The Luxury Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail 5 Days

Step into the Stunning Natural Beauty, Rich History, and Vibrant Culture of Peru

This luxury 5 Day Lares + Inca Trail itinerary combines the best of both worlds, the remote Lares Trek, with its serene alpine scenery and cultural immersion, and the iconic final stretch of the Inca Trail, arriving directly at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate.

Overview
Full Itinerary
Inclusions
FAQs

What to expect on the package or tour?

Begin with the Lares Trek, an off-the-beaten-path adventure that leads you through traditional Andean communities, past herds of alpacas, and alongside glacial lakes and dramatic mountain passes. Conclude this portion of the trek with a relaxing soak in the natural Lares Hot Springs, the perfect reward after days on the trail.

Enjoy a restful night in the Sacred Valley before setting off on the final stretch of the Inca Trail, culminating in a breathtaking arrival at Machu Picchu through the Intipunku (Sun Gate), a truly unforgettable moment.

Spend the night in Aguas Calientes, then return the next day for a deeper exploration of Machu Picchu, allowing for a rich and immersive experience of this ancient wonder.

Join us on this 5 day premium trekking route unlike any other!

🗺️ The Deluxe 5-Day Lares Trek & Inca Trail Itinerary — Luxury Glamping Adventure to Machu Picchu

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 5-day premium Lares Trek and Inca Trail journey, designed for travelers seeking luxury, cultural immersion, and adventure. This hand-crafted itinerary combines authentic Andean exploration, exclusive glamping comfort, and the legendary arrival to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).

Day 1: First Steps on the Way to Machu Picchu

Cusco – Calca – Cancha Cancha
Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Your unforgettable luxury 5-day Inca Trail adventure begins with a private pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Enjoy breakfast before departure or request a boxed meal from your hotel.

Travel in comfort via private transport to the Sacred Valley, stopping in Calca to gather last-minute essentials. From Huaran, begin your scenic trek along the Cancha Cancha River, surrounded by queuña forests, Andean grasslands, and breathtaking landscapes.

Savor your first gourmet lunch at Piedra Grande, then continue to your luxury glamping camp in Cancha Cancha, where a hot shower, massage service, and chef-prepared dinner under the stars await.

Trekking Details:

Start: 9:00 AM | Arrival: 4:30 PM
Distance: 7 km / 4.4 mi | Duration: 6 hrs
Min Altitude: 2,966 m / 9,731 ft
Max Altitude: 3,980 m / 13,058 ft
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Accommodation: Luxury Glamping

Day 2: Conquering Pachacutec Pass

Cancha Cancha – Pachacutec Pass – Quiswarani
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Awaken to mountain serenity and enjoy breakfast before tackling the most exhilarating day of the trek. Pass the Aculcocha and Suerococha Lakes, and ascend to the Pachacutec Pass (4,690 m) for sweeping views of glaciers, lakes, and Andean valleys.

After a gourmet lunch by Qoyalaycocha Lake, continue to Quiswarani, a traditional weaving village where you’ll rest in your deluxe tent, indulge in a massage, and dine in style under the Milky Way.

Trekking Details:

Start: 7:00 AM | Arrival: 4:30 PM
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi | Duration: 8 hrs
Min Altitude: 3,902 m / 12,802 ft
Max Altitude: 4,690 m / 15,387 ft
Difficulty: Challenging
Accommodation: Luxury Glamping

Day 3: Completing the Lares Trek & Rejuvenate in the Hot Springs

Quiswarani – Huillquijassa Pass – Lares Hot Springs – Ollantaytambo
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Start early and ascend to Huillquijassa Pass (4,400 m) for breathtaking panoramic views before descending to Cuncani through picturesque highland meadows.

Celebrate your accomplishment at the Lares Hot Springs, soaking in thermal waters before enjoying a picnic lunch prepared by your private chef.

Later, transfer to your luxury hotel in the Sacred Valley, where comfort awaits before your final stretch to Machu Picchu.

Trekking Details:

Start: 7:00 AM | Arrival: Afternoon
Distance: 9 km / 6 mi | Duration: 6 hrs
Min Altitude: 2,870 m / 9,416 ft
Max Altitude: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation: Luxury Hotel (Belmond Río Sagrado, Tambo del Inka, or Casa Andina Premium)

Day 4: Arrive at Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail

Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, board the train to Km 104, the exclusive starting point of your Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. Visit the remarkable Wiñay Wayna ruins before ascending toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — the first awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu.

Descend into the citadel, savoring the moment before transferring to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll dine and relax in your luxury hotel.

Trekking Details:

Distance: 16 km / 6 mi | Duration: 6.5 hrs
Min Altitude: 2,178 m / 7,145 ft
Max Altitude: 2,750 m / 9,022 ft
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Accommodation: Sumaq, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo, or Casa del Sol

Day 5: Discovering Machu Picchu

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, board the shuttle to Machu Picchu for a private guided exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn the secrets of Inca engineering, spirituality, and architecture as your expert guide brings history to life.

Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu can be arranged for panoramic views (permits required).

Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before your scenic train ride back to Cusco — with the option to upgrade to the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham Train.

Trekking Details:

Start: 8:00 AM | Return: 10:00 PM
Difficulty: Easy
Accommodation: Not included (available upon request)

✨ Experience Highlights

Exclusive 5-day luxury Lares and Inca Trail trek
Access to remote Andean communities and authentic cultural encounters
Private chef, massage therapist, and deluxe glamping amenities
Entry to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate — the ultimate reward
Seamless private transfers, gourmet dining, and 5-star lodging

Inclusions the package tour

What’s Included – Luxury Lares & Inca Trail Glamping Experience

ALuxurious Features & Tailored Amenities
A completely crafted, private, and customized luxury trek from start to finish.
Professional English-speaking guides with in-depth knowledge of Incan history and Andean culture.
Massage therapists available every night in camp for recovery and relaxation.
02 nights of ultra-luxury glamping experience featuring the highest comfort in remote mountain locations.
01 night at a luxury hotel in the Sacred Valley and 01 night at a luxury hotel in Aguas Calientes to explore Machu Picchu in style.
Gourmet Dining & Enhanced Service
All meals freshly prepared on-site by a private chef and assistant, using mostly locally-sourced organic ingredients.
Private waiter service at each meal for a fine dining experience in nature.
Meals are served using porcelain or ceramic dinnerware, fine glassware, and handcrafted stone or wooden plates.
Comforts & Equipment
Walking sticks will be provided for your comfort and stability.
Duffle bags will allow you to bring personal effects, carried by private porters for ease and convenience.
Eureka Copper Canyon bedroom tents (maximum 3-person occupancy) ensure maximum space and comfort during your stay.
Air beds, camping cots, duvets, sleeping bags, cotton sheets, blankets, pillows, and luxury cotton/silk robes will be provided for a restful and luxurious night’s sleep.
Dining tents and chairs (Eureka Copper Canyon and Kingcamp KC 2808) are designed for comfort and stability at altitude.
A hot shower tent (Light Speed) will be prepared for your use, complete with cotton towels for body, face, and hands.
A private portable toilet (Cleanwaste system) with toiletries will be available for your hygiene, comfort, and convenience.
Transportation & Logistics
Private overland transportation will be provided for all guests throughout the trek.
All staff and camping equipment logistics will be managed separately to ensure efficiency and comfort.
All entrance fees and permits will be arranged in advance, including one Vistadome train ticket returning from Machu Picchu.
(Optional upgrade available to the luxury Hiram Bingham train—please inquire with your travel specialist.)
Health, Safety & Peace of Mind
Your guide team will carry a first aid kit and oxygen bottle for your safety.
All applicable Peruvian taxes (IGV) are included in the total price—no hidden fees, ever.

Excluded in the Package

Any additional transportation along the route required to handle unexpected issues or emergencies.

Hotel accommodation in Cusco (can be organized upon request through our travel specialists).

Meals not specified in the itinerary.

Personal expenses, including extra drinks, laundry, or souvenirs.

Travel insurance – highly recommended for all participants of the Inca Trail.

Tips for guides, chefs, porters, or massage therapists – at your discretion, based on the level of service received.

Suggestions

Please consider that our prices from 2 people onward are based on double and triple accommodation per tent, if you would like to have a single tent then the supplement will be of $ 489.00 per person.

Train stations and train schedules are subject to availability, also due to the rainy season Poroy train station is closed from January to April of each year.

If you are interested in upgrades, such as the Huayna Picchu hike or Hiram Bingham train, please speak with your travel advisor to make the arrangements.

Restrictions:

This trek involves moderate to challenging hiking at high altitudes. Travelers should be in good physical condition, with prior hiking experience recommended. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, acclimatization days are required before starting the trek.
Inca Trail permits are limited and sell out months in advance. Book as early as possible to guarantee your spaces.
Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain hikes require separate, limited-entry tickets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions travelers have about the Luxury Lares Trek & Inca Trail 5-Day Tour. This section is designed to help you prepare, plan, and understand every detail of your premium trekking experience in Peru.

1. How much in advance should I book this trek?

It is best to book your Luxury Lares Trek & Inca Trail 5-Day Tour a minimum of 4 to 6 months in advance, especially during the high season (May through September), when the demand for Inca Trail permits is at its peak and permits are limited by the Peruvian government.

By booking early, we can secure your spot on the trail, reserve your preferred luxury accommodations, and customize every aspect of your trip — from private personal guides to gourmet dining experiences and exclusive amenities.

2.Do I need to be fit to do this trek?

We recommend a moderate level of fitness. The trek involves walking several hours each day at high altitude; however, with the comfort of luxury glamping, daily massage therapy, and the guidance of private professional guides, we ensure you are supported at every step — allowing you to enjoy the adventure with comfort and confidence.

3.How is this trek different from the regular Inca Trail?

This trek combines the authentic Lares Trek with the iconic Inca Trail, offering a rich Andean cultural experience alongside classic Inca ruins. Enhanced with luxury glamping, gourmet dining, and exclusive comfort amenities, it delivers a truly unique adventure that blends exploration with indulgence.

4.Are permits for the Inca Trail included?

Yes. All entrance fees and Inca Trail permits are included in your package. We handle the entire permitting process for you, ensuring a stress-free experience so you can fully enjoy your luxury trek.

5. What kind of dining will I experience on the trek?

Our private chef and assistant prepare gourmet meals daily using the freshest local ingredients. Each dish is served on porcelain dinnerware with fine glassware, creating a 5-star dining experience in the heart of the Andes.

6. Is there any worry about getting altitude sickness?

Your expert guide carries a first aid kit and oxygen bottle for safety. We also recommend arriving in Cusco or the Sacred Valley 2–3 days early to help your body acclimatize to the altitude.

7. What type of facilities are provided?

You will enjoy 2 nights of ultra-luxurious glamping, 1 night in a 5-star hotel in the Sacred Valley, and 1 night in a top-tier hotel in Aguas Calientes. Each accommodation is carefully selected for comfort, service, and overall atmosphere.

8. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

9. Am I required to have travel insurance?

No, travel insurance is not mandatory; however, we highly recommend it. Insurance provides peace of mind and protection against unexpected events such as flight delays, illness, or emergency evacuation.

10. What should I pack for the luxury trek?

We provide duffle bags, walking sticks, bedding, robes, and other essential items for the trek. You are responsible for your trekking clothes, hiking boots, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal toiletries. A detailed packing list will be sent upon confirming your registration.