The Lares Trek Perú

the lares trek culture

The Lares Trek is a popular alternative trek to Machu Picchu in Peru, offering a unique and less crowded experience compared to the more famous Inca Trail. This trek takes you through the stunning Andean landscapes, passing by remote villages and showcasing the rich culture and history of the region. Here’s some essential information about the Lares Trek:

Location of Lares Trek Peru

The Lares Trek is located in the Cusco region of Peru, in the Andes Mountains. It typically starts from the village of Lares and ends at Ollantaytambo, from where you can take a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

Duration of the Trek by lares

The trek usually takes 3-4 days to complete, depending on the specific route and itinerary you choose.

Option 1: 3 days with Lares Trek and Machu Picchu by train:

This option combines the Lares Trek route with a visit to Machu Picchu. On the first day, you’ll begin the Lares Trek route, where you’ll explore the mountains of Lares and camp. The second day continues the trek through Lares and may include visits to local communities. On the third day, after completing the Lares Trek, you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night. On the fourth day, you’ll visit Machu Picchu and explore the archaeological site before returning to Cusco or continuing your journey.

Option 2: 4 days with Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail

During the first two days, you will undertake the Lares Trek route, exploring the mountains and local communities. On the third day, you will depart from kilometer 104 of the railway and hike along the Short Inca Trail, visiting archaeological sites and reaching the Sun Gate. Following the visit to the Sun Gate, you will continue descending towards Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), where you will spend the night. On the fourth day, you will visit Machu Picchu and explore the site before returning to Cusco or continuing your journey.

Option : 4 days with Lares Trek and Machu Picchu

This 4-day journey begins with a 3-day Lares Trek, exploring the Lares region and its stunning landscapes. On the fourth day, you’ll visit Machu Picchu. After completing the trek, you’ll head to Ollantaytambo, take a train to Aguas Calientes, and finally visit Machu Picchu, offering a combination of trekking and the iconic Machu Picchu experience.

The classic route

The standard Lares trek route is the shortest (33 km) and easiest route, and only crosses one high pass. The route takes three days to trek and one day on top to visit Machu Picchu.

Trekkers depart Cusco early on the first day, often around 6am, and drive for several hours to Calca, a small town at 2,928 m altitude. From Calca, trekkers are driven a further three hours north until they arrive at Lares. The hot springs in Lares are popular. From Lares the trek is five hours to the first night’s camping spot at Huacahuasi .

Huacahuasi is a traditional weaving village and trekkers often try their hand at weaving here. The second day of trekking is the shortest and steepest as one crosses over the Ipsaycocha Pass , the highest point on the trail. One may camp beside Ipsaycocha Lake.

The final day of trekking is all downhill, passing through several traditional weaving villages. including Patacancha (3,700 m) and Huilloc, before finishing at Ollantaytambo (2,792 m ). From here a train is taken to Aguas Calientes where trekkers stay the night. There are thermal springs in Aguas Calientes.

The next day is a short bus journey up to Machu Picchu.

There are several additional routes in the area, including some where trekkers can stay with local families instead of camping.

community of lares local people
Lare hike to Machu Picchu
llama walk in lares

What is the weather like in Lares Trek?

The climate in Lares is temperate during the day but cold during the nights. The average temperature is 11ºC. During the day, the heat can reach 21ºC. At night, temperatures can drop to 1ºC.


Tours to Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights

The anticipation of embarking on your Lares trek to Machu Picchu will motivate you to rise early for your 5:00 am pickup, whether you’re in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. From there, you’ll embark on a 2.5-hour drive to reach the Cuncani community.

Your day kicks off with a high-altitude breakfast amidst breathtaking mountain scenery, where you can gaze down into the deep gorges and revel in the awe-inspiring views of the valleys below. After this hearty breakfast, it’s time to prepare yourself, don your hiking boots, and commence your first leg of the journey: a gradual 3-hour ascent to Hullquijasa Pass, standing at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level. During this ascent, you’ll be treated to astonishing vistas of lakes, valleys, and more. At the pass, you’ll break for lunch.

Following lunch, your trek takes you down to the Kiswarani community, known for its isolation and steadfast commitment to traditional Andean ways of life. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with nature and gain insights into the realities of Andean existence, as the locals graciously open their homes to you. If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could share some toys, gently used clothing, notebooks, fruit, or other items with the local community.

After approximately two hours from your lunch spot, you’ll conclude your first day of trekking and arrive at your designated campsite. With your boots off, it’s time to savor afternoon tea while soaking in the spectacular views of the frozen Andean peaks and cascading waterfalls. Later in the evening, after a fulfilling dinner, your guide will introduce you to the constellations that were crucial to the Incas for their agricultural practices, knowledge that continues to be valuable to this day.

On your second day, you’ll wake up feeling rejuvenated after a restful night’s sleep and a delightful breakfast. The day’s adventure begins with a challenging 4-hour hike to the southwest. This demanding journey will take you through three high passes, ultimately leading to the pinnacle of your trek: Pachacutec Pass, standing at an impressive altitude of 4,700 meters (15,420 feet). As you conquer this summit, you’ll be rewarded with an overwhelming sense of exhilaration and personal achievement.

The payoff for your strenuous ascent is the breathtaking panoramic views that await you. You’ll be treated to vistas of formidable glaciers, crystalline glacial lakes, herds of llamas, rugged valleys, and undulating farmlands. Take your time to relish the 360º views, soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Following your summit experience, you’ll descend for about 30 minutes and have lunch while enjoying spectacular views of glaciers and the picturesque Lares Valley, adorned with herds of llamas and alpacas.

After a well-deserved siesta, you’ll embark on a 2-hour descent, leading you to your campsite near the Cancha Cancha community, situated at an elevation of 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). This leg of your journey takes you along the less-traveled paths to Machu Picchu, where you’ll often encounter llama herders and have the opportunity to engage with local indigenous people who speak the Quechua language, the language of the Incas. Your guide will serve as your intermediary, facilitating translation and teaching you some basic Quechua phrases.

Upon arriving at the campsite, everything will be prepared for your comfort. You can look forward to afternoon tea and a hearty dinner, followed by a cozy night’s sleep.

Your adventure continues on what promises to be the most memorable day of your journey! After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you’ll have some free time to explore the village of Cancha Cancha. You can take this opportunity to visit the local elementary school, where Quechua, the native language, is still taught. Once you’re ready, you’ll set out on the final leg of your Lares Trek.

The next 3 to 4 hours will be a gentle downhill walk along a charming stream, passing by more llamas and alpacas. Along the way, you’ll encounter farms where traditional Inca-style cultivation of potatoes, fava beans, and various other tubers takes place. This presents a unique opportunity to learn about Peruvian agriculture, as these crops are still cultivated by hand using traditional Inca farming tools. As you descend, you’ll notice a shift in the microclimate and witness different crops that thrive in the lower-altitude Sacred Valley region.

Your destination is Huaran, where you’ll enjoy your lunch and bid farewell to the horses, horsemen, chef, and porters who have accompanied you on this incredible journey. They will be heading back to their homes from here.

From Huaran, you’ll board a van for a short drive into the Sacred Valley to visit the Salt Mines in the town of Maras. Located at an elevation of 11,000 feet above sea level, these mines are fed by a saltwater spring that flows down the mountainside. Over 3,000 small evaporation ponds have been constructed, cascading down the mountainside like terraces. These salt mines have been in use since pre-Incan times and are famous for the unique healing properties of their salt, some of which is naturally pink. Local families own and operate these ponds, making their living by supplying salt to the surrounding towns. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the mines and even purchase some salt to take home.

After the Salineras visit, you’ll return to the van for a 45-minute drive that takes you along the scenic route of the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. This historic town is the only living, fully intact Inca village, boasting well-preserved Inca water channels, houses, and walls. Your guide will lead you on a tour of this charming town until it’s time for dinner, which will be served at a local restaurant.

Following dinner, you’ll catch the 7 p.m. train to Aguas Calientes, the town nestled beneath Machu Picchu (train times may vary depending on availability). Upon your arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into your hotel, preparing for the exciting day ahead exploring the ancient Inca citadel.

Enjoy your adventure!

Today is the day you’ve eagerly awaited! You’ll catch the first bus to the Machu Picchu archaeological site, ensuring you have ample time to explore every corner of this New Wonder of the World and UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The Citadel of the Incas, Machu Picchu, promises an unforgettable experience. Your knowledgeable guide will expertly lead you through the mysterious ruins, providing insights into its history and layout. You’ll have the opportunity to stroll through the town squares, immersing yourself in the spiritual center of Inca wisdom, and ascend the intricately carved stone stairways.

Additionally, many tour companies offer optional extras, including:

  1. Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: This allows you to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of Machu Picchu from elevated vantage points (US$75 per person).
  2. Walking to the Sun Gate or Inti Punku: This option is free and provides a different perspective of Machu Picchu.

Aguas Calientes also offers other optional activities, such as a visit to the local museum or a relaxing soak in the hot springs.

When you feel ready, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch on your own. Later in the day, you’ll board the train for the journey back to Cusco, with a stop at the Ollantaytambo Train Station. From there, transportation will be provided to take you back to Cusco. You can expect to arrive at your hotel around 8 pm.

Frequently asked questions about the Lares trek

1. What is the Lares Peru Hike?

The Lares Peru Hike is a scenic trekking route in the Peruvian Andes, offering an alternative path to Machu Picchu. It traverses through stunning landscapes and Andean villages, providing a unique cultural experience.

2. How long is the Lares Peru Hike?

Typically, the Lares Peru Hike spans approximately 33-34 kilometers (20-21 miles) and is completed in 3-4 days.

3. What is the difficulty level of the Lares Peru Hike?

The Lares Peru Hike is considered moderate to challenging due to its varying terrain, altitude, and some steep ascents.

4. What are the highlights of the Lares Peru Hike?

  • Breathtaking mountain scenery
  • Visiting remote Andean villages and engaging with indigenous communities
  • Enjoying natural hot springs
  • Viewing high-altitude lakes and wildlife
  • Immersing in authentic Andean culture

5. What should I pack for the Lares Trek peru?

Essential items include:

  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm clothing and layers for variable temperatures
  • Rain gear
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Basic toiletries and necessary medications
  • Snacks and a refillable water bottle

6. Do I need a guide or tour for the Lares Peru Hike?

Yes, it’s recommended to undertake the hike with an experienced guide or a reputable tour company. They provide permits, camping equipment, meals, and local insights, ensuring a safer and more organized experience.

7. When is the best time to do the Lares Peru Hike?

The dry season, typically from May to September, is considered the best time due to more stable weather conditions with reduced rainfall.

8. Are permits required for the Lares Peru Hike?

Unlike the Inca Trail, permits are not mandatory for the Lares Peru Hike. However, it’s advisable to book through a tour company to manage logistics and access to certain areas.

9. How do I acclimatize for the altitude during the Lares Peru Hike?

Spending a few days in Cusco or a high-altitude location before the hike helps acclimatize to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

10. Is Machu Picchu included in the Lares trek Peru?

The Lares Peru Hike doesn’t conclude directly at Machu Picchu. Most tours combine the trek with a train journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the town near Machu Picchu, allowing a visit to the ancient ruins.

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