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Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 days

Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 days - 2024

The Lares Valley Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the best trek for someone looking to experience the rich culture and unforgettable views of Peru. The first stage of your trek is a complete cultural experience in the imposing mountain peaks of the Andes. Trek through glacial peaks, stunning turquoise glacial lakes, waterfalls tumbling down the mountain side and herds of llamas and Alpacas peacefully grazing. Spend your nights in isolated communities, where the way of life hasn’t changed since the time of the ancient Incas. Your next stage is the awesome privilege to follow the original footpath of the Incas as they made their way to the Inca City of Machu Picchu. Along the way explore the ancient Inca religious cities and enter through the infamous Sun Gate directly to the Machu Picchu Citadel. Our final stage is a day completely dedicated to the Citadel, where you will receive a personalized and unique tour of the majestic archeological site. This trek offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Peru while exploring its breathtaking natural wonders.

Itinerary For Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a unique experience for hikers to combine the beauty of the Andean mountains, local villages, rich culture and the last part of the original Inca Trail. Hiking five days will give you the rare opportunity to interact with some of the most remote indigenous villages that preserve the Inca culture.

Day 1: Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

This cultural hike through the Lares Valley to Machu Picchu begins early with your pickup at 5:00am from your Cusco hotel. Within an hour, arrive at the ancient ruins of the truly awesome Pisac Inca Citadel. Visit the ruins before any other groups arrive, enjoying the tranquility of the morning. Your guide will share with you the unique history of the Pisac Inca Citadel and its importance both before and during the Inca Empire.

Breakfast is served in a comfortable and private guest house. You will be impressed with your chef’s hearty and delicious breakfast, which will be just what you need to get ready for the first day trekking! Driving for 40 more minutes to Huaran, we meet our team of porters and horses. Time to get our boots on and begin our first 3 hours gradually ascent to Cancha Cancha. Along the way, your lunch will be served next to the river, replenishing your energy for the trek ahead with a delicious meal prepared by your trekking chef.

Cancha Cancha (3,900m/12,800ft) is one of the most isolated and traditional communities and has been self-sustaining for hundreds of years. There is no road to the community and they were only recently connected to electricity in December, 2019. After settling into your tents and having afternoon tea, have the opportunity to visit a local family or play games with the local kids. With your guide as your interpreter, feel free to ask as many questions as you can come up with as you will learn all about life in a traditional Andean village. After dinner, the guide will show you the Inca constellations on which they depended and still depend on for their agricultural guidance. Look forward to clean and private toilet facilities, that are excusively reserved for our clients.

  • Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities with private toilets
  • Distance: 9kms / 5.6 miles
  • Time: 3.5hrs approximately
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Cancha Cancha – Quiswarani

As the morning light gently breaks through, your guide will kindly awaken you with a warm cup of tea or coffee at the door of your tent, allowing you to enjoy the cozy comfort of your sleeping bag a little longer. When you’re ready to rise, a delightful breakfast awaits to fuel your spirits for the exciting day ahead. With renewed energy, we embark on our second day, a 7-hour hike to the northeast.

The initial part of the trail demands your determination as we conquer high passes en route to the pinnacle of our trek, the majestic Pachacutec Pass (4,500m /14,800 ft). Reaching this summit is no easy feat and a sense of fulfillment and sheer exhilaration awaits you at the top. Along the way, let the breathtaking vistas of glaciers, secluded lakes, graceful alpaca herds, rugged valleys and awe-inspiring mountains inspire and motivate you. Also, keep an eye on the sky, for you might catch a glimpse of Caracara falcons and Andean geese soaring above!

After relishing the splendor of the summit, gradually descend for approximately 3 hours until we arrive at our campsite near the Quiswarani community (3,700m/12,139ft). Along this isolated trail, we’ll encounter indigenous highland people adorned in their traditional attire, skillfully herding their llamas and alpacas. Furthermore, these encounters provide unique opportunities for cultural exchange as the local indigenous people warmly engage with you in their native Quechua language. Your guide acts as a bridge, translating and even teaching you some Quechua phrases. As you approach the magnificent seven waterfalls, you’ll feel relief knowing that our campsite is just around the corner!

Upon reaching the campsite everything will be prepared with care, giving you plenty of time to relax. Indulge in hot beverages and appetizers to delight your taste buds before a satisfying dinner. Then, nestle into your cozy tent, ready to drift off into a restful night’s sleep, enveloped by the tranquility of nature.

  • Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities with bathroom building
  • Distance: 12kms / 7.5 miles
  • Time: 7hrs approximately
  • Difficulty: challenging

Day 3: Quiswarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo


Get ready for the most breathtaking day of your adventure! To kick off our day, our journey continues with a 3-hour ascent towards the magnificent Willqaqasa Pass (4,200m/13,779ft). As we climb higher prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning reflection of the mountains on the glacial lakes below, creating a picturesque mirrored image. From the pass the grandeur of the Colquecruz and Pitusiray Mountains will leave you in awe. We then trek through the vibrant Puna grasslands, dotted with fertile agricultural sites and pristine natural lakes. After soaking in the beauty of this diverse landscape, we descend for approximately 2 hours to reach the welcoming Cucani community. Once there you’ll have a chance to connect with the local indigenous children, visit their school and share meaningful moments with the students.

Leaving Cucani behind, meet our driver and embark on a scenic journey through a lush valley adorned with expansive agricultural areas, abundant fruit-bearing trees and a rich variety of flora. During this picturesque drive keep an eye out for the vibrant begonias and wild orchids that grace this natural paradise. The Lares Hot Springs (3,100m/10,170ft) awaits. Once we arrive, take a well-deserved break and indulge in an hour-long soak in the rejuvenating volcanic hot springs. Feel the stress melt away as you relax and soak up the therapeutic benefits of these natural waters. Following this blissful interlude, we’ll treat ourselves to a scrumptious lunch and bid farewell to our exceptional chef and horsemen, who have been instrumental in making this journey possible.

After our delightful lunch in Lares, we will board our private transport for a 2.5-hour drive to Ollantaytambo. This charming town will be our home for the night. We’ll come together for a delicious dinner and settle into our comfortable hotel accommodations, reflecting on the incredible experiences we’ve shared throughout the journey.

  • Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner
  • Accommodation: EL Aberque
  • Distance: 15kms / 9.3 miles
  • Time: 6 hrs approximately
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Wiñay wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Firstly, your guide will meet you at the hotel at 530am to kick off the adventure. As you arrive at the train station, your guide will provide you with a packed lunch to carry in your daypack. Additionally, the train departs from Ollantaytambo at 610am, giving you over an hour to soak in the scenic views and enjoy breakfast (not included). If you prefer, your hotel can arrange a picnic breakfast for you to take along. Furthermore, the train will make stop at the famous Km104, which marks the beginning of your hike at an elevation of 2000 (6560ft) above sea level.

Crossing the picturesque footbridge over the Urubamba River, pass the checkpoint, show your passport before visiting the first nearby Inca site. The initial hour and a half of the hike is a gentle uphill climb, with convenient shelters along the way providing shade from the sun or a respite from the rain, depending on the season. Take advantage of the various lookout points that offer breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and Valley. As you trek along the trail experience different microclimates, including the enchanting cloud forest, prepare yourself for some dampness or even rain regardless of the time of year. After another hour and a half of hiking with a slightly steeper incline, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning waterfall.

Pause for a moment to capture photos before setting your sights on the magnificent Wiñay Wayna, located at an elevation of 2,600m (8,500 ft) above sea level. These remarkable Inca ruins hold a fascinating history, with certain parts still concealed by the lush jungle. As you traverse through the sub-tropical jungle so close to Machu Picchu, your guide will enlighten you about the ruins, as well as the incredible flora and fauna of this microclimate. Feel free to ask any questions before a short 5-minute walk leads you to a covered shelter at the Wiñay Wayna campground, the final campground for those hiking the four-day Inca Trail. Take your time to savor a hearty, gourmet lunch while appreciating the tropical flowers that surround the campground.

After lunch, your journey to the Sun Gate begins. This leg of the walk is mostly flat, providing you with an opportunity to soak in the panoramic vistas. After about an hour, the trail culminates in a set of steep stairs known as the “gringo killers” or “monkey stairs”, meticulously carved into the bedrock by the Inca. Once you reach these stairs you’ll know that the Sun Gate is coming up! Upon reaching the gate, prepare to be awestruck as you catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from this magnificent vantage point.

The grandeur and magnitude of the site will leave you speechless, surpassing any photo you’ve seen. Take your time to fully absorb this once-in-a-lifetime moment and capture the beauty on camera. The last 45 minutes of the descent from the Sun Gate offer numerous opportunities to snap more photos of Machu Picchu from this unique perspective. Along the way, you’ll encounter a few more significant Inca sites, so take it slow, relish the experience of walking in the footsteps of the Inca along the Inca Trail, and don’t hesitate to ask your guide questions about these historical places during the final stretch of your hike to Machu Picchu.

Upon reaching Machu Picchu, have ample time to take additional photos from the viewing platforms above the site, including the iconic Guardian House. Arrive in the afternoon when the archaeological area starts to empty of tourists, you’ll have the privilege of capturing stunning photos without the overwhelming crowds.

  • Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes
  • Distance: 12 kms/7.5 miles
  • Time: 6hrs approximately
  • 3* Accommodations: Ferre´ Hotel Machu Picchu
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Get ready for an extremely memorable day! Start off with an early breakfast at your hotel and then hop on one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to ensure you can catch the sunrise over the glorious archeological site. Once you arrive, the guide will lead you on a comprehensive two-hour tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel. Explore the most important areas and learn about the three distinct sectors of Machu Picchu: agricultural, residential, and religious.

Once you have had your fill of the awe-inspiring sights of Machu Picchu, take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, have some free time for shopping, sightseeing, visit the museum, or even indulging in a relaxing dip at the hot springs. The train will depart at either 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm.

The train will take you back to Ollantaytambo, be treated to the stunning scenery along the Urubamba River. Keep an eye out for the narrow canyon and its captivating stretches of whitewater, especially as you near Aguas Calientes. If you look up high on the steep canyon wall, you might even catch a glimpse of Wiñay Wayna! Once you reach Ollantaytambo, the driver will be waiting for you at the train station exit, ready to drive you back to your hotel in Cusco in our comfortable private vehicle. Arrive at your hotel between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm, marking the end of an incredible journey.

  • Meal included: Breakfast
  • Difficulty: Easy

***IMPORTANT:

  • You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm, 4:22 pm, or 4:43 pm. The cost is $67 USD.
  • Early trains can be organized on request and it has to be done at the time of booking.
  • The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time. It books out extremely fast.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel
  • Private transportation from the hotel to the Huaran trailhead
  • Licensed guide fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua
  • Round-trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
  • 2 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
  • Admission ticket to the Machu Picchu Archeological Complex
  • Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail national park
  • 2 nights hotel stay with private bathroom, hot shower, wifi, storage, and buffet breakfast included
  • 4-person Igloo tents (4-person tents for only 2 people)
  • Camping pillow and foam mattress
  • Delicious meals during the 4 days as indicated in the itinerary
  • Cook and cooking equipment
  • Horseman and mules, to carry all camping and personal equipment (7 kilograms of your personal items such as extra clothes, and sleeping bag, these will be carried by our mules) (on Lares Trek portion only)
  • Provision of a horse in case of emergency (with helmet) in case of illness, to ensure the trek can be completed by all participants (only on the Lares portion of the trek)
  • First-aid kit including an emergency oxygen tank
  • Boiled water to fill your drinking bottles
  • Guided tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel
  • Chef, cooking equipment, and kitchen tent
  • Transfer back to Cusco for our group
  • Local interaction with the kids and the community at large.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

  • Sleeping Bag: $20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress: $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent: $30 USD – (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade: $67 USD per person (Return Only)
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
  • OPTIONAL UPGRADES: Hotel
  • Tips for the crew, guide, cook, and porters of SAM CORPORATIONS

Huayna Picchu and Macchu Picchu Mt are optional hikes within Machu Picchu Citadel which does not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike with a guide, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.

Prices

*** The Lares Trek & The Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu is almost always available year round as long as permits are available with the exception of February when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance.

BEST PRICE FOR THE LARES TEK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

  • Only $827 USD per person with hotels
  • Only $717 USD without hotels

***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.

***Private price is $200 USD extra per person.

DISCOUNTS:

  • 18 to 25 years old: $30 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
  • Under 18 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: $40 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Group of 5 people or more: $30 USD. All you need to do is book the trek together at the same time.

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag: $20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress: $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal Tent: $30 USD – (Tent is for single trekkers only)
  • Additional Night in Aguas Calientes – From:$60 USD(depending on availability)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade: $67 USD per person (Return Only)
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain : $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Single Supplement: $40 USD 2* for single travelers

Huayna Picchu is an optional trek within Machu Picchu Citadel which does not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.

ADDED VALUES FOR FREE

Comfortable foam mattresses for every hiker, camping pillow, transfer airport to hotel (only in Cusco), duffel bags, plastic liner bags and extra blanket for the tent are included in the trekking price!

  • GUIDED TOUR INTO PISAC INCA RUINS: Enjoy and explore the amazing Inca city of Pisac which is one of the most important Inca cities of the famous Sacred Valley.
  • EXTRA PACK HORSE is included in the price, the porter will carry your things up to 7 kgs / 15lbs sleeping bag, mattress, clothes etc. (Lares Trek portion only)
  • COLD BOILED WATER will be provided along the trek. There will be hot and cold water at each meal time.
  • OXYGEN TANK will be available
  • EMERGENCY HORSE is included which can be ridden if you feel tired or sick. (Lares Trek portion only)
  • BEST ITINERARY operated by Lares Trek specialists only

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR LARES TREK + INCA TRAIL

Please read the following information carefully. It will help with your questions about our services and the Lares Trek & Short Inca to Machu Picchu.

ARRIVAL IN CUSCO

Upon your arrival at the airport in Cusco, our team will be there to welcome you. To ensure a smooth process, kindly provide us with your complete flight details at least 14 days before your trek begins. Look for our friendly representative who will be holding a distinctive Orange SAM Corp board at the exit of the arrivals terminal. Rest assured, we’ll be there to assist you and ensure a seamless transition to your hotel.

THE BRIEFING

Your briefing will take place the night before your trek.

Before your trek begins, we will provide you with a comprehensive briefing the evening prior. The briefing will be held at our office, conveniently located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center. Please refer to your confirmation email for the exact time, which will be either 6:00 pm or 6:30 pm. During the briefing, we will ensure that you have all the necessary information and address any remaining questions or concerns you may have.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Absolutely! We understand that carrying your main luggage during the Lares Trek & Short Inca to Machu Picchu may not be ideal. You have the option to store your main luggage either at our office or at your hotel, depending on what suits you best. We want to ensure that you have a comfortable and hassle-free trekking experience. Simply let us know your preference, and we’ll make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.

HOW TO BOOK THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

To book your unforgettable adventure on the Lares Trek & Short Inca to Machu Picchu, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Start by selecting your desired trek/tour date and indicating the number of travelers in your group on the right-hand side of the page. Once done, proceed to the next page to complete the booking form.
  2. Before proceeding with the booking, kindly gather the following information for each participant in your group. Please note that we cannot purchase permits and entrances without this information:
    • Full name (exactly as it appears on the passport)
    • Gender
    • Passport number
    • Date of birth (in the format dd/mm/yyyy)
    • Nationality
  3. After submitting the booking form, we require a deposit of $211.00 USD per person to secure your spot and purchase the necessary permits for the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail. You can conveniently make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PayPal symbols located at the top of our homepage or on the booking page.

By following these steps, you’ll be one step closer to embarking on this incredible journey. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to make your booking process smooth and hassle-free.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

It is understandable that you may prefer alternative payment methods to avoid high credit card fees while in Peru. We offer the following options for paying your balance:

  1. Cash Payment: You can visit our office in Cusco and make a cash payment in either US dollars or Peruvian soles. Our friendly staff will assist you with the payment process. Please note that it’s advisable to withdraw money from ATMs located within the historical center of Cusco, as they offer convenient access to cash.
  2. Online Payment via VISA or PayPal: If you prefer the convenience of online payment, you can choose to pay with VISA or PayPal. However, please be aware that a 5.5% service fee, charged by VISA and PayPal, will apply. To complete the payment through PayPal, log into your PayPal account and use our provided email address: info@samcorporations.com.

We want to ensure that you have flexibility and options when it comes to settling your balance. If you have any further questions or need assistance with payment arrangements, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to make the process as smooth as possible for you.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?

Yes! To ensure a smooth entry to the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail, it is essential that you bring your original passport with you. It is important that the passport number matches the one you provided when booking your permit, entrances, and reservations. If you are in the process of renewing your passport or changing your name, please provide us with the information from your old passport so that we can secure your permit. Once you receive your new passport number or update your name, we can make the necessary changes for a fee of $25 USD per person. We will require copies of both your old and new passports to complete the process. We advise you to keep a copy of your old passport before making any changes.

Alternatively, if you prefer to avoid the fee, you can bring both your old and new passports with you to Peru. While you can enter Peru with your new passport alone, you will need to present both passports when entering the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, or boarding the train. Failure to provide both passports may result in denial of entry to these sites. We strongly recommend having both passports on hand to ensure a seamless experience during your journey.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE LARES TREK MACHU PICCHU?

The weather in the region can be highly unpredictable, making it challenging to anticipate specific conditions. To prepare for this variability, we recommend dressing in layers. This will allow you to easily adjust your clothing to accommodate quickly changing weather patterns. By wearing layers, you can add or remove clothing as needed to stay comfortable throughout your trek.

HIKING TO LARES TREK

The night before your trek begins, we will provide you with a small duffel bag to pack your clothing for the next four days. Please note that the weight allowance for your duffel bag is up to 7kg/15 lbs. Our dedicated team of porters will carry your duffel bag along with the necessary food and camping gear. It’s important to keep in mind that you won’t have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the pack horses will always be ahead of the group.

During the trek, we recommend having a day backpack that is spacious enough to accommodate your personal belongings. This includes essentials such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, and so on. A backpack with a capacity of 30 to 50 liters should be sufficient for your needs. This will allow you to comfortably carry your belongings while enjoying the journey.

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The Lares Trek & Short Inca to Machu Picchu covers a distance of 39 km as you hike through the breathtaking Andes in the Cusco region. Throughout the trek, you will reach a maximum altitude of 4,700m/15,419ft. It’s important to note that the trail is considered fairly difficult, so it’s essential to be well-prepared and in good health before embarking on this adventure.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it is recommended to have a moderate level of fitness and engage in regular exercise. Leading up to the trek, you may consider gradually increasing your daily walking distance to approximately 15 km or engaging in activities at a fitness club. This will help prepare your body for the physical demands of the trek.

Equally important is acclimatizing to the high altitude. We advise to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (located at an altitude of 3,350m/11,047ft) before beginning the trek. This will allow your body to adjust and adapt to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude-related complications and ensuring a more comfortable journey. Taking the time to acclimatize properly is crucial for your overall well-being and enjoyment of the trek.

ARE THERE TOILETS ON THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

Our clients, particularly our trekkers, have expressed great satisfaction with our toilet facilities. We understand the importance of having a private, clean, and sanitary toilet while on the trek. At SAM Corporations Peru, we provide individual tents with camping toilets that have comfortable seats. If you’d like to see how our camping toilet is set up, you can check out the picture through this link: [insert a link to a picture of the toilet tent]. Rest assured, we always place our toilet facilities at a convenient distance from our campsite.

One of the notable advantages of our toilet facilities is that they are readily accessible and well-maintained, even during the night. Unlike the often unsatisfactory conditions of the government-provided facilities, our toilets are kept clean for your comfort. In the Cancha Cancha area, we have even built our own toilet facilities that remain locked when we don’t have treks, ensuring their cleanliness and availability exclusively for our guests.

During the third day of your trek, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy hot showers and relax in hot water pools at the Lares Hot Springs. It’s a perfect time to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings. Don’t forget to pack your bathing suit, so you can fully indulge in this soothing experience.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE TREK?

If you’re unable to finish the trek due to a health issue, SAM Travel Peru will assist you to the nearest town for transportation help. We carry oxygen for respiratory problems and can arrange a helicopter pick-up at your own expense in extreme cases (travel insurance required). No refunds are given if you can’t complete the trek. Those needing assistance are usually taken to Ollantaytambo and can continue to Aguas Calientes to visit Machu Picchu if they recover quickly (cost incurred by trekker).

ARE WE GOING TO BE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE LARES TREK?

Absolutely!! As part of the package, we provide a drop-off service at your hotel on the last day. If you have booked a hotel in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will also drop you off there. If you are staying in Ollantaytambo the night before the trek, we will pick you up from there as well.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE?

Yes, At our core, we are a local, sustainable, and responsible tourism operator. We commit ourselves to upholding the universal principles of tourism, which involve protecting the environment and supporting the well-being of local communities while respecting their culture and religion. To ensure that we fulfill these principles, we have provided comprehensive training to all our local staff. We equip them with the knowledge and understanding to respect the places we visit and the local people we interact with.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU FOR THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

  • Original passport (it has to be the same as the one you used for booking your trek)
  • Valid university card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage: 2-3L (please bring reusable, not disposable, bottles)
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (you can rent it from SAM Corporations)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toilet paper

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG

As a local tour operator, we provide you with a duffel bag during your briefing. We also include an extra porter as part of our service. This porter is responsible for carrying up to 7 kilograms or 15 pounds of weight, which includes essential items like your 2.5-kilogram sleeping bag, mattress, and extra clothing. It’s important to note that according to Peruvian law, the duffel bag must not exceed the weight limit of 7 kilograms.

This restriction is in place to ensure the well-being of our porters and horses. Before the trek, we will weigh all bags to ensure compliance. If you require more than 7 kilograms, you have the option to carry the extra weight in your day pack or request an additional porter for an extra fee. Out of the 7-kilogram allowance, please allocate 2 kilograms for your sleeping bag and 1 kilogram for your sleeping pad. This will leave you with approximately 4 kilograms for your personal gear.

  • 2 t-shirts
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 3 sets of hiking socks
  • Bathing Suit for the thermal waters
  • 2 fleece or thermals
  • Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
  • A small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office to line your duffel
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.

  • Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water at every meal time. Please bring your canteens
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Wool hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
  • Rain plastic poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

Gallery Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 days

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Sam Corporations

Why Choose SAM CORPORATION

Local Peruvian Company

Our company is 100% locally owned. We directly contribute to economic development and environmental sustainability in Peru.

Service Quality

The quality of our service is one of our most important values which demands all our effort, determination, and courage to be successful in what we are doing and the services we provide

Responsible travel

We aim to have a positive impact in all the areas that we visit. Through our training sessions and social projects, we empower women, indigenous communities and children

Small Personalized Groups

Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you a personalized tour in our small comfortable vans

100% Customised Itinerary

Interested in visiting only specific destinations? No problem, all our packages can be fully customized to suit your budget and schedule. Contact our travel advisors to plan the most comprehensive trip of a lifetime.

Community and Environment

We commit socially and culturally to the community and adapt our business strategies to the preservation of the environment

  • 100% Locally owned and operated.
  • Best Tour guides & trip leaders.
  • Quality-Touch & Personalized service
  • Highest quality, name brand equipment.
  • All Inclusive Tours with no hidden fees.
  • Sustainable Prctice and responsible travel.
  • Safety conscious with first aid training annually.
  • Unique Tours & Trekking routes
  • Customized Tours & Packages forFair and kind travel.
  • Personalized Attention with the Most Dedicated Team
  • Giving back to our local communities
Why Choose SAM CORPORATION

Quality

Why Choose SAM CORPORATION

100% Customised itinerary

Contact our travel advisors to plan the most complete trip of your life.

Easy communication

Simplified ease of communication, text us on WhatsApp, email or call us.

Professional and experienced

Our guides are local and have vast knowledge in Peruvian culture and history.

Local peruvian company

100% local company. Development and environmental sustainability

Small personalized groups

Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you an unforgettable experience

Memorable trips

Discover an exceptional journey where perfection meets adventure.