CLASSIC INCA TRAIL – 2-DAY EXPERIENCE

 

The 2-day Short Inca Trail is the perfect alternative for trekkers who want to experience the magic of the Short Inca Trail in a 2-day period. This fascinating adventure begins with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a transfer to Ollantaytambo and a trip by train to kilometre 104 (2,250 metres above sea level), the starting point of this extraordinary route.

First, you will visit the archaeological complex of Chachabamba (2,270 metres above sea level), a perfect introduction to Inca architecture. Continuing your ascent, you will reach the majestic Wiñayhuayna (2,650 metres above sea level), a jewel of the Inca Trail with impressive terraces and structures. The highlight comes when you reach the Inti Punku or Sun Gate (2,780 metres above sea level), where you will get your first view of Machu Picchu (2,400 metres above sea level).

Finally, you will take the minibus down to Aguas Calientes (2,050 metres above sea level) to rest in a hotel and get ready to explore Machu Picchu the next day.

Practical information: *Duration: 2 days/1 night *Difficulty: Moderate *Maximum altitude: 2,780 meters above sea level (Inti Punku) *Approximate walking distance: 12 km Book in advance! Inca Trail permits are limited and sell out quickly.

 

ITINERARY DAY 1: CUSCO – KM. 104 – WIÑAYHUAYNA – AGUAS CALIENTES

Our adventure along the legendary Inca Trail begins with early pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Initially, our transport will take you to Ollantaytambo and then we will board the train, train to kilometer 104 (2,250 meters above sea level), the starting point of our walk.

At the beginning of the tour, we will first visit the archaeological complex of Chachabamba (2,270 meters above sea level), where you will learn about Inca architecture and history. We will then climb the ancient path to the majestic Wiñayhuayna (2,650 meters above sea level), a jewel of the Inca Trail with impressive terraces and structures among subtropical mountains.

Next, the highlight of our 2-day Inca Trail comes when we reach Inti Punku or Sun Gate (2,780 meters above sea level), where you will get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu (2,400 meters above sea level) in the heart of the Andes.

At the end of the hike, we will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes (2,050 meters above sea level), where you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel, preparing to fully explore Machu Picchu the next day.

Finally, we will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes (2,050 meters above sea level), where you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel, preparing to explore Machu Picchu in full the next day.

Main altitudes of the day:

*Start (Km 104): 2,250 meters above sea level

*Chachabamba: 2,270 meters above sea level

*Wiñayhuayna: 2,650 meters above sea level

*Inti Punku: 2,780 meters above sea level

*Machu Picchu: 2,400 meters above sea level

*Aguas Calientes: 2,050 meters above sea level.

 

*** Accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

 

 

DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU SANCTUARY – CUSCO

After breakfast, we will make the most of our 2-day Inca Trail by taking the first bus to the Citadel of Machu Picchu (2,400 meters above sea level). This strategy will allow us to enjoy the Inca sanctuary under the beautiful light of dawn and with fewer visitors.

Upon arrival at the citadel, we will begin a guided tour that will reveal the architectural, astronomical and historical secrets of this wonder of the world. We will visit the main sites such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intiwatana, the Temple of the Three Windows and the urban and agricultural sectors.

After your guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own or take an optional hike to the summit of Huayna Picchu or visit the enigmatic Temple of the Moon—experiences that perfectly complement your Inca Trail adventure. Please note that these additional excursions require advance reservation due to limited daily capacity.

To conclude our experience, we will meet up again with the entire group in the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will also enjoy lunch (not included) before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo. Finally, from there, our private transport will take us back to the imperial city of Cusco, marking the end of this unforgettable adventure that combines nature, history and, of course, the majesty of Inca culture in a shorter but equally authentic route.

Important notes:

*The climate in Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu is hot and humid, with lots of mosquitoes.

*Breakfast is included.

 

 

 

 

 

INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS – 2025

The 4-day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous trekking trails in the world, and for good reason. During this legendary Inca Trail hike, you will face a physical and mental challenge, but you will be rewarded with some of the most beautiful and breathtaking views Peru has to offer.

Throughout this expedition, you will follow in the footsteps of ancient Inca nobility on this historic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Throughout this expedition, you will follow in the footsteps of ancient Inca nobility on this historic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, where you will discover exceptional archaeological ruins accessible only by this same trail. Furthermore, you will cross-impressive mountain cliffs with stunning panoramic views and finally conclude the trek by entering the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu – a World Heritage Site – from above, through the famous Sun Gate called “Intipunku”.

While hiking the 4-day Inca Trail, you will have the opportunity to explore fascinating archaeological sites such as Llactapata, Wayllabamba, Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Inti pata, Wiñayhuayna and Inti Punku; that lead to the mythical lost city of the Incas “Machu Picchu”.

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover these incredible places on your Inca Trail adventure!

 

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 82 – WAYLLABAMBA – AYAPATA

Start of the adventure The Inca Trail hiking experience begins at 5:30 am, when we will pick you up at your hotel. With our transport, we will travel to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Before reaching the starting point of the Inca Trail, KILOMETER 82, we will make a brief stop in Ollantaytambo, the ideal place to have breakfast before starting our adventure on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Registration and First Steps At this point, we will join the rest of the group and present our documents for official inspection and registration of the Inca Trail.

After crossing the Urubamba River (2200m), we will begin the legendary Inca Trail. During the first day, the route is relatively accessible for hiking. We will have lunch in Miskay, a small area on the banks of the river, where our trained Inca Trail guides will share valuable information about the Llactapata archaeological complex.

After this break, we will continue our route towards Wayllabamba (3100m/10170f) and climb to Ayapata, the designated camp for the first night of your 4-day Inca Trail adventure.

Day 1 information:

*Approximate duration of the walk: 6–7 hours.

*Total distance: approximately 11 km.

*Services included Lunch and dinner.

 

DAY 2: AYAPATA – LLULLUCHAPAMPA – WARMIHUAÑUSKA ABRAHAM – PACAYMAYU – RUNCURACAY ABRAHAM – CHAQUICOCHA

The Biggest Challenge:

The second day of the Inca Trail is known as a “free walking day”, meaning that each traveler can progress at their own pace along this challenging section of the Inca Trail. Along the way, you will find several strategic points to rest and admire the magnificent landscape.

With the first rays of sun, we will begin our journey along the Inca Trail towards the Llulluchapampa Valley (3,850 m.a.s.l.). For the first 3 kilometers of the hike, we will enter a humid forest, where the constant sound of running water accompanies us every step of the way, a unique feature of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The highest point:

Starting from Llulluchapampa, we will continue the route for approximately 2 to 3 hours until we reach the most demanding point of this section of the Inca Trail: the famous Warmihuañusca, also known as “El Paso de la Muerte” (4,200 m.a.s.l.). This climb is the most demanding section of the entire 4-day Inca Trail.

After a brief rest at the summit to regain strength, we will begin the descent down a steep slope towards the Pacaymayu River. Afterwards, the Inca Trail tour will take us to the Runkurakay Pass (3,050 m.a.s.l.) until we reach our final destination of the day: the Chaquicocha camp, located 3,650 meters above sea level.

Day 2 information:

*Estimated walking time: 8-9 hours

*Total length of the route: approximately 15 km

*Services included breakfast, lunch and dinner.

 

 

DAY 3: CHAQUICOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAYHUAYNA

 The most beautiful day:

The third day of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is considered the most spectacular. You will experience a remarkable transformation in the ecosystem as you travel through the Wiñayhuayna rainforest. In this section of the Inca Trail, we will cross two small lagoons located at the top of the second pass (3,950 m.a.s.l.). We will make a gentle climb through an impressive Inca tunnel, offering extraordinary views of the Urubamba River in the Sacred Valley.

Featured Archaeological Sites:

As we progress along the Inca Trail, we will reach Phuyupatamarca, which in Quechua means “the city above the clouds”, an impressive complex located 3,600 meters above sea level.

This archaeological site on the Inca Trail stands out for its exceptional preservation, where you can admire its sophisticated Inca ceremonial baths arranged in sequence, tangible evidence of the extraordinary engineering of this civilization.

The Inca Trail continues through a fascinating Inca tunnel that takes us to Wiñayhuayna (“Forever Young” in Quechua), located 2,650 meters above sea level. From this vantage point on the 4-day Inca Trail, as we descend into the valley, our first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu Mountain unfolds before our eyes. This is the final destination we will explore during the last day of our Inca Trail adventure to Machu Picchu.

Day 3 information:

*Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours *Total distance of the route: approximately 10 km *Services included Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

 

DAY 4: WIÑAYHUAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Arrival in Machu Picchu After breakfast at 4:30 am, we will embark on the final stretch of the Inca Trail to Inti Punku, which means “Gate of the Sun”, a privileged place to get the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu and witness the sunrise over this wonderful destination that the Inca Trail has taken us to.

The final triumphant climb of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will take approximately one hour before entering the citadel of Machu Picchu (2,400 m.a.s.l.) at around 8 am. During the tour, you will experience the spiritual essence of the site, complemented by a guided tour lasting approximately two hours, which will help you understand the significance and ancient architecture of the archaeological park, the perfect culmination of the historic Inca Trail.

Free Exploration and Return:

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore this archaeological treasure on your own, a site you visited on the 4-day Inca Trail. We suggest visiting the iconic Inca Bridge, a masterpiece of ancient engineering that will transport you back in time. During your independent exploration, you will have the opportunity to discover the various Inca monuments scattered throughout the complex, each with its own fascinating historical narrative.

For a truly unforgettable experience after completing the Inca Trail, there is the option of climbing to the summit of Huayna Picchu, from where you will be rewarded with absolutely stunning panoramic views of the citadel and the surrounding Sacred Valley.

At the end of your visit to Machu Picchu, minibuses will take you to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy the relaxing hot springs (entrance fee US$10.00) and relax your muscles after the intense hike along the Inca Trail.

At approximately 4:20 pm, we will board the train at the Aguas Calientes station bound for Ollantaytambo. From there, we will continue our journey to the historic city of Cusco, thus concluding our unforgettable adventure along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

 

Day 4 information:

*Estimated walking time: 2-3 hours to Machu Picchu

*Length of the route: approximately 5 km

*Services included: breakfast.

 

 

 

 

 

SUMMARY: INCA TRAIL MACHUPICCHU 4 DAYS – 2025

The Inca trail, the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most prestigious trekking routes in the world, combining physical performance with extraordinary visual rewards. This historic route of approximately 43 km allows you to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Inca nobility, discovering unique archaeological sites accessible only by this route.

Featured aspects of the defendant:

*Visit several archaeological complexes: Llatapata, Wayllabamba, Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, PhuyUpatamarca, Intipat, Wiñayhuayna and Intipunku.

* Crossing for various ecosystems and impressive landscapes *Entrance to Machu Picchu (Sun Door)

 

Itinerary day by day:

1ST DAY: CUSCO – KM 82 – WAYLLABAMBA – AYAPATA

*Return from hotel at 5.30am

*Drive to Ollantaytambo

*Official start of the Inca Trail at Km 82

*Lunch in Miskay and visit to the archaeological complex of Llactapata

*Overnight at Ayapata campsite

*Walk: 11 km / 6-7 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

 

 

DAY 2 AYAPATA – ABRA WARMIHUAÑUSKA – CHAQUICOCHA

*The most demanding day of the tour (‘free excursion day’)

*Ascent to Llulluchapampa (3,850 metres)

*Overcoming the highest point: Warmihuañusca or ‘Paso de la Muerte’ (4,200 m)

*Descent to the Pacaymayu River

*Continue to Chaquicocha camp (3,650 m)

*Hike: 15 km / 8-9 hours / Difficulty: High

 

3RD DAY: CHAQUICOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAYHUAYNA

*The most beautiful day of the tour

*Transition to the tropical jungle ecosystem

*Visit to Phuyupatamarca (‘city above the clouds’)

*Exploration of Inca ceremonial baths

*Arrival at Wiñayhuayna (2,650 metres) with the first view of Machu Picchu

*Hike: 10 km / 5-6 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

 

 

4TH DAY: WIÑAYHUAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

*Early departure (4.30 am) to Intipunku (Puerta del Sol)

*Sunrise with a panoramic view of Machu Picchu

*2-hour guided tour of the citadel (2,400 metres)

*Free time for personal exploration

*Option to climb Huayna Picchu (requires additional booking)

*Drop-off by bus to Aguas Calientes

*Possibility of enjoying the hot springs (entrance fee $10.00)

*Return by train to Ollantaytambo and then on to Cusco

*Hike: 5 km / 2-3 hours / Difficulty: Low-Moderate.

 

 

 

 

LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHUPICCHU 4 DAYS

The Lares Trek with the Inca Trail of 4 days offers an extraordinary combination of impressive landscapes and encounters with traditional Andean cultures. This unique route combines the best of the Lares Trek and the Inca Trail over 2 days, allowing you to experience both the cultural authenticity of the Lares Valley and the iconic archaeological sites of the Inca Trail.

During the short Inca Trail section, you will visit the important archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Huayna as you progress towards Machu Picchu. The route culminates at the majestic Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku), from where you will have your first panoramic view of the city of Machu Picchu.

 

Detailed Itinerary of the Lares Trek with Inca Trail

Day 1: Cusco – Huacawasi Pass – Aguas Termales Lares – Huacawasi – Sondor

We begin this adventure on the Lares Trek and the Inca Trail approximately 4 days after 6:00 am with the transfer from your hotel to head to the town of Lares, the starting point of our trek. During the trip, we will make a stop in the village of Calca, where we can visit the local market to do some shopping and purchase other supplies necessary for the trip.

Upon arrival in Lares, we will enjoy the thermal baths while our cooks prepare lunch. After replenishing our energy, we will take a gradual 3-hour walk to our first camp in Sondor (3800 m above sea level), which will serve as excellent preparation for the challenge of the next day, when we will reach the highest point of this Lares Trek with the Inca Trail.

*Transportation time: 4 hours *Walking time: 6 hours *Daytime temperature: Hot *Nighttime temperature: Cold.

 

Day 2: Sondor – Sacsayllame Pass – Aruray Cocha – Yurak Cocha – Pucara

After a nourishing day, we continue our adventure along the Lares Trek and Inca Trail for 4 days to the highest point of the excursion: the Sacsayllame Pass or Hucahuasi (4400 m a.s.l./14435 ft). This steep section requires approximately 2 hours of walking. An emergency horse will accompany us to ensure everyone can complete this challenging stage.

Along this Lares Trek route with the Inca Trail, you will enjoy impressive views formed by the surrounding mountains and traditional agricultural lands. After reaching the highest point, we will begin the descent, first passing by a beautiful lagoon, where we will stop to climb close to the river.

Afterwards, we will continue descending through a forest of “Queuñas” (Polylepis), a tree native to Peru. This descent will last approximately 4 hours before we finally reach our campsite in Pucará, located 3,100 meters above sea level (10,170 feet).

*Walking time: 8 hours *Transportation time: 30 min *Daytime temperature: Hot *Nighttime temperature: Cold.

 

 

Day 3: Pucara – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Wiñayhuayna – Aguas Calientes

The third day of our 4-day Lares and Inca Trail trek starts early, at 6am. A vehicle will take us to the town of Ollantaytambo, where we will board a tourist train to km 104. This is where the short Inca Trail section of our combined adventure begins.

We will begin the legendary Royal Inca Trail with a fascinating hike to Chachabamba (2,270 m above sea level/7,448 ft), where our guide will tell you the history of this important archaeological site. We will then move on to discover Wiñayhuayna (2,650 m above sea level/8,694 ft), considered the most significant archaeological site after MachuPicchu.

Later, the trail will take us to the emblematic Puerta del Sol or “Inti Punku”, a privileged viewpoint from where you can contemplate for the first time the majesty of Machu Picchu (2,400 m above sea level) in all its splendor. Finally, we will conclude this unforgettable day with a relaxing walk to our comfortable hotel in the city of Aguas Calientes, where you can rest and recharge your batteries.

*Transportation time: Half an hour

*Walking time: 7 hours

*Distance covered approximately 11 kilometers

*Daytime temperature: Hot

*Nighttime temperature: Cold

*Accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

 

 

 

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

On the last day of our trek to Lares with the Inca Trail, we will leave the hotel for Machu Picchu at approximately 5:30 in the morning by bus. This early departure allows us to enjoy the archaeological site when it is less crowded, fully experiencing the tranquility and ancestral spirit of this Inca treasure.

Upon arrival at the citadel around 6am, our guide will provide detailed information about Machu Picchu and the fascinating history and culture of the Incas. After this introduction, you will have free time to explore the structures, visit the Inca Bridge or climb Wayna Picchu for breathtaking panoramic views.

Afterwards, you will take the mini bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax in the town’s hot springs (S/ 10.00 Nuevos Soles) before returning to Cusco in the afternoon, thus completing our 4-day adventure on the Inca Trail and Lares Trail.

*Daytime weather: Mild with mosquitoes *Walking time: 2 hours *Total distance: 4 hours Important information for your reservation As the Lares Trek with Inca Trail has a limited number of permits (250 people per day, approximately 200 tourists and 50 people), it is essential to book in advance, especially during the high season, between May and September. In low season (December and January), it is possible to obtain authorization approximately 30 days in advance.

Do not miss the opportunity to experience the exclusive 4-day Lares Trek and Inca Trail to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.

THE TREK INCLUDES:

*Pre-trip briefing

*Transportation: tourist bus to Lares, train to Km 104, bus to Machu Picchu

*Access to the thermal baths in Lares

*Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu

*Accommodation in Aguas Calientes (hostel with private bathroom)

*Bilingual guide (Spanish and English)

*Full camping equipment (Eureka tents, mattresses, etc.)

*All meals during the tour (with vegetarian option)

*Support staff: cook and muleteers with mules for luggag.

SUMMARY

Discover the ancient magic of Peru on our exclusive route that combines the traditional Inca Trail with the less traveled Lares Trail. This 4-day experience will take you through breathtaking Andean landscapes, traditional Quechua communities and Inca archaeological sites, culminating with the majestic arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. You will walk among clouds and sacred mountains, experience authentic Andean life and follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas in a perfect fusion of adventure, culture and history.

DAY 1: CUSCO – LARES – HUACAHUASI  

*Early morning pick up from your hotel in Cusco

*Transfer to Lares (approximately 3-4 hours)

*Possibility of visiting the Lares hot springs

*Start of the walk to the community of Huacahuasi

*Walk through beautiful Andean landscapes

*Camping and dinner in Huacahuasi (3,750 metres above sea level).

 

2ND DAY: HUACAHUASI – PATACANCHA – OLLANTAYTAMBO

*Breakfast at the campsite

*Ascending trek towards the Ipsaycocha pass (4,500 metres above sea level)

*Panoramic views of lagoons and snow-capped mountains

*Descent towards the community of Patacancha

*Lunch en route

*Transfer to Ollantaytambo

*Night in hotel in Ollantaytambo.

 

DAY 3° OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM 104 – WIÑAY WAYNA – MACHU PICCHU

*Breakfast

*Take the train to Km 104 (start of the short Inca Trail)

*Hike the Inca Trail to Wiñay Wayna

*Visit archaeological sites on the way

*Arrive at the Sun Gate (Intipunku) overlooking Machu Picchu

*Descent to Aguas Calientes

*Night in hotel in Aguas Calientes.

 

4TH DAY: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

*Breakfast.

*Climb to Machu Picchu by minibus

*Guided tour of the citadel (approximately 2 hours)

*Free time to explore on your own

*Descent to Aguas Calientes

*Lunch (not included)

*Return by train to Ollantaytambo

*Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

*Arrival in Cusco in the afternoon/evening.

 

 

 

 

 

MACHUPICCHU INCA TRAIL 1 DAY

Machupicchu Inca Trail Full Day invites you to live an extraordinary experience on our Short Inca Trail Tour, a perfectly organised route for those who have limited time but want to experience the authentic official Inca Trail to Machupicchu

This full-day Inca Trail trek begins at dawn with personalized pick-up from your hotel in Cusco by expert Inca Trail guides, followed by a panoramic train ride from Ollantaytambo, which offers breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley on the way to the starting point of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Starting the hike in Chachabamba (Km 104 of the Inca Trail), you will enter captivating landscapes as you climb the original Inca trail to the impressive archaeological complex of Wiñayhuayna. The culminating moment of this Cusco-Machu Picchu trek will come when you cross the Inti Punku (Gate of the Sun), where you will contemplate Machu Picchu, the Inca citadel, from a privileged perspective that few conventional visitors to the traditional Machu Picchu tour can experience.

Info.

*Duration: 1 full day (approximately 16-18 hours)

*Walking distance: 12 km

*Difficulty: Moderate

*Maximum altitude: 2,730 metres above sea level (Inti Punku)

ITINERARY

Discover the authentic Inca Trail on an unforgettable adventure that begins with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (3.40 am) by certified official guides and continues with a train ride from Ollantaytambo (6.10 am) with panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.

The adventure continues, starting with the hike to Chachabamba – Km 104 (07:00 AM), where you’ll cover 12 km of the original Inca trail, admiring the transition of ecosystems until you reach the impressive archaeological complex of Wiñayhuayna (2,650 metres above sea level). The highlight will undoubtedly be arriving at Inti Punku – Puerta del Sol (2,730 metres above sea level) at midday, enjoying the best panoramic view of Machu Picchu while savouring a lunch of typical Peruvian food.

Afterwards, you will take a full guided tour of the Inca citadel (14:00). You will also have unbeatable opportunities for professional photography in strategic locations, such as the panoramic Upper Esplanade and the classic view from the Guardian’s House.

You’ll then take the minibus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time before boarding the return train (6.20pm) that will take you to Ollantaytambo. Finally, we will finish with a transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

In short, this moderately difficult experience (approximately 16 hours) perfectly combines history, nature and adventure in South America’s most important archaeological destination, all in one day and with private service.

INCLUDES

*Official permit for the 1-day Inca Trail

*Specialised professional bilingual guide

*Return train tickets (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)

*Transfers from the hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo station to the hotel in Cusco

*Ticket to Machu Picchu

*Lunch box during the trek

*First aid and ongoing assistance

NOT INCLUDED

*Dinner in Aguas Calientes

*Additional snacks and drinks

*Tips (optional)

*Travel insurance (recommended)

RECOMMENDATIONS

*Bring your original passport (compulsory)

*Wear comfortable clothes in layers

*Suitable footwear for trekking

*Sun cream, insect repellent and light waterproofs

*Hat for sun protection

*Camera with extra battery

*Refillable water bottle

*Hiking boots (optional)

*Money for extra expenses

RESERVATIONS

BOOK YOUR FULL-DAY EXPERIENCE ON THE INCA TRAIL 2025!

*Limited spaces – The Inca Trail requires advance booking

*Availability subject to official authorisation by the Ministry of Culture

*Best price guaranteed for Inca Trail Express

*Inca Trail Machu Picchu Tour with certified guides

Contact us to secure your place on the best trekking experience to Machu Picchu.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

*Advance booking: The Inca Trail requires bookings at least 3 to 6 months in advance, depending on the season, due to high demand and limited availability.

*Acclimatisation: A minimum of 2 days in Cusco is recommended before taking part in this activity to acclimatise to the altitude and prevent altitude sickness.

*Cancellation policy: Special restrictions apply due to nominal permits issued by the Peruvian government. See our detailed terms and conditions.

*Physical fitness: Regular physical fitness is required. The route includes continuous ascending sections with original Inca stairs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS

The Lares Trek has become a fascinating alternative for travellers looking to reach Machu Picchu via a less travelled but equally impressive route. Unlike the Inca Trail, the Lares Trail combines spectacular natural landscapes with a deep immersion in authentic Andean culture.

During this trip, you will visit communities that maintain their ancestral traditions, from their agricultural techniques to their colourful fabrics and traditional clothing.

General information about the walk from Lares to Machu Picchu

*Altitude: 2850 – 4400 metres / 9350 – 14436 feet

*High season: Available all year round

*Duration: 4 days – 3 nights

*Difficulty level: Moderate

*Experience: Andean cultural immersion + Machu Picchu.

This detailed itinerary of the Lares Trail to Machu Picchu will guide you through this unforgettable 4-day adventure.

Day 1. Cusco – Cuncani – Huaca Wasi

Main activities:

*Early departure from Cusco by bus (4 hours)

*Tour of the archaeological sites and craft markets of the Sacred Valley

*Climb to Huaca Wasi (4400m)

*Visit to Laguna Negra and Paccha Pata

*Camping at Huaca Wasi (3600m)

The journey begins in the fertile Sacred Valley of the Incas, recognised as one of the most productive regions in South America and the birthplace of sacred corn, a fundamental symbol in Inca cosmology. After changing route in the province of Granary (2,940 metres), we’ll climb towards Huaca Wasi and then descend to the town of Lares (3,250 metres) and Cuncani, where our Lares Trekking officially begins. The day ends at the Huaca Wasi campsite, after approximately 5 hours of walking.

*Walking time: 5 hours

*Climate: Cold

*Meals included: Lunch and dinner

 

Day 2. Huaca Wasi – Ipsay Pass – Patacancha

*Climb the Ipsay Pass (4400m) – the highest point on the Lares Trail to Machu Picchu

*Observation of traditional agricultural practices

*Interaction with local communities and their colourful fabrics

*Camping or local accommodation in Patacancha (3650m)

This day represents the greatest physical challenge of the Lares Trek, with a 4-hour climb to the impressive Ipsay Pass at 4,400 metres.

During the tour, you will witness the daily life of Andean farmers, admiring their ancestral agricultural techniques and the creation of textiles inspired by Andean symbols and divinities. After passing the pass, we’ll descend to the community of Patacancha for the night.

*Walking time: 6 hours

*Climate: Cold

*Meals included Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

 

Day 3: Patacancha – Willoq – Purmamarca – Ollanta – Machu Picchu

*Visit to the traditional communities of Patacancha and Willoq

*Descent between ancient agricultural terraces still in use

*Arrival in Ollantaytambo and transfer by train to Aguas Calientes

*Night in Aguas Calientes (base town for Machu Picchu)

The day begins with time dedicated to exploring the fascinating communities of Patacancha and Willoq, true Andean cultural sanctuaries. We’ll continue on to Puma Marca (Purmamarca) and descend through a landscape dominated by agricultural terraces that date back to the Inca period and which, surprisingly, are still in use.

After arriving in Ollantaytambo, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes, where we will prepare for our visit to Machu Picchu.

*Walking time: 6 hours

*Weather: Cold in the morning, mild throughout the day

*Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

 

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

*Early ascent to Machu Picchu (2400m)

*Guided tour of the Inca citadel

*Free time for personal exploration

*Return to Aguas Calientes and train journey back to Cusco.

The highlight of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a visit to the legendary Inca citadel. We recommend waking up early to enjoy Machu Picchu at sunrise. An expert guide will reveal the secrets of this architectural marvel, explaining the sophisticated agricultural, astronomical and religious techniques of the Inca civilization. You will have additional time to explore on your own before returning to Aguas Calientes and catching the train back to Cusco.

*Walking time: 3 hours (in Machu Picchu).

Climate: Hot and humid, presence of mosquitoes.

*Meals included: Breakfast .

 

Why choose the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

Lares Trek offers a unique combination of unspoiled nature and vibrant Andean culture that perfectly complements a visit to Machu Picchu. Unlike other routes, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu allows you to:

*Experience the authenticity of Andean communities that maintain ancestral traditions *Enjoy less crowded landscapes with crystal clear lagoons and majestic mountains.

*Watch colorful textiles being made using ancient techniques *Learn about traditional agricultural systems that have survived for centuries *End your adventure at the impressive citadel of Machu Picchu.

 

This route is perfect for travelers looking for a deeper, more authentic experience in the Peruvian Andes, combining mountain hikes with true cultural immersion before marveling at the mysteries of Machu Picchu..