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5D - 4N
3870
8
Group
The Lares trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is perfect for the traveler who wants the best of the wild Andes Mountains and the most magical Inca archeological sites – this way you have the best of both worlds in 5 days!
You pass through the most isolated indigenous communities keeping the Inca culture alive, living with no road routes to the outside world, like their ancestors before them. Our own unique route is incredibly picturesque, with majestic glaciers, shockingly blue glacial lakes, waterfalls, llamas, and alpacas. The Inca Trail portion is on the original Inca trail just like in ancient times, explore the ancient Inca religious cities along the way and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, where most of the famous photos of these ancient ruins are taken. You get to visit Machu Picchu twice!
Culturally adventurous hike through the Lares Valley to Machu Picchu begins with your pick up at 6:00am from your Cusco hotel. Make a quick stop at the Calca local market for any extra supplies. Drive for 1 hour to Huaran, where we meet the horsemen with their horses. Stop on the river bank to enjoy a delicious breakfast to give energy for the hike ahead.
When we start our ascent, be prepared for a steep hike, pace yourself, taking in the scenery with the calming river, gently flowing down stream to your left. When walking on your right will be lush mountains and gorgeous flora indigenous to the region. The rest of the trail will be gradual. Pass old Inca bridges, a beautiful clear lake and find a perfect spot to stretch your legs and take a rest. Meet up with our chef for a divine 3-course lunch. After lunch travel to the village of Cancha Cancha via a enjoyable scenic hike.
The village is easy to find, the mountains creep closer and the air becomes crisper. Cross over a small stream and settle into our campsite by the river. Once we arrive in Cancha Cancha we get to interact with the locals, we can either play soccer with the local kids or visit a local school. After afternoon tea, spend the rest of the afternoon taking in our surroundings. Spend some time taking pictures of the local women herding their llamas and alpacas in traditional clothing or if you prefer take some shots of the breathtaking mountain peaks that tower above you.
As the sun disappears behind the mountains and the stars start to brighten the skies, we cozy up inside the dinner tent for another outstanding meal by our amazing chef. The rest of the evening getting to know the rest of the group and listening to the guide explaining how the Incas used the constellations to guide their farming. Settle into the tents to get ready for a challenges that the second day of hiking will bring.
Leave Cancha Cancha and walk uphill through the valley, passing stone houses, scenic mountainous ranges and high Anden landscapes. After 2 hours, the path flattens where we arrive to the highest pass the Pachacutec Pass (4,758m / 15,610ft). After we have conquered the first summit, relax and enjoy the views of Pachacutec Lake and the snow-capped mountain peak of Pitusiray. Head downhill for the next 2 hours to have a well-deserved lunch before continuing for another 1.5 hours into the valley where we see a few glacial lakes, herds of alpacas, llamas and sheep. Our camp is at (3,870 m / 12,694ft) close to Kishuarani village.
Today we take on the second mountain pass, Hillkiccasa Pass (4,200m / 13,779ft). The views as we hike of Colquecruz and Pitusiray which are awe inspiring and something you will not soon forget.
Continue on our trek through the grasslands, productive agricultural sites and pristine lakes for 5 hours will will reach Cuncani, small isolated community. Head down the a lush valley with extensive agricultural areas, fruit trees, varied flora, and native flowers like begonias and wild orchids. Later, reach our destination, the Lares Village (3,100m / 10,170ft) where we can soak in the natural volcanic hot springs for an hour or so, have lunch and rest.
After lunch in Lares, transfer to Ollantaytambo, where we spend the night in a comfortable hotel within walking distance to the town, shopping and train station.
We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:45am for a short walk to the train station, to catch the 6:10am train for a 1-hour & 15 minutes to KM104, starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Cross the Urubamba River on a picturesque foot bridge, we show our passports at the checkpoint, pack our picnic lunch before proceeding. First stop is an archeoligical site just a few steps from the checkpoint, we spend some time exploring site and learning what this site was used for.
Here we start our 3-hour trek to Wiñay Wayna archaeological site (2,650/8,747ft) also known as Forever Young in Quechua. The first hour and a half is a gentle hike. Stop at several outlooks where you have an expansive view of the Urubamba River. Pass through several microclimates, including a cloud forest. View a beautiful waterfall with crystal clear waters, take a short break before the steep climb that awaits you to the age-less site of Wiñay Wayna.
When we reach Wiñay Wayna (Quechua for Forever Young), explore the site that has remained well preserved for many centuries and was discovered after Machu Picchu. Climbing to each section, our guide will give us a quick explanation of their use. At Winay Wayna, tuck into our gourmet box lunch and enjoy the dazzling views of this amazing site. Here we intersect with the Classic Inca Trail.
Later continue on a gradual hike towards the Sun Gate (2,730m/9,00ft). Eencounter one final challenge before our first magnificent view of the Citadel, these steps are named the gringo killer steps or monkey steps. We suggest, that you get on all fours and just get it done. The steep stairs are carved directly into the bedrock of the Trail. Once you walk through the Sun gate, Machu Picchu Citadel stands infront and its sheer size will take your breath away. Take as much time here are you want, enjoy the view and take photos. Now, it is just an hour hike down the flat rock stairs to Machu Picchu.
Once you reach Machu Picchu, have time to take photos from the viewing platforms above the site (Guard House), where you can take the famous postcard pictures of Machu Picchu. Arrive in the afternoon, as the archeological area starts to empty of tourists, which gives you the opportunity to take beautiful photos in the afternoon light. Take your time to take in this magical experience before you take the bus down to Aguas Calientes to check into your hotel. Have a delicious dinner, then have time to walk around this picturesque little town, visit the hot springs or just go to your hotel to rest after such an exciting day.
After an early breakfast, get an early bus at 5:30am up to Machu Picchu, in time to witness the sunrise. It is a truly mystical sight, not something you’ll want to miss! After enjoying the sunrise your guide will provide a tour of Machu Picchu, which takes around two hours. See many of the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel during your tour.
When you have had your fill of the incredible views of Machu Picchu, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes lunch is waiting in one of the restaurants. (lunch not included). Depending on your train departure time, there may be some time for shopping, or sightseeing.
The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Enjoy the scenery from your window. Back in Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private van. You can expect to arrive at your hotel about 7:00pm.
***IMPORTANT:
| No. OF PEOPLE | PRICE |
| 2 to 8 people | $ 777 USD per person |
***This price includes the extra pack horse which will carry your belongings up to 7 kg / 15lbs. We will provide you a duffel bag to put your belongings in.
***ORANGE NATION provides large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.
***Private price is $100 USD extra per person
*** The short Inca trail to Machu Picchu is available year round except it is closed in February for maintenance — This trek takes you into Machu Picchu by walking through the SUN GATE like in the ancient times, you will explore some amazing Inca ruins along the way like Wiñay Wayna.
Orange Nation provides 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 trek price!
CHECK YOUR SHORT INCA TRAIL TREK AVAILABILITY BY CLICKING ON MONTH OF YOUR CHOICE! INCA TRAIL CLOSED IN FEBRUARY FOR MAINTENANCE.
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Please read the following information to help answer any questions you may have about our services and the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail.
We will pick you up from the Cusco airport and take you to your hotel in Cusco. Please let us know your flight details at least 14 days before arrival. Our representative will be holding an orange sign reading ORANGE Nation outside the arrivals. You must exit the terminal to find our representative as they cannot enter. (Please let us know if your hotel is in the Sacred Valley so we can make the necessary arrangments).
The Briefing will be the night before the trek at 6pm in our office which is located at Garcilaso Street 210 , Office Nº:213 (2nd Floor) in the la CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.
ABSOLUTELY! During the Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free.
FIRST, to book your Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here – BOOK NOW.
We will need the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). This information is necessary to purchase the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu the train tickets:
SECOND, we require a deposit of $211.00 USD per personin order to purchase your entrance to Machu Picchu and train ticket. You can make you deposit by clicking on the PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.
You can pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco to avoid the additional 5.5% charged by the Credit Card companies and PayPal. We have many ATMS within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge, charged PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address orangenationperu@gmail.com to complete the payment.
Unfortunately No. Once we buy the tickets for the Inca Trail, the government does not allow any changes, so we cannot change any departure date after purchase. Tickets are also non transferable nor refundable. If you cancel your Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail, the deposit is non-refundable!
DEFINITELY! You MUST bring your original passport with the SAME passport number you sent us to book your entrance to Machu Picchu, train ticket, other entrances and reservations. They will check when you enter Machu Picchu and to board the train.
In case you are renewing your passport or changing your name, please send us a COPY of your old passport to secure your permit, and we can change it when we receive a COPY of your new passport for a fee of $25 USD per person. We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change. Before you change your passport keep a copy of your old one.
If you do not wish to pay this fee you will need to bring both passports to Peru with you. You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both passports, old and new to enter Machu Picchu or the train. If you do not have both the releventpersonal will not allow you entry into Machu Picchu or the train.
Remember to check your current passport to make sure it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your arrival to Peru!!! The Government of Peru is enforcing the existing law that requires all foreign travelers to have a passport valid for a minimum of six months past the time of entry into Peru. Peruvian authorities will deny entry into Peru for travelers not meeting this requirement.
The weather is very unpredictable and always changing in the Andes Mountains, so it is difficult to say with any certainty. We recommend that you be prepared for warm weather, possible rain showers (Orange Nation provides rain ponchos) and a warm jacket in case of cold. We also recommend that you dress in layers so you may take off or put on clothes as needed.
The climate in Cusco has temperatures between 10º – 20º C, with warm days and cold nights. The best time to hike the Inca trail is between the months of April through October, when the weather is warm. During the months of June, July and August nights are very cold which is why Orange Nation rents good quality 4 season sleeping bags.
The rainy season is during the months of November through March, if you want to hike the Inca Trail during this season, bring warm clothes and be prepared for rain but there will be a beautiful landscape and colorful flowers.
The Average weather conditions on the Inca Trail:
For some visitors, the first hours in Cusco can be summarized as: shortness of breath, a discomfort in the body, dizziness, headaches, stomachaches, even vomiting. As great connoisseurs of natural medicine, the Incas used coca leaves to counteract soroche, quechua for high-altitude sickness.
If you travel from Lima to Cusco, the effect can be immediate. This lack of oxygen, scientifically known as hypoxia, begins to manifest itself at 7,874 ft (2,399 m) above sea level. That’s why right after landing in Cusco, visitors can feel fatigued and have difficulty walking. It is advisable to take it really easy on the first day and, if possible, rest the first few hours to help the body acclimatize to the altitude.
How do people feel after a night of drinking? Thirsty. That’s how you’ll feel when you arrive in Cusco. As already stated, the body dehydrates quickly in high altitudes. We recommend that you drink lots of water before and during your trip to Cusco. Also, avoid heavy meals since your stomach takes longer to digest food at high altitudes. A diet of low proteins and high carbs is advisable.
No one knew better the effects of high altitude than indigenous peoples. Coca is the best natural medicine to combat altitude sickness. The locals consider coca leaves sacred because of their curative powers and they still use it in the same way now as it was in the time of the Incas. It contains iron, vitamins A, B1, B2 and calcium, among other nutrients. Coca makes it easier for your bloodstream to absorb oxygen, suppresses hunger, combats fatigue, headaches and can ease your stomach. Try drinking coca tea, which is found in the lobbies of most hotels in Cusco.
The evening before your trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg / 15lbs. including sleeping bag, so 5kg / 11lbs. Your team of pack horses will carry your duffel bag for you, together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware that you will not 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, you need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. A 30 to 50L backpack is sufficient.
The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail is fairly difficult and you should be prepared and healthy prior to starting. You have to be relatively fit and exercise regularly.
In preparation: try walking 15kms in a day or go to the fitness club in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatised to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 days in Cusco (3,350m / 11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip is appreciated. It means a lot to the staff, and their families, who will take care of you during the tour. It inspires better service and is a major part of the tourism industry across many ORANGE Nation destinations. Of course you are free to tip as much as you want, depending how you feel about the quality of service and the length of your tour.
We are a local sustainable & responsible tour operator which functions according to the ethical principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the indigenous communities respecting their culture and religion. We have trained all of our staff to know, understand and respect the local communities and the people living there.
As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 15 lbs. including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.
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 duffle bag at camp.
3870
5D - 4N
8
Van, Bus, Train
We're a family-owned Travel Company and Tour Operator located in the heart of the Inca Empire, Cusco, Peru. We create individually customized tours and treks to Peru's most iconic attractions, as well as untouched, off the beaten track locations high in the Andes Mountains.
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Quiet Andean night
Unique and little explored routes
Experience the culture up close
Discover why thousands of people around the world trust us to explore the best of Peru.
The Short Inca Trail with José was a once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable experience. In the days leading up to our trek, he was highly communicative and provided all the details we needed (packing lists, expectations, timing) so everything…
Hace 3 meses
After researching extensively, I chose a Peruvian travel company to guide our Sacred Valley adventure for my husband and I. We booked a full day beginning with Maras and Moray, Ollantaytambo, lunch and Pisac.…
Hace 2 meses
We did the Lares Trek with Orange Nation/ Sam's travel and would highly recommend it. Lares has far less tourists than the inca trail (we saw about 4 groups over the two days initial hike up to the 4800m high point). The views are…
Hace 3 semanas
I had extremely high expectations and they were blown away! Our guide Rolando was an absolute legend. You can tell he is looked up to by all the other guides in the industry. He speaks multiple languages, connects deeply with each hiker,…
Hace 5 meses
Two of us did the 2 days Lares trek + 1 day Inca Trail, with a tour of Machu Picchu. We were blown away by the friendliness, knowledge, and kindness showed by both of our guides - Jorge and Carlos. We booked a group tour, but this ended up…
Hace 3 meses
Me and my friend did the 4 day Inca trail with Sam travel Peru, our tour guide was Juan Carlos, he has been doing tours to matchu pichu for over 20 years and his knowledge and expertise was amazing. I would recommend to anyone to as for him…
Hace 5 meses
We did the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu. Our guide was Ray and Michael. It was really great - Ray was amazing and was really passionate about the place and told us loads of amazing stories. We had the perfect weather and even the packed…
Hace 3 meses
Amazing trip across 3 days with Jose! A massive thanks and shout out to our guide, he enriched the entire experience with his massive background of history of the culture and the land…
Hace 5 meses
Me and my Wife did the 5 day Inca trail with Sam Travel in April 2026. Our guide Henry and the incredible team of Porters and our Chef made the trip one of a lifetime. I cannot say enough good things about this group as they went over and…
Hace 3 meses
We were short on time during our trip to Peru, so we decided to do the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Everything was very well organised. We were collected from our hotel and taken to the train, where our journey to the trail began. The first part of the hike was a bit challenging, but it was absolutely worth it. The views of the mountains and the surrounding nature were breathtaking. Reaching the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time was incredible. After the tour, we were taken back by train and dropped off at our hotel. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone visiting Peru, especially if you're short on time but still want to experience the Inca Trail. I also highly recommend our guide, Antonio. He was brilliant, incredibly knowledgeable, and shared so much interesting information about Machu Picchu, its history, and the local flora throughout the trek. He also allowed us to take breaks whenever we needed them.
Written August 6, 2026
I did the Rainbow Mountain tour, and I was the only one in the group who walked up the mountain. My guide Henry stayed with me the whole way, encouraging me and taking lots of photos along the trail. A truly great experience.
Written July 31, 2026
We had an amazing time with Henry our guide on our trek to Rainbow Mountian. With an early pick we left Cusco for the long car ride to Rainbow mountain with a quick stop for breakfast. When we got there Henry helped us reserve horses (highly recommend) and we started towards the mountain. The terrain, snow capped mountains and sediment settlement are a treat to see but it is worth the 10 extra minutes to the top. Because we had the horses we were able to take a long time at the top to take in all of the beautiful wonders. Henry allowed us time to explore and gave us wonderful information about how this beautiful wonder was formed. We definitely got more than our money's worth out of this gem!
Written July 29, 2026
Carlos Estrada was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable and organized! Made our trip easy.
Written July 19, 2026
I had an amazing experience touring Sacred Valley and Machu Pichu with our tour guide, Carlos Estrada. He was quite helpful and knew a lot about everything. I recommend him and this tour!
Written July 19, 2026
Had an awesome day out to Rainbow Mountain with our guide Cesar Siccos! He was full of encouragement and positive energy and we made it to the top! Thank you, Cesar!
Written July 16, 2026
Following a great 2-day Inca Trail experience with SAM Travel, I signed up for the one-day Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley trek. Once again our group was small, just 4 people. Junior was our guide - he was friendly and knowledgeable. He seamlessly adjusted to our request for an earlier start time to beat the crowds, and also managed varying group member speeds / fitness levels well. Another positive experience with SAM Travel - highly recommend booking with them, especially if you are a solo traveler.
Written July 16, 2026
Rainbow mountain hike provided for gorgeous views, bunch of alpaca. At up to 5000 meters it provided for a healthy challenge even if the profile does not look that impressive…. Our guide - Cesar Siccos - was with us the whole way and provided the necessary support to get over the challenge. Great day out.
Written July 15, 2026
My trip to the rainbow mountain with my tour guide Siccos was incredible. Siccos was very energetic and kept our spirits high. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone.
Written July 15, 2026
