Lares and Inca Trail in 4 days: day-by-day guide
This trek combines the best of two worlds: the living Andean culture of the Lares valley and the final section of the Inca Trail, with Wiñay Wayna and the arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Here is how the four days unfold, what is included and how to prepare.
The trek at a glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 days: 2 nights camping, 1 night in a hotel |
| Highest point | Sacsallaully Pass, 4,646 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate, at high altitude |
| Permit | Required for the Inca Trail section |
| Price with us | US $820 |
Day 1: Calca, Lares hot springs and Wacahuasi
A 5:30 am pickup takes you through the Sacred Valley to the Calca market and on to Lares (about 3,100 m) and its hot springs. A gentle two-hour walk reaches the Vilcabamba bridge for lunch, then three more hours to camp at Wacahuasi (about 3,750 m), often welcomed by children in traditional dress. About 11 km.
Lares and the Sun Gate in one trek
Lares valley, the Short Inca Trail, a hotel night and Machu Picchu — US $820.
Day 2: Sacsallaully Pass
A climb of about three hours leads to the Sacsallaully Pass at 4,646 m, with views of snow peaks and the Aruray Cocha lake, and often llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. You descend past glacial lakes and queuña forest to camp at Yanahuara (about 2,780 m). About 14 km and 5–6 hours.
Day 3: Inca Trail to the Sun Gate
A transfer to Ollantaytambo and the train to Km 104 start the Short Inca Trail. After Chachabamba you climb past waterfalls and orchids to Wiñay Wayna (about 2,650 m), then on to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, for your first view of Machu Picchu, before descending to Aguas Calientes for a hotel night. About 12 km.
Day 4: Machu Picchu
A two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu in the morning, with free time for the Sun Gate or the Inca Bridge; Huayna Picchu is optional and must be booked in advance. Then lunch in Aguas Calientes, the train to Ollantaytambo and a private transfer to Cusco.
What is included
| Included | Not included |
|---|---|
| Hotel pickup and private transport to Lares | Lunch on the final day |
| Bilingual guide, chef and cooking equipment | Hot springs entrance (optional) |
| Meals as detailed; horses and muleteers for the gear | Sleeping bag and poles (rent in Cusco) |
| Machu Picchu entrance and guided tour; train and bus | Huayna Picchu (optional) |
| One night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes; oxygen and first-aid kit; return to Cusco | Tips |
How to prepare
- Acclimatize for at least two days in Cusco: the pass is above 4,600 m.
- Book early: the Inca Trail section needs a personal permit.
- Bring warm layers for cold nights at camp, a rain jacket and sun protection.
- Carry cash in soles for the hot springs, textiles and tips.
Read what makes the Lares trek special and our Short Inca Trail guide.
Frequently asked questions
Moderate in effort but high in altitude: the Sacsallaully Pass is at 4,646 m. The Inca Trail section is a steady climb at lower altitude.
Yes, for the Inca Trail section from Km 104. Book early.
Yes. On day three you walk from Km 104 through Wiñay Wayna to the Sun Gate.
You visit them on day one; the entrance is optional and not included.
Two nights camping in the Lares valley and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
