Category: Lares Trek

Lares Trek, Peru (2023) -The Ultimate Guide

The Lares Trek is one of the many routes leading to Machu Picchu. Lares’s walk is particularly rich in cultural experiences. We highly recommend the Lares Trek to anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the Cusco local culture.

The Lares trek to Machu Picchu is one of the alternative trekking routes to Machu Picchu. Lares Trek is an excellent option for those less committed to traveling with a date. Hikers still experience hiking in rural Peruvian villages, high-altitude camping, and a day at Machu Picchu guided tour along Peru’s Lares Trail.

The Lares Trek trail involves trekking through valleys, mountains, the amazon of Machu Picchu, uphill and over Andes hills, past lakes, waterfalls, and towns. The second day is the most difficult. This isn’t unique to the Lares Trail, but a second day is difficult for all hiking to Lares Machu Picchu.

Lares Trail, Peru – An overview

The Lares trek is off the beaten path on the Inca Trail. It begins near the town of Lares, from which it derives its name. This small town is located 64 kilometers/40 miles north of Cusco and 56. kilometers / 35 miles southeast of Machu Picchu. Lares Trek is at a high altitude of 3,200 meters / 10,498 feet. The Lares Trek itself is located in the Lares Valley. It lies east of the Urubamba Mountains and runs through part of the Sacred Valley.

How Hard is the Lares Trek, Peru?

There are several versions of Lares Treks to Machu Picchu, each with its challenges. It would be best if you had specific physical conditions to make high hikes on these Lares hiking trails. There are 5 Lares Hies with different checkpoints depending on your preference and general fitness level.

• Lares Trek route 1: Lares to Patacancha (The weaver’s Andes way)
• Lares Trek route 2: Quishuarani to Patacancha
• Lares Trek route 3: Quishuarani to Yanahuara
• Lares Trek route 4: Huaran to Yanahuara
• Lares Trek route 5: Huaran to Lares

Does the Lares Trek go to Machu Picchu?

The walk can be completed as an independent 1-2-3-day excursion. It is also possible to extend the tour by 1-2 days visiting Machu Picchu. The latter option is quickly becoming a popular trail for hikers. This is due to the limited permits for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The permits are not required for Lares Trek. This means you can reach Cusco and travel in a day or two. However, you should always book train tickets to Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes as soon as possible.

Why choose the Lares Trek?

Several aspects make this trek a tremendous alternative hiking trail to Machu Picchu through the Lares Trek. You can spot local weavers and farmers in colorful traditional outfits. Depending on the expedition, you can watch or participate in some weaving.

• First and foremost, for some, the Lares Hiking Trail is quieter than other hiking trails in the Cusco region. You will see fewer hikers along the Lares route, although this hiking trail is becoming more popular each year.
• Second: Lares trek allows you to experience the authentic Andean culture. The Lares Valley has traditional Andean communities that have changed little in the last 550 years.

When is the best season for the Lares Trek?

The best time to hike the Lares Trek, Peru, is during the dry season (May to November). This is the region’s most active trekking season.

• During the dry season in April and October, the trails in Lares are quiet and often sunny. Distinctive microclimates characterize the Andes. Rain is possible all year round, so always have rain gear!
• Usually, temperatures are moderate all year round in Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. Tourists can expect temperatures above twenty percent (C) during the day. The nights and early mornings range from excellent to very cold, so it’s essential to pack your bags and wear layers of clothing. Distinct microclimates characterize the Andes. Rain is possible throughout the year, so always take rain gear with you!
• November is an excellent experience in terms of trekking. The chances of rain are relatively high. Avoid rain from January to March, as it makes the Lares trail uncomfortable. In addition, dense fog during morning and evening hours reduces visibility and can lead to injuries.

Do you need to train for the Lares Trek?

How prepared you are depending on what you’re doing on the Lares Trek. For the shorter routes (routes 1, 2, and 5), only one prerequisite is required. Routes 3 and 4 are longer than that. You must be suitable for hiking to take advantage of these options.

Specific exercises will make your journey more enjoyable regardless of your route. We recommend walking, running, or swimming 3 to 5 times a week in the months you prepare to walk. This helps build cardio endurance.

Does altitude sickness affect the Lares Trek?

Altitude sickness can seriously affect some visitors to the Lares Trek Peru hiking circuit. So, prepare appropriately with light exercises and seek advice from your doctor if you need the proper medication.

Most adventure guides carry first aid kits and an oxygen bottle for any eventuality. Recommended to drink plenty of water during the day, stroll, rest the usual 8 hours, etc.

How fit do you need to be for the Lares Trail?

The Lares Trek is considered a moderate trek. But the height of the Andes can affect some people. We recommend purchasing a pair of aluminum poles to help you maintain balance and reduce stress on your knees. We can all do the awesome Lares Trek.

What is the weather forecast for the Lares Trek?

The best time for hiking the Lares Valley there are in two very distinct periods:

Lares Trek – Dry season: spans from April to November.

• Temperatures are low, particularly between June and August
• Cold, strong winds
• Clear skies most of the time
• No raining at all

Lares Trek – Rain season: goes from December to March.

• Temperatures are warmer but stay on the cold side at high elevations.
• Cold, strong winds
• The sky may get a little gray before/after the rain
• There are pretty spaced brief pouring

Is it necessary to book the Lares Trek in advance?

Lares Trek is 100% guaranteed. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your entrance tickets to the Lares Trek Machu Picchu, the train, and more.

May, June, and July are the peak months of Cusco’s high season. Departs daily. If you want to book at the last minute, we welcome our travelers based on availability. Book several months in advance!

Are there age restrictions for the Lares Trek, Peru?

There is no age limit for the Lares Trek. If hikers go on the Lares trek with children, the key is to keep them well-hydrated, so they quickly adapt to the heights of the Andes.

Older people must have their spirit of adventure active to have a good time on the Lares Peru trek; taking short walks is recommended before the experience through Lares to Machu Picchu.

Do you need trekking poles for the Lares Trek?

Useful when heading to various parts of Lares Pass or the Lares Trail. In general, it’s a good idea to bring trekking poles into your backpack so you can adjust the size of your hiking poles for Lares Hike’s ups and downs on the Lares hiking circuit.

Is there internet service in the Lares Trek circuit?

There is no Internet service or signal on the hiking trails in Lares. Hikers, once they enter the Sacred Valley of the Incas either through Huaran, Yanahuara, Pumahuanca, or Ollantaytambo, will be able to capture an excellent signal on their electronic devices.

In the town of Machupicchu and the same ruins of Machu Picchu, there is a 100 percent internet signal on cell phones.

Is there drinking water on the Lares Trek circuit?

There is no drinking water in the tourist circuit of Lares. There are several streams along the Lares trek in any of its hiking circuits in which adventurers will have to use purifying tablets, filters, or UV rays to purify the water.

Throughout the Lares Trek adventure, there are local water vendors; the sale of bottled water is safe to drink.

The travel agency that organizes the tour provides boiled water in the canteens of the hikers for each day of the Lares Trek expedition. There are several options to stay hydrated in the Andes of Peru.

Hot springs of the Lares Valley, Peru

The thermal waters of Lares have different temperatures; the thermal baths are ideally located in the unique Valle de Lares. Its proximity to the lush Sacred Valley makes it easily accessible from Calca.

The Lares hot springs are straightforward but essential for enjoying a good dip. The thermal baths of Lares are located next to the stream with a spectacular exuberant background between the Andes Mountain range.

Discover and have fun swimming in the different pools of the thermal baths of Lares before starting the other walks that the Lares Valley of Peru offers.

Can anyone hike the Lares Trek in Peru?

Yes and no. Acclimatized and in relatively good shape, you can hike the Lares Trek in Peru. Each hiker’s Lares route has to check their physical condition and, above all, their acclimatization level. There are alternatives to combine the adventure through the Lares, which is riding horses for specific days to enjoy your vacation much more.

Should I expect extreme temperatures on the Salkantay Trek circuit?

It’s cold; it’s pretty freezing. It depends on the time of year you will go on the Lares Hiking Trail, “the first and second nights of Lares Trek.”

However, the night and early morning temperatures will drop below freezing for at least the first two days of the Lares route. During the day, it will be warm enough to enter the forest in the Amazon region of Machu Picchu via the Sacred Valley.

Does the Lares Trek include your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu?

• The Lares Trek package of 3 and 4 days covers the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu on the day of the guided visit.

Note: In the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, there are five established circuits for guided tours; we use the circuit number 1 and 2, “the best ones”

Do I need to bring my Passport to the Lares Trek, Peru?

All travelers on the Lares Trek must carry their original Passport. The Passport is also required to enter the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu; the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu must be given together to enter Machu Picchu and get the most spectacular visit in Peru and South America.

Lares Trek Peru to Machu Picchu (2023) -The Ultimate Guide

Impressive Lares Trek Unreal in the Peruvian Andes! Lares Trek is a wonderfully blissful place where scenic valleys, snow-capped mountains, and turquoise lakes surround the trails.

The Lares Trek is one of the high Andean treks in the Sacred Valley. If you are looking for an adventurous trip with a focal point of local culture, Lars Trek is your ticket to Machu Picchu.

Things you should know about the Lares trek.

• The Lares trek begins in the town of Lares or near the Lares Valley in Huaran, Coyalay, Mantanay, Pumahuanca, or Wakawasi. Adventure circuits cross the Andes from Lares to reach the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This adventure is an expedition for seeking breathtaking Andean landscapes overlooking herds of alpacas and llamas in their wild habitat.
• Lares in Peru is one of the most beautiful valleys in the Cusco region. The Lares Trek is a famous route of the Inca weavers where the locals preserve the traditional Inca weaving method.
• No permit is required to hike trails on the Lares Trek Route. It is important to note that you must book your entry ticket to Machu Picchu in advance to secure the entrance tickets to the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• This trek is relatively less strenuous than other adventure itineraries. You will pass through many small mountain villages. During the Lares Trek, you can see at a distance the snowy peaks of Pitusiray, Chicon, and the entire Andes that make up this beautiful panorama.

What is the best time to hike the Lares Trek?

Hiking in the Andes of Lares is done in the summer. The Lares Trek takes place between May and September. May to September is the busiest tourist season in the Cusco region.

The Lares Trek Peru to Machu Picchu is generally available at any time of the year. You must bring the necessary equipment to enjoy one of the beautiful trekking adventures in Peru. Doing the Lares Trek Peru in the rainy season is not the best time, but everything is comfortable for the adventurers; we have excellent mountain equipment and an exceptional support team to make this wonderful trek possible. Check the weather conditions before hiking the Lares Valley from December to March. Lars Trek is the third most popular trail to Machu Picchu after the classic Inca Trail and Salkantay.

The best season for the Lares Trek

The dry season from April to November is the best. The hiking trails in Lares are calm, and the weather is usually cold, cloudy, and sunny, but as we are in the Andes, the weather can change suddenly.

Daytime temperatures are moderate year-round. Calm and relaxed afternoons, nights, and early mornings bring temperatures below freezing, so it is advisable to bring warm clothes, such as the perfect sleeping bag, for a comfortable night’s sleep.

Why should I choose Lares trek?

Lares Trek is a challenging trekking experience through the Andes and one of the most enjoyable hikes on the way to Machu Picchu. Live the authentic life by meeting the Quechua living in this part of Cusco.

Altitude sickness on the Lares Trek?

How to avoid altitude sickness from Lares Trek: Altitude sickness due to the Lares Trek adventure occurs when a trekker cannot get enough oxygen in the considerable heights of the Andes. Altitude sickness causes symptoms such as headaches, loss of appetite, and trouble sleeping. It often occurs when someone unaccustomed to high altitude moves quickly to a low height.

Altitude sickness on the tourist circuit of the Lares Trek is caused by acute exposure to the low oxygen partial pressure of the Andes. It usually occurs above 2,400 meters above sea level (elevation around 8,000 feet). Acute altitude sickness can progress to high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) or high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE). The causes of altitude sickness are not fully understood.

The percentage of oxygen in the air remains constant at an altitude of 21% up to 70,000 feet (21,330 m). However, air pressure and the number of oxygen molecules decrease with increasing size. As a result, less oxygen is available to maintain mental and physical alertness above 3,050 meters (10,000 feet). Altitude sickness does not usually affect air travelers, as cabin altitudes on modern airliners are kept below 8,000 feet (2,440 m). A superficially related condition is chronic altitude sickness, also known as Monge disease, which occurs only after prolonged exposure to high altitude. Another condition that is often confused with altitude sickness is dehydration due to increased loss of water vapor from the lungs at high altitudes.

People who ascend rapidly to altitudes above 2500 meters (8100 feet) may develop altitude sickness. This includes Cusco, Peru, 3400 m. Being in shape is no protection; people who have experienced altitude sickness are more susceptible to subsequent episodes. The stakes increase with faster ascent speed, higher altitude, and more significant effort. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, and loss of appetite. Severe cases may be complicated by fluid in the lungs (severe pulmonary edema) or brain swelling (severe cerebral edema). If your symptoms are mild or last more than 24 hours (much less at high altitudes), immediately descend at least 500 meters and see a doctor.

The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to spend at least two nights at 1,000 meters. Possible side effects include urinary volume, numbness, tingling, nausea, drowsiness, myopia, and temporary dysfunction. Acetazolamide tablets should not be prescribed to pregnant women or people with a history of sulfa allergy. Before taking Lares Trek, consult your doctor about your conditions; if necessary, the doctor will prescribe pills for you at high in the Andes.

What Causes Altitude Sickness on Lares Trek Peru?

When you get to Cusco 3400 meters, you will see the need for oxygen; if you don’t acclimate for at least two days, your body suffers at a higher level. Your body can’t get enough oxygen when you climb too fast at high altitudes. As your body adjusts to a higher level, the symptoms go away.

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness on the Lares Trek?

It is essential to mention that not all travelers suffer from altitude sickness. We recommend acclimatizing for 1 to 2 days in the vicinity of Cusco, drinking plenty of water, eating light and healthy, resting the usual 8 hours, drinking fresh coca tea, and taking very short walks.

Symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• A headache, which is usually throbbing. It gets worse at night and upon waking.
• You do not want to eat.
• You feel sick to your stomach “you may vomit.”
• You feel weak and tired.
• In severe cases, you do not have the energy to eat, dress, or do anything.
• Waking up during the night and not sleeping well.
• Feel dizzy

How challenging is the Lares Trek?

The Lares Trek is considered a moderate trek. This is not a technical hike, but the high Andes altitude may hinder vacationers. We recommend buying a Peruvian wooden stick because it will help you balance and reduce stress on your knees. Do not use hiking metal-tipped poles, as they can affect the fragile environment of the Lares Trail. We recommend getting rubber protectors for the metal tips if you bring aluminum hiking poles.

How is the weather on the Lares Trek?

The climate of the Lares route is very similar to that of the Cusco city. We experience two very different weather seasons: wet and dry, neither “summer” nor “winter.” Peru’s peak travel season coincides with the driest (coldest and most sunny) months between May to November. It is an ideal month to visit the Lares Trail to Machu Picchu.

December, January, and February are the rainy months “there are some sunny days, but in general rainy months in the Andes,” particularly in the mountains of Lares. In these months, there are few hikers, and it is less congested. We have walked a lot these months; we enjoy it even if it is raining.

The weather varies in the Lares Trek circuit; during the day, it is sunny; during the afternoons, there are frigid winds; at night, the weather drops below zero, and the temperature is freezing. We recommend bringing thermal clothing and an excellent down sleeping bag for low temperatures so you can pleasantly spend the night in the camps.

Conclusions for the climate of the Lares Trek valley circuit

• Please note that there is no best time to walk the Lares Trek (there are sunny and cold months); if you’re sensitive to rain or cold between January and mid-April, bring excellent warm gear.
• However, we can say that the worst time of the year for hiking is between January and March to avoid the rain. But if you like rain, we will organize adventures to Lares and Machu Picchu.
• Mid-April, November, and December are the best months to do the spectacular Lares trek due to the incredible temperatures and pleasant climate of the Lares Andes.
• May and October offer pleasant weather with cool temperatures.
• June, July, August, and September are the best time of the year because the climate is delightful. Although the nights are frigid, it hardly rains.

Are there mountain villages and local people on the Lares Trek?

There are locals all over the trail; Andean families are the last descendants of the Incas and considerably preserve Inca cultures, such as the weaving textiles traditions fabric with alpaca wool loos and manufacturing techniques as in Inca times.

The indigenous inhabitants of the Lares Trail focus on their daily chores, such as growing potatoes and herding llamas and alpacas. The inhabitants wear traditional Ponchos representing different communities where the color red dominates.

How far do you walk along the Lares Trail?

The spectacular Lares trek covers about 33 kilometers / 20.5 miles, starting in the vicinity of Quiswarani or Coyalay of Lares Andes Valley; the following days, we cross the Pachacuteq Pass with an impressive view of the snow-capped Andes of the Sacred Valley and then start to descend towards the valley of Cancha-Cancha and Huaran. The hiking circuit from Lares to Machu Picchu is a 3-day hike. On the fourth day, we have a grand guided tour of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

How high is the Lares Trek pass?

The summit of the entire Lares Trek circuit is 4,400m/14,435ft. The Mountain Pass is called Pachacuteq Pass in honor of the ninth Inca ruler of the Inca Empire.

The Mountain Pass of Lares Trek also has the name Condor Pass because habitually or on several occasions, Majestic Condors have been sighted flying around Lares.

Before or after the Lares Pass, numerous herds of Andean camelids in their natural habitat dazzle all walkers with the wild; we recommend taking several photos.

What should I take on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

• Original valid passport to present in the train service and enter Machu Picchu.
• Hiking shoes (light, comfortable, and adapted to your feet)
• Waterproof jacket or, better yet, a rain poncho
• A good quality backpack (light, small and comfortable)
• Change of clothes for the hiking adventure
• Hat, gloves, jacket, and socks
• Cloche hat
• Sunglasses
• Cream sunscreen
• Camera or film
• Lantern to navigate at night
• External battery to charge your electronic equipment.
• Cash in Peruvian currency (during the walk, you will not be able to pay with a credit card)

Lares Trek Peru vs. Inca Trail – Why the Lares Trail?

Lares Trek versus the Inca Trail – Which two adventure trails will I take, Lares Trek or the Inca Trail? Both excursions are the best expeditions in Peru. The Inca Trail is the traditional Peruvian trek and one of the most famous treks in South America. The Classic Inca trail offers splendid panoramic views; we explore various Inca ruins.

For hikers looking for a more authentic adventure, Lares Trek offers the opportunity to hike a much less traveled trail than the classic Inca Trail. The Lares hike is shorter and a bit easier. This walk usually features stunning landscapes of turquoise lakes and the Andes Mountains combined with typical Andean landscapes. During the trek, observe the many herds of Andean camels, such as llamas and alpacas, in their natural habitat.

The Lares trek is ideal for an adventure through the Andes mixed with alpacas that look different in photos on the way to Machu Picchu. The Lares Circuit is the best option for outdoor hiking.

How to get in shape for the Lares Trek Peru?

Regular walks in your home country for a few days will help your body acclimate if you are lucky enough to be surrounded by hills or mountains helps a lot. To hike the Lares trek Peru to Machu Picchu is recommended to walk slowly or steadily to allow the body to acclimate to the altitude of the Andes. During the adventure, especially during the descent to the Huaran Valley, many rocks of different sizes complicate the hike a little. Still, to face all this, wearing a pair of hiking boots and hiking sticks is recommended to balance the body in mountaineering the Andes slope.