LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHUPICCHU .

4 Days & 3 Night (Via Huaran - Quishuarani - Lares Hot Springs )

Group Size

Up to 8 people

Transportation

Van, Train, Bus

Max Altitude

4500 m.s.n.m

Difficulty

Challenging

Service

Group

Duration:

4 Days

LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU THE MOST SACRED ROUTE

The Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (4 Days) combines adventure, culture, and history on an exclusive route through glaciers, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and remote Andean communities. Relax in the Lares Hot Springs, then hike the legendary Short Inca Trail, finishing with a guided visit to the iconic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, the sacred Lost City of the Incas.

4-DAY LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU – TRIP DETAILS

DAY 1: CUSCO - CALCA - FUNDO HUARAN - CANCHA CANCHA - ACCOPATA.

Your Lares Trek adventure begins early with hotel pick-up at 5:30 a.m. and a scenic 2-hour drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, offering breathtaking morning views. A short stop is made in Calca for last-minute supplies before continuing deeper into the Andes.

Enjoy breakfast at Huaran Farm (3,000 m / 9,843 ft), where you meet your trekking team and begin the hike. The trail follows the Cancha Cancha River, ascending gradually through impressive Andean landscapes, traditional farmlands, and native Polylepis (Chachacomo) forests, home to hummingbirds and other highland wildlife.

After a freshly prepared lunch in nature, continue hiking to Acopata (3,950 m / 12,959 ft), your campsite overlooking the Cancha Cancha Valley. End the day with afternoon tea, a hearty dinner, and a memorable stargazing experience, learning about the Inca constellations still used by Andean communities today.

Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals Included: Snacks, afternoon tea & dinner

DAY 2: PACHACUTEQ PASS TREK & LARES HOT SPRINGS TO OLLANTAYTAMBO

Day 2 is the most rewarding day of the Lares Trek, featuring the challenging ascent to Pachacutec Pass (4,500 m / 14,764 ft) with spectacular views of glaciers, turquoise lagoons, alpacas, and dramatic Andean peaks. After reaching the summit, descend through remote valleys and authentic Quechua communities, stopping at the scenic Seven Waterfalls. Relax your muscles at the Lares Hot Springs, soaking in natural volcanic waters, before continuing to Ollantaytambo for dinner and overnight stay.

Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging – Moderate
Meals Included: Lunch, Snacks, afternoon tea & dinner

DAY 3: SHORT INCA TRAIL (KM 104) – WIÑAYHUAYNA – SUN GATE – MACHU PICCHU

Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Ollantaytambo and transfer to the train station for a scenic 1.5-hour ride to Km 104, the start of the Short Inca Trail. After the official checkpoint, visit Chachabamba, an important Inca ceremonial site.

Begin a gradual ascent on original Inca stone steps, passing lush cloud forest, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. Reach the spectacular archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna, famous for its terraces, temples, and panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley, where you’ll enjoy lunch.

Continue along the classic Inca Trail to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) for your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. Descend to Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes) for hotel check-in and dinner.

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Meals Included: Box Lunch & Dinner

DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU GUIDED TOUR – RETURN TO CUSCO

Today is the highlight of your journey: Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas. After breakfast, take one of the first buses to the citadel and experience the magical sunrise over Machu Picchu.

Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour with your expert Machupicchu Condor Trek guide, exploring the main agricultural, urban, and religious sectors while learning about Inca history, engineering, and spirituality. After the tour, enjoy free time or choose optional activities (not included).

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain hike (advance reservation required, limited permits)

  • Relax at the Aguas Calientes hot springs

Later, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, board the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

  • Hiking Time: 2 hours
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

INCLUDED

NOT INCLUDED

WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU

  • Original passport (the same used for booking your trek)
  • Valid University card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage:  2-3 L (Camelbaks are encouraged)
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toilet paper
  • Good rain gear

WHAT TO PUT IN THE DUFFEL BAG

  • 4 t-shirts
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 4 sets of hiking socks
  • Fleece/ Thermals
  • Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office to line your duffel
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us for $20 USD

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU – 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS – PRICE & BOOKINGS

This beautiful and unique adventure through the Lares valley, combined with the short Inca trail to Machupicchu, is available year-round. even better  you can choose your preferred travel dates, with a minimum of two participants. book your spot now and make this dream adventure yours.

GROUP PRICE IN SHARED SERVICE.

  • $848 USD per person with 3* hotel

  • $780 USD per person (hotel not included)
  • Feel free to choose and book your own hotel for a more flexible and comfortable travel experience!    Important:  Price includes up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need of extra Porter in Salkantay only Inca Trail!).

group tour means other trekkers can join your adventure. You’ll hike with people of different fitness levels, but our expert guides ensure everyone enjoys the journey at their own pace.

PRIVATE SERVICE PRICES.

    • 2 Persons: $947 per person
    • 3 Persons: $917 per person
    • 4 Persons: $897 per person
    • 5 Persons: $877 per person
    • 6 persons: $857 per person 

    For groups of 7 or more travelers, please contact us for a special group price: info@www.machupicchucondortrek.com

    Important: Price includes up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need of extra Porter in Salkantay only Inca Trail!).

PLEASE NOTE:

  • Pricing is determined by the number of participants, as this trek is more exclusive and typically operates with smaller groups of just 2 to 4 people — offering a more personalized and intimate experience. 

    *Your rate includes an extra pack horse to carry up to 7 kg of your personal belongings. For your convenience, we’ll provide a durable duffel bag where you can safely pack your items.

AVAILABLE DISCOUNTS:

We offer special savings for travelers in the following categories:

        • Students (18–25 years old) – $25 USD off
          Valid student ID required (must include: university name, student’s full name, photo, and expiration date). A copy of the card must be provided at the time of booking for government verification.

        • Travelers under 18 years old – $25 USD off
          A copy of your passport must be provided at the time of booking.

        • Children under 11 years old – $30 USD off
          A copy of your passport must be provided at the time of booking.

LARES TREK AND SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHUPICCHU .

4/DAYS

FROM

$

780

USD

Per Person

Group Size

Up to 16

Activity Level

Moderate

INCA TRAIL TREK DAILY VIDEOS: SEE WHAT EACH DAY IS LIKE!

THE MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK DIFFERENCE

Since its inception, Machu Picchu Condor Trek has been dedicated to providing authentic and enriching tours to Machu Picchu, combining exploration of archaeological sites with immersion in local culture. With a team of expert local guides and meticulous attention to detail, the agency has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional experiences that go beyond travelers’ expectations.

Camping Equipment

7 kg personal porters included

Private restroom tents

Safety on the Inca Trail

Social Projects

¡The best trekking food in Peru!

MEET THE MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK TREKKING TEAM!

The majority of our team has been with us from the beginning, witnessing the evolution of machupicchu condor trek and contributing to the unique bond we share with our city. We are grateful to have such a dedicated, talented and happy team who share our mission of delivering authentic and transformative experiences. With Machupicchu Condor Trek, you’ll not only explore Inca Trail and Machupicchu, but you’ll also fall in love with the people who make it special.”

Our Super Porters

Our Porters represent the Peruvian people, both men, and women who are at the heart

Equality Matters

Machupicchu Condor Trek aims to promote gender equality and empower women, hiring first Peru

Our Guides

Travelling and trekking along the mountains is one of the best activities in the World

Our Chefs

Trekking along the mountain on your way to conquer Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime

VIDEOS OF MACHUPICCHU CONDOR TREK STAFF

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

At Machupicchu Condor Trek, we understand that travel can present logistical problems, so we are committed to making your experience as safe as possible. We have a detailed manual that covers all logistical aspects, from proper storage of camping equipment to recommendations on accommodation and restaurants in Cusco. In addition, our staff is available at all times to answer any additional questions you may have. From your arrival to your last day in Cusco.

SIMILAR TRIPS IN CUSCO

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS IN TRIP ADVISOR

Our goal at Machupicchu Condor Trek is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

OUR PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS