HUMANTAY AND SALKANTAY 5 Days

Salkantay trek 5 days to Machu Picchu is the second most popular trek to get to the iconic city of Machu Picchu; an alternative to the very-crowded classic Inca Trail. It offers adventure, mountains, scenery, and a wider variety of landscapes from rain forests to snowcapped peaks. Since the Salkantay trek has fewer restrictions than the classic Inca Trail, it can provide a “back door” trek to Machu Picchu when classic Inca Trail tickets are sold out.

HUMANTAY AND SALKANTAY 5 Days

Vibe Journeys
$ 580 ALL JUNE 2025
  • REGULAR PRICE $ 648
  • DIFFICULTY - DEMANDING
  • TRIP CODE (VJSLAT4D)
ON SALE

Journey Style

ACTIVE/TREKKING

Service Level

STANDART

Effort Level

CHALLENGING

Group Size

FROM 1 TO 12

Travel Type

SMALL GROUP

HUMANTAY AND SALKANTAY 5 Days

Lares Trek is one of the most breathtaking journeys to Machu Picchu, offering a unique experience through the majestic Andes. Unlike the Inca Trail, this trek immerses travelers in the cultural and natural essence of the mountains, spectacular landscapes and communities that have preserved their ancestral way of life..

On the trek you can see snow-capped mountains,  lagoons, and hidden valleys, offering amazing views of the Andean landscape. The region is rich in flora and fauna, with chances to spot llamas and alpacas.

The Lares Trek is not only a challenging trek but also an immersion into the history and traditions of the Andes, a journey where nature and culture create an unforgettable experience before reaching the one of the 7 wonders of the world Machu Picchu.

7 CATARARAS DE QUISHUARANI RUTA LARES TREK

Lares Trek – Nature, Culture, and Adventure in the Andes

The Lares Trek is one of the most breathtaking and less-traveled routes to Machu Picchu, perfect for those seeking a mix of nature, Andean culture, and stunning landscapes. Throughout the journey, travelers pass through towering mountains, crystal-clear lagoons, lush valleys, and high-altitude passes, all while experiencing the authentic life of local communities.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Lares Trek is the interaction with Quechua communities, where ancient traditions remain alive. In villages like Huacahuasi and Patacancha, locals still practice agriculture and traditional weaving using techniques inherited from the Incas.
Beyond its cultural richness, the trek offers breathtaking scenery, featuring majestic snow-capped peaks like Mount Veronica, herds of llamas and alpacas grazing in the valleys, and clear night skies perfect for stargazing. The trek culminates with a visit to the Machu Picchu citadel, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Why Choose the Lares Trek?

✅ Less crowded than the Inca Trail, offering a more authentic experience.
✅ Interaction with Andean communities, learning about their culture and traditions.
✅ Spectacular landscapes with snow-capped mountains, lagoons, and valleys.
✅ Rich wildlife, with sightings of llamas, alpacas, and with luck condors.
✅ Moderate to challenging adventure, ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
✅ Ends at Machu Picchu, providing a complete Andean trekking experience.

The Lares Trek is more than just a hike; it’s an unforgettable cultural and natural adventure in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

Lares Andes Trek Itinerary – Adventure in the Peruvian Andes

Day 1: Cusco/Ollantaytambo – Calca – Huaran – Cancha Cancha

📍 Maximum Altitude: 3,950 m (Cancha Cancha)
🚶 Hiking Time: 5-6 hours

Early in the morning, we will depart from Cusco or Ollantaytambo in a tourist bus towards Calca, where we will visit the local market and take a short break. We will then continue to Huaran, the starting point of our journey. Here, we will meet the horsemen, who will be responsible for carrying the equipment and food throughout the adventure.

The ascent will take us through a beautiful Andean valley until we reach Cancha Cancha, where we will have lunch before continuing to the upper part of Cancha Cancha, where we will set up our main campsite. A delicious dinner will be served, followed by a well-deserved rest under the Andean sky.

📍 Maximum Altitude: 4,680 m (Pachacutec Pass)
🚶 Hiking Time: 7-8 hours

After an early breakfast, we will begin our ascent to Pachacutec Pass (4,680 m), the highest point of our journey, offering breathtaking views of glacier-covered peaks, turquoise lagoons, and deep valleys.

We will descend to the stunning Coyalay Lagoon, a scenic high-altitude lake where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch surrounded by nature.

After lunch, we will continue our journey, visiting the 7 Waterfalls, a beautiful series of cascading falls nestled within the Andean landscape. We will then reach the village of Quishuarani, where we will board a tourist transport for a 25-minute drive to the Lares Hot Springs.

At Lares, we will set up our campsite, and travelers will have the opportunity to relax in the thermal baths, a perfect reward after a challenging day in the mountains. A delicious dinner will be served before resting for the night.

📍 Maximum Altitude: 2,040 m (Aguas Calientes)
🚍 Travel Time: 3 hours by private transport + 🚆 1h 45min by train

After breakfast, we will take our private transport towards Ollantaytambo, stopping along the way to visit a local Andean community. Here, we will enjoy a traditional Andean lunch and learn about the way of life of the local people.

Following lunch, we will continue our journey to Ollantaytambo, where we will board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), enjoying stunning views of the Sacred Valley along the way.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we will check into the hotel. Before resting, the guide will provide a detailed briefing about the next day’s visit to Machu PicchuDinner is not included, allowing travelers the freedom to choose their preferred dining option in town.

PUEBLO VIVIENTE DE OLLANTAYTAMBO
MACHUPICCHU 2025

📍 Maximum Altitude: 2,430 m (Machu Picchu)
🚆 Travel Time: 1h 45min by train + 1h 30m by van

Early in the morning, we will take the bus up to the Machu Picchu citadel, where we will enjoy a guided tour, exploring its temples, terraces, and viewpoints.

After the guided tour, travelers will have free time to explore or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional). We will then return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will board the train back to Cusco.

Here Photo GALLERY

It is INCLUDED

  • Pre-departure Lares trek briefing, presented by the tour guide a day before your departure.
  • Pick up and drop off at your hotel.
  • Private tourist transport Cusco – Cancha cancha (the starting point of the hike).
  • Emergency oxygen bottle and first aid kit.
  • Communication radios for all the Lares Trek.  
  • A duffle bag, where you put your 7 kg / 14 pounds of personal items (personal care, personal items and camping gear (sleeping bag, air mattress, etc).
  • Horse drivers, Horses and mules to carry all the camping gear and food supplies.
  • Professional English-speaking guide, Professional mountain adventure chef and support staff.
  • Food at the campsites and lunch spots(4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, 3 snacks). With options for vegetarians, gluten-free, lactose Intolerance and any food allergy.
  • 4 season Tents for two people (tent with capacity for 3 people used as doubles and Foam mattresses).
  • kitchen tent and a large dining tent with chairs, tables and all cutlery.
  • Portable environmental biodegradable toilet tent.
  • Wake-up tea. Hot coca tea is brought to your tent, each morning before breakfast.
  • We provide hot water bins each day to help our travelers clean up and feel good at night.
  • Boiled water to fill in your water bottles or Camelback (your adventure chef will provide drinking water after each meal).
  • Entrance to hot springs in Lares.
  • Private van From Lares to Ollantaytambo.
  • Expeditions round trip train From Ollantaytambo -> Aguas Calientes (Machupicchu town) -> Ollantaytambo 
  • 3 stars hotel in Aguas Calientes( Paititi or similar).
  • Round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
  • Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu.
  • Two-hour guided tour in Machu Picchu
  • Private transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.

It is NOT INCLUDED

  • The last lunch on day 4th in aguas calientes (Machupicchu town)
  • Walking sticks (price 10 USD a pair for the entire journey)
  • Sleeping bag (price 15 USD for the entire journey)
  • Air Mattress (price 15 USD for the entire journey)
  • Gratuity for Adventure guides, Adventure chefs and support staff.
  • Travel Insurance
IN CASE OF AN EVACUATION (All expenses generated in)
  • Accommodation
  • Transport 
  • Food
  • others
VibeJourneys will give one staff to support you during the evacuation.
EQUIPO PARA RENTAR

PACKING LIST - Essentials for a great journey​

Clothing & Footwear:

  • Rain Gear: Pack rain gear, including a jacket and pants if possible, or a rain poncho. Plastic ponchos are available for purchase in Cusco.
  • Footwear: Strong, waterproof trekking boots are recommended. Additionally, bringing sandals or jogging shoes for added comfort at camp comfort is crucial, so choose lightweight footwear.
  • Warm Clothing: Bring warm clothes such as a jacket and fleece, as well as thermal clothing for sleeping.
  • Hat or Cap: Pack a hat or cap for sun, rain, and cold protection. Due to the intense sunlight in the Andes, a hat will provide essential protection.
  • Rain Pants: These should be lightweight to ensure they dry quickly after getting wet.
  • Gloves: Weather conditions can change rapidly, and it may snow in the passes. In winter, it can also get quite cold.
  • Swimsuit: Include a swimsuit in your gear.
  • Small Towel: Pack a small towel.

Essential Accessories:

  • Backpack: Carry a backpack with a change of clothes for the entire trek.
  • Sun Cream: Pack hydrating cream or after-sun lotion for your face and body.
  • Sunblock: Use sunblock to protect your skin.
  • Insect Repellent: The valley is known for its many mosquitoes. Use a repellent with a minimum of 20% DEET. Note that there is no reported risk of malaria.

Food & Drinks:

  • Snacks: Bring personal snacks like biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, fresh fruits, or muesli. Although we provide a daily morning snack and a comprehensive meal service, personal preferences might not always align with our offerings.
  • Water Container: Bring a water container and water for the first morning. Note that plastic water bottles are no longer permitted at Machu Picchu; opt for plastic or metal containers instead.

Documents & Money:

  • Original Passports: If you have changed your passport since booking the tour, bring both the old and new passports.
  • Student Identity Card: If you have applied for a student discount, bring your original International Student Identity Card.
  • Cash: Carry cash in soles. you can change in Cusco City.

Other Essentials:

  • Sleeping Bag: A high-quality sleeping bag rated for -10°C is recommended. Alternatively, you can rent one from our office for $15 for the duration of the trip.
  • Air Mattress: inflatable mattress for greater comfort, you can rent one from our office for $15 for the duration of the trip.
  • Walking sticks: Highly recommended for better support and stability while hiking, you can rent a pair from our office for $10 for the duration of the trip.
  • Handkerchiefs and Toilet Paper: Bring these for personal use.
  • Flashlight/Headlamp: Include a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries, as batteries deplete faster in cold weather.
  • Camera: Bring a camera along with extra film and batteries, as cold conditions can reduce battery life.
  • Camping Pillow: For a comfortable sleep
  • Basic Medicine: Always carry a basic first aid kit that includes items such as Panadol, medicated plaster, and medicated oil.
HIKING WITH WALKING POLES
LARES TREK IN THE ANDES
MACHUPICCHU ON A RAINY DAY
GOING DOWN IN THE MOUNTAINS WITH WALKING POLES

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW TO BOOK LARES ANDES TREK 4 Days VIBE JOURNEYS?

In order to book your Lares trek 4 days with us, Click on the BOOK NOW button above, then select the day of your departure, then fill out all your personal information of each participant and the last step is the payment which you can do with PayPal or Payment Link.

WHAT CIRCUIT IS INCLUDED TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU IN YOUR LARES ANDES TREK 4 DAY?

We bought Circuit 2 – Ruta Clasico Diseñada for our Lares Andes Trek 4 Days, so you will visit with our guide the upper part and lower part of Machu Picchu. This circuit is recommended because you will visit more sections of the citadel.

WHAT HAPPENS WITH THE OUTSTANDING BALANCE?

The Outstanding balance can be made in cash one day earlier on your trip in USD or soles or if you prefer PayPal OR Payment link at least one week prior to your trip (a 6% service fee applies). Also, you can pay us with a Credit card only Visa (6% service fee applies). 

 Please let us know what you prefer. Cash payment MUST be paid 1 day prior to your trip.

HOW HARD IS LARES TREK 4 DAY HIKE?

We categorize Lares Trek as ‘demanding’ mainly due to its elevation rather than challenging terrain. Although it’s not a stroll in the park, the ascents and descents are more gradual in comparison to alternative treks to Machu Picchu, offering a relatively challenging trekking experience.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

¡Yes! During the Lares Andes Trek 4-day to Machu Picchu, you can store your luggage at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.  Please bring what you will only need during your Lares Andes Trek 4-day to Machu Picchu.

HOW ABOUT THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

According to Peruvian Law, you have to be under 18 years old at the time of your hike to Lares trek 4 days (if you are 18 or over, you need to have valid student cards).

All students from 11 to 17 years old have a discount of $30 USD.

For children from 2 to 11 years old, a discount is $40 USD.

All students have to send a copy of their passport and student card at the time of their booking to get the student discount.

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR HEIGHT AND AVOID ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

In order to avoid the altitude sickness, we highly recommend you to arrive in cusco at least 2 days in advance. The first day, walk around the city visiting some museum, local market or you take a City tour to visit some inca site located outside of Cusco. The second day, you can hike to Cristo Blanco. It is 3 km from Cusco and it is uphill there you will see how fit you are or you can take the Sacred valley to visit some inca site.

Also on the first day, try to eat soft food, not heavy food. If you eat a lot, instead the oxygen goes to your brain, it will go to the stomach then you might get altitude sickness.

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE PERMITS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Yes it is possible. However we have to buy another Machu Picchu ticket and we have to pay a penalty to change train tickets. The extra cost to change the departure date is $140 per person. 

I SEE THERE ARE MANY ITINERARIES. COULD YOU ARRANGE A DIFFERENT ITINERARY BASED ON THE OPTIONS ON YOUR WEBSITE?

Yes, we can arrange your trip based on the different itineraries. However, you need to let us know when you make your booking because each itinerary requires us to hire horsemen from different towns. There are more than three itineraries for hiking the Lares trek, and each one follows a unique trail and offers different landscapes.

DO I NEED TO BRING MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE  LARES TREK 4 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU?

¡Yes! You must bring your original passport and it is very important that it should be the same passport you sent us to reserve your Lares Andes  trek 4 days permit. Your passport will be checked at the Machu Picchu checkpoint, and when you board the train.

VERY IMPORTANT ABOUT YOUR PASSPORT

If you are renewing your passport, go ahead and email us a copy of your old passport to book your Lares Andes trek 4 days permits. If you no longer have your old passport, any government issued ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Once you receive your new passport. Please email us a copy of your new passport ASAP to change the information on your permit.

CAN I STAY IN THE SACRED VALLEY FOR MY LARES TREK 4 DAYS?

Yes, you can stay in the sacred valley. We recommend Pisac or Calca.But, if you stay in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, there will be an extra cost of $30 total.

IF I CANCEL MY LARES 4 DAY HIKE. DO I GET ANY REFUND?

In case our country closes its borders, we refund you all the deposit. But if you don’t arrive in our country for whatever reason, you get sick or miss your flight or there is a strike or natural disaster. You will lose USD $190 automatically. Once the Machu Picchu permit is bought they become non-refundable or transferable, The entity in charge of issuing the Machu Picchu permits is the Ministry of culture of Peru, and Peru Rail which is in charge of train tickets. They don’t provide any refund.

We understand that nothing is for granted and things may change in a minute, therefore we will do our best to be reasonable and charge you only for the necessary things.

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