About this experience
Combine the Lares Trek and the Inca Trail in an epic 5-day journey to Machu Picchu. This route takes you away from the crowds, allows you to interact with Andean communities, and takes you through breathtaking landscapes: glaciers, lagoons, waterfalls, and streams. Enjoy nature, visit archaeological sites, and experience the best of both worlds on this tour.
- The Lares Trail is a fantastic alternative route to Machu Picchu to avoid the crowds.
- Travel part of the famous Inca Trail.
- Learn from Andean communities.
- Home to one of the most spectacular natural settings in the world.
- Visit Inca archaeological sites and learn about their fascinating culture.
- Enjoy a train ride through breathtaking landscapes.
- End this epic journey with a guided tour of the wonder of the world, Machu Picchu.
At a glance
- Duration: 120 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 120 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
Local guides to help you plan
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Guide
Plan the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with practical guidance on permits, the Km 82 route, timing, published access rates, and booking decisions.
Choosing the Right Train to Machu Picchu
PeruRail or IncaRail, Vistadome or Expedition, Ollantaytambo or Poroy. The trade-offs nobody explains until you're already at the station.
Machu Picchu Day Trip From Cusco
A Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco is possible, but it requires advance entry tickets, carefully matched transport, and a very early start. Use this practical guide to choose a circuit, build a realistic schedule, compar
What is included
- Pre-departure briefing
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Experienced Mountain Guide
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Train ticket for the Ollantaytambo - km 104 section
- Breakfast
- Entrance to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2 for 5-month bookings; if unavailable, Circuit 3, then Circuit 1)
- Tourist Train Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
- All private transport and transfers during the tour
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (Day 4)
- Expert chef, porters, and horsemen
- Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
- 1 night in a hotel in Ollantaytambo (Day 3)
- Portable toilet
- Tickets to enter the Lares hot springs
- Hygiene products (small towel and soap)
- Safety: First aid kit, Walkie-talkies, oxygen, and emergency satellite pones
- 1 night camping in Quishuarani (Day 1)
- Transportation of personal belongings.
- Permits and ticket for the Inca Trail
- Tickets to the Maras Salt Mines
- Personal duffel bag (up to 5 kg / 11 lb) for your travel gear.
- Private Camping Facilities & Equipment
- 1 night camping in Cancha Cancha (Day 2)
- Water, Tea Time, and daily snacks on the trail
Not included
- Gear: Inflatable mattress, Sleeping Bag & Trekking Poles
- Personal hiking clothing and gear
- Travel Insurance (Recommended)
- Gratuities for the staff (Optional)
Itinerary and highlights
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco. We pick up all travelers from their hotels between 05:00 and 05:30 am.
Languages and tickets
- English — Audio
- English — Guide
- English — Written
- Spanish — Audio
- Spanish — Guide
- Spanish — Written
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Salkantay Trekking
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
- The Inca Trail is highly demanded, specially in high season (May to September). Book this trip at least five months in advance to secure a spot.
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
- Children aged 12 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
- Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
- Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
- Not recommended for children under 8 years old due to walking distances and altitude.
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
We pick up all travelers from their hotels between 05:00 and 05:30 am.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
What is the cancellation policy?
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