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Machu Picchu has long been a magnet for adventurers and history buffs. However, not all paths to this iconic destination are created equal. Two of the most popular alternatives to get to Machu Picchu are the Lares Trail and the Short Inca Trail. Each offers its own unique combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge. You can combine these 2 options in just 4 days
With this information we can help you organize, explore the main differences and similarities between the Lares Trail and the Short Inca Trail to help you plan the best adventure in Machu Picchu.
The Lares Trail is an alternative route to the classic Inca Trail. While it doesn’t lead directly to Machu Picchu, it offers a unique experience through the Andean highlands, focusing on cultural interactions and off-the-beaten-path trekking.
The Short Inca Trail is a condensed version of the famous 4-day Inca Trail. This trek offers a quicker yet still rewarding journey that culminates in walking through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the historical entrance to Machu Picchu.
The Lares Trail winds through rural Andean villages, giving trekkers a chance to experience life in isolated communities. The landscape is dominated by towering peaks, tranquil lakes, and green valleys. This route is less traveled, offering a more remote and intimate experience with nature.
The Short Inca Trail takes you through lush cloud forests, where the climate becomes more tropical as you descend toward Machu Picchu. In addition to the natural beauty, you’ll pass several well-preserved Inca ruins, such as Wiñay Wayna, which showcases the sophistication of Incan stonework.
The Lares Trail is considered moderately difficult, primarily due to its altitude. With elevations reaching over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), altitude sickness can be a concern for trekkers. It’s crucial to acclimatize before starting this trek.
The Short Inca Trail is more accessible for a wider range of fitness levels, given its lower altitude and shorter duration. Although there are some steep sections, it’s a more moderate trek than the full Inca Trail or the Lares Trail.
One of the major draws of the Lares Trail is the opportunity to engage with local Quechua communities. The trail passes through villages where ancient customs and traditions are still very much alive. Trekkers often have the chance to visit local homes, see traditional weaving, and interact with farmers who live in the highlands.
While the Short Inca Trail doesn’t offer the same level of cultural interaction with contemporary communities, it provides a deep connection to the ancient Incan civilization. As you walk along the original Inca Trail, you’ll pass through significant archaeological sites and marvel at the engineering feats of the Inca.
The Lares Trail is far less popular than the classic Inca Trail routes, which means you’ll encounter fewer trekkers along the way. This creates a more peaceful, remote experience, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings without the distraction of large crowds.
Although the Short Inca Trail is much less crowded than the classic 4-day Inca Trail, you will still see other groups, especially closer to Machu Picchu. The number of people increases significantly when you reach the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu itself.
One of the advantages of the Lares Trail is that it doesn’t require the strict permits that the Inca Trail does. This makes it easier to plan on shorter notice and can be a good alternative if Inca Trail permits are sold out.
Like the classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail requires a permit, which is limited to 200 trekkers per day. While these permits are easier to obtain than those for the full Inca Trail, it’s still advisable to book several months in advance, especially during the peak season.
After completing the Lares Trail, hikers travel by train from the town of Ollantaytambo to km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. The next day, the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu will be visited.
The Short Inca Trail culminates in one of the most iconic moments of the trek entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. This is the same entrance used by the Incas, and it offers your first breathtaking view of the ancient city.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide between the Lares Trail and the Short Inca Trail:
| Criteria | Lares Trail | Short Inca Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2-3 days of trekking | 1-2 days of trekking |
| Physical Difficulty | Moderate to challenging (due to altitude) | Moderate (lower altitude) |
| Cultural Experience | High. Interaction with local Quechua communities | Moderate. Focused on Incan history and ruins |
| Scenery | High-altitude mountains, lakes, remote villages | Cloud forests, Incan ruins, lush landscapes |
| Crowds | Low. Fewer trekkers, more solitude | Moderate. More people near Machu Picchu |
| Permit Requirements | No special permit (only Machu Picchu entry) | Yes, limited permits |
| Access to Machu Picchu | By train from Ollantaytambo | Walk through the Sun Gate into Machu Picchu |
Both the Lares Trail and the Short Inca Trail offer unique and rewarding experiences, but your decision ultimately comes down to what type of adventure you’re seeking. If you want a quieter, more culturally immersive trek through remote Andean villages, the Lares Trail is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you prefer a shorter, historically focused trek that offers a dramatic entrance to Machu Picchu, the Short Inca Trail is the way to go.
Whichever trail you choose, you’ll be embarking on a journey that combines the natural beauty of the Andes with the profound history of the Inca civilization a journey that will surely leave you with memories to last a lifetime.