Name: Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Brand: Happy Gringo Tours
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Lares trek and short Inca Trail

Lares trek and short Inca Trail 5 days

The 5 Day Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a unique adventure. It combines beautiful Andean scenery with the famous Inca Trail.

This special route takes you into the wild Andes. You will see glaciers, turquoise lakes, and waterfalls. You will also pass traditional Andean communities with llamas and alpacas.

On your journey, you will relax in the natural Lares Hot Springs. Then, you will continue to the original Inca Trail. Here, you will explore ancient ceremonial sites. You will hike the same stone paths that the Incas used centuries ago.

The journey ends with a stunning entrance through the Sun Gate. You will visit Machu Picchu twice. This includes a guided tour and time to explore the citadel independently.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

What’s Included?

Airport transfer to your hotel in Cusco, ensuring a smooth and stress-free arrival.
Private transportation from your hotel to the Huaran trailhead, providing a comfortable, scenic start to the trek.
Professional, licensed trekking guide who speaks English, Spanish, and Quechua. I share important cultural, historical, and local knowledge during the journey.
Round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, traveling through the stunning Sacred Valley landscapes.
Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu help you avoid long uphill walks. This way, you can save your energy for exploring.
Official entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex, including access to the designated circuit.
Inca Trail National Park permits allow you to hike the iconic Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
2 nights of hotel stay in Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo. Each room includes a private bathroom, a hot shower, Wi-Fi, secure luggage storage, and a buffet breakfast.
(only for travelers who select the tour option with hotels included).
High-quality 4-person igloo tents, shared by only two travelers, offering extra comfort and space.
Camping pillow and foam mattress to ensure a warmer, more restful night outdoors.
All delicious meals during the trek are freshly prepared by our professional chef as outlined in the itinerary.
Experienced trekking chef, cooking equipment, and a fully equipped kitchen tent, delivering hearty, nutritious meals even in remote locations.
Horsemen and pack mules on the Lares Trek carry all camping gear. They also carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This way, you can hike comfortably with just a daypack.
An emergency horse with a helmet is available on the Lares section. This provides additional safety for altitude-related or health-related issues.
Comprehensive first-aid kit and emergency oxygen, carried at all times for your safety and peace of mind.
Boiled and filtered water is provided daily to refill your reusable water bottles during the trek.
Expert guided tour of Machu Picchu, bringing the history, architecture, and mysteries of the citadel to life.
Private group transfer back to Cusco at the end of the tour.
Authentic cultural interaction with local communities and children, offering meaningful insight into traditional Andean life along the route.

What’s Not Included?

Sleeping Bag Rental: USD 25 per person, per trek
Clean, warm, and suitable for cold Andean nights.
Air Mattress (Therm-a-Rest): USD 25 per person, per trek
Adds extra comfort and insulation for a better night’s sleep.
Walking Poles: USD 20 per pair, per trek
Professional, adjustable trekking poles for added stability on ascents and descents.
Personal Tent: USD 35 per trek
Private tent for solo use. Must be requested at the time of booking.
Tips for the crew, guide, chef, and horsemen: Optional and appreciated
Gratuities are not mandatory and are given at your discretion.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO UPGRADE

Vistadome Train Upgrade: USD 65 per person (round trip)
Enjoy panoramic windows and enhanced onboard service on the return journey.
Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike: USD 75 per person
Must be requested at the time of booking and is subject to availability.
Hotel Upgrade Options: Available upon request
Upgrade your hotel category in Aguas Calientes or Ollantaytambo for additional comfort.

Important Note – Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu is an optional hike within the Machu Picchu Citadel and is not guided by default. The climb is usually done independently after your guided tour of Machu Picchu. If you would like a guided Huayna Picchu hike, please request this in advance. An additional cost applies, and availability is limited.

Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu is the tall peak located right behind Machu Picchu. It provides one of the most amazing views of the ancient site.

With Happy Gringo Tours, we handle your entry tickets and scheduling to ensure your preferred date and time are secured. Because access is limited to 300 visitors per day, booking early is essential.

If you are joining our 2-Day Short Inca Trail, your Huayna Picchu climb is usually scheduled for 10:00 or 11:00 a.m. This happens right after your two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu.

The hike takes about two to two and a half hours round-trip, including a steep 60-minute ascent and a 45-minute descent. Along the way, you’ll find fascinating Inca terraces and stone constructions still being studied by archaeologists.

Be aware that the trail is steep, narrow, and includes sections where you’ll need your hands for balance. It’s an unforgettable but demanding adventure, recommended only for those comfortable with heights.

Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain rises 3,082 meters (10,111 ft) above sea level. It is located south of the Inca citadel and provides a unique challenge.

This hike is different from Huayna Picchu. It has a wider, less steep trail with traditional Inca stone steps. This makes it great for travelers who want a moderate climb and beautiful views.

Permits are limited to 250 per day, split into two groups: 7–8 a.m. and 9–10 a.m. For guests on our 2-Day Short Inca Trail, we usually receive a later entry. This way, you can hike after your guided tour of the citadel.

The full hike takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, including 1.5 hours to ascend, 30 minutes at the summit, and an hour to descend. From the top, you will see wide views of the Urubamba Valley, the nearby mountains, and Machu Picchu — a sight you will always remember.

Note: During your 2-day Inca Trail program, you can choose either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. You cannot visit both because their times overlap.

Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory Train

Your Short Inca Trail 2 Days package includes round-trip transportation on the Expedition Train. This train is for travelers seeking comfort and scenic views.

You can improve your return trip by upgrading to the Vistadome Observatory Train. This first-class experience features large windows, glass ceilings, and comfortable seats. You can enjoy every detail of the Andean landscape.

Onboard, you will have a cultural experience. There will be live dance shows and fashion displays. You can also enjoy light snacks. This is a great way to end your Machu Picchu adventure.

Please note that the Vistadome option is only for the return trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The earlier departure time of the Expedition Train (06:10 a.m.) helps you start your hike on time. The earliest Vistadome train departs at 07:05 a.m., which would shorten your window for trekking.

Trekking Poles

Trekking poles are optional but highly recommended, especially if you have knee concerns or limited hiking experience. Even seasoned trekkers find them helpful for maintaining stability and reducing strain during the ascent and descent. If you don’t bring your own, you can rent them from the agency.

Keep in mind that walking sticks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu or on Huayna Picchu Mountain. Your guide will collect them at the citadel entrance and store them safely in Aguas Calientes.

The next day, you will visit Machu Picchu without the poles. This will let you enjoy the experience and take great photos freely.

LARES TREK AND INCA TRAIL ITINERARY

Day 1Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

Your adventure in the Andes starts early. You will be picked up from your Cusco hotel at 6:00 am. We drive to Huaran, where the trek starts, and you will meet our experienced horsemen and horses.

After getting ready, we begin a gradual 3–3.5-hour ascent toward Cancha Cancha, walking through scenic mountain landscapes. Along the way, we enjoy a freshly prepared lunch beside the river, giving you energy for the hike ahead.

Cancha Cancha (3,900 m / 12,800 ft) is a remote, traditional Andean community. It has lived much like this for centuries. With no road access and electricity only recently introduced, this village offers a rare glimpse into authentic Andean life.

After you set up your tents and have afternoon tea, you will visit a local family. Your guide will help you learn about their daily life. After dinner, your guide will explain the Inca constellations, still used today for agricultural guidance.

Meals included: Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities with a bathroom building
Distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
Time: Approx. 3.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2Cancha Cancha – Quiswarani

You’ll wake up to a hot mug of tea or coffee before breakfast, preparing for a challenging and rewarding day. We begin a 7-hour hike northeast, starting with a steady climb toward the highest point of the trek, Pachacutec Pass (4,500 m / 14,800 ft).

As you go, you will see amazing views of glaciers, alpine lakes, herds of alpacas, rough valleys, and stunning mountains. Keep an eye out for Andean wildlife, such as caracaras and Andean geese.

After we finish enjoying the pass, we hike down for about three hours. We reach our campsite near the Quiswarani community at an altitude of 3,700 meters (12,139 feet).

This quiet trail lets you meet local highland families. They wear traditional clothing and herd llamas and alpacas.

You’ll hear Quechua spoken, the language of the Incas, and your guide will help translate and teach you a few words. Near the end of the hike, you’ll pass a stunning series of seven waterfalls before reaching camp, where hot drinks and appetizers await.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping facilities with a bathroom building
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Time: Approx. 7 hours
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3Quiswarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo

Today is one of the most scenic days of the trek. We hike for about 3 hours to Willqaqasa Pass (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). We enjoy wide views of glacial lakes. These lakes reflect the nearby mountains, including the impressive Colquecruz and Pitusiray peaks.

The trail goes through puna grasslands, farms, and clear highland lakes. After that, it descends for about two hours to the Cuncani community. Here, you may visit a local school and spend time interacting with indigenous children.

From Cuncani, we meet our private transport. We drive through fertile valleys filled with crops, fruit trees, and native flowers. We also see begonias and wild orchids.

We then reach the Lares Hot Springs (3,100 m / 10,170 ft). Here, you can relax for about an hour in the natural volcanic pools before lunch.

After saying goodbye to our trekking chef and horsemen, we take a private ride to Ollantaytambo. There, we have dinner and spend the night in a nice hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Accommodation: 3★ Andenes del Inca Hotel – Ollantaytambo
Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
Time: Approx. 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

We start early with a 5:30 am pickup. At the train station, your guide provides your boxed lunch for the day. The train departs Ollantaytambo at 6:10 am, offering beautiful views along the Urubamba River. Breakfast is not included, but your hotel can prepare a takeaway breakfast if requested.

The team disembarks at KM 104 (2,000 m / 6,560 ft), where the Short Inca Trail begins. After crossing the Urubamba River and passing the checkpoint, we visit the first Inca site.

The trail starts with a gentle ascent, passing scenic viewpoints and cloud forest. After reaching a beautiful waterfall, we arrive at the impressive Wiñay Wayna ruins (2,600 m / 8,500 ft). Your guide will explain the site’s history, flora, and fauna before a short walk to our lunch spot.

After lunch, we hike toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll have your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. The final descent offers spectacular photo opportunities before reaching the citadel.

You will have time to take in views, including the House of the Guardians. You can take great photos in the afternoon light when the crowds get smaller. We then take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, check into the hotel, enjoy dinner, and relax.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3★ Ferré Hotel Machu Picchu
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Time: Approx. 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

Your trek duffel bag will be sent by train from Ollantaytambo directly to Aguas Calientes.

Day 5Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

After an early breakfast, we take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. We want to see the sunrise over the citadel.

Your guide will lead a 2-hour tour. You will explore the key areas of Machu Picchu and learn about its interesting history.

After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train schedule, you may have time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the hot springs or the museum. In the afternoon, board the Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo, following the Urubamba River.

Upon arrival, private transport will return you to your hotel in Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 pm.

Meal included: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy

Huayna Picchu Mountain hikes are unguided and must be booked in advance; availability is subject to change.

WHAT TO BRING FOR LARES TREK + SHORT INCA TRAIL 5 DAYS

What You Must Bring With You

Original passport (must be the same passport used for booking the trek)
Valid university student card (only if you booked with a student discount)
Comfortable daypack (smaller is better)
Water storage: 2–3 liters (reusable bottles only, please avoid disposable plastics)
Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
Sleeping bag (can be rented from Happy Gringo Tours)
Headlamp – essential
Toilet paper
Good-quality rain gear (jacket and pants recommended)

What to Put in Your Duffel Bag

Happy Gringo Tours is a local tour operator. They give you a duffel bag during the pre-trek briefing. The Lares Trek includes a horseman and pack animals. These can carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal items.

This weight limit is established by Peruvian law to protect the health of porters and horses. Duffel bags will be weighed before the trek. Any extra weight must be carried by you in your daypack.

Within the 7 kg limit, please consider:

Sleeping bag: approx. 2 kg
Sleeping pad: approx. 1 kg

This leaves about 4 kg for your personal gear.

Toiletries & Personal Items

Face moisturizer
Hand sanitizer
Wet wipes
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Personal medications
Small personal first-aid kit (band-aids, blister care, moleskin, etc.)

What to Carry in Your Daypack

We recommend a 30 to 40L backpack for daily hiking. Larger backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. All remaining belongings will stay in your duffel bag at camp.

Water (bring your own until the first lunch; afterward, cold boiled water is provided at every meal)
Sun hat
Sunscreen
Headlamp
Wool hat
Rain gear
Fleece or warm layer
Snacks (chocolate bars, energy bars, dried fruit, etc.)
Gloves
Camera or phone
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for waste
Extra cash for souvenirs, drinks, and tips

IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS

Important Information

Please read the following information carefully. It will help answer common questions about our services and your Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trip.

Pre-Trek Briefing

The mandatory briefing takes place the evening before your trek at 6:00 pm at our office:

Happy Gringo Tours Office 210 – Casa de Abuelo Calle Garcilaso, near Plaza Regocijo Cusco 08000
+51 918 885 164
info@happygringotours.com

During the briefing, we will review the itinerary, check passports, distribute duffel bags, and answer any final questions.

Luggage Storage

Yes, absolutely. During the trek, you can store your main luggage safely at our office or your hotel in Cusco. Choose what is easiest for you.

How to Book the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail

Step 1 – Booking Form

To book your trek, click BOOK NOW on our website and complete the booking form.

Please have the following information for each participant ready. We cannot purchase permits without it:

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

Step 2 – Deposit

A USD 250 deposit per person is required to secure your permits and entrance tickets.
Payment can be made online via Visa or PayPal directly through our website.

Balance Payment

To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, the remaining balance can be paid in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office. There are many ATMs nearby.

You may also pay online via Visa or PayPal, subject to a 5.5% service fee charged by the payment provider.

For PayPal payments, please contact us directly at:

info@happygringotours.com

Student Discount Policy

According to Peruvian regulations:

• Travelers under 18 years old qualify automatically
• Travelers 18 years and older must present a valid university student ID

Important notes:

If you book at age 17 but turn 18 before the trek, a valid university ID is required
University IDs must include a photo, university name, and a valid expiration date
IDs must be valid for the current academic year

Discounts:

Ages 11–17: USD 30 discount
Ages 2–11: USD 40 discount
0–2: Travels free

A copy of the passport and student ID must be emailed at booking time to: info@happygringotours.com

Changes & Cancellations

Unfortunately, departure dates cannot be changed once Inca Trail permits and entrance tickets have been purchased.
Permits and tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.

If you cancel your trek, the deposit is non-refundable under any circumstances.

Passport Requirements

You must bring your original passport, and it must match the passport number used for booking.

If you are renewing your passport or changing your name:
• We can update your information for a USD 25 fee per person
• We require copies of both the old and new passports

If you choose not to pay this fee, you must bring both passports to Peru. Without the correct passport information, entry to the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, or train will be denied.

Weather Conditions

The weather in the Andes is highly unpredictable. We strongly recommend dressing in layers so you can adapt to changing conditions throughout the day.

Altitude Sickness

Most travelers acclimatize well if they spend 2–3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek.

Recommended remedies include:

Drinking plenty of water
Coca tea
Oxygen if needed

Our guides are trained to assist with altitude-related issues and carry emergency oxygen at all times.

Group Size

• Maximum group size: 8 travelers
• Typical groups: 2–6 travelers

Happy Gringo Tours specializes in small and private groups, ensuring personalized service and attention.

Duffel Bag & Hiking Requirements

You will receive a small duffel bag the night before the trek.
Maximum weight allowance: 8 kg / 16 lbs (Peruvian law).

The duffel bag will be carried by pack animals and is not accessible until camp each day.

You must carry a daypack (30–50L) with essentials such as:

Water
Rain jacket
Warm layer
Camera
Sunscreen
Snacks

Fitness Level

The Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail is a 39 km / 24-mile hike that reaches a maximum altitude of 4,700 m / 15,419 ft.

This is a moderately challenging trek. You should be in good health and physically prepared.

Recommended preparation:

Walk or hike regularly
Train at least a few months in advance
Spend 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley

Toilets & Showers

We provide private, clean camping toilets with an individual tent and seat, set at a comfortable distance from camp.

On Day 3, you’ll enjoy hot showers and natural hot spring pools at the Lares Hot Springs. Don’t forget your swimsuit.

If You Cannot finish the Trek

In the unlikely event that you cannot continue due to health reasons, we will assist you in reaching the nearest town for medical care. Oxygen is always available.

In extreme cases, helicopter evacuation can be arranged at the traveler’s expense (travel insurance required).
No refunds apply in this situation.

If you recover quickly, you can go to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu as planned. Extra costs may apply.

Hotel Drop-Off

Yes. At the end of the tour, we will drop you off at your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Urubamba).
If you stay in Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will also pick you up there.

Train Schedule

Train times depend on availability, especially during high season.
Most commonly scheduled return trains are:
• 14:55 or 15:20

Our goal is always to maximize your time at Machu Picchu.

Vistadome Train Upgrade

The Vistadome Train offers panoramic windows, comfortable seating, snacks, and onboard entertainment.

• Upgrade cost: USD 65 per person
• Route: Aguas Calientes to Poroy
• Private transfer back to Cusco included

Must be requested in advance.

Tipping

Tips are optional but appreciated if you are happy with the service.
Tipping is a meaningful way to support the crew who take care of you throughout the trek. The amount is entirely at your discretion.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Yes, Happy Gringo Tours is a local, sustainable, and responsible tour operator.
We are committed to protecting the environment and supporting local communities while respecting Andean culture and traditions. All our staff are trained to follow responsible tourism practices.

Maps

Lares trek + Short Inca Trail 2 days Photos

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Lares trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

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