Inca Trail From Ollantaytambo
Inca Trail from Ollantaytambo or Hiking through the Andes Mountains is a deeply transformative experience. The crisp mountain air, the towering snow-capped peaks, and the rich cultural history create an unforgettable journey for any traveler. If you are looking for the perfect Trek Peru experience, combining the remote beauty of the Lares region with the iconic path of the Incas is a spectacular choice.
Many hikers dream of completing the classic camino inca de 4 dias (4-day Inca Trail), but permits sell out months in advance, and the trail can get quite crowded. Fortunately, there is a brilliant alternative that offers off-the-beaten-path cultural encounters and the thrill of walking the original stone steps to the Sun Gate. By pairing the Lares Trek from Ollantaytambo with the short Inca Trail, you get a highly rewarding 4-day trip to Machu Picchu.
We specialize in guiding small groups through Machu Picchu and the Andean lands of Peru, creating authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventures. In this guide, we will break down the exact distances, altitudes, and tips you need to prepare for this unique combined itinerary.
Exploring the 4-Day Itinerary
This combined trek gives you two distinct experiences. First, you get to immerse yourself in the living culture of the Andes. Then, you step into history by following the ancient royal path to the majestic Inca Citadel.
Days 1 and 2: The Lares Trek Experience
The lares trek is famous for its cultural immersion. Your journey begins with a scenic drive from your hotel to the trailhead. Over the first two days, you will hike through stunning valleys, pass crystal-clear glacial lakes, and meet local Andean families who still practice traditional weaving techniques. You will hike alongside herds of llamas and alpacas, camping under some of the clearest, starriest skies in the world.
Your hike through the Lares Valley eventually brings you back down toward the Sacred Valley, concluding the first leg of your adventure near the historic town of Ollantaytambo. From here, you will board a comfortable train toward the starting point of your next trek.
Days 3 and 4: The 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
After stepping off the train at Kilometer 104, you begin the camino inca de 2 dias. This section of the trail takes you up through the lush cloud forest, past beautiful archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna. The hike culminates with your arrival at Inti Punku, the famous Sun Gate, where you will get your very first, breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu in the late afternoon.
After resting in the town of Aguas Calientes for the night, Day 4 is fully dedicated to exploring the magnificent Machu Picchu citadel before taking the train back to Cusco.
Distances and Altitudes You Need to Know
Understanding the physical demands of your tour cusco is vital for a safe and enjoyable trip. Here is the exact breakdown of what to expect on each leg of this 4-day adventure:
The Lares Trek (Days 1 & 2)
- Total Hiking Distance: Approximately 33 kilometers (20.5 miles) spread over two days.
- Starting Elevation: 3,300 meters (10,826 feet).
- Maximum Altitude: The highest pass, usually Sicllaccasa or Ipsaycocha Pass, reaches a challenging 4,800 meters (15,748 feet).
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, primarily due to the high elevation.
The Short Inca Trail (Days 3 & 4)
- Total Hiking Distance: 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) on Day 3. (Day 4 is a walking tour of the ruins).
- Starting Elevation: Kilometer 104 sits at 2,100 meters (6,889 feet).
- Maximum Altitude: The Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at 2,720 meters (8,923 feet).
- Difficulty: Moderate. The elevation is much lower than Lares, but the stone steps can be steep.
Expert Tips for a Successful Machu Picchu Trek
Hiking to Machu Picchu is a true adventure, making the journey to the Inca Citadel as rewarding as the ruins themselves. To ensure you have the best possible experience, keep these top tips in mind:
- Acclimatize properly: Because the Lares section reaches 4,800 meters, you must spend at least two to three days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley adjusting to the altitude before you start hiking.
- Pack smart layers: You will experience freezing temperatures at the Lares campsites and warm, humid conditions in the cloud forest on the Inca Trail. Breathable, moisture-wicking layers are essential.
- Leave the logistics to the experts: Securing train tickets cusco and your entradas a Machu Picchu can be incredibly stressful due to strict daily limits. Booking a comprehensive tour means your guiding company handles all these permits for you.
- Break in your boots: The original Inca stones can be slippery and uneven. Wear sturdy, well-broken-in waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support.
Cuanto Cuesta Este Trek?
Travelers often ask us, «cuanto cuesta este trek?» (How much does this trek cost?). The price of a combined 4-day Lares and Inca Trail package varies depending on the level of service, but you can typically expect it to range between $700 and $950 USD per person.
High-quality tours peru packages include your highly trained bilingual guide, all camping equipment, delicious meals prepared by an expedition chef, ground transportation, train tickets, and your official entrance fees to the trails and the Machu Picchu sanctuary. Investing in a reputable local operator ensures your safety, supports the local economy, and guarantees a seamless experience.
Let’s Plan Your Dream Trip to Machu Picchu
You deserve an adventure that perfectly blends remote wilderness, vibrant local culture, and incredible ancient history. The combined Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail offers exactly that.
Let our local experts take care of all the complex details from securing your permits to setting up your campsite—so you can focus entirely on enjoying the spectacular Andean landscapes. Contact our team today to check availability, ask questions, and secure your spot on this unforgettable 4-day journey to Machu Picchu
