Lares Trek Peru
Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the living culture of the Andes. Your complete guide to the most authentic hiking experience in Peru.
What is the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek is a 5,4, and 3-day hiking route that traverses the remote Lares Valley in the Peruvian Andes, near Cusco. Unlike the popular Inca Trail, this route focuses on cultural immersion, passing through traditional Quechua villages where ancient customs and ways of life are still preserved.
What makes the Lares Trek unique?
While the Classic Inca Trail is known for its ruins, the Lares Trek is distinguished by its people. This route crosses the Andes and allows you to visit remote Quechua communities, learn about their customs, and enjoy landscapes dotted with alpacas, lakes, and snow-capped peaks.
It is the perfect choice for travelers who want to:
- Avoid the massive crowds and strict permits.
- Interact with local weavers and farmers.
- Relax in natural volcanic hot springs.
- Explore Ollantaytambo
- Experience Machu Picchu with a rested body and mind.
Interaction with local communities is the heart of this trek.
Classic Route: 4-Day Lares Trek Itinerary
A 4-day expedition designed to acclimatize you gradually while showing you the best of the Andes.
Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha
Key Stat: 3 to 4 hours hike | Camp at 3,850m
Departure from Cusco to the Sacred Valley until reaching Huaran. From here, the hike begins with a gradual ascent through the Andes until reaching the traditional community of Cancha Cancha, where the first camp is set up.
Cancha Cancha – Quiswarani
Key Stat: 7 hours hike | The Challenge
The most demanding section of the circuit. You climb to the highest point of the trek (the Pachacutec pass), offering spectacular views of glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks, before descending to the community of Quiswarani.
Quiswarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo
Key Stat: Downhill hike | Scenic Train Ride
Scenic hike through Cuncani to the village of Lares, where you can enjoy its famous hot springs. Afterwards, transfer by vehicle to Ollantaytambo to board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Machu Picchu: The Lost City
Key Stat: 2 to 3 hour guided tour | Return to Cusco
The grand finale. We take the early bus to Machu Picchu to watch the sunrise (weather permitting). Explore the temples with our expert guide before returning to Cusco in the evening.
Packing List for the Lares Trek
While the Lares Trek is less demanding than the Inca Trail, it's essential to pack wisely. Here are some must-have items:
- Comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Layered clothing for varying temperatures (base layer, fleece, waterproof jacket).
- A sleeping bag rated for -10°C (14°F) for cold nights at high altitude.
- A daypack for essentials during hikes (water, snacks, camera).
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Personal hygiene items and any necessary medications.
Difficulty and Altitude of the Lares Trek
The Lares Trek is considered moderate. While it doesn't require technical climbing skills, hikers should be prepared for long days of walking at high altitude. The highest points on the route are Ipsaycocha Pass at 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) and Condor Pass at 4,750 meters (15,584 feet). Two to three days of acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and adequate physical preparation are recommended for a safe trek.
Best Time to Hike the Lares Trek
The dry season, from May to September, is generally considered the best time for hiking in Lares thanks to the clear skies and safer trails. However, the landscape varies dramatically depending on the month: from December to June, you'll enjoy lush vegetation. In contrast, from July to November, the landscape takes on a golden hue with the dry vegetation.
While the rainy season (from November to March) offers verdant landscapes, it's not ideal for hiking due to the slippery trails.
Lares Trek vs. Inca Trail
Which one should you choose? Compare the features.
| Feature | Lares Trek (Cultural) | Classic Inca Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Crowds | Very Low (Quiet) | High (500 people/day) |
| Permits | No Special Permit Required | Sold out 6 months in advance |
| Focus | Culture, Villages, Locals | Ruins, History, Steps |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate to Challenging |
| Booking | Flexible (can be booked at the last minute); However, a permit is required for Machu Picchu, which can run out, so it is recommended to book in advance. | Rigid (Months in advance) |
Lares Trek FAQs
Explore Our Lares Trek Tours
Discover our range of Lares Trek options, from 3-day to 5-day itineraries, designed to suit every traveler's needs and preferences.
2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Tour
Difficulty: Moderate
Lares Trek & 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - 4 Days
Difficulty: Moderate
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu – 4 Days Cultural Hiking
Difficulty: Moderate
Lares Trek 3 Days to Machu Picchu - Cultural & Adventure Experience
Difficulty: Moderate
Ready to start your adventure?
Visit our booking page to see the latest prices, inclusions, and available dates for 2027.
Choose your perfect trek to LaresIf you want a shorter and more direct experience, read our Short Inca Trail Guide to compare routes and difficulty levels.
