The Ultimate Guide to the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail
Finding the perfect route to Machu Picchu can feel overwhelming. Many travelers dream of hiking the iconic paths of the ancient Incas, but worry about crowded trails and fully booked permits. If you want a truly authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure that still includes the legendary entrance through the Sun Gate, the Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the absolute best choice.
This unique combination brings together the very best of the Peruvian Andes. You get the deep cultural immersion and peaceful landscapes of the Lares Valley, followed by the historical wonder of the classic 2-day Inca Trail. It is a journey designed for travelers who want to hike in tranquility, meet local indigenous communities, and still experience the thrill of arriving at the ancient citadel on foot.
Here at Inca Trail for Less, we specialize in guiding small groups through these magnificent Andean lands. We want to help you discover why combining the Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail is the ultimate way to experience Peru. Let’s explore what makes this route so special, what your itinerary will look like, and how to prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Why Choose the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail?
Many visitors flock to the classic routes, entirely missing the hidden gems tucked away in the Andes. The Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail offers a perfectly balanced itinerary. You get the rugged, cultural adventure of the high mountains, paired with the awe-inspiring archaeological sites of the original Inca path.
A Cultural Adventure Off the Beaten Path
The Lares Trek is often called the «Cultural Trek.» Unlike the main trails, this route takes you through remote Andean villages where traditional ways of life remain unchanged. You will see local weavers crafting vibrant textiles using techniques passed down for generations. You will share smiles with local farmers and see herds of llamas and alpacas roaming the pristine mountainsides. It is an authentic cultural adventure that connects you deeply with the heritage of Peru.
Peaceful Campsites and Soothing Hot Springs
One of the greatest highlights of the Lares Trek is the tranquility. We sleep in peaceful, secluded campsites far away from the noise and crowds of the busier routes. You can look up at the spectacular starlit sky in complete silence. Plus, your journey begins with a visit to the famous Lares hot springs. Soaking in these natural thermal baths is the perfect way to relax your muscles and prepare your body for the incredible hike ahead.
The Magic of the 2-Day Inca Trail
After experiencing the quiet beauty of the Lares Valley, the adventure transitions to the famous Short Inca Trail. This 2-day Inca Trail segment is what truly elevates this trip.
Stunning Ruins and the Sun Gate
The 2-day Inca Trail allows you to hike the most spectacular final stretch of the classic route. Along the way, we visit Wiñay Wayna, a breathtaking archaeological site built into a steep hillside. Often considered the most beautiful ruin on the entire trail, it features intricate agricultural terraces and stunning water features.
From there, you hike through the lush cloud forest directly to Inti Punku, the legendary Sun Gate. Walking through the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu reveal itself below is a moment you will never forget.
Experience Machu Picchu Twice
One of the biggest advantages of this specific itinerary is the chance to visit Machu Picchu two times. On the afternoon of your Short Inca Trail hike, you arrive at the citadel just as the main crowds are leaving. This gives you the perfect opportunity to capture those classic, postcard-perfect photos in the soft afternoon light.
Then, after a comfortable night in a local hotel, you return to Machu Picchu the following morning. This second visit is dedicated to a comprehensive guided tour. You will have plenty of time to explore the sacred temples, learn about the fascinating history of the Incas, and truly absorb the energy of this world wonder.
Your Day-by-Day Itinerary
Unique experiences in Peru designed for you by local experts require a well-crafted schedule. Here is a glimpse into what your adventure with Inca Trail for Less will look like:
Day 1: Hot Springs and High Andes
We pick you up from Cusco and drive through the Sacred Valley to the town of Lares. Here, we take time to enjoy the soothing Lares hot springs. Afterward, we begin our trek through stunning valleys, eventually arriving at our first peaceful campsite. You will enjoy a delicious meal prepared by our trek chefs and sleep under a canopy of stars.
Day 2: Cultural Encounters and Mountain Passes
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the Lares portion. We hike over high mountain passes, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes. Along the way, we interact with local weaving communities and learn about their daily lives. In the afternoon, we descend toward the Sacred Valley and take a scenic train ride to our starting point for the Inca Trail.
Day 3: The Short Inca Trail to the Sun Gate
We disembark the train at Kilometer 104 and begin the 2-day Inca Trail. The path winds through lush cloud forests and past the spectacular ruins of Wiñay Wayna. By late afternoon, we reach the Sun Gate for your first awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu. We take our classic photos, then head down to the town of Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved dinner and a comfortable hotel bed.
Day 4: Exploring the Sacred Citadel
We wake up early to catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. Your expert guide from Inca Trail for Less will lead you through the main sectors of the city, explaining the significance of the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the intricate masonry. Afterward, you will take the train back to Cusco, carrying memories that will last a lifetime.
Essential Tips for Your Adventure
Hiking to Machu Picchu is a true adventure, making the journey to the Inca Citadel as rewarding as the ruins themselves. To ensure you have the best possible experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Acclimatize in Cusco: Spend at least two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before your trek begins. This helps your body adjust to the high altitude and makes the hiking much more enjoyable.
- Pack Smart: Bring layers! The Lares Trek can be very cold at night, while the cloud forest of the Short Inca Trail is often warm and humid. A good quality fleece, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable hiking boots are essential.
- Book Early: While the Lares Trek does not require specific government permits, the Short Inca Trail segment strictly limits daily visitors. Secure your spot with Inca Trail for Less several months in advance to guarantee your entrance.
- Bring Your Swimsuit: You definitely do not want to miss out on the Lares hot springs on day one.
Plan Your Dream Trip to Machu Picchu
The Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail is the perfect blend of remote wilderness, rich cultural heritage, and iconic history. You get the rare opportunity to sleep in quiet mountain valleys, soak in thermal baths, hike the original Inca steps, and experience the majesty of Machu Picchu twice.
At Inca Trail for Less, we are passionate about showing you the authentic heart of Peru. Our knowledgeable local guides and dedicated support team are ready to make this journey seamless and unforgettable.
Let’s plan your dream trip to Machu Picchu today. Reach out to our team at Inca Trail for Less, and take the first step toward the greatest adventure of your life