Overview
The Alpine Lares Path and Short Inca Trail, curated by QOSQO ADVENTURES, is an extraordinary 5-day expedition that harmonizes natural splendor with deep-rooted Andean traditions. This journey navigates the remote high mountains, home to the rare Puya de Raimondi bromeliads, therapeutic thermal baths, and glacial lagoons. Before reaching the sanctuary, you will transition to the historic Short Inca Trail at KM 104, passing the architectural gems of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
This odyssey offers a rare glimpse into isolated Quechua-speaking communities where life remains unchanged by modern technology. You will marvel at towering glaciers and cascading waterfalls before reaching the legendary Sun Gate on the afternoon of Day 4. This specific timing allows for a tranquil first encounter with Machu Picchu, far from the morning crowds, followed by an intensive guided exploration the following day.
Traveling with QOSQO ADVENTURES ensures a premium experience supported by a professional crew of chefs, porters, and muleteers. We handle all logistics, from high-altitude camping infrastructure to your luxury return on the Vistadome Panoramic Train. Our commitment to sustainable tourism and heritage preservation makes this more than just a trek—it is a profound cultural immersion.
Day 1: Puyas de Raimondi & Lares Medicinal Springs
Depart from Cusco toward the Sacred Valley. Discover the giant Puya de Raimondi plants and rejuvenate in the natural thermal pools of Lares. We trek toward the Kiswarani village for lunch and conclude the day at the majestic Blue Lagoon camp at 3,900 m.
Day 2: Condor Pass & Remote Village Immersion
Conquer the expedition’s highest point at Condor Pass (4,750 m), offering views of 18,000-ft peaks. Descend to Cancha Cancha, a village isolated from modern technology, for an evening of cultural exchange with Quechua-speaking residents.
Day 3: Sacred Valley & Maras Salt Mines
Hike down into the warmth of the Sacred Valley. Visit the ancient salt evaporation ponds of Maras and explore the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo before resting in a comfortable local hotel.
Day 4: Short Inca Trail & Sun Gate Arrival
Board the train to KM 104 and commence the 7-hour trek through the cloud forest. Explore Wiñay Wayna and arrive at the Sun Gate for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu before descending to Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Sanctuary & Historic Tour
Reach the citadel at dawn for an in-depth guided exploration of the Royal Circuit (Circuit 3). Witness the finest Inca architecture before returning to Cusco aboard the Vistadome train.
Full 5-Day Lares & Inca Trail Journey
Day 1: Puyas de Raimondi & Lares Thermal Pools
Your QOSQO ADVENTURES experience starts at 4:30 a.m. with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley. We pause at the Calca market and the stone ruins of Ancashmarca before reaching a rare forest of Puya de Raimondi. After arriving at the Lares Hot Springs, you will have ample time to soak in the mineral-rich waters. The trek begins with a gentle 2-hour walk to Kiswarani for lunch. In the afternoon, we continue another 2 hours past cascading waterfalls to our first campsite at the Blue Lagoon (3,900 m), where we spend the evening stargazing.
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
- Duration: 7 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,900 m / 12,795 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks
Day 2: Condor Pass & Cancha Cancha Cultural Exchange
Following a sunrise breakfast, we begin a challenging 4-hour ascent to Condor Pass (4,750 m), the trek’s physical peak. The summit offers breathtaking views of the Pitusiray and Sawasiray glaciers. After a traditional Andean offering at the pass, we descend for 3 hours into the pristine Cancha Cancha valley. This village remains purely traditional, with no electricity or roads. We visit a family home to learn about guinea pig husbandry and textile weaving, enjoying a fresh dinner prepared by our chef in this remote setting.
- Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
- Duration: 7 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,750 m / 12,303 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks
Day 4: Short Inca Trail & Sun Gate Vista
We board the early train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 (Chachabamba). After a fresh breakfast prepared by our trekking chef at the trailhead, we begin a gradual 4-hour ascent through the cloud forest to Wiñay Wayna. Here, we explore the spectacular ruins and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch. The journey continues for one final hour to Intipunku (the Sun Gate), where Machu Picchu is revealed in the afternoon light. After touring the upper viewpoints for classic photographs, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for dinner and a hotel stay.
- Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
- Duration: 7 hours
- Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Machu Picchu Citadel & Vistadome Return
We rise before dawn to join the first buses at 5:30 a.m. for sunrise at the citadel. Your QOSQO ADVENTURES guide will lead a 3-hour comprehensive tour of Circuit 3, navigating the Royal Sector, the Sun Temple, and the agricultural terraces. After the tour, you descend to the town for lunch (not included) and board the Vistadome train. Our private transfer will take you from the station back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving approximately at 7:30 p.m.
- Tour Duration: 3 – 4 hours
- Highest Point: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Meals: Breakfast
Included
- Pre-departure briefing and safety meeting in Cusco.
- Hotel collection and door-to-door transportation.
- Professional bilingual guide specialized in Andean culture.
- Official Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu tickets (Circuits 1 and 3).
- 2 nights of high-altitude camping and 2 nights in comfortable hotels.
- Premium camping equipment: 4-season tents, dining setups, and private toilets.
- Professional trekking chef and kitchen support.
- Muleteers and cargo mules for the Lares section.
- Gourmet trail meals including snacks and purified water.
- Small duffle bag (7 kg) for your belongings carried by our team.
- Luxury Vistadome train return tickets and all bus transfers.
- Safety kit: Oxygen, satellite phones, and first-aid equipment.
Not Included
- Rental gear: Sleeping bags, air mattresses, and trekking poles.
- Optional permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Final lunch on Day 5 in Aguas Calientes.
- Personal travel insurance (mandatory for high altitude).
- Staff gratuities.
Expedition Packing List
For the Lares section, QOSQO ADVENTURES provides a duffle bag for 7 kg of your gear. Please note that during the Short Inca Trail (Day 4), you must carry your own backpack as porters are not permitted on that specific segment.
Must-Have Items
- Original physical Passport (Checkpoint requirement).
- High-quality, waterproof rain shell or poncho.
- Warm down jacket for the freezing nights at 3,900 m.
- High-capacity Power Bank and extra camera batteries.
- Personal medications and insect repellent for the cloud forest.
- Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder.
Recommended Clothing
The layering system is vital. We suggest moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece jacket, thermal wear for sleeping, and quick-dry hiking trousers. High-top hiking boots are mandatory for ankle protection on uneven Inca stone steps.
Daypack Essentials
- Sun protection (cream, hat, sunglasses).
- Headlamp for the campsites.
- Walking shoes or sandals for camp.
- Trekking poles (must have rubber tips).
Essential Travel Information
Prepare for your QOSQO ADVENTURES expedition with these technical and logistical details.
Technical Specifications
- Permits: While Lares does not require a specialized permit, the Short Inca Trail does. Early booking is essential to secure government spots.
- Altitude: You will reach 4,750 m at Condor Pass. We recommend at least 2 nights in Cusco for acclimatization.
- Weather: Expect all four seasons. Dry season (May-Oct) is sunny but freezing at night. Rainy season (Nov-Mar) is greener but wet.
Train & Luggage Policies
The Vistadome train allows one carry-on bag (up to 8 kg). Please leave your large suitcases in our secure storage in Cusco. On Day 4, your duffle bag can be transferred directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes upon request.
Machu Picchu Circuits
Since 2024, visitors follow strict one-way routes. You will experience Circuit 1 on Day 4 for the panoramic approach and Circuit 3 on Day 5 for the urban sector. There is no re-entry permitted after you exit the citadel.
Booking Logistics
A deposit is required to secure your permits. Please provide your passport details exactly as they appear on your document. Dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free) must be communicated in advance for our chefs to prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is the Lares Trek different from the Classic Inca Trail?
The Lares Trek is a cultural journey through remote villages and alpine lakes with very few tourists. The Short Inca Trail focus is on the historical stone path and lush cloud forest approaching the citadel.
2. Is the Lares section very difficult?
It is considered moderate to challenging due to the altitude. Reaching Condor Pass (4,750 m) requires a steady pace and good acclimatization, but the paths are generally less steep than the Classic route.
3. Are there showers at the campsites?
Campsites are in remote areas without fixed showers. We provide warm water in basins for basic washing every morning and evening. We recommend bringing wet wipes for personal hygiene.
4. Can I charge my electronics during the trek?
There is no electricity at the campsites on Days 1 and 2. You will be able to charge devices at the hotels on Days 3 and 4. A high-capacity power bank is highly recommended.
5. Do I need trekking poles?
Yes. They are very helpful for stability on the descents and for reducing impact on your knees during the stone steps of the Inca Trail. Ensure they have rubber tips to protect the ruins.
6. What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Our QOSQO ADVENTURES guides are trained in first aid and carry oxygen tanks. If you feel unwell, we will evaluate your condition and, if necessary, assist you in descending to a lower altitude.
7. Is there phone signal on the trail?
Mobile coverage is non-existent for the first three days. You will have signal once you reach Ollantaytambo on Day 3 and Aguas Calientes on Day 4.
8. What is the difference between a mule and a porter?
Mules carry equipment on the Lares section where the terrain allows animals. On the Inca Trail (Day 4), animals are prohibited to protect the path, so human porters handle the gear when necessary.
9. How many people are in a group?
Our shared groups typically range from 8 to 12 people to ensure personal attention. We also offer private service for those seeking a more exclusive pace.
10. Can children do this trek?
We recommend a minimum age of 10-12 years, depending on their hiking experience and physical fitness. Private tours are better for families with younger children.
11. Is the water provided safe to drink?
Yes. Our team boils and filters all drinking water provided during the trek. You only need to provide your own reusable bottle.
12. What time do I need to be ready for pickup?
On Day 1, we collect you from your hotel at 4:30 a.m. Please ensure you have attended the briefing the night before and your duffle bag is ready.
13. Can I leave extra luggage with QOSQO ADVENTURES?
Yes. You can leave your large bags safely at our office in Cusco or your hotel. You only need the provided 7 kg duffle and your daypack for the trek.
14. What if I want to hike Huayna Picchu?
Huayna Picchu requires an extra ticket that must be booked months in advance. The hike takes about 2 hours round-trip and is done after your guided tour on Day 5.
15. Is the trail open in February?
The Inca Trail section is closed every February for maintenance. However, the Lares Trek usually remains accessible. Contact us for specialized February alternatives.