The Definitive Guide to the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Ultima actualización en 5 November, 2024 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 5 November, 2024 by Waman Adventures

Exploring ancient Inca trails and majestic scenic routes of the Lares Trek is delving into a unique adventure that transforms and connects the traveler with the authentic essence of the Andes; this trekking is renowned for its extraordinary natural and cultural richness. Additionally, immerse yourself in a hidden treasure amidst this impressive landscape: the Lares hot springs that rejuvenate your body and mind to continue your adventure with renewed energy.

In this comprehensive guide by Waman Adventures, we provide you with all the necessary details and recommendations to plan and fully experience this truly memorable journey. Whether you opt for the 4-day trek or the combined route with the iconic Short Inca Trail, this adventure will offer you a profound immersion into the extraordinary natural, cultural, and spiritual richness of this region. Let yourself be enveloped by the magic of the Andes and discover everything that the Lares Trek has in store for you in the following sections.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT LARES TREK

What is Lares Trek?

Lares Trek is one of the alternative trekking routes to Machu Picchu that winds through the high Andes, taking hikers through charming traditional Andean villages, where they can immerse themselves in the authenticity of local life. Additionally, it offers a unique experience by allowing adventurers to explore the wild and extraordinary biodiversity of the Andes. Lares Trek is recognized by travelers and travel blogs as the “Ultimate Cultural Route” for hiking in Cusco.

Enjoy the feeling of conquering the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.

Where is Lares Trek?

Lares Trek is located amidst the mountains surrounding the Sacred Valley of the Incas in the Cusco region, Peru. This hiking route, an alternative to the Inca Trail, traverses a variety of stunning landscapes, including glacial lagoons, mountain passes, the relaxing hot springs of Lares, traditional Andean villages, and a series of Andean endemic ecosystems.

Where is the town of Lares?

The town of Lares, from which the trek takes its name, is located in the Andes mountain range, in southern Peru. It’s approximately a 3-hour drive from the city of Cusco, in the Lares district, Calca province.

You will pass through beautiful villages and observe the Andean people’s daily life.

What is the altitude of Lares Trek?

The Lares Trek trail spans a range of altitudes, starting from 2,800 meters above sea level (masl)/9,186 feet in the early hours of hiking, and ascending to higher altitudes of up to 4,800 masl/15,419 feet, typically reached on the second day of the trek.

The contrast between Andean life and landscapes is incredible.

Does Lares Trek allow me to visit Machu Picchu?

Absolutely, Lares Trek has become a great alternative to the Inca Trail, as it also offers you the opportunity to visit and explore the famous Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex, which you will visit on the last day of the trek, whether you choose the 4-day Lares Trek or the 5-day Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail.

DIFFICULTY, PREPARATION, CLIMATE, AND ACCLIMATIZATION

Difficulty of Lares Trek Peru?

This trek is considered of moderate difficulty, with an average of 6 hours of hiking per day. Therefore, it is important for travelers to be in good health and have adequate physical condition, as they must endure walking for several hours at an average altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level (11,482 feet).

The Lares Trek is similar in difficulty to other trekking routes to Machu Picchu, such as the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trekking. Therefore, it is not necessary to be an expert mountaineer or athlete; only the best attitude and a decent state of health are required.

You will cross flat terrain, which will make the trek a pleasant experience.

Is Lares Trek Peru Dangerous?

Certainly not. While this outdoor adventure involves a level of risk and challenge, do not let that worry or discourage you. By following the guide’s instructions and choosing a professional, legal, and experienced agency, you will be safe at all times. Remember that Lares Trek is an incredible experience worth enjoying, and with the proper precautions, you can do so with complete peace of mind.

Enjoy the Lares Trek and the living culture and traditions of its dwellers.

How Long is Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

The duration of Lares Trek will depend exclusively on the version you choose to do and the agency you hire, as there are currently different offers (3, 4, and 5 days), and all of them offer you an incredible experience; you just have to choose the one that suits you best. Here are the 4 and 5-day versions:

• Classic Lares Trek: This version is the most well-known and favored by all travelers; it lasts for 4 days and 3 nights, where you will spend the third night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, so that on the last day you visit Machu Picchu and take the best photographs.
• Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail: Typically, this version lasts for 5 days and 4 nights, as it allows you to do the famous Short Inca Trail trek.

How Many Kilometers is Lares Trek?

The distance ranges from 30 to 40 kilometers; this also depends on the version you choose to do. Here, you will also discover how many miles Lares Trek is:

What is the Highest Point of the Lares Trek Hike?

During the Lares Trek tour, you will reach a maximum altitude of 4,813 masl/15,480 feet, which you will reach by conquering the Sicllakasa Pass, from where you will have an exclusive privileged view of the surroundings.

How to Combat Altitude Sickness on Lares Trek?

Part of the adventure is the challenge, and as such, there is the famous altitude sickness, a symptom that travelers suffer when they exceed 3,000 meters above sea level, which includes symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dehydration.

To avoid having a bad time, we suggest you follow our recommendations and thus have a safe experience on Lares Trek:

• Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat light and nutritious foods

You can also consume coca tea to speed up the adaptation process; however, it is recommended not to drink excessive amounts and not at night, as that could cause insomnia.

Tips for better and faster acclimatization

Important: In case you are not cautious and do not take into account the symptoms and recommendations, you could suffer more serious consequences such as pulmonary edema.

Do I Need to Prepare for Lares Trek?

Definitely yes, and not because it is an extremely difficult route, as it is considered a trail suitable for all audiences in good physical and health condition.

Once your reservation has been confirmed, you must start preparing to conquer the altitude. For this purpose, we have designed some recommendations for proper preparation.

• Perform cardiovascular exercises: you must strengthen your respiratory and cardiac resistance due to the steep ascents and high altitudes on the first two days of trekking.
• Perform muscle strengthening exercises: although our horses and muleteers will indeed carry your luggage (06 kg), you must take into account that personal items have to be in your backpack and that each day you will walk for approximately 06 hours.
• Trekking or mountaineering: months before taking off on this great adventure, you can attempt some other treks or hikes in order to adapt your body to nature and gain more sense of hiking.
• Prepare yourself mentally: this step is something many people ignore, but they could not be more mistaken. Remember that this is a challenge bringing mental and emotional tests to be aware of to beat.

Training before attempting the hike is something we recommend.

What to Do in Cusco Before Lares Trek Peru?

Days before doing Lares Trek or any other hiking route, you must stay in the city of Cusco for at least 1 day, or 3 days as the most recommended for acclimatization to the altitude; your body will thank you for it. During this stay, you can take 1-day or half-day tours, which will allow you to learn more about this great city and also help you to speed up the process. You can choose from the following:

• City Tour of Cusco: Half-Day
• Sacred Valley Tour + Chinchero | Full Day

Beautiful places to visit during your time in Cusco

CLIMATE IN LARES TREK

The climate in the Andes is unpredictable, and Lares Trek is no exception. Considering that the trail is open all year round, it’s important to know that the annual temperatures range between 21 °C during the day and 4 °C at night. Remember that each season has its own characteristics.

Rainy Season in Lares Trek

It usually starts in November and ends in March. During this season, rainfall is more frequent, and the trail may be a bit muddy, as well as the camping areas. On the other hand, the vegetation enters its peak stage, and the entire trail offers incredible natural scenery.

Enjoy the trek, even under the rain.

Lares Trek in November

• November marks the beginning of the rainy season; however, rainfall is not yet so frequent, and the climate remains warm both day and night, with average temperatures of 18 °C (64 °F) during the day and 3 °C (37 °F) at night.

Lares Trek in December

• Rainfall becomes more frequent, but temperatures remain warm during the day at 19 °C (66 °F). Nature begins to take more prominence, with cooler temperatures of 4 °C (39 °F) at night.

Lares Trek in January

• In this month, rain is present 70% of the days, and waterfalls or small streams become more prominent as their flow increases, perfect for unforgettable photographs. Daytime temperatures hover around 17 °C (63 °F), with nighttime temperatures dropping to 2 °C (36 °F).

Lares Trek in February

• Known as the rainiest month of the year, you will enjoy a temperate climate during the day at 16 °C (61 °F), with some presence of mist that gives the trail a mystical touch, and nights cool down to 1 °C (34 °F).

Lares Trek in March

• Rainfall begins to decrease, and the approach of the dry season is felt, so nights feel colder at 0 °C (32 °F). However, it is a great month to hike this trail and take the best nature photographs, with highs of 17 °C (63 °F).

Dry Season in Lares Trek

The sun will be your best companion at every step.

Lares Trek in April

• The rainy season ends, and the dry season begins, with the weather becoming more stable. Daytime temperatures are generally sunnier at 20 °C (68 °F), and rainfall begins to diminish, with lows of 2 °C (36 °F).

Lares Trek in May

• Days continue to be dry and stable, with daytime temperatures warmer at 22 °C (72 °F). During the trek, you can enjoy sunny days and clear landscapes, with cooler nights at 3 °C (37 °F).

Lares Trek in June

• Days become drier with a drier winter climate, meaning that rainfall is practically nonexistent. During your trek, you will enjoy radiant sunshine that accompanies you every step of the way, with highs of 20 °C (68 °F) and lows of -1 °C (30 °F).

Lares Trek in July

• Nighttime temperatures are colder at -3 °C (27 °F), so you will need to dress warmer, and during the day, the weather is even sunnier and clearer, with winds starting to take prominence, with highs of 21 °C (70 °F).

Lares Trek in August

• The trail becomes drier; however, there is a possibility of light rain during the treks, and while walking, you will be accompanied by refreshing winds, with highs of 22 °C (72 °F) and lows of -2 °C (28 °F).

Lares Trek in September

• Known as the windiest month of the year, which will accompany you during your trekking days, and you may witness more light rain, so you must prepare the appropriate clothing. Temperatures vary between 20 °C (68 °F) during the day and -1 °C (30 °F) at night.

Lares Trek in October

• It is the month that marks the end of the dry season, and as the days go by, rain will take center stage, so you should take advantage of doing the Lares Trek at the beginning of this month when sunny days still prevail, with highs of 19 °C (66 °F) and lows of 1 °C (34 °F).

So when is the best time to do the Lares Trek?

To answer this question, we must understand that the Lares Trek trail is available all year round, but its visit is not recommended during the month of February. It is also important to remember that there are only 2 climatic seasons, the dry season and the wet season.

First, think about your goals and expectations. For example, if you want a tougher experience, the wet season is the want cause in that season the weather is harsh and unpredictable with many storms, lightning at higher altitudes, and snow is very common. Furthermore, if you are traveling with your children and expecting warm and stable weather, the dry season is the right one in order to avoid the sickle of nature.

Whatever your choice, you will enjoy an exceptional adventure, but to make everything clearer, we will show you the advantages and disadvantages of each season month by month.

Hikers near Cuncani under clear sky

According to most travelers’ opinions, the best season is during the dry season, as the terrain is firmer, and there is no presence of rain. But the final decision is yours. The choice is entirely yours!

RESERVATIONS AND DOCUMENTATION FOR THE LARES TREK

Is it necessary to book the Lares Trek in advance?

Lares Trek is less known than the Inca Trail, and therefore the influx of tourists is lower. However, we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance to secure your entrance tickets to Machu Picchu for your chosen date. Similarly, booking in advance provides the opportunity to coordinate all services and equipment for your trip more effectively.

How to Book the Lares Trek?

1. Choose the date for your desired version. Remember that at Waman Adventures we have 2 options to choose from:
   • 4 days Lares Trek
   • 5 days Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail
2. Deposit only 40% of the total price and send us your personal details:
   • Full name
   • Passport photo
   • Date of birth
   • Nationality
   • Email address
3. Receive confirmation and get ready for your trip!
   • We will send you a reservation confirmation by email, which you can print or save on your device.
   • This will allow you to start preparing for the adventure of your trip.

What is the price of Lares Trek?

The price of the Lares Trek varies depending on the trek version and the operating travel agency. In general, we can estimate a price range ranging from $569 USD to approximately $1,000 USD per person.

This amount will also depend on the number of travelers and the type of service requested, whether in a group or private mode.

WHAT TO PACK FOR LARES TREK?

What is a duffle bag?

A duffle bag is a large, sturdy bag designed to carry equipment and supplies during expeditions or hiking trips. These bags typically have a durable construction, with water-resistant materials and reinforced straps or handles for easy transport across various terrains.

In the specific case of Lares trek with Waman Adventures, the duffle bag carries up to 6 kg of a traveler’s personal belongings.

• Recommended luggage to be transported in the Duffle Bag:
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from us, weighs 2 kg).
  • Lightweight shoes or sandals for the camp.
  • Thermal jacket/windbreaker.
  • 4 or 5 shirts.
  • 2 to 3 pairs of trekking pants.
  • 4 sets of underwear.
  • 4 pairs of trekking socks.
  • Quick-drying towel.
  • Eco-friendly soap.
  • Wet wipes.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Facial cream.
  • Power bank.
  • Plastic bags.
  • Swimwear (disposable).

  Note: These items will only be available at each camp.

• Equipment for a small backpack or Backpack Day:

• • Hats and sunglasses.
  • Waterproof jacket.
  • Fleece jacket.
  • Gloves.
  • Trekking poles.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Hand sanitizer.
  • Toilet paper.
  • Personal medication.
  • Camera and batteries.
  • Headlamp.
  • Extra money for souvenirs, snacks, drinks, and tips.

Note: Try to include these accessories in a small backpack that is accessible to you throughout your journey.

Who will carry my luggage on the Lares Trek?

Normally, all packages offered by travel agencies provide a muleteer service for the Lares Trek 4 days or the Lares Trek with Short Inca Trail 5 days, who are responsible for carrying your luggage (max. 6 kg per traveler) and also part of the necessary equipment for you to enjoy all our services.

Mules trying to take over the Sikllacasa Pass.

Note: In case you wish to bring extra luggage, it is recommended to hire an additional muleteer, whose service costs $80.00 USD per traveler and can carry up to 7 kg of additional luggage.

Why are trekking poles important on the Lares Trek?

The terrain you will traverse during this hike is rocky and uneven in some sections, so trekking poles will be your best support both on ascents and descents. The poles make the journey more bearable by allowing you to distribute weight more evenly and reduce the impacts of walking.

Are trekking shoes important for doing the Lares Trek?

A good pair of trekking shoes can make a difference when embarking on excursions in rugged and rough terrain. Choose wisely and consider the following qualities:”

Are trekking shoes important for doing the Lares Trek?

Definitely yes, a good pair of trekking shoes can make all the difference when hiking on rough and rugged terrain. Choose wisely and consider the following qualities:

Characteristics of good trekking shoes.

FLORA AND FAUNA IN LARES TREK

Flora of Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

On the first hiking day, it’s common to encounter lots of eucalyptus trees at the foothills of the Sacred Valley. Once you get started hiking and climbing through the mountains, you will appreciate how the flora will change; I mean, the eucalyptus trees will disappear at some point and Unca, Chachacomo, and Queuña trees, which are native, will gain dominance in the area.

Also, the trees are sometimes covered with vines and tangles making the vegetation very thick and impossible to pass through. Along the route, there are many types of flowers, some of them are blooming on ground level, and some of them are scrubs or have tubular shapes.

Finally, there are potato crops and other agricultural areas that real Andean people have been harvesting since the Inca’s time.

The domestic and exotic flora is incredible

Fauna of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Hikers come across some villages and towns and some typical fauna such as alpacas, cows, bulls, hens, and guinea pigs are present near humans.

Domestic animals you will find on the trek, the guinea pig, sheep, and llamas

However, there is also the possibility of sighting wild animals such as pumas, birds, Andean foxes, vizcachas, and skunks is possible.

Fauna of the Lares Trek

Andean culture in the Lares Trek

The cultural importance of the trek to Lares is something very valuable both for travelers who dare to travel this path and for the inhabitants of the local Andean communities. Since it becomes a beneficial, enriching, and authentic experience, where living customs and traditions are transmitted in unique moments of coexistence that only the Lares Trek tour can offer you.

Andean culture is worth it.

Scenic landscapes of the Lares Trek

Natural beauty cannot pass inconspicuously because every hour the landscape is always changing, and once you take over the Sikllacasa Pass, you will witness lakes and rocky slopes and cliffs while descending to Cuncani.

Exclusive and dreamed landscapes along the route.

LARES HOT SPRINGS

Lares hot springs has 6 pools, one cold and five hot (36°C to 44°C), with depths ranging from 1.40 to 1.60 meters. Its healing properties are due to minerals such as potassium, sodium, zinc, among others.

The Lares Hot Springs are famous for their outstanding therapeutic properties. These waters offer a natural treatment for muscle and bone pain, as well as a remarkable ability to reduce stress and bodily tension. Its mineral components, such as potassium, sodium, zinc, and calcium, among others, combine to provide health benefits such as improving arthritis, osteoporosis, and stomach pains, as well as facilitating the rehabilitation of bone injuries.

In addition to their healing properties, these waters promote relaxation of the body, helping travelers from hikes to release tensions and find a state of general well-being. In short, it’s a natural and rejuvenating wellness experience.

Lares Hot Springs during Lares Trek

Important: The presence of minerals in the water gives it a yellowish color, so the use of disposable swimwear is recommended.

LARES FAQ

Can you do the Lares Trek without a Guide?

The answer is yes; however, we do not recommend making this decision because the trail is not well marked, which could lead to getting lost during the trek. It’s also important to consider the altitude, the type of terrain, and the necessary equipment for this adventure.

The guide is a knowledgeable local person who knows the route perfectly.

Choosing a Tour Company

Remember that when hiring an experienced and legal travel agency like Waman Adventures, you ensure having the best adventure. We will provide food for each day of the tour (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), necessary equipment (tents), and above all, the security of having highly experienced and trained staff (guides, horsemen, and cooks).

Waman Adventures guarantees you the best camping and dining experience.

Can Children and People Older than 60 Years Attempt the Lares Trek?

No rule or regulation prohibits any child under 12 or an adult over 60 from attempting the Lares Trek. However, Waman Adventures, as a responsible agency, recommends that the child be at least 12 years old and the adult be between 50 and 55 years old at most. But don’t let this discourage you, as you can still do the trek as long as you follow these recommendations:

• A responsible adult must accompany the children at all times to ensure their safety.
• If you are over 50, you must be in very good health, have physical endurance, and undergo thorough medical checks before doing the trek. Also, travel insurance is essential.
• In both cases, it is highly recommended to acclimatize for 2 days in Cusco before the trek.
• If you have any special personal medication, take it with you at all times during your trip and inform the sales and guide staff.

Are there hotels on the Lares Trek?

There are no hotels on the Lares trail, as this is a hike through the mountains and the Peruvian Andes. During the first two days, you will spend the night in comfortable and cozy tents, providing the best camping experience with top-notch equipment.

On your third day arriving in Aguas Calientes, you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel, where you will rest for the eagerly awaited Machu Picchu tour.

Are There Restrooms on the Lares Trek?

If you refer to public restrooms available along the trail, the answer is no. However, Waman Adventures provides the most modern portable toilets, which will be available at each resting/camping area and exclusive to the group.

Is there phone reception along the Lares Trek?

In the first two days, you will have phone reception at some points of the trek. At the clinch point, there is internet and good phone reception. Then, when you climb more and more, you will get reception. There is phone reception and internet while climbing to the highest point of the trek, but after passing it there is no more until Lares.

Medical Kit or First Aid Kit on the Lares Trek

The First Aid Kid is essential when doing outdoor activities. Waman Adventures provides confidence and security to all our travelers that they are in good hands and accompanied at all times by fully qualified staff.

The importance of having a medical kit is indisputable.

Hygiene Products

Carrying a hand sanitizer is extremely important, as it will allow you to consume your food, such as snacks, energy bars, nuts, etc., safely and completely free of germs. It will help you avoid any infection or stomach discomfort that could jeopardize your health and your experience during the trek.

What about medication?

In case you are a person with special medication requirements, it is strongly advised to have them on hand at all times and inform the guide about your health condition before embarking on the trek, so that our staff is aware of your medical situation.

What food is provided on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

The offer of breakfasts, lunches, and dinners depends on each travel agency. At Waman Adventures, we offer the widest range of the best trekking dishes, which our chefs have designed to have the most nutritious and delicious options in each culinary offer.

• Each season, the offers vary, and we show you a list of possible foods that you can enjoy:
• Breakfasts: hot chocolate, teas, coffee, coca tea, orange juice, papaya, toast, cereals, milk, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, omelets, and fruit salad.
• Lunch: quinoa soup, chaufa, vegetables, stuffed potatoes, ceviche, meat skewers, chicken, and fish, accompanied by appetizers and desserts.
• Dinner: Andean pizza, pasta, sautéed vegetables, and delicious desserts.
• Happy Hour: hot milk drinks, coffee, teas, cookies, popcorn, and stuffed wantan.
• The diversity of food offered on the trek to Lares.

I am vegetarian. Can I do the Lares Trek?

If you are a vegetarian, vegan, or have any food allergies, you just have to inform us at the time of making your reservation, and our professionals will organize and coordinate your meal alternatives at no additional cost.

Can I buy snacks on the Lares trek?

It is highly recommended that you bring your own snacks, which you can buy in the days before in the city of Cusco and as a last resort in Ollantaytambo. During the first 02 days of trekking, you will only find small improvised stalls that usually sell basic snacks and some rehydrating drinks, for which you must have money in “Soles.”

You will be in the city of Ollantaytambo briefly

How much money should I take on the Lares Trek?

There is no exact amount, as while it is true that tourist packages cover most costs such as food, water, tickets, and transportation, there are some costs along the tour for which you will need to carry cash in coins and small bills, preferably in Soles (Peru’s national currency), which will cover possible expenses such as:

• Snacks and drinks.
• Entrance fee to the bathrooms of the Machu Picchu archaeological complex.
• Tips for support staff and guides.
• Lunch in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo.
• Conclusion about the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.

Some final recommendations during the Lares Trek

To ensure that your experience during the Lares Trek is safe and completely enjoyable, we suggest following the indications of the professionals and also the following recommendations:

It’s Not a Competition

You don’t have to be the first to reach each point; enjoy the entire tour experience, take a break when needed, and take the time to capture the best photos of the trail.

Be Empathetic

During your trip, you will meet new people with whom you can share pleasant and anecdotal experiences. If they get tired, you can help them overcome this challenge and enjoy the beautiful journey together through the Andes.

Share this pleasant experience with other travelers and your own friends.

Is the Lares Trek worth it?

The Lares Trek is a great trekking option in Cusco, as it will not only take you through beautiful trails and small villages full of living culture but also allow you to get to know and explore the Machu Picchu world wonder.

You will connect and spend pleasant moments with the high Andean inhabitants, who will welcome you with open arms and the warmth typical of their culture, where you will learn more about their way of life and language. Do the Lares Trek, known as the “Ultimate Cultural Route.”

Now you know everything about this incredible journey through the Peruvian Andes by reading this complete guide to Lares Trek. May your journey on the Lares Trek be filled with discoveries and unforgettable moments! May every step you take bring you closer to the greatness of history and nature that awaits on those trails, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu, the most incredible archaeological complex in South America.