Follow high Andean passes, Quechua villages, and the Short Inca Trail to arrive at Machu Picchu through the Gate of the Sun. This five-day route mixes remote Lares wilderness, hot springs, and a final day on Inca stonework.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
At dawn the Andes breathe cold air down narrow valleys and a ribbon of trail climbs toward a jagged pass. Hikers on the Lares route set out from the Sacred Valley, moving through potato terraces and high puna that stares back with wind-sculpted grasses. Llamas graze at the edge of villages; streams dare you to follow their crystalline courses toward glacial hollows.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–5 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and experience with multi-day trekking at altitude; able to sustain 6–8 hours of hiking on consecutive days.
Wildlife
History
The route links pre-Columbian Inca roads with living Quechua agricultural communities; terraces and stonework along the final approach reflect Inca route planning toward Machu Picchu.
Conservation
Stick to established campsites, pack out waste, and use locally run services—guides and porters often come from nearby communities and sustainable practices protect fragile puna ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5D/4N today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 48–72 hours in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting to reduce altitude sickness risk; avoid heavy exertion on arrival day.
Pack a lightweight duffel
The trip restricts personal bags to about 8 kg for porter logistics—prioritize warm layers, rain gear, and essentials.
Start early on high-pass days
Summits like Siclla Qasa at 4,850m are best tackled in morning hours when weather is more stable and trails firmer.
Permit and booking window
The Short Inca Trail section requires advance authorizations—book months ahead in high season to secure permits and train seats.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and grip for rocky, wet, and uneven Andean terrain.
Warm insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
Temperatures drop quickly above 4,000m—essential for nights and summit exposure.
Water purification system
Access to clean water is limited on trail; purification tablets or filter reduce weight versus bottled water.
Lightweight rain shell
Protects against sudden highland showers common outside the dry season.