a sacred commitment. Unlike intermediary agencies, we execute our own operations. We never outsource your service. If you book for two people, the expedition departs with two people. This ensures total quality control from your first contact until your return to your hotel.
Ethical & Sustainable Tourism: Direct Community Impact
We are pioneers in local economic development. We hire our muleteers and rent our horses directly from the high-Andean communities we visit. By choosing us, you guarantee fair and punctual pay to local families, fostering a responsible tourism model that preserves the dignity and culture of the Andes.
Expert Interpretive Guiding (Native Quechua Speakers)
Our guides are cultural ambassadors with academic backgrounds in history, flora, and fauna. Crucially for the Lares route, they are all native Quechua speakers, allowing for a genuine and respectful mediation between you and the local communities—opening doors that conventional tourism cannot reach.
Gourmet Mountain Dining Experience
Nutrition is vital for mountain performance. We employ professional expedition chefs who prepare fresh, varied, and balanced menus at every campsite. You will enjoy high-energy breakfasts, buffet-style lunches, and three-course dinners, all expertly adapted to any dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, etc.).
Safety as a Non-Negotiable Priority
We operate under the strictest international safety standards. Every expedition is equipped with:
- Satellite Communication: For emergencies in remote areas without cellular coverage.
- Oxygen Therapy & First Aid: Medicinal oxygen tanks and pulse oximeters constantly monitored by your guide.
Superior Rest & Inflatable Mattress Technology (Included)
We understand that deep sleep is the key to conquering 15,420 feet. We are among the few operators that include high-end inflatable mattresses (Therm-a-Rest style) at no additional cost. You don’t need to rent them; they are part of our comfort standard to guarantee your daily physical recovery.
Small Groups & Personalized Attention
We limit our groups to a maximum of 2 to 10 travelers. This approach allows us to offer unprecedented attention to detail, greater safety, and, above all, a genuine and non-intrusive cultural interaction within the Andean villages.
Comprehensive Door-to-Door Service
We manage absolutely every logistical detail. From the pickup at your hotel doorstep in Cusco to your final return, your guide and transportation team will escort you every step of the way: through the trek, trains, buses, and private tours within the citadel.
Proven Reputation & Official Licensing
We are a 100% Cusco-based agency, legally incorporated and officially licensed by the Peruvian Government (GERCETUR). Our reputation on platforms like TripAdvisor reflects years of punctuality, professionalism, and the satisfaction of travelers from around the globe.
Seamless Logistics & Optimized Itineraries
We maximize your time in Peru. We organize your return train at strategic times (2:55 PM / 3:20 PM), allowing you to enjoy Machu Picchu without rushing and return to Cusco at a reasonable hour to rest—avoiding the midnight arrivals offered by other operators.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco-huaran-cancha Cancha-accopata
Your Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail expedition begins with our signature pick-up service. At 6:00 a.m., our professional team will collect you directly from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Pisaq. We will travel in our exclusive private van, embarking on a 1.5-hour scenic drive through the heart of the Sacred Valley until we reach the picturesque town of Huaran.
Upon arrival at Huaran (9,514 ft / 2,900 m), the official trailhead for this cultural odyssey, you will be greeted by our trekking team. Here, you will enjoy a delicious, high-energy breakfast prepared on-site by our professional Ali Perú Treks chef the perfect fuel for your first day in the Andes.
After breakfast, we begin a three-hour steady ascent, following the crystalline course of the Cancha Cancha River. As we climb, you will witness a dramatic transition into ancient cloud forests, a pristine and unique ecosystem perfect for bird watching and nature photography.
We will pause for a specialized lunch near the high-Andean Cancha Cancha community. This is a pivotal moment for genuine cultural exchange: we will visit the local school and traditional homes, offering you a rare opportunity to learn about ancient farming techniques and the resilient traditions of the Quechua people.
We then continue with a final, gradual two-hour ascent through majestic mountain landscapes until we reach our private campsite, located in the very heart of the Cancha Cancha community (12,631 ft / 3,850 m).
Upon arrival, our chef will welcome you with a warm Andean tea service while you settle into your high-end tents. After a gourmet dinner, if the sky is clear, your expert guide will lead a stargazing session to identify the Andean constellations, allowing you to sleep under one of the most stunning and unpolluted night skies on the planet.
- Starting Altitude (Huaran): 9,514 ft / 2,900 m
- Campsite Altitude (Cancha Cancha): 12,631 ft / 3,850 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 8 miles / 13 km
- Hiking Time: 5 hours of active trekking.
- Elevation Gain (Net): +3,117 ft / +950 m
- Difficulty Level: Moderate/Challenging (Strategic active acclimatization).
- Highlights: Private Van Service, Cloud Forest Exploration, Andean School Visit.Meals Included: Organic Breakfast, Gourmet Lunch, and Three-Course Dinner.
Day 2: accopata-pachacutec Pass Quishuarani
Your day begins with first-class service from OUR CHEF,hE will wake you up very early with a cup of hot tea in your tent, at the Accopata camp (12,631 ft / 3,850 m). After packing your belongings (you will have 30 minutes) and enjoying a hearty breakfast, we prepare for the great climb.
The hike is a steady, strenuous 3-hour effort that takes us to the highest point of the entire trek: Pachacutec Pass (13,420 ft / 4,200 m). The view is colossal: you will enjoy panoramic views, spot Wallatas (Andean geese), and have the imposing snow-capped peaks of Pitusiray and Sahuasiray right in front of you.
Spirituality and Scenic Reward While you enjoy the views, your guide will serve you a well-deserved cup of coca tea. Your guide will also perform a spiritual offering ceremony to the Apus (sacred mountains)—a moment of deep Andean connection you will witness.
Next, we will begin a 2-hour descent. The visual reward is the spectacular Qoyalayccocha Lagoon (12,795 ft / 3,900 m), where we will enjoy lunch right in front of its beautiful waters. This is a moment of great scenic beauty.
Cultural Immersion and Final Camp After lunch, we will continue the descent for two more hours to our camp in Quishuarani (12,103 ft / 3,690 m). Upon arrival, we will conduct a visit to a local family to learn and practice their customs and Andean agricultural techniques.
After the visit, we will return to the camp for tea time and dinner. If the sky is clear, you will be able to appreciate the Andean constellation and will sleep under a stunning night sky.
- Starting Altitude (Accopata): 12,631 ft / 3,850 m
- Highest Point (Pachacutec): 15,420 ft / 4,700 m
- Lunch (Qoyalayccocha Lagoon): 12,795 ft / 3,900 m
- Campsite Altitude (Quishuarani): 12,103 ft / 3,690 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 8.7 miles / 14 km
- Hiking Time: 7 hours
- Elevation Gain (Net): +2,789 ft / +850 m
- Difficulty Level: Challenging (High Pass Day)
- Highlights: Spiritual Ceremony, Qoyalayccocha Lagoon, Cultural Visit.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 3: Quishuarani-huillcaccasa Pass-lares Thermal Baths-ollantaytambo
We will start our day very early, around 5:00 a.m., waking you with a hot drink in your tent to make the most of the journey ahead. You will have time to pack and enjoy a nutritious, hearty breakfast prepared by your Ali Peru Treks chef.
Today, we bid farewell to the Quishuarani community and begin our ascent toward the highest point of the day: the Huillcaccasa Pass (13,779 ft / 4,200 m). During the climb, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of turquoise glacial lakes and the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Vilcanota mountain range. It is a demanding stretch, but the scenery is absolutely worth the effort.
After reaching the summit, we begin a 3 to 4-hour descent through high Andean landscapes, passing herds of alpacas and llamas until we reach the village of Lares. Our ultimate reward awaits: the famous Lares Thermal Baths. You can soak in the medicinal volcanic waters, arranged in pools of varying temperatures, to soothe your muscles after days of trekking.
In Lares, we will enjoy a final lunch prepared by our culinary team. This will be the moment to thank and say goodbye to our talented chef and horsemen, who were essential parts of this adventure.
In the afternoon, we will board our private van for a scenic 3-hour drive. We will travel through part of the Sacred Valley until we reach the «living Inca town» of Ollantaytambo. We will check into a comfortable hotel for a well-deserved rest and gather for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
- Hiking (Distance/Time): Approx. 6 to 7 hours (ascent and descent).
- Starting Altitude (Quishuarani): 12,139 ft / 3,700 m.
- Maximum Altitude (Huillcaccasa Pass): 13,779 ft / 4,200 m.
- End of Hike (Lares): 10,170 ft / 3,100 m.
- Final Destination: Ollantaytambo Town (9,160 ft / 2,792 m).
- Van Travel: Approx. 3 hours (Lares > Ollantaytambo).
- Highlight: Crossing the Huillcaccasa Pass and relaxing in the Lares Hot Springs.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Farewell Lunch, & Dinner (Restaurant).
- Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Ollantaytambo.
Day 4: Ollantaytambo-km 104 Chachabamba-sun Gate-machupicchu.
Early in the morning, your tour guide will pick you up from your hotel to take the first train to Chachabamba (Km 104), the starting point of the short route, located at 7,120 ft (2,170 m). Here, you will begin your hike following the original Inca Trail through the beautiful Andean mountains. The first ruin you will encounter will be the small complex of Chachabamba, an ancient guard house for Machu Picchu.
From Chachabamba, the trail ascends with a gradual incline for four hours until you reach Wiñay Wayna (8,690 ft / 2,650 m). You will visit this magnificent site, which means «Eternal Youth.» The name comes from the abundant orchids that adorn the landscape, making Wiñay Wayna arguably the most beautiful place on the entire Inca Trail.
After touring the site and enjoying a well-deserved lunch (box lunch), you will continue the final stretch.
You will then continue toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku, approx. 8,924 ft / 2,720 m), the emotional reward of the day. From Inti Punku, you will be able to see Machu Picchu in all its majesty and grandeur. It is your first breathtaking view of the citadel, an unforgettable, magical moment.
You will descend by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m). There, you will enjoy a delicious celebratory dinner and spend the night in a comfortable hotel, ensuring a restorative rest before exploring Machu Picchu.
- Starting Point: Chachabamba / Km 104 (7,120 ft / 2,170 m)
- Max Altitude: Inti Punku (8,924 ft / 2,720 m)
- End of Day: Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m)
- Total Distance: Approx. 7.5 miles (12 km)
- Hiking Time: 5.5 – 6 hours
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging (Steady initial ascent)
- Highlights: Wiñay Wayna Ruins, First view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku.
- Meals Included: Box Lunch and Dinner.
- Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machupicchu-ollantaytambo-cusco
Today will be a marvelous day! The time has finally come to visit the Wonder of the World.
After an early breakfast at your hotel, the most anticipated day begins. We handle all the logistics: you will only carry your daypack with the essentials. Your hotel in Aguas Calientes (6,693 ft / 2,040 m) will safely store your main luggage.
You will take the Consettur bus for a scenic 25-minute ascent up the mountain, which brings you directly to the entrance of the legend.
Once inside the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu (7,972 ft / 2,430 m), the magic begins. Your expert Ali Peru Treks guide will lead you on a comprehensive 3-hour tour. We have secured Circuit 2 for you, widely considered the most complete and classic route.
First, your guide will take you to the best viewpoints so you can capture the iconic, postcard-perfect photo of Machu Picchu. Afterward, you will discover the secrets, history, and astonishing architecture of the Inca Empire, exploring the main temples, sacred plazas, and urban sectors that this circuit allows.
After the tour, you will have free time to explore the wonder at your own pace.
Optional: Huayna Picchu Mountain If you reserved the add-on ticket, this is your moment for the legendary climb up Huayna Picchu Mountain (8,835 ft / 2,693 m). It is a challenging hike that offers unparalleled aerial views of the citadel. (Remember, this ticket must be booked months in advance).
We recommend taking your bus back down to Aguas Calientes at least 2 hours before your train departure.
Your return train journey to Ollantaytambo (approx. 2 hours) will take you back through the Sacred Valley. At the Ollantaytambo station, our Ali Peru Treks staff will be waiting for you (easily identified with our logo).
We will continue in our private transport back to Cusco. We will close out this unforgettable adventure with a premium door-to-door service, dropping you off at the comfort of your hotel.
- Main Destination: Machu Picchu Citadel
- Altitude (Machu Picchu): 7,972 ft / 2,430 m
- Altitude (Huayna Picchu): 8,835 ft / 2,693 m (Optional)
- Circuit Included: Circuit 2 (Classic/Complete)
- Guided Tour: 2 hours
- Train (Aguas Calientes > Ollanta): Approx. 2 hours
- Transport (Ollanta > Cusco): Approx. 2 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast (at hotel)
- Accommodation: N/A (Return to Cusco)
Includes
Includes
- Briefing: The pre-route briefing or meeting takes place at your hotel the day before the route at 17:00 pm and lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour. During this session, you will meet the guide who will accompany you on the route, who will answer all your questions and resolve your doubts.
- Professional guides: specialized in hiking and selected from accredited universities. Our guides are fluent in English and have between five and twelve years of experience in different excursions in the region. They are skilled in handling groups under pressure and are experts in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities and bring with them their cultural heritage. Together with the rest of the field team, our guides will make your trip a unique experience.
- Chefs: Trained in local gastronomy schools, they are experts in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian foods, international food styles and vegetarian cuisine. They have a deep knowledge of the nutritional properties of their meals and are experts in cooking as fast as possible. And all this, of course, with special emphasis on hygiene and food safety during preparation.
- Porters: Responsible for carrying all the group gear and your 7kg of personal items. They come from various rural communities from the Cusco region, where they still maintain their local customs and traditions. We provide them with accident insurance during the trek and with suitable clothing that allows them to work in comfort. Our porters are also hosts responsible for making your journey an unforgettable experience.
- Horse and llama: we include in this tour horses and llamas to carry your luggage during the tour, so you can enjoy your trip at ease.
- Emergency horse in this lares trek tour is included an additional horse for our clients in case they need support in the trek due to fatigue or other circumstances.
- Hotel: The trek will include two nights camping and 2 nights in a hotel in ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu). We include a 3 star hotel. Your reserved hotel is factored into the cost of your final bill and upgrades are always possible.
- Tents: They are high mountain tents. They withstand the inclemencies of winter, including torrential rains and snow. Each tent is for 2 people,in one tent sleeps 2 people, but if you want a private tent you have to pay a supplement.
- Sponge sleeping pads: Our sponge mattresses guarantee a warm and comfortable night’s sleep on the trail.
- Dining tent: Our spacious dining tent, complete with chairs and a table, gives us all the space we need to enjoy our meals regardless of the weather outside.
- Cooking tent: Comes with all the necessary equipment for our chef to prepare your meals (gas stove and all food preparation utensils).
- Bathroom Tents: These tents have toilets with water pumps, and we will install them at all our lunch spots and campsites.
- Transportation: Bus from Cusco to the trailhead in the town of Lares.
- Local bus from Huaran to Ollantaytambo.
- EXPEDITION Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (day 4).
- Bus down from Machupicchu to Aguas Calientes (day 4)
- Round trip train ticket (Expedition class) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo after your visit to Machu Picchu.
- Bus from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
- Emergency equipment: Satellite phones Each of our groups carries a satellite phone with them at all times to communicate with our office in case of emergency or for clients to use in case they have a personal emergency anywhere in the world.
- Radios: They have a range of 10 km and 8 frequencies for our guides, cooks and porters to communicate with each other.
- First aid kit: We carry a full complement of over-the-counter medications, including alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, tincture of iodine, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, adhesive medical tape, surgical gloves, analgesics for muscle and stomach pains, antipyretics, anti-allergics, anti-inflammatories, oral rehydration salts, laxatives, burn cream, splints, blood pressure devices, and thermometers. If you take prescription medication, you may bring your own medications.
- Entrance ticket
- Lares Hot Springs: you will have the opportunity to bathe in the thermo-medicinal baths of Lares before starting the trekking.
- Maras salt mines: after saying goodbye to our staff you will continue the tour only with your guide and visit the salt mines.
- Machu Picchu: after 3 days of trekking it is finally time to visit the wonder of Machu Picchu.
- Water: From the first lunch to the last breakfast, we will provide you with all the water you need. The water will be provided boiled and purified, then cooled before distributing it. You must bring your water bottle and/or camelback. We recommend bringing about 3 liters. You will be able to refill water at each meal.
- Small detail: We believe it is the attention to the small details that makes the difference. Each hiker receives a small pillow to sleep on, a foam mattress for insulation, a backpack cover to protect your gear while hiking and a rain poncho. We try to improve so you have a better experience.
Not Include
- Rent: On this tour each hiker needs a sleeping bag to sleep in at the campsites and walking poles (with rubber tips) are optional but recommended. If you do not wish to bring any of the above, they are all available for rent:
- Sleeping bag: $25
- Inflatable mattresses:20
- Trekking poles(pair): $20
- Lunch: Lunch after the tour in machupicchu is not included.
- Huayna Picchu mountain. it is a 40 minute hike that it will take you to get to the top and another 40 minutes it will take you to go back down. The tour would be done after your tour of Machu Picchu. The additional cost is $70 per person. Upgrades should be made at least one month in advance, due to the popularity and crowdedness of the place. Now regarding the weather, we can not do anything because it does not depend on us.
Packing List
Packing List
The secret to enjoying the Andes is the layering system. Within a single day, you can experience radiant high-altitude sunshine and sub-freezing temperatures as soon as the sun sets. Here is how to strategically organize your gear.
THE DAYPACK (You Carry It)
Your daypack should be between 25 to 35 liters. This is where you keep everything you need to access during the hike:
- Documentation: Original physical passport (Mandatory for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu checkpoints).
- Hydration: Reusable water bottle or Camelbak with a 2-liter capacity. (Zero Plastic Policy).
- Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen (50+), lip balm with protection, and UV-filter sunglasses.
- Rain Gear: Quality rain poncho or a professional Gore-Tex technical jacket.
- Essentials: Camera, personal snacks (dried fruits, energy bars), toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.
- Cash: Peruvian Soles for tips or small purchases within the local communities.
THE DUFFEL BAG
Ali Perú Treks will provide this bag during your briefing. The weight limit is strictly 7 kg (15.4 lbs).
- Sleeping Gear: 4-season sleeping bag (available for rent) and an inflatable mattress (highly recommended for rent).
- The Layering System:
- Base Layer: Synthetic or Merino wool t-shirts (avoid cotton).
- Mid Layer: A fleece jacket or a warm sweater.
- Outer Layer: A professional down jacket for the freezing nights at the campsites.
- Pants: 2 pairs of hiking pants (one worn, one in the bag).
- Footwear: Broken-in hiking boots (do not wear them for the first time on the trek) and a pair of sandals or lightweight shoes to rest your feet at the camp.
- Hygiene: Quick-dry towel, toothbrush, deodorant, and wet wipes for your “cat bath.”
- Accessories: 3 to 4 pairs of thick wool socks, a wool hat (beanie), thermal gloves, and a swimsuit (for the Lares Hot Springs).
TECHNICAL GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
- Trekking Poles: Highly recommended with rubber tips. They help reduce impact on your knees by up to 30% during the long descents on Days 2 and 3.
- Headlamp: Essential for moving around the campsite at night and for the early departure toward Machu Picchu.
- Power Bank: There are no electrical outlets in the mountains (Days 1–2). Ensure you have extra charge for your phone and camera.
PRO PACKING TIPS BY ALI PERÚ TREKS
- Keep it Dry: Store your clothes inside plastic bags or “dry bags” within your duffel to ensure everything stays dry in case of rain.
- Wear Your Boots: If you are flying to Cusco, we recommend wearing your hiking boots on the plane. If your luggage is delayed, boots are the one item that is nearly impossible to replace quickly.
- Optimization: Remember that on Day 4, your duffel bag is sent directly to Aguas Calientes via train. You will not have access to it until you arrive at your hotel in the evening.
Travel Info
Travel Information
Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail
This guide unifies all operational protocols and the rich cultural heritage of our 5-day expedition. At Ali Perú Treks, we transform a simple hike into a profound immersion into the soul of the Andes.
The Starting Point: Mandatory Pre-Trek Briefing
Your expedition officially begins the night before departure.
- Time and Location: 6:00 PM at our main office in Cusco.
- Purpose: You will meet your lead guide, receive your official duffel bag, and coordinate the exact pickup time from your hotel.
- Important: Attendance is mandatory to ensure your safety and the correct management of government permits.
Fauna & Flora: The Andean Ecosystem
Our route traverses everything from glaciers to the high cloud forest, offering a spectacular display of biodiversity:
- South American Camelids (Llamas & Alpacas): During the first 3 days, you will hike alongside these guardians of the Andes. You will learn the key differences: the Alpaca is raised primarily for its fine fiber (wool), while the Llama, larger and stronger, has been the historical pack animal of the Incas.
- Avifauna: Keep an eye on the sky to spot the majestic Andean Condor at the Pachacutec Pass. In the high-altitude forests, we will search for the Giant Hummingbird and the Torrent Duck in the frigid mountain rivers.
- Botanical Wealth: We will cross forests of Polylepis (Queñua), unique trees with twisted trunks and paper-like bark. Upon entering the Short Inca Trail (Day 4), the landscape shifts to a lush cloud forest adorned with exotic orchids and giant ferns.
Living Culture: The Quechua Heritage
Unlike other routes, Lares offers a genuine encounter with living Quechua-speaking communities:
- Ancestral Traditions: In Cancha Cancha and Quishuarani, we will witness Living Culture. You will see women weaving with ancient techniques and using natural dyes derived from local plants and minerals.
- Cultural Mediation: Our guides are native Quechua speakers, allowing for a genuine and respectful interaction with the locals, far removed from “staged tourist shows.”
Equipment & Logistics Support
Duffel Bag Protocol (7 kg / 15.4 lbs):
- Days 1–3: Your bags are transported by horses and mules.
- Day 4 (Short Inca Trail): For your total comfort, we send your duffel bags directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes via train. You will hike the final stretch with only your daypack, without unnecessary weight or waiting.
Sleeping Gear: We include high-density foam pads. Inflatable mattresses are NOT included, but we highly recommend them for rent to guarantee proper rest during nights where temperatures can drop to 23°F (-5°C).
Safety & Tech: We include an Emergency Saddle Horse (Days 1–3) and communication via satellite phone for total security in areas without cell service.
Health, Booking & Ethics
- Acclimatization: It is vital to arrive in Cusco 2 to 3 days prior to adapt to the high altitude (15,420 ft). Our guides carry medicinal oxygen and perform constant health checks.
- Reservations: A $200 USD non-refundable deposit is required to secure the strictly limited Short Inca Trail permits.
- Social Responsibility: Please do not give candy or money directly to children. we foster a positive impact by channeling donations of educational materials through local schools to protect the health and dignity of the communities.
Faqs
Frequently asked questions
How do I secure my spot?
Click the “BOOK NOW” button, select your departure date, and fill out the form with your exact passport information.
What is the deposit requirement?
We require an initial deposit of $200 per person. This payment is non-refundable, as it is immediately used to purchase non-transferable Short Inca Trail permits, train tickets, and hotel bookings.
How do I pay the remaining balance?
The balance must be settled up to 2 days before your departure. If paying in cash (USD or Soles), you may do so during your mandatory security briefing 1 day before the trek.
Can I book Huayna Picchu?
Yes. Our platform offers Huayna Picchu as an optional add-on for Day 5. Permits sell out months in advance, so booking 3 to 4 months early is essential.
When is the best time for this trek?
The dry season (April to October) is the premier window. Rainfall is minimal, and the weather is predictable. The rainy season (November to March) makes Andean terrain slippery and more challenging.
How long should I acclimate in Cusco?
We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco 2 to 3 days before your trek. Since we reach altitudes of 15,516 ft (4,700 m) at Pachacutec Pass, your body needs time to adjust. Drink plenty of water and rest.
Can I be picked up in the Sacred Valley?
Yes. We can pick you up from Urubamba or pisac. Note that pickup time will be approximately 1 hour after the scheduled Cusco departure.
What about my main luggage?
Only essentials go on the trek. Your main luggage should remain in Cusco, either at your hotel or at the Ali Perú Treks office, where we provide a secure storage room free of charge.
Who carries my gear?
On the Lares segment (Days 1–3), we use horses and mules for camping gear and your 7 kg (15.4 lbs) duffel bag. On Day 4 (Inca Trail), professional porters will manage the logistics as horses are prohibited on that trail.
Is an Emergency Horse provided?
Yes. For the hiking portion in Lares (Days 1-3), a saddle horse accompanies the group to assist anyone feeling unwell or exhausted.
Are Trekking Poles necessary?
Highly recommended. The terrain can be uneven, and poles significantly reduce impact on your knees during long descents. These can be rented in Cusco 1 day before departure.
What is the bathroom situation?
At campsites, Ali Perú Treks provides a private, clean, portable chemical toilet and a dedicated toilet tent for our group’s exclusive use. There are no showers until you reach your hotel on Night 3 and Night 4.
Is drinking water provided?
Yes. Our kitchen team boils, filters, and cools all drinking water. You can refill your reusable bottles at every meal.
Can you accommodate my diet?
Our expert mountain chefs cater to almost any requirement: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or nut allergies. Please inform us at the time of booking.
Will I interact with local communities?
Absolutely. This is the highlight of the Lares route. You will visit traditional weaving villages like Cancha Cancha and Quishuarani. Our guides facilitate respectful interactions with local families.
Is a guide required?
Yes. The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail can only be hiked with an authorized agency and a certified professional guide.
How should I handle donations?
As an ethical operator, we advise against giving candy or money directly to children. If you wish to donate supplies (pencils, notebooks, fruit), please give them to the school teacher or parents to distribute.
Does my trip support the local economy?
Yes. Beyond fair wages for our staff, we camp in designated areas and pay fees that directly benefit the high-Andean families living along the route.
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