LARES TREK + SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS
Group Size:
Up to 10 people
Difficulty:
Challenging
Type Service:
Group / Private
Departures:
Daily
Transport:
Van, Train, Bus
Max Altitude:
4,500 m / 14,800 ft
The 5 Day Lares Valley Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. Our carefully selected route takes you past towering glaciers, crystal-clear blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, and herds of llamas and alpacas, allowing you to experience the remote beauty of the mountains. Enjoy a relaxing stop at the Lares Hot Springs to soothe your muscles before continuing along the legendary Inca Trail. Follow the same ancient paths once used by the Incas, discover remarkable archaeological sites along the route, and arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate. Experience Machu Picchu twice during your journey, including a 2-hour guided tour of the citadel followed by free time to explore this extraordinary Inca sanctuary at your own pace.
LARES TREK + SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 5-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO – HUARAN – CANCHA CANCHA
Itinerary
Leave Cusco behind as your Lares Trek adventure begins with a 6:00 am pickup from your hotel. A scenic drive takes you to Huaran, where you’ll meet your horsemen and prepare for the hike. Once everything is ready, start a gentle three-hour climb toward the traditional village of Cancha Cancha. Around midday, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch beside the river, cooked by your trekking chef before continuing the journey.
At Cancha Cancha 3,900 m (12,800 ft), you’ll discover one of the most isolated Andean communities, where families have preserved their traditional lifestyle for generations. Since there is no road access, the village remained without electricity until December 2019. After settling into camp and enjoying afternoon tea, you’ll have the chance to visit a local family and gain insight into their daily life, with your guide translating throughout the experience. In the evening, after dinner, your guide will share the fascinating story of the Inca constellations, whose movements have helped local farmers plan their agricultural activities for centuries.
-Meals included: Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner.
-Accommodation: Camping facilities.
-Distance: 9kms / 5.6 miles.
-Time: 3.5hrs approximately.
-Difficulty: Moderate.
DAY 2: CANCHA CANCHA – QUISWARANI
Itinerary
Start your morning with a hot cup of tea or coffee delivered to your tent before breakfast. After breakfast, begin approximately 7 hours of hiking in total, including the ascent to Pachacutec Pass and the descent to Quiswarani. The trail climbs steadily toward Pachacutec Pass 4,500 m (14,800 ft), the highest point of the trek. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including snow-capped glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, roaming alpaca herds, rugged valleys, and magnificent Andean peaks. Be sure to look up-you may even spot Caracara falcons and Andean geese soaring above.
From the pass, continue with a 3-hour descent to the campsite near the traditional community of Quiswarani 3,700 m (12,139 ft). This quiet trail passes through remote highland landscapes where local families continue to herd llamas and alpacas while wearing their traditional clothing. You’ll also have the opportunity to interact with Quechua-speaking villagers, and your guide will translate the conversations while introducing you to a few words from the language of the Incas. As you pass the beautiful Seven Waterfalls, you’ll know the campsite is just a short distance away.
Upon arrival, your camp will already be prepared for you. Relax with hot drinks and light appetizers before dinner, then settle into your tent for a restful night surrounded by the peaceful Andean mountains.
-Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner.
-Accommodation: Camping facilities with bathroom building.
-Distance: 12kms / 7.5 miles.
-Time: 7hrs approximately.
-Difficulty: challenging.
DAY 3: QUISWARANI – CUNCANI – LARES – OLLANTAYTAMBO
Itinerary
Wake up to another unforgettable day in the Andes as today’s trail leads through some of the most breathtaking scenery of the trek. After breakfast, begin a 3-hour ascent to Willqaqasa Pass 4,200 m (13,779 ft), where spectacular views of glacial lakes reflect the surrounding mountains. From the summit, admire the impressive Colquecruz and Pitusiray peaks before continuing across high-altitude grasslands, fertile farmlands, and pristine alpine lakes. The trail then descends for approximately 2 hours to the traditional community of Cuncani, where, if classes are in session, there may be an opportunity to visit the local school and spend time with the children.
In Cuncani, our private transportation will be waiting for the scenic drive through the beautiful Lares Valley. Along the way, pass extensive agricultural fields, fruit trees, colorful native flowers such as begonias and wild orchids, and a rich variety of local flora. The journey ends at Lares Hot Springs 3,100 m (10,170 ft), where you can relax in the natural volcanic pools for about an hour before enjoying lunch. It’s also the perfect time to thank our trekking chef and horsemen for their dedication and support throughout this unforgettable adventure.
After lunch, continue by our private transportation on a 2.5-hour drive to Ollantaytambo. The day concludes with dinner before settling into the hotel for a well-deserved overnight stay.
-Meals included: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner.
-3* Accommodation: Andenes del Inca Hotel Ollantaytambo.
-Distance: 15kms / 9.3 miles.
-Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours.
-Difficulty: Moderate.
DAY 4: OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM 104 – WIÑAY WAYNA – AGUAS CALIENTES
Itinerary
The day begins early with a pickup from your hotel at 5:30 a.m. Your guide will accompany you to the train station, where you will receive your lunch to carry in your daypack. The train departs from Ollantaytambo at 6:10 a.m., allowing you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the route. In advance, we will coordinate with the hotel to prepare a picnic breakfast for you to take with you, which will be provided to you before you leave the hotel.
After approximately one hour on the train, arrive at the famous Km 104, located at 2,100 m / 6,890 ft, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Cross the picturesque footbridge over the Urubamba River, present your passport at the checkpoint, and visit the first Inca archaeological site before beginning the hike.
The trail starts with a gentle 1.5-hour ascent through the cloud forest, where the changing mountain climate may bring cool, humid conditions or rain at any time of the year. Along the way, several viewpoints offer beautiful panoramas of the Urubamba River. The next 1.5-hour section becomes slightly steeper, ending at a beautiful waterfall that marks one of the highlights of the morning.
Crossing the bridge beside the waterfall brings you to the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna 2,600 m (8,500 ft). Surrounded by lush subtropical vegetation, this remarkable Inca complex is one of the finest sites along the Inca Trail. Your guide will share its fascinating history while explaining the unique flora and fauna of this rich ecosystem. After exploring the site, continue with a short 5-minute walk to the lunch area.
Following lunch, continue along a mostly gentle trail toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Although the path includes a few gradual ups and downs, the final stretch features original Inca stone steps leading to one of the most iconic viewpoints on the trail. As you pass through the Sun Gate, enjoy your first unforgettable panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Take time to admire the scenery and capture memorable photos before beginning the 60-minute descent toward the citadel. Along this final section, additional viewpoints and lesser-known Inca sites provide even more opportunities to appreciate the history and beauty of the sanctuary.
Upon reaching Machu Picchu, there will be time to take photos from the famous House of the Guardian viewpoint, home to the classic postcard view of the Lost City of the Incas. Arriving in the afternoon offers a quieter experience, with fewer visitors and beautiful natural light for photography. After enjoying this unforgettable moment, take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes, check in at the hotel, enjoy dinner, and spend the evening exploring the charming town, visiting the hot springs, or simply relaxing before the next day’s guided tour of Machu Picchu.
-Meals included: Breakfast at your hotel, Lunch and Dinner.
-Distance: 12 kms/7.5 miles.
-Time: 6hrs approximately.
-3* Accommodations: Pucará Hotel in Aguas Calientes or similar.
– Difficulty: Moderate.
On this day, you will leave your duffel bag at Ollantaytambo Train Station to be transported by train to Aguas Calientes, where our staff will receive it and deliver it to the hotel where you will spend the night.
DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Itinerary
Today is the moment you’ve been waiting for. After an early breakfast at the hotel, board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, arriving in time to experience the beauty of the citadel in the early morning. Your guide will lead a 2-hour tour, exploring the most important sectors of this remarkable Inca sanctuary while sharing its fascinating history.
After the guided visit, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure, there may also be time to explore the town, do some shopping, visit the museum, or relax in the hot springs.
Later in the afternoon, board the Expedition train departing at 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm for the scenic journey back to Ollantaytambo along the Urubamba River. Keep an eye on the steep canyon walls for a chance to spot Wiñay Wayna before arriving at the station, where our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Expected arrival is around 7:00 pm.
-Meal included: Breakfast at your hotel.
-Difficulty: Easy.
***The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability, so please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to add it.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 5-DAY LARES TREK + SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?
INCLUDED:
- Airport transfer to your hotel upon arrival in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup with door-to-door service.
- Private transportation from your hotel to the Huaran trailhead.
- Professional licensed English-speaking guide.
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km 104
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Round-trip shuttle bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
- 2 nights’ accommodation in a 3-star hotel.
- 4-person tents shared by two trekkers.
- Comfortable foam sleeping mattress.
- Freshly prepared gourmet meals throughout the trek.
- Professional trekking chef and complete kitchen equipment.
- Experienced horsemen and pack horses.
- Camping equipment and up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of personal belongings carried by pack horses.
- Emergency horse available if needed.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- Boiled drinking water for refilling your water bottles.
- Transfer back to Cusco for our group.
- Cultural interaction with local communities.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Sleeping bag rental – US$20 per person per trek (clean and warm).
- Air mattress rental – US$20 per person per trek (Therm-a-Rest mattress).
- Adjustable trekking poles – US$15 per pair per trek.
- Personal tent – US$30 (available for solo travelers only).
- Vistadome train upgrade – US$65 per person (Return Only).
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance – US$75 per person (optional).
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes
- Tips for staff (optional).
***The visit to Machu Picchu is first carried out with our professional guide. After the guided tour, you can hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain independently. This hike is normally completed on your own. If you would like a guide to accompany you during the ascent, just let us know and we can arrange this with our team for an additional fee.
PRICES & AVAILABILITY
The 5-Day Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available most of the year, except in February, when the Inca Trail is closed for annual maintenance. Choose the departure date that works best for your travel plans and embark on an unforgettable journey through traditional Andean communities, spectacular mountain landscapes, and the beautiful Lares Valley before joining the historic Inca Trail at Km 104. This unique adventure brings together culture, nature, and Inca history, ending with an unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate.
GROUP PRICE – 3★ HOTEL (DOUBLE ROOM)
- Only $875 USD per person
PRIVATE PRICE – 3★ HOTEL (DOUBLE ROOM)
- Private service is $140 USD extra per person
***Would you prefer 4- or 5-star hotels? Contact us for the available options and their additional costs.
***A USD $60 discount per person will be applied for both Group and Private Services if hotel accommodation in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes is not required.
***Single Supplement: USD $30 per person per night for a single room at a 3-star hotel in Ollantaytambo, plus an additional USD $30 per person per night for a single room at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
DISCOUNTS
-18 to 25 years old: US$30 discount. To qualify, a valid student ID is required. The card must clearly show the name of the university, the student’s full name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the student ID must be submitted at the time of booking for government approval.
-Under 18 years old: US$30 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
-Under 11 years old: US$40 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
-Groups of 6 or more: US$20 discount per person. All participants must book the trek together at the same time.
WHY CHOOSE CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS?
Because we are a local, family-owned company born in Cusco, with deep roots in the communities of our region. We know and value our land, and we strive to make every travel experience create a positive impact. In addition to offering authentic and responsible travel experiences, we support environmental and social projects that benefit local communities, children, and natural areas. When you travel with Callanga Family Explorers, you are not only discovering Peru-you are also contributing to initiatives that help protect our environment and support local people.
SMALL GROUPS
At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe that smaller groups create a better travel experience. To provide more personalized service and individual attention, we limit our groups to a maximum of 10 travelers. This allows our guides to offer a more enjoyable, comfortable, and engaging experience while exploring the Andes. Our small-group approach is one of the qualities that sets us apart from operators with larger group sizes.
BEST LARES TREK ROUTE + SHORT INCA TRAIL
Experience an unforgettable combination of two incredible routes with the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This adventure takes you away from the busy trails, passing through remote Andean communities, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and traditional villages before relaxing in the natural hot springs of Lares.
By combining the peaceful beauty of the Lares Valley with the iconic Short Inca Trail, this route offers the perfect balance between authentic Andean culture, spectacular scenery, and the unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
With Callanga Family Explorers, enjoy a carefully designed trekking experience that brings together the best of both worlds: the hidden landscapes of the Andes and the legendary path leading to Machu Picchu.
OUR PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES
We are proud of our team of professional tour guides, who are fluent in English and passionate about sharing the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Incas and the Andes. Their knowledge is supported by continuous training and professional development, ensuring that every tour is informative, accurate, and engaging.
Our guides are friendly, approachable, and highly educated. They hold academic degrees in fields such as Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology, allowing them to provide insightful explanations and answer your questions with confidence. Their passion and dedication help create memorable experiences for every traveler.
OUR HORSEMEN AND PACK HORSES
The 5-Day Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Callanga Family Explorers is supported by our experienced horsemen and well-cared-for pack horses throughout the journey. They are an essential part of our trekking team and help ensure that your adventure is comfortable and well organized.
As you trek through breathtaking Andean landscapes, visit remote communities, and discover their local traditions and culture, you can enjoy the journey with greater peace of mind and comfort, focusing on the natural beauty and authentic experience of the Andes.
OUR TREKKING CHEFS
During the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, our trekking chefs prepare fresh and nourishing meals throughout the trekking portion of the journey. Using a combination of local ingredients and carefully selected products, they create a variety of delicious Peruvian and international dishes while you explore the Andes.
Food is an important part of the trekking experience, and our team takes great care in preparing generous meals that provide comfort after each day of adventure. Whether enjoying breakfast surrounded by mountains, a warm lunch along the trail, or dinner at the campsite, every meal is prepared with dedication and attention to detail.
If you have any dietary restrictions, allergies, or special food requirements, please let us know in advance. Our team will do its best to accommodate your needs and ensure you have an enjoyable dining experience throughout the trek.
OUR EQUIPMENT
Our trekking team and the equipment we provide are an essential part of your experience on the trail. We take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the journey. The following camping equipment and services are included:
-Our Tents: Sleep comfortably in our spacious 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents. Each tent is designed for four people but is shared by only two trekkers, giving you plenty of room to relax and store your duffel bags. Every tent also features a front vestibule, providing extra space to keep your hiking boots, trekking poles, and other gear outside the sleeping area.
-Our Mats: We provide comfortable sleeping mats that help insulate you from the cold ground for a better night’s rest.
-Our Kitchen & Dining Tents: Our spacious dining tent serves as the gathering place for meals, where you can relax, enjoy freshly prepared food, and share your experience with fellow trekkers.
-Our Tables & Chairs: The dining tent is fully equipped with tables and chairs, offering a comfortable space for every meal. Its two-door design also provides excellent ventilation and adapts well to changing weather conditions.
-Duffel Bags: A duffel bag will be provided during the briefing on the evening before your trek.
-More: Pillows, backpack rain covers, souvenir T-shirts, hot showers, and a biodegradable camping toilet are provided during the trek.
OUR SERVICE PROJECTS
We believe travel can also make a positive difference. Through our social and environmental initiatives, we support local communities and children, participate in environmental clean-up campaigns, and help protect and restore natural areas in the Cusco region. These efforts reflect our commitment to responsible tourism and creating a positive impact beyond every journey.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please take a moment to review the information below. It contains helpful details about our services and everything you need to know before joining the Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
ARRIVAL TO CUSCO
Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, one of our representatives will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Please send us your complete flight details at least 14 days before your trek begins so we can coordinate your airport pickup. At the arrivals terminal exit, simply look for our representative holding a sign with your full name.
PRE-TREK BRIEFING
Your pre-trek briefing will take place at your hotel at 6:00 p.m. on the evening before your departure. During this meeting, your guide will explain the itinerary, review the trekking route, recommend the equipment you should bring, discuss important safety information, and answer any questions you may have. This briefing is designed to ensure you are fully prepared and ready to enjoy your adventure.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE BEFORE THE TREK?
Absolutely! All hotels in Cusco provide luggage storage for their guests before and after the trek. We recommend leaving your main luggage at your hotel and bringing only the essentials you will need during the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. This way, you can enjoy the trek more comfortably while your luggage remains safe until your return. If you need any assistance, our team will be happy to help.
PAYMENT METHODS
To confirm your reservation, we offer two secure payment methods. A 40% deposit of the total tour cost is required to secure your booking.
Payment Link:
We accept credit and debit cards. We will send you a secure personalized payment link through Izipay, allowing you to complete your payment quickly and safely.
PayPal:
You can make your payment directly to our PayPal account at info@callangafamilyexplorers.com. If you prefer, we can also send you a secure PayPal payment request by email, allowing you to complete your payment safely and conveniently. Your reservation will be confirmed once the required deposit has been received.
Before confirming your reservation and purchasing your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, we require the following information for each participant in your booking:
- Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
- Nationality
***Please also send us a clear copy of each participant’s passport at the time of booking.
WHAT ABOUT THE REMAINING BALANCE?
To avoid credit card processing fees, you may pay the remaining balance in cash (US dollars only) during your pre-trek briefing in Cusco. ATMs are widely available throughout Cusco’s Historic Center if you need to withdraw cash. If you prefer, you may also pay the balance online by Visa or PayPal. Please note that a 6% processing fee applies to cover the transaction fees charged by the payment platforms.
CAN I CHANGE MY TRAVEL DATE?
Unfortunately, no. Once your Machu Picchu tickets have been purchased, the Peruvian government does not permit any modifications to the travel date. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.
If you need to make any changes, please contact us as soon as possible. If you decide to cancel your 5-Day Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail, the deposit is non-refundable.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?
Yes. You must bring your original passport, and it is essential that it matches the passport number you provided when booking your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, as well as your entrance tickets and reservations.
If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, you may complete your booking using your current passport details. Once you receive your new passport or updated information, we can update your reservation for a $25 USD per person administrative fee. Copies of both your old and new passports are required to process the change. Before renewing your passport, please keep a copy of your current one.
If you prefer not to pay the update fee, you must travel to Peru with both passports. You may enter Peru using your new passport, but you will need to present both the old and new passports when boarding the train and entering Machu Picchu. Without both passports, you will not be permitted to board the train or enter Machu Picchu.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
Most travelers adjust well to the elevation when they allow enough time to acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting their trek. At 3,400 m (11,155 ft) above sea level, Cusco is already at a significant elevation, so we recommend spending at least 2-3 days acclimatizing before beginning this trek, especially if you are not accustomed to high elevations.
Staying well hydrated, drinking coca tea, and using oxygen when necessary may help manage altitude-related symptoms. Our guides are trained to recognize and respond appropriately to altitude sickness throughout the trek.
DUFFEL BAG & DAY BACKPACK
On the evening before your trek, you will receive a small duffel bag for packing the clothing and personal items you will need during the next 5 days. The maximum weight allowance is 7 kg (15 lbs). Your duffel bag, along with the camping equipment and food, will be carried by our pack horses.
Please note that you will not have access to your duffel bag during the day, as the horses travel ahead of the group. For the hike, you should carry a comfortable day backpack with your daily essentials, such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. A backpack with a capacity of 30 to 50 liters is generally ideal.
HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE?
The Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu includes approximately 48 km (29.8 miles) of total route distance, including the trekking sections., reaching a maximum altitude of 4,500 m (14,800 ft). The route is considered a challenging trek, so a good level of fitness and proper preparation are important before starting the adventure.
Regular physical activity before the trek will help you enjoy the experience more comfortably. During the months leading up to the trip, we recommend preparing with long walks of approximately 15 km (9 miles) per day or maintaining a consistent exercise routine.
ARE THERE TOILETS ALONG THE LARES TREK & SHORT INCA TRAIL?
Our private toilet facilities are one of the services most appreciated by our trekkers, providing a cleaner and more comfortable experience throughout the journey. We provide a private tent with a camping toilet and a seat for greater hygiene and convenience.
The toilet is always installed at a comfortable distance from the campsite to ensure privacy while remaining easily accessible. During the night, our trekkers can use a clean and well-maintained facility instead of relying on basic public toilets along the trail.
WHAT IF I AM UNABLE TO COMPLETE THE TREK?
Although it is uncommon, if a health problem prevents you from continuing the trek, Callanga Family Explorers will provide assistance and help arrange transportation to the nearest town where you can receive support. Our trekking team carries oxygen as a precaution for altitude-related or respiratory difficulties.
In more serious situations, a helicopter evacuation can be arranged; however, this cost must be covered by the traveler, and having travel insurance is required. Please note that no refunds are provided if you are unable to complete the trek.
In most cases, travelers who need to leave the trail are transferred to Ollantaytambo. If their condition improves quickly, they may continue the journey to Aguas Calientes at their own expense and visit Machu Picchu according to the original itinerary.
ARE TIPS MANDATORY?
No. At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe in rewarding our staff through fair wages and responsible working conditions. Our staff are paid fairly for their professionalism, dedication, and hard work.
If you feel that our team has exceeded your expectations and would like to show your appreciation, tips are always welcome but are never expected or mandatory. Any gratuity is entirely at your discretion and is greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for exceptional service.
PACKING LIST
WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU
– Original passport (must be the same passport used when booking your trek).
– Valid student ID card (if you booked with a student discount).
– Small daypack (a compact backpack is recommended).
– Water storage capacity of 2–3 liters (please bring reusable water bottles or a hydration bladder).
– Comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support.
– Sleeping bag (available for rent from Callanga Family Explorers).
– Headlamp (essential).
– Toilet paper.
– Good rain gear.
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG?
As a direct local tour operator, we provide a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing. Our pack horses and horsemen will transport up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings during the trek. This weight allowance includes your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and extra clothing.
The maximum weight permitted in the duffel bag is 7 kg (15 lbs). This limit helps ensure that the load remains manageable for the pack horses throughout the trek. All duffel bags are weighed before departure.
If your duffel bag exceeds the 7 kg limit, any additional weight must be carried in your daypack. Within the 7 kg allowance, please reserve approximately 2 kg for your sleeping bag and 1 kg for your sleeping pad, leaving about 4 kg available for your personal gear.
– 2 T-shirts.
– At least 2 pairs of hiking pants.
– 4 sets of underwear.
– 3 pairs of hiking socks.
– Swimsuit for the hot springs (optional).
– 2 fleece layers or thermal tops.
– Warm clothing, including a down jacket (temperatures at the second campsite can drop to around 3°C / 37°F).
– Waterproof gloves (ski gloves are also suitable).
– Comfortable shoes or sandals for camp.
– Quick-dry towel (we provide a small towel, but you may prefer to bring a larger one).
– Small bottle of soap (warm water is provided daily for washing).
– Battery charger or power bank (there is no electricity along the trek).
– Large plastic bags (provided at our office upon request).
– Sleeping bag rated to at least -15°C (5°F) (available for rent)
TOILETRIES
– Face moisturizer
– Hand sanitizer
– Wet wipes
– Toothbrush and toothpaste
– Personal medications
– Basic first aid kit (bandages, moleskin, etc.)
WHAT TO CARRY IN YOUR DAYPACK?
We recommend a small 30-40 L backpack for your daily hikes. Larger backpacks are not permitted inside Machu Picchu. The rest of your belongings will stay in your duffel bag at camp.
– Water (please bring enough water for the morning hike until the first lunch stop; reusable water bottles are recommended).
– Sun hat.
– Sunscreen.
– Headlamp (essential).
– Wool hat.
– Rain gear.
– Fleece jacket.
– Snacks such as chocolate bars, cereal bars, or dried fruit.
– Rain poncho.
– Gloves.
– Camera.
– Hand sanitizer.
– Toilet paper and a small bag for carrying waste.
– Extra cash for souvenirs, additional drinks, and tips.