Experience Peru’s breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine while exploring the mystical Andes and enchanting Amazon jungles.
The 5-Day Lares Valley Trek combined with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a truly unique adventure. This specially designed route showcases breathtaking landscapes featuring majestic glaciers, vibrant blue lakes, waterfalls, and herds of llamas and alpacas. Experience the rugged wilderness of the Andes like never before! Enjoy a relaxing dip in the Lares Hot Springs before embarking on the historic Inca Trail. Walk the ancient paths of the Incas, visit sacred Inca cities, and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Explore Machu Picchu twice with a 2-hour guided tour and additional free time to discover the wonders of this ancient citadel.
Highlights
Highlights of the Lares Trek 5 Days with Short Inca Trail
Unique Combination of Culture and Adventure: The Lares Trek 5 Days with Short Inca Trail offers a unique blend of cultural immersion in the remote Andean villages of the Lares Valley and the historical significance of the Inca civilization. It’s perfect for travelers looking for both an adventure and a deep connection with local Quechua culture.
Authentic Andean Experience: The trek allows hikers to pass through traditional Andean villages, where they can interact with local communities and witness their daily life. This provides a rare opportunity to see the ancient customs and weaving traditions of the Quechua people that have been preserved for centuries.
Spectacular Andean Scenery: The Lares portion of the trek offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush valleys. The highest point of the trek reaches 4,400 meters (14,436 feet), offering panoramic views of the Andes and opportunities to see local wildlife such as alpacas and llamas.
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: The final two days of the trek incorporate a section of the famous Short Inca Trail, leading to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) with the first glimpse of Machu Picchu. This is a rewarding way to finish the trek, combining both nature and history.
Varied Trekking Routes: The Lares Trek 5 Days covers approximately 40 km (24.85 miles), with varied terrain that includes steep ascents, rolling hills, and the classic stone-paved paths of the Inca Trail. Each day offers a new landscape and a different trekking experience.
Challenging yet Accessible: While the trek involves high altitudes and long days of hiking, it is rated as a 4 out of 5 in difficulty. Hikers with moderate fitness levels and proper acclimatization can complete the trek. The challenge is well-rewarded by the stunning scenery and cultural encounters.
Less Crowded Route: The Lares Trek is far less crowded than the traditional Inca Trail, allowing for a more peaceful and personal experience with nature and local communities. This makes it an excellent option for those seeking solitude and a connection with the environment.
Acclimatization in Cusco: Due to the high altitudes reached during the trek, proper acclimatization is essential. Most itineraries suggest spending a few days in Cusco (3,400 meters/11,154 feet) before starting the trek to reduce the risk of altitude sickness and to prepare for the higher elevations of the trek.
Cultural and Historical Sites: Along with the traditional Andean villages, trekkers will also visit important archaeological sites along the Short Inca Trail, such as Wiñay Wayna, which adds a historical dimension to the trekking experience.
Sustainable and Responsible Tourism: Many tour operators offering the Lares Trek 5 Days with Short Inca Trail are focused on sustainable tourism. They work closely with local communities, often employing local guides and porters, and contribute to the preservation of traditional practices and environmental conservation.
Trip Details
Activities: Trekking, Cultural Exploration
Difficulty Levels: 4 of 5
Departures Day: Daily Departures
Sites to Visit: Lares Valley, Ollantaytambo, Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu
Hike Distance: 40km (24.85 miles)
Minimum Altitude: 2,100msnm (6,890 feet)
Maximum Altitude: 4,400msnm (14,436 feet)
Minimum Age: 12 Years
Altitude Acclimatization: Yes, required
Recommended Season: April to October
Tour Type: Adventure and Cultural Trek
Itinerary
DAY 1:
Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha
Your adventure begins early with a 6:00 am pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We drive to Huaran to start our hike, meeting your horsemen and horses. Prepare yourself for the trek as we ascend gradually over the next 3 hours towards Cancha Cancha. Enjoy lunch by the river, energizing you with a delicious meal prepared by our trekking chef.
Cancha Cancha (3,900m/12,800ft) is one of the most secluded and traditional communities, self-sufficient for centuries. Recently connected to electricity in December 2019, it remains largely unchanged. After setting up camp and enjoying afternoon tea, visit a local family to learn about traditional Andean life, with your guide translating. In the evening, your guide will point out the Inca constellations that were crucial for agricultural practices.
Meals Included: Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner Accommodation: Camping facilities with bathroom building Distance: 9kms / 5.6 miles Time: Approximately 3.5 hours Difficulty: Moderate
DAY 2:
Cancha Cancha – Quiswarani
Start your day with a hot tea or coffee before breakfast. Today’s 7-hour hike begins with an intense ascent, reaching the highest point at Pachacutec Pass (4,500m/14,800ft). Enjoy stunning views of glaciers, remote lakes, and alpine fauna such as alpacas and the Caracara falcons.
After reaching the summit, descend for 3 hours to Quiswarani (3,700m/12,139ft). Along the isolated trail, observe indigenous highland people herding llamas and alpacas in traditional attire. Engage with the locals in Quechua, the Inca language, with the help of your guide. Arrive at a campsite near seven beautiful waterfalls, where you’ll relax with hot drinks and appetizers before dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner Accommodation: Camping facilities with bathroom building Distance: 12kms / 7.5 miles Time: Approximately 7 hours Difficulty: Challenging
DAY 3:
Quiswarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo
Experience the most scenic day of the trek as we ascend for 3 hours to Willqaqasa Pass (4,200m/13,779ft), offering panoramic views of glacial lakes and majestic mountains like Colquecruz and Pitusiray. Traverse the Puna grasslands and agricultural lands before descending to Cuncani. Visit a local school if time allows and interact with the indigenous children.
From Cuncani, travel by vehicle through fertile valleys to the Lares Hot Springs (3,100m/10,170ft). Soak in the volcanic hot springs for an hour, enjoy lunch, and bid farewell to our chef and horsemen. After lunch, take a private transport to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll have dinner and stay overnight at a local hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner Accommodation:
2* Accommodation: Veronica View Hotel
3* Accommodation: El Alberge or Pakaritampu Distance: 15kms / 9.3 miles Time: Approximately 6 hours Difficulty: Moderate
Begin early with a 5:30 am pickup and train ride from Ollantaytambo. The train departs at 6:10 am, giving you an hour to enjoy breakfast and scenic views (breakfast not included). You’ll disembark at Km104, where your trek starts (2,000m/6,560 ft). Cross the Urubamba River and hike up, with stops to admire the views and a visit to the first Inca site.
After a gentle ascent, reach the impressive Wiñay Wayna ruins (2,600m/8,500ft). Explore the ruins and enjoy the lush jungle environment. Continue to the Sun Gate for your first sight of Machu Picchu. Descend into the citadel for a guided tour and some free time to capture stunning photos of Machu Picchu. Finally, take the bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner and relaxation.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes Accommodation: 3* Accommodation: Ferre´ Hotel Machu Picchu Distance: 12 kms / 7.5 miles Time: Approximately 6 hours Difficulty: Moderate
DAY 5:
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
This is the highlight of your trip! After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to catch the sunrise. Your guide will provide a 2-hour tour of the citadel, showcasing its key features.
After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and potentially some last-minute shopping or a visit to the museum or hot springs. Board the Expedition train at 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm for the return journey to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the scenic views of the Urubamba River and Wiñay Wayna along the way. From Ollantaytambo, a private vehicle will transport you back to Cusco, arriving by 7:00 pm.
Meal Included: Breakfast Difficulty: Easy
Note: The 2-Day Inca Trail follows Circuit #3; additional permits are needed for other circuits. You may upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $67 USD. Early trains and Huayna Picchu Mountain hikes depend on availability and should be requested at the time of booking.
Inclusions
Included:
Transfer from the airport to your hotel
Private transportation from the hotel to the Huaran trailhead
Licensed guide fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua
Round trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
2 bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back to Aguas Calientes
Admission to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex
Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail National Park
2 nights in a hotel with private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi, storage, and buffet breakfast (applicable only if you choose the option that includes hotels)
4-person igloo tents (for only 2 people)
Camping pillow and foam mattress
Delicious meals during the 4 days as outlined in the itinerary
Cook and cooking equipment
Horsemen and mules to carry all camping and personal equipment (7 kilograms of personal items, such as extra clothes and sleeping bags, will be carried by our mules) (applicable only to the Lares Trek portion)
Provision of a horse in case of emergency (with helmet) to ensure that all participants can complete the trek (only on the Lares portion of the trek)
First-aid kit, including emergency oxygen tank
Boiled water to refill your drinking bottles
Guided tour in Machu Picchu
Chef, cooking equipment, and kitchen tent
Transfer back to Cusco for the group
Local interactions with local children and the community
Not Included:
Sleeping Bag: $20 USD per person per trek (clean and warm)
Air Mattress: $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (professional poles that can be extended)
Personal Tent: $30 USD (please request when booking your trek)
Vistadome Train Upgrade: $67 USD per person (return trip only)
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (please request when booking your trek)
Optional Upgrades:
Tips for the crew, guide, cook, and porters of INCA EXPEDITIONS
Huayna Picchu Mountain is an optional trek within the Machu Picchu Citadel, usually done on your own after your Machu Picchu tour. If you want a guided hike, please request in advance, and an extra cost will apply.
What to Bring
PACKING LIST:
What to Take:
Original passport (matching booking)
Valid student card (if applicable)
Good daypack (30-40L)
Water storage (2-3L reusable bottles)
Comfortable hiking boots
Sleeping bag (can be rented)
Headlamp
Toilet paper
Rain gear
Warm clothes, including down jacket
Waterproof gloves
Comfortable camp shoes
Quick-dry towel
Small bottle of soap
Battery charger
Large plastic bags (provided)
What to Put in Your Duffel Bag:
2 t-shirts
2 hiking pants
4 sets of undergarments
3 sets of hiking socks
Bathing suit
2 fleece or thermals
Warm clothes
Waterproof gloves
Comfortable camp shoes
Quick-dry towel
Small bottle of soap
Sleeping bag (at least -15ºC)
Toiletries:
Face moisturizer
Hand sanitizer
Wet wipes
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Personal medications
First aid kit
What to Put in Your Backpack:
Water
Sun hat
Sunscreen
Headlamp
Wool hat
Rain gear
Fleece
Snacks
Gloves
Camera
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and waste bag
Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask!
About ISIC Card
Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu
To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:
Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
The name of the university
The student’s name and photo
A valid expiration date
ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore
Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount
Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:
The traveler is older than 25
The ID is expired
The ID does not have an expiration date
ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.
This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Why to Choose
Why choose “INCA´S EXPEDITIONS”?
“INCAS EXPEDITIONS” is a 100% Peruvian local company and tour operator in Cusco, with many years of experience in hikes, adventure tours, and travel packages. We are a 100% local company.
Our dream as a local company is to offer personalized travel and hiking experiences, operated solely by local professional staff, focusing on a PERSONALIZED and HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE.
We are proud of our reputation as a travel operating agency, in addition to practicing RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE actions with the environment and local people.
We consider our staff as family and guarantee them a fair salary. We are very proud of our team! Without their support, we could not offer the quality of service that hundreds of our travelers have enjoyed.
At “INCAS EXPEDITIONS,” we are aware that our reputation and what our passengers say are crucial for our travelers to trust their next vacations; you can check the reviews our travelers leave on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google; in an honest and reliable operator to create your adventure in Peru.
We offer small groups of travelers.
To offer a more personalized service at “INCAS EXPEDITIONS,” we maintain a limit of 8 people for each of our groups. This distinguishes us from other companies that operate with larger groups.
About our tour guides
We are very proud of our guides. They are experts and professionals, fluent in English. They are experts and knowledgeable about the routes, and they are passionate about Inca heritage and history. Our guides are dedicated to their continuous personal and professional development, researching to offer you accurate and recognized theories about Inca and Andean culture. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with degrees in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.
About our treatment of Inca Trail porters
Hiking with “INCAS EXPEDITIONS” is an uplifting experience, we prioritize your comfort and enjoyment throughout the hike, and you will have the assistance of our porters. You will interact with local people, explore incredible sites, and rediscover ancient Inca ancestral towns. Our porters carry your gear, prepare your meals, set up our camp tents, and take care of you while you relax.
We provide our porters for free with: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable travel bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. All are hired from isolated communities, improving their economic circumstances and supporting the education of their children. We treat all our porters like family!
Our team
Our team (guides, cooks, porters, muleteers) and our equipment make “INCAS EXPEDITIONS” stand out among our competitors. On our adventure hikes, we include:
Our tents: Enjoy a good rest in our 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents. Our tents are for 4 people, but only 2 sleep in each, providing space for greater comfort and storage. They have a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Our foam mats: Separate and insulate from the ground.
Air mattresses: Available for rent for $20 USD.
Kitchen and dining tents: Used as a meeting room during meals, ideal for relaxing and chatting.
Tables and chairs: In the dining area, adapted to the day’s weather.
Travel bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Others: Pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and chemical toilets are provided during the trek.
Our commitment to social projection
At “INCAS EXPEDITIONS,” we have always believed in giving back to isolated local communities. As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we carry out various social projects and always hire local people.
We are very proud to support our local people. We not only employ them but also support their families, contributing to a holistic approach with our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones.
Pricing
BEST PRICE FOR THE LARES TREK + SHORT INCA TRAIL:
$827 per person with 3* hotels
$757 USD per person with 2* hotels
$697 USD without hotels (you need to book the hotel yourself)
Private Price:
$150 USD extra per person.
DISCOUNTS:
Ages 18 to 25: $30 USD. Provide student card details including university name, student name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval.
Under 18 years old: $30 USD. Send a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $40 USD. Send a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Group of 5 or more: $30 USD. Book the trek together at the same time.
Extras:
Sleeping Bag: $20 USD per person per trek (clean and warm)
Air Mattress: $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (professional poles that can be extended)
Personal Tent: $30 USD (for single trekkers only)
Additional Night in Aguas Calientes: From $60 USD (depending on availability)
Vistadome Train Upgrade: $67 USD per person (return trip only)
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (please request when booking your trek)
Single Supplement: $40 USD for 3* accommodations for single travelers
Note: The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available year-round, except for February when it is closed for maintenance.
ADDED VALUES FOR FREE:
Comfortable foam mattresses for every hiker
Camping pillow
Transfer from the airport to the hotel (only in Cusco)
Duffel bags, plastic liner bags, and extra blanket for the tent
Additional Features Included in the Price:
Extra Pack Horse: A porter will carry your gear up to 7 kg / 14 lbs (sleeping bag, mattress, clothes, etc.) during the Lares Trek portion.
Cold Boiled Water: Provided along the trek; hot and cold water available at each meal time.
Oxygen Tank: Available in case of emergency.
Emergency Horse: Included, which can be ridden if you feel tired or sick (Lares Trek portion only).
Best Itinerary: Operated by Lares Trek specialists only.
EXCELLENT
Based on 2 reviews
Russ M
2024-09-13
Verified
This was the best and most amazing tour.
This was the best and most amazing tour. I wonder how I hadn't come across it sooner. Everything they did was perfect, from the accommodation to the hospitality—they did a great job.
Nenuz M
2024-09-12
Verified
We both enjoy this tour together with our kids.
We both enjoy this tour together with our kids. It was an awesome feeling and experience. Guide were friendlily from the beginning to the end and we were took to my place. They're the best.
Aditional information
IMPORTANT INFO:
Briefing: Held the night before the trek at 6 pm at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La Casa Del Abuelo shopping center.
Luggage Storage: Main luggage can be stored at the office or hotel.
Booking:
Fill out the booking form by clicking on “BOOK NOW” on the homepage or use the provided link.
Provide personal information for each participant (full name, gender, passport number, DOB, nationality).
A deposit of $211.00 USD per person is required to purchase permits. Deposit can be made via VISA or PAYPAL on the homepage.
If you need any additional details or assistance with your booking, feel free to ask!
BALANCE PAYMENT:
To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you can pay your balance in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco. ATMs are available in the historical center for withdrawing money.
Alternatively, you can pay by VISA or PAYPAL online, but a 5.5% service fee will be charged. For PAYPAL payments, use our email address: incasexpeditions@gmail.com.
STUDENT DISCOUNT:
Eligibility: Must be under 18 at the time of the trek or have a valid student ID if 18 or older. University students need to provide a valid university ID for the current academic year.
Discount Amounts:
Students aged 11-17: $30 USD discount
Children aged 2-11: $40 USD discount
Children aged 0-2: Free
Required Documentation: A copy of the passport and student ID (or university ID for students 18+). Send the documents to info@incasexpeditions.com.
CHANGING DEPARTURE DATE:
Once Inca Trail tickets are purchased, changes to departure dates are not allowed. Permits and entrance tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. Cancellations result in loss of the deposit.
ORIGINAL PASSPORT REQUIREMENT:
You must bring your original passport, which should match the number used to book permits. If you renew or change your passport, send your old passport information to update the booking. A fee of $25 USD per person applies for changes. Alternatively, bring both old and new passports to Peru.
WEATHER ON THE LARES TREK:
Weather is unpredictable. Dress in layers to adjust to changing conditions.
ALTITUDE SICKNESS:
Exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for acclimatization. Remedies include water, coca tea, and oxygen (provided by guides if needed).
GROUP SIZE:
Maximum group size is 8. Typical groups are between 2-6 people, with a focus on small, private groups.
COOKS/PACK HORSES:
1 cook per group. Number of pack horses varies with group size:
2 trekkers: 4 horses
4 trekkers: 6 horses
6 trekkers: 9 horses
8 trekkers: 12 horses
HIKING TO LARES TREK:
You will receive a small duffel bag to pack up to 7 kg / 14 lbs. A daypack (30-50L) is needed for personal belongings. The duffel bag will be carried by porters and not accessible until the end of each day.
TREK DIFFICULTY:
The Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail is a 39 km hike with a maximum altitude of 4,700 m / 15,419 ft. Moderate fitness and acclimatization are necessary. Prepare by walking 15 km daily or similar exercises and spending 2-3 days in Cusco.
TOILETS ON THE LARES TREK:
Clean, private camping toilets are provided. For more information, see the picture of toilet tent. Hot showers and thermal pools are available on the 3rd day at Lares Hot Springs.
IF UNABLE TO FINISH THE TREK:
Assistance will be provided to the nearest town for help. Extreme cases may require helicopter evacuation (at your expense). No refunds for incomplete treks. If recovered quickly, you may continue to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu.
HOTEL DROP-OFF:
Drop-off at your hotel or Sacred Valley hotel (Ollantaytambo or Urubamba) is included. If staying in Ollantaytambo before the trek, pick-up will be provided.
TRAIN DEPARTURE:
Train times are usually at 14:55 or 15:20, depending on availability.
VISTADOME UPGRADE:
The Vistadome train upgrade is $67 USD. Features include nicer seats, panoramic windows, snacks, and a dance show. Request in advance.
TIPPING:
Tips are appreciated but not compulsory. They reflect the quality of service and are an important part of the tourism industry.
SUSTAINABILITY:
INCA EXPEDITIONS is committed to sustainable tourism, respecting the environment and local communities.A
Faqs
What is the 5-Day Short Inca Trail with Lares Trek?
The 5-Day Short Inca Trail with Lares Trek is a trekking experience that combines the scenic Lares Trek 5 Days with a section of the famous Inca Trail. This trek allows you to explore remote Andean villages in the Lares Valley while ending with a hike along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
How difficult is the 5-Day Lares Trek?
The 5-Day Lares Trek is considered a moderate to challenging hike due to high altitudes and long trekking days. The Lares Valley portion reaches heights over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), so proper acclimatization and fitness preparation are necessary for a comfortable experience.
What is the best time to do the 5-Day Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail?
The best time to hike the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 5 Days is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the weather is more stable, with less rain and clearer skies. The rainy season from November to April can make the trails muddy but offers greener landscapes.
Do I need a permit for the 5-Day Short Inca Trail with Lares Trek?
You don’t need a permit for the Lares portion of the trek, but the Inca Trail section requires a permit. These permits are limited and must be booked in advance, often months ahead. Your tour operator will typically handle the permit booking for the Inca Trail portion.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the 5-Day Lares Hike to Machu Picchu?
During the 5-Day Lares Hike to Machu Picchu, you will experience diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, high-altitude lakes, and traditional Andean villages. The Inca Trail portion features cloud forests and ancient Inca ruins, culminating in the breathtaking arrival at Machu Picchu.
How should I prepare physically for the Lares Trek 5 Days with Short Inca Trail?
To prepare for the Lares Trek 5 Days with Short Inca Trail, it’s important to have a good level of fitness. Cardiovascular training such as hiking, running, or cycling will help with endurance, while leg-strengthening exercises will prepare you for steep ascents and descents.
How long do you hike each day on the 5-Day Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail?
On the Lares Trek 5 Days, you typically hike for 6-8 hours per day. The distances and difficulty vary, with the Lares portion featuring longer, more challenging hikes at higher altitudes, while the Short Inca Trail section is shorter but still includes steep climbs.
What should I pack for the 5-Day Short Inca Trail with Lares Trek?
For the 5-Day Lares Trek, pack layers of clothing for varying temperatures, sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, a rain poncho, and a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures. Sun protection, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle are also essential.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 5 Days?
Altitude sickness is a potential concern on the Lares Trek 5 Days due to the high altitudes, especially in the Lares Valley. Spending a few days acclimatizing in Cusco and hiking at a slow pace can help minimize the risk. It’s important to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed.
What cultural experiences are part of the 5-Day Lares Trek?
The 5-Day Lares Trek offers rich cultural experiences as you pass through traditional Quechua villages. You’ll have opportunities to interact with local communities, witness traditional weaving practices, and learn about the ancient customs that have been preserved in the remote Andean regions.
Travel Guide
Overview: 5-Day Short Inca Trail with Lares Trek
The 5-Day Short Inca Trail with Lares Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through remote Andean landscapes and rich Inca history. Combining the less-traveled Lares Trek 5 Days with a section of the classic Inca Trail, this journey provides a unique mix of cultural encounters in the Lares Valley and an iconic visit to Machu Picchu. The Lares Trek 5 Days with Short Inca Trail is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of nature, culture, and history.
Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 5 Days
Weather and Climate on the 5-Day Lares Trek
Daytime Temperatures
During the 5-Day Lares Trek, daytime temperatures can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), depending on altitude and season. The days can feel warm under the Andean sun, but it’s important to be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially at high altitudes.
Lares Trek 5 Days
Nighttime Temperatures
Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher camps in the Lares Valley, often reaching freezing levels. Make sure to bring proper gear, such as a cold-weather sleeping bag and thermal clothing, for the cold nights.
Best Time to Hike
The ideal time for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 5 Days is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, the weather is more stable with less rainfall, making the trek more comfortable. The rainy season, from November to April, brings more frequent rain, but also greener landscapes.
Tips for Dressing and Packing for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail
Layering for Changing Conditions
Dressing in layers is crucial for the 5-Day Lares Hike to Machu Picchu. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your body, followed by an insulating layer like a fleece or down jacket, and top it off with a waterproof jacket to protect against rain and wind.
Essential Footwear and Gear
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are a must for the Lares Trek 5 Days with Short Inca Trail. The trail includes steep, rocky terrain, so comfortable and durable boots are essential. Pack trekking poles to help with balance and reduce strain on knees during ascents and descents. Sun protection, including sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen, is also important due to the high altitude.
Other Packing Essentials
A sleeping bag rated for cold weather is essential for camping at high altitudes. Also, bring a rain poncho, insect repellent for the lower sections near Machu Picchu, and a small daypack for carrying water, snacks, and layers.
Physical Preparation for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail
Acclimatization
The Lares Trek 5 Days reaches high altitudes, with some sections exceeding 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. It’s recommended to spend a few days in Cusco (3,400 meters/11,154 feet) before starting the trek to help your body adjust to the thin air.
Fitness Level
The 5-Day Lares Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek due to the high altitudes and long hiking days. Prepare with cardio exercises such as hiking, running, or cycling to build stamina. Leg-strengthening exercises, like squats and lunges, will help with the steep terrain.
Hydration and Nutrition
Stay hydrated throughout the 5-Day Short Inca Trail with Lares Trek by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration can worsen altitude sickness, so carry a refillable water bottle or hydration pack. Bring snacks like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars to keep your energy levels up during long hiking days.
Health and Safety Recommendations
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness is a potential concern during the Lares Trek 5 Days with Short Inca Trail, particularly in the higher sections of the Lares Valley. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. To reduce the risk, hike at a steady pace, drink plenty of water, and take breaks as needed. Consider bringing altitude sickness medication or chewing coca leaves, a traditional remedy used by locals.
Vaccinations and Health Precautions
There are no specific vaccinations required for the Lares Trek 5 Days, but it’s always a good idea to ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations such as hepatitis A, B, and typhoid. Pack a small first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and any personal medications.
Safety Guidelines
It’s recommended to hike with a guide or in a group for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 5 Days. A guide provides valuable local knowledge, assists with logistics, and ensures safety during the trek. Guides are also responsible for securing permits for the Inca Trail portion and entry to Machu Picchu.
Restrictions and Environmental Considerations
Permits for the Inca Trail
While the Lares portion of the trek does not require a special permit, the Inca Trail section requires a permit, which must be secured in advance. The permits are limited and often sell out months ahead, so it’s important to book early, especially during peak seasons. Your tour operator will typically handle the permit process.
Environmental Responsibility
When trekking the 5-Day Lares Hike to Machu Picchu, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles. This includes packing out all trash, staying on the marked trails, and avoiding disturbing wildlife. Respect the local communities and their traditions, as you will pass through remote Andean villages where traditional ways of life are still practiced.
Final Recommendations for the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail
The 5-Day Short Inca Trail with Lares Trek offers a perfect mix of cultural encounters, breathtaking scenery, and historical exploration. With proper preparation, appropriate gear, and respect for local communities and the environment, you will have an unforgettable adventure as you trek through the heart of the Andes and arrive at the iconic Machu Picchu.
