Lares Treks To Machu Picchu

While all treks in the Andes are considered challenging, the Lares Trek is one of the more welcoming treks you can find. There aren’t many technical sections, and there are several chances to stop and enjoy meals and villages along the way. This makes it a great option for older and younger trekkers, families and casual hikers.

The Lares Trek is about 33 km/20 mi long. On our Lares Trek, we spend about 2.5 days covering this distance with plenty of time for breaks, warm meals and taking in views on the trek.

The Lares Trail is unique to other Peru treks because it winds through remote Andean villages and mountain trails. You will spend more time connecting with locals, learning about village customs and gaining an intimate perspective on life in the Andes.

While we can’t say one is better, these two treks are significantly different. The Lares Trek is less congested, more peaceful and offers an easier trekking experience. The trail crosses through multiple villages that you can learn about and explore. The Inca Trail is one of the most popular treks in the world and stays mainly in the more remote, unpopulated areas of the Andes. This trek is significantly more challenging, with a slightly more technical trail and steep climbs. If you want to experience both trails in one experience, check out our Lares Trek and Inca Trail Adventure!

While you can technically hike the Lares Trek without a guide, it should only be attempted by seasoned trekkers that have meticulously studied the trail. We highly recommend using a tour company to plan and execute your Lares Trek. Our team of guides will manage logistics, meals, activities, campsites, and transportation, so all you need to do is enjoy the experience.

As with all treks through the Andes, the weather can be unpredictable and vary throughout the day. We highly recommend wearing layers with waterproof layers, gloves and beanies for cold weather and hats and sunglasses for when the sun comes out.

Your journey will start when our team picks you up from any hotel in Cusco. After a three-hour drive to Sacred Valley, you will start your trek in Punta Carretera at 3,300 m/ 10,827 ft above sea level.