4 Days / 3 Nights | Challenging | 4,700 m Max Altitude | Up to 8 People | Van, Train, Bus

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with PISAC Ruins 4- Days

4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with Pisac Ruins

The 2026 Lares Trek with Pisac Ruins blends archaeology, living culture, and Machu Picchu into four days without Inca Trail permits. Start with a sunrise tour of Pisac’s Inca citadel and its 5,000-tomb cemetery before leaving the Sacred Valley behind. Cross Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m, sleep in Cancha Cancha 3,900 m, one of Peru’s most isolated traditional Andean Communities, and follow the Seven Waterfalls to Quishuarani. Soak in Lares Hot Springs, take the train to Aguas Calientes, and finish with a full guided tour of Machu Picchu via Circuit 3.

Highlights

Pisac Ruins at Dawn
Explore Pisac’s citadel before crowds. 5,000 Inca tombs, giant terraces, and tunnels.
Cancha Cancha 3,900 m
Camp in a remote village with no roads. Visit local families and stargaze Inca constellations.
Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m
Cross the high point with glaciers, blue lakes, and 360º mountain views.
Seven Waterfalls
Hike past waterfalls to Quishuarani. Meet Quechua herders and local kids.
Lares Hot Springs
Soak in volcanic thermal pools after the trek. Lunch included.
Machu Picchu Circuit 3
Private guided tour of Machu Picchu. Terraces, Temple of the Sun, and classic views.
Full Support
Max 8 travelers. Local guide, chef, horses, camping, and 3* hotel, 7 kg gear carried.
No Permits
Unlike the Inca Trail, Lares requires none and runs year-round.

4 Days / 3 Nights

Duration

4 Days / 3 Nights | Challenging | 4,700 m Max Altitude | Up to 8 People | Van, Train, Bus

Type

Cusco

Location

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Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with Pisac Ruins

The 2026 Lares Trek with Pisac Ruins combines Inca archaeology, remote Andean communities, and Machu Picchu without the need for Inca Trail permits. Designed for travelers seeking cultural depth and mountain landscapes over crowded routes, this itinerary begins with an early visit to the Pisac citadel and its hillside tombs.

From the Sacred Valley, the trek moves into high alpine terrain, passing glacial lakes and traditional grazing lands en route to Cancha Cancha (3,900 m), one of the most isolated communities in the region. The route crosses Pachacutec Pass (4,500 m) and Willqaqasa Pass (4,200 m), includes time in remote communities, the Seven Waterfalls, and Lares Hot Springs, and finishes with a guided exploration of Machu Picchu via Circuit 3 with a professional local guide.

Why Choose Orange Nation

Orange Nation Peru is a locally owned operator based in Cusco, focused on small-group trekking experiences led by professional, Cusqueñian staff. Our approach prioritizes safety, cultural respect, and consistent service standards across every departure.

We operate with a strong commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring fair working conditions for our team while supporting the communities and environments we travel through.

Small Groups
The 4-day Lares Trek crosses two high passes and moves through remote communities. Group sizes are limited to 8 travelers to maintain a controlled pace, allow for proper acclimatization, and ensure meaningful interaction in each village.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Our guest feedback consistently reflects the quality and reliability of our trekking experiences. With top ratings on TripAdvisor, travelers highlight our guides, organization, food, and attention to detail at every stage of the journey. These reviews represent real experiences from trekkers who have completed our routes and trusted our team in the Andes.
Top Tour Guides
All treks are led by experienced, English-speaking guides from Cusco with formal training in tourism and high-altitude safety. Guides are WFR-certified, carry satellite communication, and manage all logistics from Cusco to Cusco, ensuring a seamless experience.
Our Cooks
Meals are prepared fresh at altitude by professional trekking chefs using local ingredients. Menus are designed for energy and recovery, with options available for all dietary requirements. Hot meals are served daily, maintaining consistent quality in remote camps.
Premium Equipment
Reliable equipment is essential for comfort and safety in the Andes.
- Tents
  High-quality 4-season tents designed for four people but shared by only two, providing additional space for rest and gear storage at both camps.
- Mats
  Thick foam sleeping mats are included for insulation. Air mattress upgrades are available.
- Dining
  Dedicated dining tents equipped with tables and chairs allow for structured meals in all weather conditions.
- Extras
  Duffel bags, pillows, rain covers, and access to bathroom facilities at campsites are included to improve comfort and hygiene.

Orange Nation Peru understands the importance of choosing a reliable operator for a journey of this scale. We invite you to review our guest feedback and Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor, where our service and safety standards are consistently recognized.

3-Day vs 4-Day

3-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Duration 3 Days / 2 Nights
Difficulty Moderate to Challenging / High Altitude
Distance ∼21 km / 13 miles
Best for Culture-focused, time-limited travelers
Lodging 1 Night Camping + 1 Night Hotel

Trek through Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani, crossing Pachacutec Pass (4,500 m). Includes village visits, weaving communities, and the Seven Waterfalls. Train to Aguas Calientes on Day 2, followed by a guided Machu Picchu tour on Day 3. A direct cultural route with one high pass.

4-Day Lares Trek with Pisac Ruins

Duration 4 Days / 3 Nights
Difficulty Challenging / High Altitude
Distance ∼36 km / 22 miles
Best for Travelers seeking archaeology, cultural immersion, and improved acclimatization
Lodging 2 Nights Camping + 1 Night Hotel

Includes an early visit to Pisac with terraces, tunnels, and hillside tombs. Two nights in remote communities (Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani), crossing Pachacutec Pass (4,500 m) and Willqaqasa Pass (4,200 m). Descent includes the Seven Waterfalls and time at Lares Hot Springs before continuing to Aguas Calientes. Machu Picchu is explored on Day 4.

The key difference is pacing and depth. The 4-day itinerary adds archaeological context, an additional high pass, and more time in remote communities, allowing for better acclimatization and a more complete cultural experience. The 3-day option is a shorter, more direct route with a hotel stay before Machu Picchu. Both operate without Inca Trail permits.

Who It’s Perfect For

Archaeology & Culture Travelers
Travelers interested in combining Inca sites such as Pisac with meaningful interaction in traditional Quechua communities.
Photography Enthusiasts
Opportunities include early light over Pisac terraces, high-altitude landscapes, village life, and Machu Picchu.
Pacing-Conscious Trekkers
Designed for those who prefer a more gradual ascent with two nights at altitude before reaching Machu Picchu.
Hot Springs Experience Seekers
Includes time at Lares Hot Springs for recovery before the final stage of the journey.

Other Expeditions to Consider

Classic Inca Trail
The original stone-paved route to Machu Picchu with entry through the Sun Gate. Requires advance permits.
Salkantay Trek
A high-altitude route crossing 4,630 m with glacier views and a descent into cloud forest.
Ausangate Grand Circuit
An expedition-level trek featuring multiple passes above 4,900 m, remote alpine lakes, and access to Rainbow Mountain.

Full Itinerary

Distance 9 km / 5.6 mi.
Max Altitude 3,900 m / 12,800 ft.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner.
Sleep Cancha Cancha Campsite ∼3,900 m.

Our Cultural Trek to Machu Picchu starts with hotel pickup at 5:00am. We drive in our private van toward the Sacred Valley, taking the direct route to Pisac. First stop is the classic Sacred Valley viewpoint where crops dress the mountains in terraces.

We arrive at the archaeological site of Pisac where you discover the largest Inca cemetery with more than 5,000 tombs. Admire the incredible farming terraces carved into the mountain, explore the Inca tunnel, and the religious area of this important Inca city.

After exploring Pisac, we drive to Calca where we stop to visit the local market and buy last supplies for the trek.

We continue to Huaran 2,800 m where we meet your horsemen and horses. Time to get ready, boots on, and begin our first 3 hours gradually ascending toward Cancha Cancha. Along the way, lunch is served next to the river, replenishing your energy with a delicious meal prepared by your trekking chef.

Cancha Cancha 3,900 m / 12,800 ft is one of the most isolated and traditional communities, self-sustaining as it has been for hundreds of years. There is no road to the community and they were recently connected to electricity in December 2019. After settling into your tents and having afternoon tea, you will visit a local family. Learn all about life in a traditional Andean village, with your guide as interpreter. After dinner, your guide will show you the Inca constellations on which they depended for agricultural guidance and still do today.

Day 1 Highlights

Pisac Archaeological Park: Inca cemetery, terraces, tunnel, and temple area
Sacred Valley panoramic viewpoint
Calca traditional market visit
First trek into the Lares Valley
Lunch by the river prepared by trekking chef
Cancha Cancha community visit with local family
Inca constellations stargazing with your guide
Family home visit & Inca stories after dinner.

Distance 12 km / 7.5 mi.
Max Altitude 4,500 m / 14,800 ft.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner.
Sleep Quiswarani Campsite ∼3,700 m.

Your guide will wake you with a hot mug of tea or coffee to enjoy before you get up for breakfast. Feeling ready to begin Day 2, we start our 7-hour hike northeast. It starts with an intense walk, accomplishing high passes on our way to the highest point of our trek at Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m / 14,800 ft. The ascent takes approximately 3 hours.

Motivating you along the trail are the views of glaciers, remote lakes, alpaca herds, rugged valleys, and spectacular mountain vistas. Keep your eyes on the sky for Caracara falcons and Andean geese.

After enjoying the summit, we descend for 3 hours until we reach our campsite located by the Quiswarani community 3,700 m / 12,139 ft. On the way, we take an isolated trail where we see indigenous highland people in traditional outfits herding llamas and alpacas. The local indigenous people will interact with you in Quechua, the Incas’ language. Your guide will translate and teach you some Quechua.

When you arrive at the Spectacular Seven Waterfalls, you are almost to the campsite. These waterfalls cascade down the mountainside like a white veil. At the campsite, everything will be ready. Enjoy hot drinks and appetizers before dinner, then settle in for a comfortable night sleep.

Day 2 Highlights

Cross Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m, the highest point of the trek.
Full-day views of glaciers, lakes, and the Vilcanota Range.
Cultural encounters with Quechua herders along the trail.
Spectacular Seven Waterfalls before reaching Quiswarani camp.
Sleep at 3,700 m to aid acclimatization.

6 Essential Phrases for the Lares Trek

1. Napaykullayki (Na-pie-koo-ya-kee)

Meaning: Hello / I greet you with respect.
Why use it: It’s the most polite way to enter a village or a home. It’s warmer than a simple “hola” and shows immediate respect for the local culture.

2. Allillanchu? (Ay-yee-yan-choo)

Meaning: How are you? / Are you well?
Why use it: This is the universal icebreaker. The “chu” at the end makes it a question. You’ll almost always hear a smiling “Allillanmi!” (I am well!) in return.

3. Yusulpayki (Yoo-sool-pie-kee)

Meaning: Thank you / May God reward you.
Why use it: As we discussed, this is the most common way to say thanks in the Cusco region. Using this after a weaver shows you their work or after a meal is a sign of deep appreciation.

4. Munayllaña! (Moo-pie-ya-nya)

Meaning: How beautiful!
Why use it: You’ll see incredible textiles and stunning mountain views in Lares. When a local shows you a poncho they spent months weaving, saying “Munayllaña” is the best compliment you can give.

5. Tupananchiskama (Too-pa-nan-chis-ka-ma)

Meaning: Until we meet again.
Why use it: Quechua doesn’t really have a word for “goodbye” because the culture believes we are always connected. Instead of a final “bye,” use this to say “until the next time our paths cross.”

6. Iman sutiyki? (Ee-man soo-tee-kee)

Meaning: What is your name?
Why use it: The Lares trek is all about the people. Asking someone their name is the first step toward a real conversation rather than just being a “gringo” passing through.

Quechua is an agglutinative language, meaning they add suffixes to words to change the feeling. For example, adding “-cha” to a name (like Michael-cha) makes it “dear Michael” or “little Michael.” It’s a language built on affection and connection!

Distance 15 km / 9.3 mi.
Max Altitude 4,200 m / 13,779 ft.
Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner.
Sleep Ferre Hotel or similar ∼2,040 m.

Your adventure continues as you begin the most scenic day yet. We begin our ascent for 3 hours until we reach Willqaqasa Pass 4,200 m / 13,779 ft, getting a bird’s eye view of the reflections of the mountains in mirror images in the glacial lakes. The majestic Colquecruz and Pitusiray Mountains are inspiring and we can admire them from the pass.

We continue through Puna grasslands, productive agricultural sites, and pristine natural lakes. Descend for 2 hours to the Cuncani community. Connecting with local indigenous children, you may have the opportunity to visit their school and share time with the students.

From Cuncani we meet our driver and ride down through lush valleys with extensive agricultural areas, fruit bearing trees, varied flora, and native flowers like begonias and wild orchids. Finally, we reach our destination, the Lares Hot Springs 3,100 m / 10,170 ft, where we soak in the natural volcanic hot springs for an hour, have lunch, and relax. Time for goodbyes to our remarkable chef and horsemen.

After lunch in Lares, we take our private transport 2.5 hours to Ollantaytambo, where we have dinner, then take the train to Aguas Calientes where we spend the night.

Day 3 Highlights

Willqaqasa Pass 4,200 m with Colquecruz and Pitusiray views.
Glacial lakes and Puna grasslands.
Cuncani village and potential school visit.
Descent through cloud forest, orchids, and fruit trees.
Lares Hot Springs soak in natural volcanic pools.
Scenic drive to Ollantaytambo.
Train journey to Aguas Calientes along Urubamba River.

Distance 4 km / 2.5 mi in site.
Max Altitude 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.
Meals Breakfast.
Sleep Cusco hotel.

Today’s highlight is the amazing Machu Picchu.

After an early breakfast at your hotel, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu so you can be there to witness the sunrise. It is a truly extraordinary site and not something you’ll want to miss.

Your Machu Picchu ticket is for Circuit 2, the most complete route. It covers the upper and lower terraces, Temple of the Sun, Sacred Rock, Inca house, and the classic viewpoints. Your guide will give you a tour of about two hours and explain how Machu Picchu is divided into three sectors: agricultural, residential, and religious.

Important: Circuit 2 tickets sell out fast. It is important to book months in advance to secure your ticket. If Circuit 2 is sold out at the time of booking, we can offer a mix of Circuit 1 and Circuit 3 so you still see the main highlights and classic photo spots. We will confirm which circuit you have at booking.

When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch not included. Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for shopping, sightseeing, or a visit to the museum or hot springs.

The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. See Wiñay Wayna from the train if you look up high on the steep canyon wall. Back at Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:00pm..

Train Options
The Expedition train departs for Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm. You can upgrade to the Vistadome service for $67 USD, with departures at 2:55, 3:20, 4:22, or 4:43pm. Earlier train times can be arranged if requested at the time of booking. The railway follows the Urubamba River through a narrow canyon with beautiful sections of whitewater. Look up toward the cliffs and you may spot Wiñay Wayna high on the mountainside.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo your driver will be waiting to transfer you by private van back to Cusco. You can expect to arrive at your hotel around 7:00pm.

Day 4 Highlights

Sunrise at Machu Picchu with first bus up.
Circuit 2 guided tour: Temple of the Sun, Sacred Rock, Inca house, terraces.
Classic postcard views of Machu Picchu.
Learn the 3 sectors: agricultural, residential, religious.
Free time in Aguas Calientes for market or hot springs.
Scenic Expedition train along Urubamba River.
View of Wiñay Wayna from train.
Private transfer back to Cusco hotel.

Additional Summit Experiences

Huayna Picchu The Young Mountain in Quechua. This steep trail leads to the Temple of the Moon, built inside a natural cave. The small terraces at the summit served as an Inca astronomical observatory and guard post overlooking the citadel. $75 USD
Machu Picchu Mountain The Old Mountain in Quechua. This higher peak offers a full panoramic view of the entire Machu Picchu complex. Inca priests used the summit for rituals high above the sacred city. Both hikes require advance permits and are completed without a guide. $75 USD

Included

Transit
Airport pickup and transfer to your Cusco hotel on any date. Private round-trip van from your hotel to Pisac Ruins and Huaran trailhead on Day 1. Private van from Cuncani to Lares Hot Springs, then to Ollantaytambo train station on Day 3. Private van transfer from Ollantaytambo back to your Cusco hotel on Day 4.
Pro Guide
Local licensed guide, fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua. Trained in high-altitude safety, WFR certified, and expert in Inca history, archaeology, and Quechua culture. Your guide handles every ticket, train, and transfer from Cusco to Cusco.
Permits
All entrance fees included. Pisac Archaeological Park on Day 1. Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex with Circuit 3 entry on Day 4.
Portage
Up to 7 kg of personal gear carried by the horse support team. Includes clothes, sleeping bag, and extras. Personal duffel bag provided for your luggage on horses.
Sleep
Spacious 4-season EUREKA TIMBERLINE tents designed for 4 people, shared by only 2. Comfortable foam mattress and camping pillow provided. Two nights camping at 3,900 m and 3,700 m with bathroom buildings at both sites.
Hotel
One night in 3* hotel in Aguas Calientes with private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, luggage storage, and buffet breakfast included.
Camp
Full camp setup with dining tent, kitchen tent, and private toilet tent at Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani campsites. Afternoon tea served daily.
Rescue
Dedicated emergency horse available if you need to ride due to fatigue or altitude. Emergency oxygen bottle and comprehensive first aid kit on all treks. Satellite communication carried by guide.
Dining
Professional chef-prepared meals using local ingredients. 3x breakfast, 3x lunch, 3x dinner, plus afternoon tea daily as listed in itinerary. All dietary requirements catered for with advance notice. Boiled water provided daily to fill your bottles.
Trains and Buses
Round-trip Expedition train ticket Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and return. Round-trip bus tickets Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Extras
Exclusive access to our private swimming pool and sauna at Veronica View Hotel upon return.
Backpack rain cover provided.
Interaction with local families and schoolchildren in Cancha Cancha and Cuncani.

Not Included

Sleeping Bag
$20 USD per person per trek. Clean, warm, rated for -10°C.
Air Mattress
$20 USD per person per trek. Therm-a-Rest inflatable for extra comfort.
Walking Poles
$15 USD per pair per trek. Professional extendable poles with rubber tips.
Personal Tent
$30 USD per trek. Solo tent if you prefer not to share. Request at booking.
Vistadome Train Upgrade
$67 USD per person, return only. Panoramic windows and service. Available for 2:55, 3:20, 4:22, or 4:43pm departures.
Huayna Picchu Mountain
$75 USD per person. Must be booked in advance with your permit. Steep climb to Temple of the Moon.
Machu Picchu Mountain
$75 USD per person. Must be booked in advance with your permit. Higher summit with full citadel views.
Lunch Day 4
Lunch in Aguas Calientes after Machu Picchu tour is not included. Budget $10–$20 USD.
Tips
Optional for guide, chef, horsemen, and drivers. Industry standard is appreciated for excellent service.
Travel Insurance
Must cover trekking up to 5,000 m and emergency evacuation.

Pricing

This trek departs any day of the week with a minimum of two people. Solo travelers may join an existing group.

Price includes personal pack horse carrying up to 7 kg of your gear. Duffel bag and liner provided. Large Eureka 4-person tents provided for every 2 trekkers.

Price without hotel $577 USD per person
With 3 Hotel in Aguas Calientes* $597 USD per person
With 4 Hotel in Aguas Calientes* $697 USD per person

Minimum 2 persons required to open a new group. Solo trekkers welcome to join existing departures.

Discounts

Group
$30 USD off per person for groups of 5 or more when booked together.
Under 11 years old
$40 USD off per child. Passport copy required at booking.

Upgrades

Vistadome Train
Upgrade to Vistadome Train for return to Cusco $57 USD per person. Return only. Panoramic windows and onboard show. Available for 2:55, 3:20, 4:22, or 4:43pm departures.
Huayna Picchu Mountain
Huayna Picchu permit $75 USD per person. Must be requested at booking. Limited availability. Unguided.
Hotel Upgrade Aguas Calientes
La Cabaña Hotel $60 USD per person.
Tierra Viva Hotel $90 USD per person.
El Mapi Hotel $120 USD per person.
Single supplement for standard hotel $40 USD per night for solo travelers with single room.
Extra Night Aguas Calientes
Additional night from $60 USD per person depending on availability.

Extras

Sleeping Bag
-15°C rated sleeping bag rental $20 USD per person per trek. Steam cleaned after every use.
Air Mattress
Therm-a-Rest upgrade $20 USD per person per trek for extra comfort at 3,900 m and 3,700 m.
Walking Poles
Professional collapsible trekking poles $15 USD per pair per trek. Rubber tips included.
Personal Tent
Solo tent supplement $30 USD per trek. For solo travelers who prefer not to share.
Added Value
Airport
Private arrival transfer from Cusco airport to your hotel included on any date.
Duffel
Duffel bag and waterproof liner provided for horse transport.
Portage
Up to 7 kg personal gear carried by horse support team included.
Sleep
High-density foam mattress, camping pillow, and extra blanket for the tent included.
Safety
Emergency oxygen bottle and comprehensive first aid kit included. Dedicated emergency horse on standby throughout the trek.
Water
Boiled drinking water provided daily at camp to refill your bottles.
Rain
Plastic rain poncho included.
Itinerary
Best 4-day Lares route with Pisac Ruins operated by Machu Picchu specialists. No permit lottery. Direct access via Circuit 3.

2026 Lares Trek with Pisac Ruins Packing List

Prepare for freezing nights at 3,900 m, Willqaqasa Pass at 4,200 m, Pachacutec Pass at 4,500 m, and strong high-altitude sun. Pack smart, every item matters at altitude.

Essentials

Passport
Original passport must match your 2026 booking details. Required for train and Machu Picchu entry. Keep it on you.
Student ID
Original card required for student discount eligibility. Must show name, photo, and expiration date.
Daypack 30L to 40L
For daily essentials. Must have rain cover. Large backpacks are not allowed into Machu Picchu.
Boots
Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and deep tread. Must be broken in. Trails are steep, rocky, and muddy.
Water
2 to 3 L capacity in reusable bottles or hydration bladder. Bring your own water until lunch on Day 1. We provide boiled water at every meal after.
Headlamp
Essential for campsite after dark, 5:30am bus line in Aguas Calientes, and early starts. Bring extra batteries.
Cash
Peruvian soles in small bills for drinks, snacks in Aguas Calientes, and tips for your guide, chef, and horsemen.
Duffel Bag Carried by Horse
As a direct local operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and include a horse team to carry up to 7 kg or 14 lbs. This limit includes your 2.5 kg sleeping bag, 1 kg mattress, and 3.5 kg personal gear. All bags are weighed. By Peruvian law, a duffel must not exceed 7 kg to protect the horses. If you need more, you carry the extra weight in your daypack.
Clothing
- 2 t-shirts, quickdry preferred.
- 2 hiking pants minimum.
- 4 sets of underwear.
- 3 sets of hiking socks, wool or synthetic.
- 1 fleece or thermal top for layering.
- 1 down jacket rated to -15ºC. Nights at Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani drop to 3ºC.
- Waterproof gloves, even ski gloves work.
- Wool hat for cold mornings and high passes.
- Bathing suit for Lares Hot Springs on Day 3.
- Lightweight camp shoes or sandals for evenings.
Sleeping
- Sleeping bag rated to -15ºC. Rentals available from Orange Nation for $20 USD per trek. Must be requested in advance.
- Air mattress optional. Therm-a-Rest upgrade $20 USD per trek for extra comfort.
Toiletries
- Quickdry towel. We provide small ones but you may want larger.
- Small bottle of biodegradable soap. We provide warm water morning and evening.
- Face moisturizer. High altitude dries skin fast.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste.
- Personal medications and blister kit: band aids, moleskin, ibuprofen. We carry a comprehensive first aid kit and oxygen.
Power
High-capacity portable battery bank. No electricity on trek until Aguas Calientes hotel.
Organization
Large waterproof bags provided at the office to line your duffel. Ask for them at briefing.
Trail Daypack Carried by You
The remainder of your belongings stay in your duffel at camp. Keep this pack light for hiking each day.
Rain Gear
Waterproof jacket or poncho and pants. Weather changes fast in the Andes. We provide a plastic rain poncho.
Sun Protection
SPF 50+ sunscreen, sun hat, and UV sunglasses. UV is extreme at 4,500 m on Pachacutec Pass.
Fleece
Mid layer for variable temps and Machu Picchu sunrise.
Trekking Poles
Highly recommended for ascents, descents, and both high passes. Rentals $15 USD per pair.
Snacks
Chocolate bars, cereal bars, nuts, or dried fruit for energy between meals.
Coca Leaves
Optional for altitude. Your guide will explain traditional use.
Camera
With extra battery. Cold drains batteries fast, especially at Machu Picchu sunrise.
Sanitation
Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste. Leave no trace.
Insect Protection
Light repellent. Few bugs at altitude but present in Aguas Calientes and Lares valley.

Trail Tips

Battery Life
Keep phones and batteries in your sleeping bag or jacket pocket at night. Cold kills charge fast.
UV Protection
Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. You will burn in 20 minutes on Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m.
Hydration
Drink at least 3 L of water daily. Dehydration worsens altitude symptoms.
Layering
Mornings start below freezing at Cancha Cancha. By midday you’ll be in a t-shirt. Add and remove layers all day.
Dry Bags
Keep clothes in duffel waterproofed. Rain and camp condensation are common.
Acclimatization
Move slow on Day 1 and Day 2. You sleep at 3,900 m and 3,700 m. Listen to your body. Your guide monitors everyone for altitude.

Circuits & Safety

The 4-Day Lares Trek with Pisac Ruins is built for altitude safety and cultural immersion. You cross Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m on Day 2 and Willqaqasa Pass 4,200 m on Day 3. You sleep at 3,900 m and 3,700 m before descending to Aguas Calientes. Climb high, sleep low reduces altitude risk.

Altitude
Two nights camping at 3,900 m and 3,700 m after crossing 4,500 m and 4,200 m passes. We recommend 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco first. Drink 3 L of water daily and move slowly on Day 1 and Day 2.
Emergency
Guides carry emergency oxygen, comprehensive first aid kit, and satellite communication. Dedicated emergency horse travels with the group for evacuation if needed. All guides are WFR trained and experienced in high-altitude incidents.
Guides
Certified local guides fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua set pace, check health daily, and make weather calls. They manage every ticket, train, transfer, and safety protocol from Cusco to Cusco.
Machu Picchu Circuit 3
Your ticket uses Circuit 3. Covers lower agricultural terraces, Inca house, Temple of the Sun, and classic viewpoints. No re-entry allowed. No metal-tip trekking poles, tripods, or backpacks over 40L inside the site. Your guide follows all Ministry of Culture regulations.
Weather & Terrain
Guide adjusts timing for snow, rain, or wind. Both Pachacutec Pass and Willqaqasa Pass may be modified in severe weather. Trails are rocky, steep, and exposed above 4,000 m. Expect freezing nights at Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani, around 3ºC.
Group Size
Max 8 travelers for close supervision on both high passes and in remote villages. Small groups allow daily health checks and flexible pacing.
Risk Note
Trek operates from 2,800 m to 4,500 m with two nights above 3,700 m. You need good health and fitness for cold, remote terrain, and challenging hiking at altitude. This route is not recommended for travelers with heart conditions, severe respiratory issues, or limited mobility.

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with PISAC Ruins 4- Days

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Travelers' Choice
2025

5.0

Jaffet hasan c

The guys were very efficient throughout the trip and attentive when we arrived at the campsite. The kitchen service was super delicious , the food quality and healthy, dishes suitable for people (vegans) and a buffet that has nothing to envy others.
Their kindness and efficiency are greatly appreciated for this journey to the Inca Way.

Written June 22, 2025

Friends

Glen

We had a great experience doing the 4d3n Inca Trail. Our porters were so hard working and made sure our tents and equipment were always ready for us. The chef Mario was outstanding and prepared restaurant quality vegetarian food everyday. Our guide Carlos made the trip exceptional, always making sure we were informed and making sure we were all enjoying the trail. He went above and beyond to encourage me when I was unwell. He made the trip the best ever. A beautiful and wonderful trek.

Written July 14, 2025

Family

Kendall C

Hiking the Short Inca Trail was hands-down one of the highlights of my entire trip to Peru. This trek is the perfect option if you want a taste of the iconic Inca Trail without committing to the full 4-day hike.

From the moment we started the hike at KM 104 Carlos our guide was amazing and patient. we were surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, lush cloud forests, and fascinating Inca ruins. The trail itself is moderately challenging—expect a steady incline, stone steps, and a bit of cardio—but it’s absolutely doable for anyone with a decent fitness level. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu is

Written July 8, 2025

Couples

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Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with PISAC Ruins 4- Days