Embark on an amazing journey through the Andes Mountains with the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. This trail is not the usual one. It takes you through beautiful landscapes, quiet villages, and Inca ruins. It’s a magical route for those wanting a unique adventure.
In the Lares Trek, you’ll see breathtaking nature. There are rivers, lakes, and snow-covered mountains. You’ll also meet Andean people, who live close to nature. They farm with llamas and alpacas. This gives you a real taste of their way of life. If you want to see Machu Picchu in a different way, this trek is perfect. It’s not as busy as the main Inca Trail.
A group of hikers making their way up a winding mountain path, surrounded by lush greenery and towering rocky cliffs. In the distance, the iconic peaks of Machu Picchu can be seen, shrouded in mist. The hikers carry backpacks and hiking poles, dressed in warm jackets and hats to protect from the chilly mountain air. A wooden signpost points the way to Lares Trek, indicating that they are on the right path to discover ancient secrets.
Key Takeaways
- Explore stunning Andean landscapes and remote villages on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.
- Immerse yourself in the rich Andean culture and interact with local communities.
- Avoid the crowds on the classic Inca Trail by opting for the less-traveled Lares Trek.
- Witness awe-inspiring natural beauty, including rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks.
- Discover ancient Inca ruins and explore the iconic Machu Picchu at the end of your trek.
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What is the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a special path different from the Inca Trail. It lets trekkers explore hidden parts of the Andean Mountains. Here, you will see amazing places like glacial lakes, waterfalls, and high snowy peaks.
An Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
The Lares Trek moves you away from the crowds of the Inca Trail. It allows a close look at the biodiversity of lares trek in a peaceful setting. You will walk in beautiful but not very visited areas. This shows a different side of the Andean Mountains and its people.
A Cultural Immersion Experience
Along with nature, the Lares Trek offers a chance to meet Andean communities. You will learn about their life, traditions, and history. This cultural meeting adds a special touch to your trek experience.
Stunning Andean Landscapes
The Lares Trek is famous for its natural beauty. You will see glacial lakes, waterfalls, and high meadows. All these sights make your journey unforgettable.
Why Choose the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
Are you looking for a different kind of adventure to the famous Machu Picchu? The Lares Trek is a unique choice away from the common Inca Trail. It’s known for its quiet paths, away from large crowds. This makes your journey more personal and peaceful.
On the Lares Trek, you also get to meet local Andean communities. You’ll pass through towns like Chaullacocha and Chupani, famous for their textiles and culture. You can even share bread with locals in areas without many bakeries.
The beauty of the Andean Mountains is another highlight. The trek shows you stunning sights like glacial lakes and waterfalls. It’s a 37 km long journey, beginning at Lares Hot Springs and ending at Machu Picchu. At its highest point, you’ll be at 15,400 feet (4,700 meters) at the Pachakuteq pass. This makes the trip both challenging and amazing to the eyes.https://www.youtube.com/embed/pwfiFq-Fua8
The Lares Trek offers something for everyone – quiet walks, Andean culture, and stunning nature. It’s an experience you won’t forget. The best time to hike it is between May and September. The weather is great, with temperatures between 20°C to 25°C. Plus, there are many tour choices available. So, don’t miss considering the Lares Trek for your Machu Picchu visit.
Best Time to Hike the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
The top time for the Lares Trek is during the dry season, from May to September. This is when it rains the least and skies are clear. Daytime temperatures are nice, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). But, be ready for cold nights. Temperatures can fall to 0°C or 32°F.
Dry Season: May to September
The best time for the Lares Trek is the dry season from April to August, when the weather is perfect. You can see the beautiful Andean landscapes without risking the downpours or snow.
Optimal Weather Conditions
The ideal time for the Lares Trek is between May and September, with its dry days and mild climate. It’s perfect for a memorable trek. During this time, you can really enjoy the stunning Andes without any harsh weather to bother you.
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu Highlights
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is an amazing journey. It’s full of highlights that create a memorable adventure. One great part is the chance to visit the Lares Hot Springs. They are a peaceful break in the Andes mountains. After hiking, you can relax in these natural thermal waters. This is all while being surrounded by beautiful mountains.
Vibrant Andean Communities
The Lares Trek lets you connect with Andean locals in small communities. Cancha Cancha Village, at 3,750 meters (12,303 ft), is one stop. Here, you find people living with ancient Inca traditions. They have no electricity or cars. These Andean villages offer a look into traditional life. They add depth to the trekking adventure.
Breathtaking Mountain Vistas
On the Lares Trek, you’ll see stunning views of the Andes. These views include its snow-capped peaks. The trek is around 30 kilometers (about 18.6411 miles) long. It lasts 4 days. It gives trekkers a chance to appreciate the area’s natural beauty.
Ancient Inca Ruins
The trek ends at the famous Machu Picchu ruins on the 4th day. There’s a guided tour. Trekkers can learn about the Inca’s ancient culture and see their engineering feats up close.
Capture the moment when hikers cross a misty mountain pass on the Lares Trek, with the dramatic backdrop of snowcapped peaks in the distance.
lares trek to machu picchu
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a thrilling journey. It guides trekkers across the Andean Mountains in Peru. Though not as well-known as the Inca Trail, it is a unique way to experience the natural beauty and culture of the area. This route takes you past glacial lakes, waterfalls, and snowy peaks. You also visit Andean villages and Inca ruins.
This trip lasts 4 days. You’ll hike through the mountains and visit local towns. The trek starts with a 10 km walk, followed by a 14 km hike the next day. It ends with a 9 km walk on the third day. You’ll camp in the wilderness and stay in a hotel near Machu Picchu before seeing the site on the fourth day.
One special part of the trek is meeting people from the Andes. You get to see how Peruvians in remote areas live and keep their traditions alive. For example, Cancha Cancha Village uses old Inca building styles. They have no modern technology. You’ll also see the Maras Salt Mines, which date back to before the Incan times. Some believe the salt there has special healing powers.
The trek also focuses on cultural experiences. You’ll learn about ancient ways and visit local schools. Plus, you’ll help out by giving school supplies.
The best time to hike the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is from May to September. This period is dry, with temperatures between 20°C and 25°C during the day. Nights, however, can get very cold, dropping as low as 0°C. You need at least 2 people to go. The group usually has 4 to 6 people, with a max of 8.
Overall, you’ll walk 44 kilometers or 27 miles in 4 days. The highest point you reach is 5200 meters above sea level. You’ll camp in tents for 2 nights and have 3 meals a day plus snacks, with special diet options available.
You get extra help with your stuff from porters or horses. The price of the trek includes a guide and fees for Machu Picchu. The trek follows this route: Cusco – Calca – Lares Hot Springs – Huacahuasi, Huacahuasi – Isaycocha, Isaycocha – Patacancha Willoq – Pumamarka – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes, Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
The Lares Valley is at 3,200m / 10,498 ft. Route 1, from Lares to Patacancha, takes 3 days. It covers 33 kilometers / 20.5 miles and is a moderate trek. The paths are rated based on difficulty and length. Ipsayjasa Pass is at 4,450m / 14,600 ft. The trek from Lares to Patacancha is around 12km / 7.5 miles a day.
Route 2, Quishuarani to Patacancha, is a bit longer at about 39 km / 24.2 mi. It includes two high passes—Ipasayjasa and Huillquijasa. The journey from Quishuarani to Cuncani involves a tough climb to the Huilquijasa pass. At 4,200m / 13,780 ft, it’s quite high. The route to Huacahuasi from Cuncani goes down into the Chancachaca Valley, sitting at 3,600m / 11,181 ft. You’d also visit weaving communities in Huacahuasi (3,750m / 12,303 ft) and Patacancha (3,700m / 12,139ft).
Preparing for the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
Preparing for the Lares Trek is key for a great journey. It all starts with packing the right gear and equipment.
Packing Essentials
For the Lares Trek, choosing the right gear is crucial. You’ll face different terrains and weather in the Andean Mountains. Make sure to have sturdy hiking boots for safety and comfort. Wear layers, including base layers and jackets, to cope with changes in weather. Include rain gear like a poncho and don’t forget your water bottle and purification tablets to stay hydrated at high altitudes. A good sleeping bag and trekking poles will ensure a restful night.
Physical Training
Being physically ready is a must for the Lares Trek. Include cardio and strength training in your routine to build endurance and muscle power. For cardio, aim for 30 minutes, at least four times a week. This strengthens your heart and lungs. Also, focus on leg, core, and back exercises three times a week to prepare your muscles. Training on local trails with your gear is a great way to get used to the trek’s conditions.
Acclimatization Tips
Traveling to high altitudes can lead to altitude sickness, especially for those new to it. Spend a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to get used to the lower oxygen. This gradual acclimation helps your body adjust and reduces sickness symptoms like headaches or nausea. Further, training at higher altitudes can improve your acclimatization.
With the proper gear, training, and acclimatization, you’re ready for the essential tips for a successful trek. Enjoy the stunning Andean mountains and the culture of the communities at Lares on your Peru hiking tours to Machu Picchu.
Itinerary: Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day journey in the Andean Mountains. It includes 2.5 days of trekking and visits to local villages.
Day 1: Cusco to Lares Hot Springs
Trekkers start by traveling from Cusco to the Lares Hot Springs. Here, they can relax in the thermal waters. The first night’s camp is at 3,850 meters / 12,631 ft. It’s cold up there!
Day 2: Lares to Quiswarani
The second day moves from Lares to Quiswarani village. This leg is a 14 km/8-mile walk. The campsite in Cancha Cancha is at 3,750 meters / 12,303 ft.
Day 3: Quiswarani to Aguas Calientes
Day three goes from Quiswarani to Aguas Calientes at Machu Picchu’s base. It’s a 9 km/6.2-mile trip.
Day 4: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
The last day is all about Machu Picchu. Afterward, trekkers head back to Cusco by 8:30 PM.
Trekkers get to know the Andean communities during the trek. They also visit the Maras Salt Mines to see how salt is collected. They can buy some to take home. Plus, they can help the locals by giving school supplies and playing with kids in Quechua-speaking villages. The visited villages offer different levels of modern services. Cancha Cancha, for instance, has no electricity or cars. Almost all homes there are very old.
Create an image of a group of hikers walking through a vibrant valley surrounded by misty mountains. In the distance, the snowy peak of a majestic Andean mountain range can be seen. The hikers are carrying backpacks and wearing warm clothes as they trek through the rocky terrain. A river flows nearby, and they stop to have a picnic lunch on its banks. As they continue on their journey, they pass by local communities and learn about their ancient traditions and customs. Eventually, they reach Machu Picchu and are in awe of its beauty and mystery.
Accommodations on the Lares Trek
Starting the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu means diving into the breathtaking beauty of the Andean Mountains. You find lodging options that fit the rugged, untouched landscape perfectly. Decide to sleep outside under the stars or pick cozy, simple lodges. Either way, you’ll enjoy an authentic and memorable adventure.
Camping under the Andean Sky
Camping under the open Andean sky is a top experience on the Lares Trek. The tour usually hosts 10 people, which makes for a close-knit trip. Imagine setting up your tent surrounded by towering peaks and quiet, untouched nature. This experience turns every moment into magic.
Rustic Lodges in Remote Villages
Prefer more comfort? The Lares Trek has you covered with stays in remote, rustic lodges. Here, you get to meet the locals, experience their traditions, and feel their warmth. Accommodations sit at high altitudes, between 4,500 m and 4,650 m, letting you fully experience the majestic Andes.
Choose between camping or lodge stays. Whichever, the Lares Trek delivers an authentic, unforgettable journey. It lets you deeply connect with the Andean region’s natural and cultural beauty.
Lares Trek Tour Packages
Many tour packages for the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu are available. These packages vary, making it easy for different travelers to find what they need. Whether you want a four or five-day adventure, there are choices for everyone.
4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
The 4-day trek is a top pick for adventurers. It covers 44 kilometers and goes to an altitude of 5,200 meters. You’ll camp for two nights in special tents, and there are comfy air mats available. Each traveler gets 7 kilograms of extra service for their gear. Plus, you’ll have meals, including options for vegetarians, vegans, and those who eat gluten-free.
5-Day Combined Lares and Inca Trail
The 5-day adventure combines the Lares and Inca Trails. This option costs US$750 and takes you through amazing landscapes. You’ll get to experience local culture and visit Machu Picchu.
Customizable Itineraries
For more flexibility, some operators allow personalized Lares Trek plans. You can add days, include more activities, or focus on specific interests. This way, you can have an adventure tailored just for you.
FAQ
What is the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure. It takes you through awe-inspiring Andean landscapes and ancient Inca ruins. This trek offers a magical experience in the heart of the Andes you won’t forget.
What makes the Lares Trek unique?
The Lares Trek is different from the classic Inca Trail. It’s a lesser-known alternative that takes you deep into the Andean Mountains. Here, you can see beautiful glacial lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks that few have visited.
Why should I choose the Lares Trek over the Inca Trail?
Choosing the Lares Trek helps you avoid the busy Inca Trail. The Inca Trail’s popularity has led to more crowds. The Lares Trek, being less traveled, offers a quieter, more personal journey to Machu Picchu.
What is the best time to hike the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
The best time for the Lares Trek is the dry season, from May to September. This time sees little rain, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures. It’s perfect for hiking through the Andes.
What are the highlights of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Lares Trek has many highlights that set it apart. You can visit the Lares Hot Springs, where you can relax in the thermal waters after a day of hiking. It’s a serene location in the mountains.
How should I prepare for the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
Getting ready for the Lares Trek means packing the right gear and equipment. This ensures you’re prepared for the rugged, beautiful landscapes you’ll encounter. Proper preparation is key to a great experience.
What can I expect on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu itinerary?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day journey through the Andes. It’s a chance to discover the region’s beauty and history step by step.
What type of accommodations are available on the Lares Trek?
On the Lares Trek, you’ll experience accommodations that match the rugged, beautiful setting. They reflect the nature around you, offering a unique stay in the Andes.
What Lares Trek to Machu Picchu tour packages are available?
There are different tour packages for the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. They’re designed to meet the varied preferences and needs of travelers. You can choose the one that suits you best.
