Luxury Glamping Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: 5-Day Ethical Adventure

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Machu Picchu (twice!) ✓ Lares trek ✓ Short Inca Trail ✓

Luxury Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu — 5 Days / 4 Nights

Introductory overview

Experience an extraordinary five-day journey through the Peruvian Andes on our Luxury Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This carefully planned adventure combines high-altitude hiking, traditional Andean culture, remote mountain scenery, upgraded camping and the unforgettable experience of reaching Machu Picchu on foot.

Travel through the beautiful Lares Valley, admire glacial lakes and snow-capped mountains, and learn about the living traditions of Andean communities. After exploring the Lares region, continue toward the historic Inca Trail through the cloud forest, visiting remarkable archaeological sites before reaching the Sun Gate (Intipunku), subject to the authorized route and entrance arrangements.

This five-day itinerary is designed for travelers who want more than a conventional Machu Picchu tour: a rewarding trekking experience, meaningful cultural encounters and a more comfortable way to explore Peru's extraordinary landscapes.

5 Days / 4 Nights

Moderate to challenging

Luxury camping

Small group or private.

Why Choose This Luxury Lares Trek?

Two complementary trekking experiences: Discover the cultural landscapes of the Lares Valley and walk a section of the historic Inca Trail.
Andean cultural encounters: Learn about local traditions, weaving and rural livelihoods through respectful, locally arranged visits.
High-mountain scenery: Explore remote valleys, traditional settlements, mountain passes and beautiful Andean lakes.
Comfort after hiking: Enjoy upgraded camping equipment and freshly prepared meals according to the confirmed service level.
Historic Inca archaeology: Visit sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna when included in the authorized Short Inca Trail itinerary.
The Sun Gate approach: Reach Intipunku for a memorable view of Machu Picchu when permitted by the route and entrance arrangements.
A guided visit to Machu Picchu: Explore the archaeological sanctuary with a qualified guide and the circuit confirmed for your booking.

Tour Overview

Duration.5 days / 4 nights

Starting point.Cusco, Peru

Destination.Machu Picchu

Route

Lares Valley, Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail

Difficulty

Moderate to challenging; depends on the selected Lares route and altitude

Accommodation

Luxury camping and hotel accommodation, according to the final itinerary

Guide

Professional English-speaking guide

Availability

Subject to operating dates, trail regulations and permit availability

Detailed 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1 — Cusco to the Lares Valley and Andean Mountain Trails

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to the confirmed package.

Begin your journey with a pickup in Cusco and a scenic drive toward the Lares region. Depending on the selected route, travel through the Sacred Valley and continue to the trailhead, where you will meet your trekking team and prepare for the hike.

Walk through dramatic mountain scenery, traditional agricultural landscapes and high-altitude terrain. Along the way, admire Andean lakes and the surrounding peaks, with opportunities to observe llamas and alpacas grazing in their natural environment.

Your guide will introduce you to the geography, local traditions and ecology of the region. After a rewarding day outdoors, arrive at the designated campsite and settle into your glamping accommodation.

Overnight: Luxury campsite in the Lares region.

Day 2 — High Mountain Passes, Lakes and Andean Culture

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to the confirmed package.

After breakfast, continue trekking through the Lares Valley, following mountain paths past high-altitude lakes, grazing lands and traditional Andean settlements. Your guide will explain how local communities maintain their agricultural and textile traditions in this challenging mountain environment.

Depending on the route selected, today's hike may include a high mountain pass. Take time to appreciate the expansive views of the Andes and photograph the landscapes along the trail.

In the afternoon, descend toward the planned campsite. Enjoy a freshly prepared meal and time to rest before the following day's journey toward the Sacred Valley.

Overnight: Luxury campsite along the confirmed Lares route.

Day 3 — Lares Valley to Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to the confirmed package.

After breakfast, continue through the Lares region toward the Sacred Valley. The exact walking route depends on the selected trailhead and campsite locations.

Depending on the confirmed itinerary, visit a traditional settlement or archaeological site such as Pumamarca before continuing toward Ollantaytambo. Explore the village's remarkable Inca stonework, terraces and historic streets with your guide.

This transition day connects the mountain trekking experience with the railway journey to Machu Picchu. Rest at your confirmed accommodation and receive a briefing about the next day's Short Inca Trail hike.

Overnight: Accommodation in Ollantaytambo or the Sacred Valley, as confirmed.

Day 4 — Short Inca Trail to Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate and Aguas Calientes

Meals: Breakfast and lunch, plus dinner if included in the selected package.

Begin early and transfer to the railway station for the train to the authorized Short Inca Trail starting point at Kilometer 104. The exact departure and entry arrangements depend on the train schedule and permit.

After entering the trail, visit Chachabamba and hike through the cloud forest toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites along this section of the Inca Trail. Stone terraces, mountain vegetation and views over the surrounding valleys make this a rewarding day for hikers and photographers.

Continue along the authorized trail toward Intipunku, the Sun Gate, for your first view of Machu Picchu from this approach, subject to the route and current access rules. Follow the designated exit and transport arrangements to Aguas Calientes.

Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Day 5 — Guided Machu Picchu Tour and Return to Cusco

Meals: Breakfast and any additional meals explicitly included in the package.

After breakfast, travel by shuttle bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu for your scheduled guided visit. Explore the archaeological sanctuary according to the circuit assigned to your booking, learning about Inca architecture, ceremonial spaces, terraces and the site's historical significance.

Your guide will help you understand how Machu Picchu fits into the wider history of the Inca civilization and its remarkable mountain setting.

After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes and board your confirmed train service to the designated station, where transportation to Cusco will be arranged according to the package.

End of services: Arrival in Cusco.

Operational note: This is a proposed itinerary structure. Before publication, confirm the exact Lares trail, campsites, railway station, ticket circuit, train times, hotel nights and all meal arrangements. Do not advertise an itinerary that combines incompatible trail or ticket arrangements.

What's Included in the Luxury Lares Trek Package?

Proposed inclusions — confirm each item against the actual operating budget before publishing.

Pre-trek briefing in Cusco.
Pickup and transportation to the Lares trailhead.
Professional English-speaking trekking guide.
Camping crew and luggage transport appropriate to the confirmed route.
Luxury camping equipment, sleeping arrangements and dining facilities as specified.
Meals explicitly listed in the final itinerary.
Drinking water and refills according to the operational plan.
Accommodation in the Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes, as specified.
Train tickets required for the Short Inca Trail and return journey.
Short Inca Trail permit and applicable entrance tickets, subject to availability and confirmation.
Machu Picchu entrance ticket for the agreed circuit.
Shuttle bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu, if included.
Return transportation to Cusco.
First-aid kit and emergency procedures.

What's Not Included?

International flights and travel insurance.
Hotel accommodation in Cusco before or after the tour unless explicitly included.
Meals not listed in the itinerary.
Personal expenses, snacks and alcoholic beverages.
Tips for guides, cooks, porters and other crew.
Optional mountain tickets or additional Machu Picchu circuits.
Private massage services, premium train upgrades or special hotel upgrades unless expressly included in the selected package.

If the premium package includes a private chef, hot showers, massages, a luxury train or other extras, list them as specific inclusions only after confirming availability and cost.

Difficulty, Altitude and Preparation

This trek combines several days of hiking at high altitude with a dedicated day on the Short Inca Trail. The difficulty depends on the chosen Lares route, the elevation of its mountain passes, daily walking distance and weather conditions.

Acclimatization: Spend at least a couple of days acclimatizing in Cusco or another suitable Andean destination before starting the trek.
Fitness: Prepare with regular walking, hill training and longer hikes.
Clothing: Bring layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, warm gloves and sun protection.
Footwear: Use well-broken-in hiking boots or appropriate trail shoes.
Health and safety: Follow your guide's advice, stay hydrated and communicate any symptoms of altitude illness promptly.

Best Time to Take the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail

The drier months, generally May through September, are often preferred for Andean trekking because conditions are typically more favorable for hiking and mountain views. Weather can still change quickly, and clear skies are never guaranteed.

The Inca Trail also operates under official access rules and scheduled closures. Check the exact dates and permit availability before confirming your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lares Trek the same as the Inca Trail?

No. The Lares Trek is an alternative Andean hiking route known for its mountain scenery and cultural experiences. The Short Inca Trail follows a regulated section of the historic Inca Trail and requires the appropriate permit and entrance arrangements.

Can I combine the Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail in five days?

Yes, a five-day itinerary can combine both experiences if the trekking route, transfer times, railway arrangements and authorized trail entry are planned correctly.

Does this trek include luxury camping?

It can, but the type of tent, bed, bedding, hot shower and other amenities depends on the specific glamping package selected. Confirm the exact facilities before booking.

How difficult is the Lares Trek?

The difficulty varies by route. High mountain passes, uneven terrain and altitude can make the trek demanding even when the daily distance is relatively short.

Is the Short Inca Trail permit included?

The final booking confirmation should explicitly state whether the Short Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance ticket are included. Availability depends on the authorized entry date and route.

Can I book a private guide for Machu Picchu?

A private guide can be arranged if requested and confirmed during booking. Specify this service and any additional cost in your proposal.

How much does the Luxury Lares Trek cost?

The price depends on group size, accommodation, train category, camping facilities and the level of private service. See the pricing section below for the proposed tariff structure.

Book Your Luxury Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail

Combine Andean culture, mountain trekking and the historic Short Inca Trail in one carefully organized five-day journey. Contact Inca Land Adventures to confirm availability, select your preferred service level and receive a detailed quotation for your travel dates.

Plan your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with a local trekking team.

Price Per Person.2027

1 Traveler US$5,200

2 taraveler US$3,700

3 Traveler US$3,450

4 Traveler US$3,200

5 Traveler US$3,000

6 Traveler US$2,800

8 Traveler US$2,650