The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is about 36 kilometers or 23.6 miles. It takes you through beautiful mountains and valleys, starting near Cusco and ending near the famous Machu Picchu.
The Lares Trek is moderately challenging. It's somewhat easier than the Salkantay Trek, which reaches very high altitudes and has steep paths, and it is also less demanding than the Inca Trail because it covers shorter distances each day. This trek takes you through more remote areas, offering a unique experience of the local landscapes and cultures.
The Lares Trek offers a rich experience with main attractions, including stunning views of snow-capped mountains, walks through small villages where you can interact with local people, and relaxing stops at hot springs. This trek is an excellent opportunity to appreciate natural beauty and gain insights into local culture. Throughout your journey, you'll also have the unique experience of hiking alongside llamas and alpacas.
On the Lares Trek, you should be ready for different kinds of weather. High up in the mountains, it can be very cold and windy, especially near the passes. In the lower areas, it might be warmer and more comfortable. It's a good idea to bring clothes that can keep you dry and warm.
During the Lares Trek, you will sleep in tents at campsites along the route. These campsites are basic but equipped with essentials: a place to sleep and basic toilet facilities. We also provide portable toilets for our guests. You will be camping out in nature, enjoying the stunning scenery of the Andes Mountains while having the opportunity to interact with local people.
During the Lares Trekking tour, you will receive three meals a day, snacks, and tea time. The food is prepared by our trekking chefs, who come along with your group. It is tasty and will give you plenty of energy for walking. It includes local dishes with ingredients like potatoes, corn, and fresh vegetables, as well as some familiar foods like pasta or rice.
The highest point you will reach on the Lares Trek is around 4,700 meters above sea level. That's really high, and walking up to this point means climbing steep paths. The air is thinner up high so that it can be quite challenging.
You need to be fairly fit to enjoy the Lares Trek, which involves walking for several hours each day, sometimes up very steep hills. Being in good shape will help you enjoy the trek more and handle the high altitudes better.
To fully enjoy the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, you'll need to pack carefully to make sure you have everything you need. Here's a detailed list to help you prepare, especially since you'll be camping for three nights and spending one night in a hotel.
Clothing for the Lares Trek:
- Hiking Boots: Choose waterproof and comfortable boots.
- Sandals or Shoes: To relax at the campsite and hotel after a long day of hiking.
- Warm Jacket: A jacket filled with down or a similar material will keep you warm.
- Rain Jacket & Pants: These should be able to keep you dry without making you sweat.
- Fleece Jacket or Pullover: Perfect for extra warmth under your jacket if it gets very cold.
- Base Layers: Wear shirts and underwear that keep moisture away from your skin.
- Hiking Pants & Shorts: Depending on the weather, you might need both.
- Hat and Gloves: Bring a warm hat and some light gloves.
- Sun Hat or Cap: This will protect you from the sun during the day.
Camping equipment:
- Sleeping Bag: Make sure it's good for cold temperatures, even below freezing.
- Inflatable mattress: This is important for a comfortable night’s sleep.
- Headlamp and Extra Batteries: Useful during nights at the campsite.
- Trekking poles: Must be light and easy to carry.
Personal Items:
- Backpack: A medium-sized backpack (30-50 liters) with a rain cover will carry your things safely.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Essential for protecting against the sun’s rays.
- Personal Hygiene Items: Include items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap that are not harmful to the environment.
- Insect Repellent: To keep the bugs away.
- First Aid Kit: Pack some basic first aid supplies, medicine for altitude sickness, and anything for small injuries.
- Water Bottles or Hydration System: Staying hydrated is key.
- Snacks: Bring along some quick energy boosters like bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
- Camera or Smartphone: To capture memories of your beautiful journey.
- Portable Power Bank: Keeps your devices charged.
- Travel Towel: Small and quick to dry.
- Swimsuit: For Lares Hot Springs.
- Toiletries: Pack your usual bathroom essentials, like shampoo and conditioner.
Documents and Money:
- Passport: You’ll need this for identification and permissions along the way.
- Travel Insurance: It's important to have this in case of emergencies.
- Credit Cards and Cash: For buying souvenirs or extra snacks along the way.
Consider the season and your personal needs, too. This way, you’ll be well-prepared and can focus on enjoying the breathtaking views and exciting experiences of your trek!
We recommend staying in Cusco for a few days prior to the trek to adjust to the high altitude of the Lares Trek. Additionally, you will spend the first day at a lower altitude and hike shorter distances, which helps your body acclimate to the thin air. This preparation can help prevent altitude sickness, ensuring both your safety and enjoyment of the trek
As you walk, you might see various birds, like hummingbirds and maybe even the big Andean condor. The plants include beautiful wildflowers and bushes adapted to the high altitude. Keep an eye out for llamas and alpacas, too—they are common in this part of Peru.
Yes, the Lares Trek offers more than just natural beauty. You'll also have the opportunity to visit historical sites and small villages where people continue to live much as they did hundreds of years ago. These areas are steeped in history and contribute significantly to what makes the trek truly special.
The Lares hot springs are natural pools of warm water where you can relax and soak your tired muscles. They are often included in the trek itinerary, so you'll likely have the chance to enjoy them. It's a wonderful way to end a day of hiking.
The best time to go on the Lares Trek is from April to October. This is the dry season in the Andes, which means less rain and clearer paths. The weather is more predictable during these months, making the trek safer and more enjoyable.
The cost of the Lares Trek usually ranges from $600 to $700. This price typically includes all the essentials like a guide, porters, meals during the trek, transportation from Cusco, and camping equipment. It also includes the entrance fee to Machu Picchu. At Ultimate Trekking, we include Pachamanca barbecue, a visit to Salineras Maras, and Vistadome Panoramic Trains.
Groups for the Lares Trek are usually quite small, about 6 to 12 people. This size is perfect because it allows everyone to get to know each other and receive personal attention from the guide.
At Ultimate Trekking, we take all necessary steps to keep the environment clean and beautiful. We educate hikers on how to care for nature, such as carrying all trash out with them. We also work diligently to maintain the trail in good condition to prevent damage. This helps ensure that the natural beauty remains intact for future visitors.
During the Lares Trek, we are fully prepared for emergencies. We provide satellite phones, oxygen tanks, and first aid kits. All our guides are trained in mountain rescue, first aid, and evacuation procedures. They also carry communication devices to ensure that help can be quickly contacted during emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of all trekkers.
Transportation to the starting point of the Lares Trek is arranged by Ultimate Trekking. We provide a bus or van to transport you from Cusco to the Lares Valley, which is included in your trek package. If you prefer to travel independently, especially to visit the area's hot springs, we recommend taking a collective (shared taxi) from Cusco to Calca. From there, you can catch another collective for a 3-hour ride to the Lares District, where the hot springs are located.
The initial 200$ payment required to book the Lares Trek is non-refundable and non-transferable. If you cancel close to the departure date, additional fees may apply. The complete terms and conditions will be provided when you book the tour.
Local communities along the Lares Trek route play a significant role by providing services such as camping sites, local products, and selling souvenirs. Our horsemen are also from Lares. This involvement helps sustain their economy and allows trekkers to experience authentic local culture, enriching their journey with genuine interactions and insights into the daily lives of the residents.
The Lares Trek is unique because it offers trekkers a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture, explore less crowded trails, and visit remote communities that are not usually accessible on more popular treks like the Inca Trail.
Yes, you can combine the Lares Trek with the Short Inca Trail for a 5-day, 4-night trekking tour to Machu Picchu. These extensions can be arranged either before or after your main trek, allowing you to fully experience the natural beauty and historical significance of these iconic routes.
Ultimate Trekking's Guides are locals with extensive knowledge of the region. They are trained in first aid and are fluent in Spanish, Quechua, and English to ensure clear communication and safety throughout the trek.
TUltimate Trekking promotes sustainability by following Leave No Trace principles, using local services, and educating trekkers on the importance of preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
It’s recommended to prepare physically by engaging in hiking or cardiovascular exercises. Also, familiarizing yourself with your hiking gear and spending a few days in Cusco before the trek can help you acclimatize to the altitude.
No special permits are needed for the Lares Trek itself, but you will need to secure tickets for Machu Picchu in advance as part of your trek package.
While connectivity is limited in the remote Lares region, some campsites may offer solar charging facilities for small devices. However, it's a good idea to bring a power bank and extra batteries to ensure you can keep your devices charged throughout the trek.
Feedback from past trekkers is overwhelmingly positive. They often highlight the trek's physical challenges, the deep cultural experiences, the beautiful, less-traveled landscapes, and the personal growth they experience during the journey.
