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The Lares Trek route is an alternative for those seeking an authentic and enriching trekking experience in Peru. In contrast to the more crowded trekking and hiking routes, the Lares trek offers a unique encounter with traditional and real Andean culture. During the trek, you’ll meet local communities and of course, people who live there. So, maybe in one night, Quechua will be the main language you will hear around.
What makes the Lares Valley stand out from others? Exposure to traditional Andean culture is undoubtedly the best part! Every step on the way will take you through charming Andean villages, where warm and friendly people greet you. You will be able to share unforgettable moments while learning about their customs, rituals and handcrafted things which have been passed down for generations.
Now, the most important question of this blog: How long is the Lares Trek? Don’t worry, we’ll tell you here! Inkayni Peru Tours will guide you through each day of this adventure by providing you with details about the length of the trek and what to expect at each stage.
Yanacocha Lake is just one of the Lares Trek highlights.
WHAT IS THE LARES TREK?
The Lares Trek also known as the route of the weavers, is one of the alternative routes that takes you to the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. During this exciting trek, trekkers traverse diverse landscapes that include valleys, mountains, steep ascents and descents, charming lakes, waterfalls and picturesque villages or towns.
Along the way, adventurers can learn about the history and traditions of the ancient Incas by crossing ancestral trails and visiting archaeological sites. Additionally, the proximity to the local people will immerse you in their traditional lifestyle and enrich your trip with unique experiences.
The Lares Trek takes its name from the Lares Valley, which is a remote region in the Peruvian Andes where small communities still maintain their ancestral traditions.
BRIEF HISTORY…
The history of the Lares Trek dates back to the Inca Empire in the 15th century. During that time, the Incas developed an extensive network of roads to connect their most important ceremonial centers and towns. These roads were made strategically, facilitating goods transport, communication and military operations.
The Incas had used this route to communicate between the Lares Valley and Sacred Valley to finally reach Machu Picchu. This trail is not as famous as the Inca Trail, but there are great trekking options.
When the Spaniards arrived and then caused the fall of the Inca Empire in the 16th century, all those ancient Inca Trails gradually lost their importance and were forgotten for several years. However, more recently, the Peruvian government, people and tourism have revived their interest in the cultural and natural heritage of Peru and Cusco. The Lares Trek has been rediscovered as a less crowded but equally exciting option for reaching Machu Picchu.
Today, hikers have the opportunity to walk the same trails that the Incas walked centuries ago, discovering the history, natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
During the Lares Trek, you will visit charming rural communities
HOW HIGH IS THE LARES TREK?
The Lares Trek’s altitude varies along the route, but its highest point is the Sicllaccasa Pass at 4,830 metres/ 15,846 feet ASL. During the trek, hikers will experience altitude changes as they traverse valleys and mountains in the Peruvian Andes. They will also pass through villages and archaeological sites at lower altitudes.
Sicllakasa pass at 4, 830 meters/ 15, 846 feet ASL.
HOW LONG IS THE LARES TREK IN KILOMETERS?
The Lares Trek has an approximate distance of 31 kilometers in total, or 19 miles. This exciting trekking route will take you through breathtaking scenery, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty and culture found in the Andean villages along the way.
HOW LONG IS THE LARES TREK IN MILES?
This fascinating trekking route, with an approximate distance of around 19 miles, will immerse you in the Peruvian Andes by allowing you to discover the rich culture of the Andean people. Each day of the trek will challenge and reward you with unforgettable views and experiences.
| How long is the Lares Trek? | |||
| DAYS | Covered Places | Distance in KM | Distance in MI |
| Day 1 | Pumahuanca – Puyoc | 11 km | 6,84 mi |
| Day 2 | Yanacocha – Cuncani | 12 km | 7,46 mi |
| Day 3 | Cuncani – Lares | 8 km | 4,97 mi |
| Day 4 | Machu Picchu – Cusco | ——————————————————- | |
WHERE DOES THE LARES TREK START?
The Lares Trek generally starts in the charming village of Pumahuanca, located at an altitude of 3,150 meters/10,334 feet ASL. The village of Pumahuanca will welcome you with its warm hospitality, and from here you will begin an unforgettable experience that will take you to discover the true essence of the Andes and lead you to the grandeur of the legendary Machu Picchu.
Inkayni Peru Tours’ group starting the Lares Trek
WHERE DOES THE LARES TREK END?
Almost all Lares Trek options culminate in Lares, located at 3,200 meters / 10,498 feet ASL. In general, hikers will board comfortable transportation to Ollantaytambo from this town, and then board the train to the charming town of Aguas Calientes (the closest town to Machu Picchu).
Lares Trek 4D/3N, ending in Lares
However, there is the Lares Trek and Short Inca trail which is the unique option culminating in Machu Picchu directly.
The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail ends in Machu Picchu
HOW LONG IS THE LARES TREK?
The duration of the Lares Trek can vary according to each traveler’s preference and the time they wish to dedicate to this wonderful alternative and non-busy trek. If you are looking for a shorter but equally enriching option, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N is ideal for you. In just 4 days, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and immerse yourself in the rich local culture.
On the other hand, if you are ready for a more extensive and challenging adventure adding some patches of Inca Trail, the Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail is the perfect choice. In 5 days and 4 nights, you will have the opportunity to explore even deeper into the valleys, mountains and trails. Consider that you can hike on a shorter path of the Classic Inca Trail by taking this option!!
Whether you choose the 4-day or the 5-day version, the Lares Trek will provide you with unforgettable moments and connect you with the true essence of the Peruvian Andes.
No matter which version you choose, the Lares Trek is an unmissable experience within the Peruvian Andes.
VERSIONS OF THE LARES TREK
- Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N
- Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail 5D/4N
ITINERARIES AND DISTANCES OF THE TREK FROM LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS
DAY 1: PUMAHUANCA TO PUYOC (11 KM – 7 MILES)
- On the first day, after breakfast at our hotel in Cusco, we head by bus to the trek starting point in Pumahuanca.
- The first hiking day is formidable, and we will observe the archaeological site of Callorumiyoc along the trek.
- We will continue ascending until we reach our overnight camp, which will be Puyoc after trekking for around 7 hours.
| Covered places | Cusco – Pumahuanca – Puyoc |
| Meals | Lunch and dinner |
| Highest altitude | 4,300 m / 14,100 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 3150 m / 10,330 ft ASL |
| Camping altitude | 4,300 m / 14,100 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 11 km in 6 hours |
Inkayni Peru Tours’ team carry all the necessary trekking equipment
DAY 2: PUYOC TO CUNKANI (12 KM – 7.46 MILES)
- We will start early to reach the highest point in Sicllakasa (the highest point of the Lares Trek).
- From our campsite, we will walk about 13 km to the village of Cuncani. This trail is mostly downhill, as the pass (Sicllakasa) is only a 2-hour walk from the starting point.
- As we travel to Cuncani we will pass through beautiful landscapes, lakes and valleys.
- We will meet the local people dressed in their bright red traditional clothes. The hike lasts 7 hours.
| Covered places | Puyoc – Yanacocha – Cuncani |
| Meals | Breakfast, lunch and dinner |
| Highest altitude | 4,830 m / 15,850 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 3,800 m / 12,426 ft ASL |
| Camping altitude | 3,800 m / 12,426 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 11 km in 6 hours |
DAY 3: CUNKANI TO LARES (8 KM – 4.97 MILES)
- We will meet a local family as soon as we wake up and have breakfast. We will learn about their customs and master some Quechua words.
- After Cuncani we will hike to Lares Hot Springs. After a relaxing bath in the hot springs, our bus will pick us up and drive back to the Sacred Valley. From Ollantaytambo, we will board our train to Machu Picchu.
- The hike lasts 3 hours.
| Covered places | Cuncani – Lares |
| Meals | Breakfast, lunch and dinner |
| Highest altitude | 3,800 m / 12,426 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 2,040 m / 6,692 ft ASL |
| Camping altitude | 2,040 m / 6,692 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 8 km in 3 hours |
Happy trekker ending the Lares Trek in its hot spring
DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU
- We will wake up very early and take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu after breakfast.
- We will have a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- After your tour, you will have time to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, if you have permits and/or entrance tickets).
- It has a difficulty level of “Easy”.
- In the afternoon, we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, from where we will continue by van back to Cusco.
Machu Picchu on the Last day of the Lares Trek
| Covered places | Machu Picchu – Cusco |
| Meals | Desayuno |
| Highest altitude | 2,490 m / 8,169 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 2,040 m / 6,692 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 2 km in two hours |
ITINERARIES AND DISTANCES OF THE TREK FROM LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU + SHORT INCA TRAIL 5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS
DAY 1: PUMAHUANCA TO PUYOC (11 KM- 7 MILES)
- The first day starts with picking you up from your hotel to be transported by bus to the trek starting point in Pumahuanca.
- Along the route, we will face a formidable challenge on the first day of trekking by ascending through stunning Andean landscapes until we reach our overnight camp, located in Puyoc.
- The trek lasts approximately 7 hours.
| Covered places | Cusco – Pumahuanca – Puyoc |
| Meals | Lunch and dinner |
| Highest altitude | 4,300 m / 14,100 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 3150 m / 10,330 ft ASL |
| Camping altitude | 4,300 m / 14,100 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 11 km in 6 hours |
First night’s camping area
DAY 2: PUYOC TO CUNKANI (12 KM – 7.46 MILES)
- We will start early to reach the highest point in Sicllakasa (the highest point of the Lares Trek).
- From our campsite, we will walk about 13 km to the village of Cuncani. This trail is mostly downhill, as the pass (Sicllakasa) is only a 2-hour walk from the starting point.
- As we travel to Cuncani we will pass through beautiful landscapes, lakes and valleys.
- We will meet the local people dressed in their bright red traditional clothes. The hike lasts 7 hours.
| Covered places | Puyoc – Yanacocha – Cuncani |
| Meals | Breakfast, lunch and dinner |
| Highest altitude | 4,830 m / 15,850 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 3,800 m / 12,426 ft ASL |
| Camping altitude | 3,800 m / 12,426 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 11 km in 6 hours |
Trekkers arriving at the second day’s camping area.
DAY 3: CUNKANI – LARES – OLLANTAYTAMBO (8 KM – 4, 97 MILES)
- After an early wake-up and breakfast, we will meet a local family who will teach us their customs and help us learn some Quechua words.
- After Cuncani we will hike to Lares Hot Springs for 3 hours.
- After enjoying the hot springs, we will be picked up by our bus, which will take us back to the Sacred Valley.
- We will spend the night in Ollantaytambo, where you can rest in the comfortable accommodation of the Casa Blanca or a similar three-star hotel.
| Covered places | Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo |
| Meals | Breakfast, lunch and dinner |
| Highest altitude | 3,800 m / 12,426 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 2,792 m / 9,160 ft ASL |
| Overnight altitude | 2,792 m / 9,160 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 8 km in 3 hours |
The hot springs of Lares are the best place for relaxing after a long trek
DAY 4: KM 104 – SUN GATE – INTI PUNKU (10 KM- 6 MILES)
- Early in the morning, we will board the train to kilometre 104, also known as “Chachabamba” or the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
- We will pass the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, continuing our ascent through captivating landscapes.
- After a full day of trekking 5 to 6 hours, we will arrive at the emblematic Sun Gate or Inti Punku in the afternoon, where we will witness panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
| Covered places | Ollantaytambo – Chachabamba – Inti Punku – Aguas Calientes |
| Meals | Breakfast, lunch and dinner |
| Highest altitude | 3,800 m / 12,426 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 2,792 m / 9,160 ft ASL |
| Overnight altitude | 2,792 m / 9,160 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 10 km in 6 hours |
Achieve the Sun Gate near Machu Picchu by trekking the Short Inca Trail
DAY 5: MACHU PICCHU
- We will wake up very early and take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu after breakfast.
- We will have a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- After your tour, you will have time to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, if you have permits and/or entrance tickets).
- It has a difficulty level of “Easy”.
- In the afternoon, we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, from where we will continue by van back to Cusco.
| Covered places | Machu Picchu – Cusco |
| Meals | Desayuno |
| Highest altitude | 2,490 m / 8,169 ft ASL |
| Lowest altitude | 2,040 m / 6,692 ft ASL |
| Trekking distance | 2 km in two hours |
IS ALTITUDE SICKNESS COMMON ON LARES TREK?
Yes, altitude sickness is common on the Lares Trek because you hike at higher elevations than on the Classic Inca Trail! So, undoubtedly, a common question is: how high is the Lares Trek? Here are some tips to avoid altitude sickness on your Lares Trek
- Arriving in Cusco a few days before starting the trek will allow your body to gradually adapt to the altitude.
- Drinking plenty of water throughout the trek is essential to avoid dehydration and altitude sickness.
- Eating light, carbohydrate-rich foods will give you the energy you need to face the trek challenges.
- Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco.
- Walk at a comfortable and steady pace.
- Chew Coca leaves in small amounts.
If you experience altitude sickness symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness or fatigue, it is crucial to rest and recover.
WHEN DO WE GET TO MACHU PICCHU AND HOW LONG DO WE SPEND THERE?
Generally, you will arrive at Machu Picchu on the last day of your trek either way. The Lares Trek 4D / 3N or the Lares Hike 5D / 3N will end in Machu Picchu as the last attraction you will visit.
Once at Machu Picchu, you will have approximately two hours to enjoy this iconic archaeological site. The tour will be guided, allowing you to immerse yourself in the fascinating history and mysteries surrounding the construction of this Inca wonder. The tour guide will share with you interesting information and details about the civilization that inhabited this lost city in the middle of the mountains.
In addition, if you have previously booked tickets to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will have the opportunity to ascend with a tour guide to these majestic mountains that offer breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu and its surroundings. The estimated time to climb either mountain is two hours.
Machu Picchu is the last tourist attraction you will explore
WHY CHOOSE THE LARES TREK?
Firstly, and most notably for some, the Lares Trek offers a quieter and less crowded experience than the Inca Trail. Along the Lares Hike, you will see fewer hikers.
Secondly, the route is likely to be easier than the Inca Trail, mainly because you don’t have to deal with as many steep steps.
Finally, the most valuable aspect of the Lares Trek is the authentic immersion in Andean culture. The Lares Valley is home to traditional Andean communities that have preserved their way of life for centuries. You will meet local weavers dressed in colorful traditional ponchos. In addition, depending on your itinerary, you may have the opportunity to observe or even participate in weaving activities, further immersing you in the cultural richness of the region.
The Lares Trek is an exceptional option for those seeking an authentic cultural experience surrounded by breathtaking scenery and a unique connection with the people of the Peruvian Andes.
DO PORTERS CARRY OUR LUGGAGE DURING THE LARES TREK?
On the Lares Trek, horses and mules carry the luggage. Unlike the Inca Trail, where porters are the only option to carry the trekking and trekker’s equipment. On the Lares Trek, mules and horses are used to transport camping equipment, cooking equipment and other supplies needed for the expedition.
Hikers, on the other hand, should carry a backpack with their items and essentials for the trek. These items include water, adequate clothing, sunscreen, and medicines, among others. It is important to pack lightly and carry only what is necessary to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Lares Hike.
At Inkayni Peru Tours we are committed to responsible and sustainable tourism. This includes the ethical and humane treatment of animals as part of our expeditions.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK LARES TREK?
For the Lares Trek, the best time to trek is during the dry season between April and October. During this period, the weather is more stable and trekking conditions are more favorable, which attracts an increased number of tourists. If you plan to trek during these months, book at least three months in advance. This is especially important if you have specific dates in mind.
On the other hand, if you’re willing to travel in the rainy season (November to March), you may find more availability and less crowds along the way. However, be aware that during this time, weather conditions can be more unpredictable, with an increased chance of rain.
Booking in advance gives you the advantage of securing your place on the Lares Hike by getting better date options and organizing your trip more conveniently. In addition, some travel agencies offer discounts or special promotions for early bookings, which can be another motivation to plan for your Lares Trek adventure.
WHAT MAKES INKAYNI PERU TOURS THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOUR LARES TREK?
In a few words, booking with Inkayni Peru Tours is a smart and rewarding decision for several reasons:
- Our team is made up of highly trained guides and experts in the region, which guarantees high-quality service and safety throughout the experience.
- We focus on experiential tourism, which means that it will allow you to interact with local communities, and learn about their culture, traditions and ways of life. In addition, Inkayni Peru Tours has a strong commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism, working harmonizing with local communities and respecting the environment.
- We offer various options for the Lares Trek and other destinations. This allows you to tailor the itinerary according to your preferences, time available and experience.
- The agency works with small groups, which provides a more intimate and personalized experience. This allows for better attention and greater connection with the guide and fellow travelers.
- When you book with Inkayni Peru Tours, you won’t have to worry about the logistical details of the trip, as they take care of everything, including transportation, accommodation, meals and the necessary permits.
- Inkayni Peru Tours’ reputation is excellent, backed by numerous positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied travelers who have had enriching experiences with the agency.
Ecstatic hikers with their guides, thrilled by the incredible trek.
The Lares Trek has become a popular choice for nature lovers and adventurers looking for an authentic experience in the Peruvian Andes. By following this route, travellers can revel in the majesty of the landscapes while immersing themselves in the local culture and feeling part of the history that has shaped this unique region.
Now that you know the answer to the question: How long is the Lares Trek? don’t wait longer and join Inkayni Peru Tours for this incredible adventure in the magical Peruvian Andes!
The time to explore ancient trails, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and share Quechua families’ warmth has arrived.
Don’t wait anymore! Are you ready to conquer the Lares Trek with Inkayni Peru Tours? We are waiting for you with open arms to live an unforgettable experience together. Book now and get ready for a journey that will remain engraved in your heart forever!
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