Remote Lares Trek & Inca Trail | Max 8 People | 4,500 m High Pass | Camp + Hotel
Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4 Days
Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-Days
A perfect blend of culture and adventure in just four days. Trek through the remote Lares Valley, visiting traditional Quechua communities surrounded by glaciers, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and herds of llamas and alpacas. Then hike the original Inca Trail, exploring ancient sites before arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, the most iconic entrance to the citadel.
Experience Machu Picchu twice: First from above on arrival, then again the next day with a guided tour.
Lares Trek Highlights
- Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m
The highest point of the trek with sweeping views of glaciers, lakes, and Andean valleys. - Remote Quechua Communities
Visit Cancha Cancha and Quiswarani. Experience authentic Andean life and traditions. - Glaciers, Lakes & Waterfalls
A scenic route through untouched landscapes with turquoise lakes and the Seven Waterfalls. - Short Inca Trail Experience
Hike the final section of the original Inca Trail, visiting ancient Inca sites along the way. - Sun Gate Entrance to Machu Picchu
Arrive the way the Incas did, with your first breathtaking view from above. - Visit Machu Picchu Twice
Enter in the afternoon via the Sun Gate, then return the next day for a guided tour. - Scenic Train Journey
Travel along the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley to and from Machu Picchu. - Small Groups
Better pacing, more personal experience, and deeper cultural interaction.
From
$747
/per person
4 Days / 3 Nights
Duration
Remote Lares Trek & Inca Trail | Max 8 People | 4,500 m High Pass | Camp + Hotel
Type
Cusco
Location
Trip Details
Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Expedition
A unique 4-day journey combining remote Andean culture with the legendary Inca Trail. Trek through isolated Quechua communities in the Lares Valley, cross high mountain passes at 4,500 m, and experience life far from modern roads or crowds.
Then continue onto the original Inca Trail, following ancient stone paths through cloud forest to reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate arriving with your first unforgettable view from above.
Unlike standard routes, this journey lets you experience Machu Picchu twice, blending cultural immersion, high-altitude trekking, and the most iconic entrance to the Inca citadel in a single expedition.
Why Choose Orange Nation
Orange Nation Peru is a family-owned travel agency and local tour operator based in Cusco. We are a 100% Cusqueñian company, operating without shareholders. Our focus is small, personalized expeditions led by local professionals, delivering high-quality service with deep cultural connection.
We are a responsible and sustainable operator. Our team is our extended family, supported with fair wages and proper working conditions, ensuring every trek is delivered with pride and care.
- Small Groups
The 3-day Lares Trek moves through remote communities and over Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m. To ensure safety, pace, and real cultural interaction, group sizes never exceed 8 people. This allows for careful monitoring at altitude, unhurried time in villages, and a quieter experience on the trail. - Top Tour Guides
Professional, English-speaking guides from Cusco with degrees in tourism or history, specialized in high-altitude safety and deeply knowledgeable about Quechua culture, weaving traditions, and Inca history. All guides are WFR trained and carry satellite communication. Your guide manages every ticket, train, and transfer from Cusco to Cusco. - Our Cooks
Even at 3,900 m, fresh meals are prepared for energy and recovery. Expect abundant Peruvian and international cuisine made by professional chefs who accommodate all dietary needs and allergies. Cooked in camp, with hot soup waiting after each day’s hike. - Premium Equipment
Quality gear is essential for safety and rest at altitude. - Tents
We use high-quality 4-season tents designed for 4 people, but shared by only 2, giving you extra space for comfort and gear storage at 3,900 m. - Mats
Thick foam mats are provided for insulation. Air mattresses available for rent. - Dining
Weather-ready dining tents equipped with tables and chairs for a proper meal at altitude. - Extras
Includes duffel bags, pillows, rain covers, and portable toilets for added comfort and hygiene.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Cultural Explorers
Travelers who want real interaction with Quechua communities, not just landscapes. - Inca Trail Seekers
Those who want to hike the original Inca Trail and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, without committing to the full 4-day trek. - Balanced Adventurers
Looking for a mix of trekking, culture, and comfort, with only one night camping and hotel stays before and after Machu Picchu. - First-Time Trekkers to Machu Picchu
Who want both a scenic trek and the full Machu Picchu experience, including a guided tour and a second visit.
Other Expeditions to Consider
- Classic Inca Trail
For trekkers wanting the full archaeological route, the 4-Day Inca Trail is the only trek that follows the complete path and enters via the Sun Gate. Permits required. - Lares Trek (3-Day)
A shorter cultural trek focusing on remote villages and high mountain scenery, with direct train access to Machu Picchu. - Salkantay Trek
A more physically demanding route crossing 4,630 m, with diverse landscapes from glaciers to cloud forest before reaching Machu Picchu.
Full Itinerary
Included
Transfers & Transport
- Airport Transfer
Transfer from the airport to your hotel in Cusco. - Trailhead Transfer
Private transportation from the hotel to Huaran (trailhead). - Train Tickets
Round trip Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. - Bus Tickets
Round trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. - Return Transfer
Transfer from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.
Guide & Staff
- Professional Guide
Licensed guide fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua. - Trekking Support Team
Chef and assistant cook for the entire trek. - Pack Animals
Horseman and mules to carry camping equipment and group gear on the Lares Trek section. - Emergency Support
Emergency horse with helmet available for safety and evacuation if required on the Lares section.
Tickets & Permits
- Machu Picchu Entrance
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu archaeological site. - Lares Trek Access
Entrance permits for Lares Trek community access. - Inca Trail Permit
Entrance permit for the Inca Trail National Park (Short Inca Trail section).
Accommodation
- Hotels
2 nights in hotels with private bathroom, hot shower, WiFi, storage, and buffet breakfast (Cusco and Aguas Calientes depending on itinerary option). - Camping
1 night camping in Cancha Cancha with full camping setup.
Camping Equipment
- Tents
4-person igloo-style tents shared by only 2 trekkers. - Sleeping System
Foam mattress and pillow included. - Dining Setup
Dining tent with tables and chairs. - Kitchen Setup
Kitchen tent and cooking equipment. - Sanitation
Portable toilet and hygiene support.
Meals
- Full Trek Meals
All meals as indicated in the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, tea). - Fresh Preparation
Freshly prepared meals throughout the trek using local ingredients. - Hydration
Boiled water provided daily to refill drinking bottles.
Safety Equipment
- Medical Kit
First aid kit carried by your guide. - Oxygen Support
Emergency oxygen tank included. - Emergency Response
Safety and evacuation support available when required.
Not Included
Optional Rental Equipment
- Sleeping Bag
$20 USD per person per trek (cleaned and sanitized after each use). - Air Mattress
$20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-Rest style upgrade for extra comfort). - Walking Poles
$15 USD per pair per trek (professional adjustable trekking poles). - Single Personal Tent
$30 USD per trek (available upon request).
Optional Upgrades
- Vistadome Train Upgrade
$57 USD per person (return service upgrade, subject to availability). - Huayna Picchu Mountain Ticket
$75 USD per person (must be requested at booking, subject to availability). - Optional Hotel Upgrades
Available upon request depending on hotel category.
Meals & Accommodation
- Last Day Lunch in Aguas Calientes
Lunch after Machu Picchu visit is not included. - Pre & Post-Trek Hotels
Hotels in Cusco or Aguas Calientes before or after the trek unless included in your package.
Travel & Logistics
- Flights
International and domestic airfare not included. - Travel Insurance
Highly recommended but not included.
Gratuities
- Tips
Gratuities for guides, cooks, and trekking staff not included.
Pricing
This trek departs any day of the week with a minimum of 2 people.
No. of People | Price
2 to 8 people | $747 USD per person
Personal porter included (Lares Trek section only). Duffel bag provided for your belongings up to 7 kg.
Large 4-person tents are provided for every 2 trekkers.
Private service available: +$100 USD per person (minimum 2 people)
Discounts
- Group Discount
$30 USD off per person for groups of 5 or more when booked together. - Student Discount
18 to 25 years old: $30 USD off. Valid student ID required at booking (name, university, photo, expiration date). Subject to approval. - Youth Discount
Under 18 years old: $30 USD off. Passport copy required at booking.
Under 11 years old: $40 USD off. Passport copy required at booking.
Upgrades & Extras
- Sleeping Bag
$20 USD per person per trek (cleaned and sanitized after each use). - Air Mattress
$20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-Rest upgrade for extra comfort). - Walking Poles
$15 USD per pair per trek (professional adjustable trekking poles). - Single Tent
$30 USD per trek (for solo travelers only). - Additional Night in Aguas Calientes
From $60 USD per person depending on availability. - Vistadome Train Upgrade
$57 USD per person (return journey with panoramic windows and onboard show). - Huayna Picchu Mountain
$75 USD per person (must be requested at booking, subject to availability). - Hotel Single Supplement
$35 USD per night for solo travelers (subject to hotel availability).
Included Added Value
- Airport Transfer
Free private transfer from Cusco airport to your hotel. - Trekking Equipment
Duffel bags, waterproof liner bags, foam mattresses, camping pillows, and extra blankets included. - Pack Animals
Extra pack horses and mules included (Lares section only), carrying up to 7 kg of personal gear. - Safety Equipment
Emergency oxygen tank and full first aid kit included. Emergency horse available on the Lares section. - Water & Hydration
Boiled drinking water provided daily at camps to refill bottles. - Weather Protection
Rain protection gear included for trekking conditions. - Expert Operation
Fully guided experience operated by Lares Trek and Inca Trail specialists with guaranteed permits and logistics handling.
2026 Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail Packing List
Prepare for cold nights at 3,900 m, high-altitude trekking up to 4,500 m, and varied climates from the Andes to the cloud forest.
Essentials
- Passport
Original passport must match your booking. Required for train travel and Machu Picchu entry. - University ID
Original card required for student discount eligibility. Must show name, photo, and expiration date. - Daypack 30L to 40L
Comfortable backpack with rain cover for daily essentials. Larger backpacks are not allowed in Machu Picchu. - Hiking Boots
Sturdy, broken-in boots with ankle support. Trails are uneven and can be steep. - Water
2 to 3 liters capacity in reusable bottles or hydration system. You supply water until the first lunch stop. - Headlamp
Essential for early mornings, camp use, and low-light conditions. - Rain Gear
Waterproof jacket or poncho. Weather can change quickly in the Andes. - Toilet Paper
Essential for the trek. Bring a small bag for waste.
Duffel Bag (Carried by Horse – 7 kg Limit)
- Duffel Bag
Provided at your briefing. Pack horse carries up to 7 kg including sleeping gear and clothing. - Clothing
2 t-shirts, 2 hiking pants, 4 sets of underwear, 3 pairs of hiking socks. - Warm Layers
Fleece or thermals and a warm down jacket. Night temperatures can drop close to freezing. - Gloves
Waterproof or insulated gloves for cold mornings and evenings. - Sleeping Bag
Rated to -15ºC. Available for rent if needed. - Camp Shoes
Lightweight shoes or sandals for evenings at camp. - Towel & Soap
Quick-dry towel and small soap bottle. Warm water provided daily for washing. - Battery Pack
No electricity during the trek. Bring a portable charger. - Plastic Bags
Waterproof liners provided to keep your gear dry.
Toiletries
- Personal Hygiene
Toothbrush, toothpaste, face moisturizer, and personal medications. - Sanitation
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for daily use. - First Aid
Basic personal kit including band aids and blister care.
Daypack (Carried by you during the trek)
- Water
Carry your own water until lunch, then refilled with boiled water at meals. - Sun Protection
Sun hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen. - Warm Layers
Fleece and wool hat for changing temperatures. - Rain Protection
Poncho or waterproof jacket for sudden weather changes. - Snacks
Chocolate, energy bars, or dry fruits for extra energy. - Camera
With spare battery. Cold weather drains batteries quickly. - Gloves
Lightweight or warm gloves depending on conditions. - Personal Items
Cash for souvenirs, snacks, and tips. - Sanitation
Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and small waste bag.
Optional Items
- Bathing Suit
For hot springs in Aguas Calientes. - Trekking Poles
Highly recommended for steep sections. Available for rent. - Insect Repellent
Useful in lower altitude areas near Machu Picchu.
Trail Tips
- Trail Tips
- Layering
Expect cold mornings and warm afternoons. Dress in layers you can easily adjust. - Hydration
Drink at least 2 to 3 liters daily to help with altitude. - Sun Protection
UV exposure is strong at high altitude. Reapply sunscreen regularly. - Battery Care
Keep electronics warm inside your jacket or sleeping bag. - Acclimatization
Take your time on Day 1. Your guide will monitor your pace and wellbeing.
Circuits & Safety
The Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail combines high-altitude trekking with the final section of the Inca Trail. You cross Pachacutec Pass at 4,500 m on Day 2, sleep at 3,900 m in Cancha Cancha on Day 1, then descend before joining the Inca Trail at KM 104. This progression helps balance altitude exposure before reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
- Altitude
One night at 3,900 m and a maximum altitude of 4,500 m. We strongly recommend at least 2 days acclimatization in Cusco before starting the trek. - Emergency
Guides carry oxygen, a full first aid kit, and emergency communication. An emergency horse is included on the Lares section. All guides are WFR trained. - Guides
Certified, English-speaking guides from Cusco manage pacing, monitor health daily, and adjust plans based on conditions. They handle all permits, train tickets, and logistics throughout the journey. - Machu Picchu Circuits 1 & 3
This itinerary includes access to Circuit 1 (upper terraces and classic panoramic viewpoints) on Day 3 upon arrival via the Sun Gate, and Circuit 3 (lower terraces and main archaeological sector) on Day 4 with your guided tour. Entry rules apply. No re-entry, no large backpacks, and no restricted equipment. - Sun Gate Entry
You enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate on Day 3 via the Inca Trail, offering your first panoramic view of the citadel from above. - Weather & Terrain
Conditions vary from cold high-altitude mountain passes to humid cloud forest. Trails can be steep, rocky, and uneven. Guides adjust timing and pace for safety. - Group Size
Maximum 8 travelers. Small groups ensure better supervision, safer pacing at altitude, and a more personal experience. - Risk Note
This trek ranges from 2,000 m to 4,500 m with moderate to challenging hiking. Participants should be in good physical condition and prepared for altitude, cold nights, and remote conditions.
Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4 Days
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