Lares Trek meets Inca Trail is perfect for you who want to ditch the crowds and still get your Machu Picchu adventure. This 5-day trek blends the Lares Trek and the Inca Trail, taking you through stunning landscapes, remote Andean villages, and a few waterfalls that might just make you cry with joy. Spend three days soaking up mountain views, meet some furry llamas, and wrap it all up with a Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Nature, culture, and history all in one—it’s the trek of a lifetime.
Why should you do the Lares Trek meets Inca Trail?
The Lares Trek meets Inca Trail is perfect for those craving an off-the-beaten-path adventure with all the iconic highlights. This unique 5-day journey combines the serene beauty of the Lares region—featuring remote Andean villages, breathtaking mountain views, and cascading waterfalls—with the historical wonder of the Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu. It’s a rare chance to connect with local culture, encounter friendly llamas, and trek through stunning landscapes without the crowds. The grand finale? Walking through the Sun Gate for your first magical view of Machu Picchu. If you’re seeking a blend of nature, culture, and history, this trek is unforgettable.
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Day 1: CUSCO - LARES HOT SPRINGS - CUNCANI - WILLKIKASA PASS - QUISHUARANI
We’ll kick off this incredible journey with an early hotel pickup and a scenic drive to the Sacred Valley. Our first stop is Calca town for a quick market visit and some last-minute shopping. Afterward, we’ll head to the Lares Hot Springs for a well-deserved breakfast and a soothing dip in the therapeutic volcanic waters.
Next, we drive to Cuncani to begin our trek, passing by the stunning Pacchayocc waterfall and a tranquil lake. We’ll reach the highest point of the day, Willkikasa Pass, before descending to Quishuarani for our first night’s campsite. Here, you’ll explore the local town, visit the school, and share toys or supplies with the kids. We’ll enjoy a cozy dinner under the stars and settle in for a peaceful night in your tent.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Camp
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Day 2: QUISHUARANI - PACHACUTEC PASS - QOYALAY LAKE - CANCHA CANCHA
We’ll start the day bright and early with a hot drink around 5:30 am to get you energized for the trek. After a hearty breakfast and stocking up on snacks, we’ll begin the 4-5 hour climb to the Pachacutec Pass at 4,700 m / 15,420 ft. The zigzag ascent offers stunning views, including the beautiful Qoyalay Lake and Qanchispaccha’s waterfalls. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the mountains. After a photo op, we’ll descend for lunch, then continue to Cancha Cancha for the night, where you can explore the village and learn about alpaca wool textiles before a cozy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camp -
Day 3: CANCHA CANCHA - HUARAN - MARAS SALT MINES - OLLANTAYTAMBO
Start the final day of your Lares trek with a hot drink and breakfast before descending for 4 hours through Andean farmlands filled with sheep, llamas, and alpacas. Along the way, you’ll get a glimpse into the region’s agricultural practices, with fields growing crops like quinoa, corn, and potatoes. As you descend into the lush Sacred Valley, you’ll learn about its significance to the Incas. After lunch in Huaran, we’ll explore the Maras Salt Mines and finish the day in Ollantaytambo, where you’ll have time for dinner and a restful night before your Inca Trail adventure begins.
Note: Depending on the arrival time to Ollantaytambo, and if daylight permits, we can do a visit to the archaeological site (entry ticket not included).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hostel -
Day 4: KM104 -CHACHABAMBA - WIÑAY WAYNA - AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - AGUAS CALIENTES
After breakfast, we’ll head to the station and board the train to KM 104, the start of our Inca Trail journey. As we follow the Urubamba River, we’ll pass through lush landscapes before reaching Chachabamba, a fascinating archaeological site. Then, we’ll trek for 3 hours along original Inca paths, through waterfalls and forests, to the impressive Wiñay Wayna site. After a site tour and lunch, we’ll continue to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, where you’ll first catch a glimpse of Machu Picchu. Finally, we’ll head to Aguas Calientes for dinner and a restful night.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hostel
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Day 5: MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
The big day is here! You’ll wake up early to catch the first bus to Machu Picchu at 6:00 am. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as the sun begins to light up the ancient citadel. Your guide will take you through the main sites on a 90-minute tour, sharing the history and mysteries of the place. If you have tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll hike up for panoramic views. Afterward, enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before taking the train back to Cusco, with private transport waiting for you at Ollantaytambo.
Meals: Breakfast
Before booking any tour we require all clients to carefully consult our Terms.
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