IMPORTANT INFO

Please review the following details carefully as they will address your questions regarding our services and the Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!

THE BRIEFING

The briefing will occur the night before the trek at 6pm at our office located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 207 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Certainly! During the Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel, whichever is more convenient.

HOW TO BOOK THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL

FIRST, to book your Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, please complete our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or follow this link: BOOK NOW.

Be prepared with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail permits and entrances without this information:

• Full name (exactly as on your passport)
• Gender
• Passport number
• Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
• Nationality

SECOND, a deposit of $211.00 USD per person is required to purchase a permit for the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail. You can make the deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our homepage or on our booking page.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco. Numerous ATMs are available in the historical center for cash withdrawals. Alternatively, you can pay by VISA or PAYPAL online, but a 5.5% service fee will apply. To pay via PAYPAL, log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address incasexpeditions@gmail.com.

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Unfortunately, no. Once tickets are purchased, the government does not permit changes, so we cannot alter departure dates. Permits and entrance tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. If you cancel your Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the deposit is non-refundable.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?

Yes! You must bring your original passport, and it must match the passport number you provided for booking your Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail permits and reservations. If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, send us your old passport details to secure your permit. We can update it once you receive your new passport number or updated name for a fee of $25 USD per person. Provide copies of both your old and new passports for this change. If you choose not to pay this fee, bring both passports to Peru. You can enter Peru with your new passport but must show both old and new passports for entry to the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, or the train.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

The weather can be very unpredictable, so dressing in layers is advised to adjust to rapidly changing conditions.

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

Generally, if you exercise regularly and spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you should acclimate normally within 24 hours to 2 days. The recommended remedies for altitude sickness include WATER, COCA TEA, and OXYGEN if needed. Our guides are trained to assist with altitude sickness. For more details, refer to our FAQ section on Altitude Sickness.

HIKING TO LA RES TREK MACHU PICCHU

The evening before your trek, you will receive a SMALL DUFFEL BAG for your clothing for the next four days. The weight limit is 7kg/14lbs. Pack horses will carry your duffel bag along with food and camping gear. Note that you won’t have access to your duffel bag’s contents until the end of each day as the horses will be ahead of the group. You will need a day backpack (30 to 40L) for personal items such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water.

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 39 km hike through the Andes, reaching an altitude of 4,700m/15,419ft. It is a challenging trek, and being in good physical condition is necessary. Regular exercise and a moderate fitness level are recommended. Preparation should include walking 15km a day or attending a fitness club leading up to the trek. Acclimatization to the altitude is also crucial, so spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) before starting the trek.

ARE THERE TOILETS ON THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

Our clients highly appreciate our private, clean, and sanitary toilet facilities. INCA EXPEDITIONS provides an individual tent with a camping toilet. The toilet is set up a comfortable distance from the campsite and is readily accessible and clean at night. It is much cleaner than the government-provided facilities.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE TREK?

If you are unable to complete the trek due to a health issue, INCA EXPEDITIONS will assist you to the nearest town for transportation help. We carry oxygen for respiratory issues and, in extreme cases, can arrange a helicopter pick-up at your expense (travel insurance required). There are no refunds if you are unable to finish the trek. Typically, those requiring assistance are taken to Ollantaytambo, and if they recover quickly, they can continue to Aguas Calientes (costs borne by the trekker) and visit Machu Picchu as originally planned.

ARE WE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

Yes, at the end of the trek, we will drop you off at your hotel. If you have booked a hotel in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there as well. If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up from there.

TIPPING

If you are satisfied with the services provided, a tip is appreciated, though not required. While it may not be customary in your country, tipping is significant for the staff who will take care of you during the trek. It motivates them to deliver excellent service and is a common practice in many of our destinations. You can tip based on your perception of the service quality and the duration of your trip. Remember, tipping is not compulsory and should be given for exceptional service.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE?

Yes, we are a local, sustainable, and responsible tourism operator that adheres to universal tourism principles: protecting the environment and benefiting local communities by respecting their culture and traditions. We train all our local staff to understand and respect the places and people we interact with.

Overview: Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 4 Days

The Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 4 Days is an adventurous journey through the Andean mountains that combines the cultural richness of the Lares Valley with the historical significance of the Short Inca Trail. This trek allows hikers to explore remote Andean villages, witness traditional Quechua lifestyles, and finish with a rewarding hike along a portion of the iconic Inca Trail, ultimately leading to Machu Picchu.

Weather and Climate on the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail

Daytime Temperatures

During the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 4 Days, daytime temperatures can range between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F), depending on altitude and season. It’s often cool at high elevations but warmer as you descend towards the Inca Trail.

Nighttime Temperatures

Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the higher altitudes of the Lares Valley. Expect temperatures to fall to freezing levels, particularly in camps above 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). Be prepared for cold nights with warm clothing and a high-quality sleeping bag.

Best Time to Hike

The best time to do the 4-Day Lares Trek with Inca Trail is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, you’ll enjoy clear skies and stable weather, which makes hiking more comfortable. The wet season, from November to April, brings more rain and muddy trails, but the landscapes are greener.

Tips for Dressing and Packing for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail

Layering is Key

Since temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, layering your clothing is essential on the 4-Day Inca Trail with Lares Trek. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer like a fleece, and bring a waterproof jacket to protect against rain and wind.

Footwear and Essentials

Sturdy hiking boots are a must for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 4 Days. The trail can be rocky, uneven, and sometimes muddy, so make sure your boots provide good ankle support. Pack trekking poles to help with steep ascents and descents, and include a rain poncho or jacket for sudden downpours.

Other Packing Essentials

A warm sleeping bag rated for cold weather is important for camping at high altitudes. Also, pack sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection at higher altitudes, and insect repellent for the lower sections of the Inca Trail near Machu Picchu. A daypack for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers is essential.

Physical Preparation for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail

Acclimatization

The Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 4 Days reaches altitudes of over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), so acclimatization is crucial. Spend at least two days in Cusco (3,400 meters/11,154 feet) to allow your body to adjust to the altitude before starting the trek. This will reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Fitness Level

This trek is considered moderate, but the high altitudes and long hiking days can be challenging. It’s important to have a good level of physical fitness, so prepare with cardio exercises like hiking, running, or cycling. Leg-strengthening exercises will help you manage the steep sections of the trek.

Hydration and Nutrition

Stay well-hydrated during the 4-Day Lares Trek with Inca Trail by drinking plenty of water throughout the hike. Dehydration can worsen the effects of altitude, so carry a refillable water bottle or hydration pack. Bring energy-rich snacks like dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars to keep your energy levels high.

Health and Safety Recommendations

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can be a concern on the 4-Day Inca Trail with Lares Trek, especially during the Lares section. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. To reduce the risk, hike slowly, drink plenty of water, and take breaks when needed. Chewing coca leaves, a traditional remedy, or bringing altitude sickness medication can help alleviate symptoms.

Vaccinations and Health Precautions

There are no specific vaccinations required for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 4 Days, but it’s always recommended to ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines like hepatitis A, B, and typhoid. Carry a small first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic, and personal medications.

Safety Guidelines

Hiking with a guide is recommended for the 4-Day Lares Trek with Inca Trail, especially for those unfamiliar with high-altitude hiking. Guides provide local knowledge, manage logistics, and ensure your safety throughout the trek. They also handle permits and entry to the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Restrictions and Environmental Considerations

Permits and Regulations

While the Lares section of the trek does not require a special permit, the Inca Trail portion requires a permit that must be booked in advance. These permits are limited, so it’s important to reserve your spot early, especially during peak seasons. Your tour operator will typically manage the permit process.

Environmental Responsibility

During the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 4 Days, it’s important to practice “Leave No Trace” principles. Pack out all trash, stay on the designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging the environment. Respect local communities, their traditions, and the natural surroundings.

Final Recommendations for a Successful Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail

The Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 4 Days offers a perfect combination of cultural exploration and adventure, with the added bonus of visiting Machu Picchu. With proper preparation, respect for local communities, and a well-packed bag, you’ll have an unforgettable experience trekking through the Andes and following the footsteps of the ancient Incas.