{"id":4438,"date":"2025-09-17T10:39:59","date_gmt":"2025-09-17T15:39:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/?p=4438"},"modified":"2026-01-26T11:32:00","modified_gmt":"2026-01-26T16:32:00","slug":"lares-trek-and-short-inca-trail","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cuscojourneys.com\/blog\/lares-trek-and-short-inca-trail","title":{"rendered":"Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"LaresThis package is perfect for travelers who want to reach Machu Picchu via the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail, without doing the full 4-day Inca Trail. This route combines the Lares trek plus one day on the Inca Trail<\/strong><\/a> for a two-in-one hiking experience that will enrich any trip to Machu Picchu.<\/span><\/p>\n

The first part of the journey includes 3 days of trekking and 2 nights of camping in the Lares Valley, north of Cusco, home to indigenous communities renowned for their colorful textiles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Along the route, you\u2019ll enjoy stunning views of glacial lagoons, highland valleys filled with llamas and sheep, and unique flora that thrives at high altitude.<\/span><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll also pass several archaeological sites and have the opportunity to connect with local Quechua communities and experience their traditions firsthand.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Lares Trek can be extended from 3 to 4 days for travelers who want a more immersive experience. Although it reaches higher altitudes than the 4-day Inca Trail<\/em><\/a>, it is generally easier, thanks to gentler slopes. Horses are also available for those who may need help with the altitude.<\/span><\/p>\n

After completing the trek, the group travels to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley for the night, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Wi\u00f1ayThe next morning, take the train to Kilometer 104<\/strong><\/a> to start the Short Inca Trail.\u00a0Along the way, you\u2019ll visit important archaeological sites and enjoy lunch at Wi\u00f1ay Wayna. The hike ends at Machu Picchu, entering through the Sun Gate, followed by an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes and a guided tour of the citadel the next day.<\/span><\/p>\n

Itinerary at a Glance<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\u00a0Enjoy 5 days of trekking, culture, and breathtaking scenery on the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail, exploring Andean villages, highland landscapes, and finishing at the legendary Machu Picchu.<\/span><\/p>\n

Day 01: Cusco | Lares Valley \u2013 Huacahuasi Village<\/span><\/strong>
\nStart with a scenic drive from Cusco through the Lares Valley. Relax in the Lares hot springs and arrive at Huacahuasi Village, where the local community welcomes you for dinner and overnight.<\/span><\/p>\n

Day 02: Huacahuasi | Ipsaycocha Lake \u2013 Patacancha Village<\/span><\/strong>
\nTrek through stunning highland valleys to Ipsaycocha Lake. Meet local villagers, learn about their traditions, and spend the night at Patacancha Village.<\/span><\/p>\n

Day 03: Patacancha | High Mountain Pass \u2013 Ollantaytambo<\/span><\/strong>
\nCross a high mountain pass with breathtaking views, descend into the Ollantaytambo Valley, and enjoy a comfortable hotel stay in Ollantaytambo.<\/span><\/p>\n

Day 04: Ollantaytambo | Short Inca Trail \u2013 Aguas Calientes<\/span><\/strong>
\nHike the Short Inca Trail, visiting Chachabamba and Wi\u00f1ay Wayna<\/a>. Reach the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu, then stay overnight in Aguas Calientes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Day 05: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu \u2013 Cusco<\/span><\/strong>
\nSpend the morning exploring Machu Picchu on a guided tour. After lunch in Aguas Calientes, take the train to Ollantaytambo and a private transfer back to Cusco, completing your adventure.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Time to Go<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The best time to do the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail<\/a> is:<\/span><\/p>\n