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Inkayni Peru Tours

IS THE LARES TREK WORTH IT? REASONS TO CONQUER IT!

Published on25 de October de 2023

Yes, you’re wondering, is the Lares Trek worth it? We must tell you that the Lares Trek tour has many reasons to conquered! The trek takes you through a wonderful trail that, like the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, leads you to the most impressive legacy of the Incas, Machu Picchu. The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is located in the Peruvian Andes and has breathtaking landscapes, ancient culture and authentic nature. Don’t wait longer and book the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu now!

Lares Trek 4 days passes through small ancient villages in the provinces of Calca and Urubamba in the region of Cusco during the 04 days of the trek.

So, what the Lares Trek Cusco offers to you?

1. VISIT MACHU PICCHU

The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is a magical destination waiting for you on your next journey! So, why don’t you explore and discover it by hiking the Lares Trek tour?

Over 500 years ago, the magnificent Inca civilisation built hundreds of ancient buildings and temples at Machu Picchu. This citadel is located in Urubamba, on the summit of a sacred mountain, and surrounded by a dreamlike natural landscape.

If you want to get to Machu Picchu, you can take the famous panoramic train that crosses the Sacred Valley of the Incas. However, if you prefer something more adventurous, you can hike the famous Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek; or even better, the Lares Trek 4 days, a hike with less difficulty, but just as impressive as the first two.

In the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, you will explore the beautiful citadel and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding it. Also, you will walk along the old trails, and visit temples and observatories along the mountains. Furthermore, the most important thing is to take amazing pictures from the viewpoints that will immortalize your visit.

Turista en en el santuario histórico de Machu Picchu | Is the Lares Trek worth it?

View of Machu Picchu’s historic sanctuary

2. SOAK IN THE HOT SPRINGS OF LARES

The hot springs of Lares are one of the experiences you shouldn’t miss! The natural remedy offered by Lares’ hot spring is unique, due to its waters that contain healing properties. These waters are perfect for treating health problems such as muscle pain, rheumatic diseases and stress. In addition, its mineral properties rejuvenate the skin and improve blood circulation.

In thermal waters, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chlorides, sulfur, bicarbonates, iron, manganese, zinc, boron, copper, and dissolved solids are present. The temperatures of thermal waters range from 36oC to 40oC. (96,8ºF) to 44ºC. (111,2ºF).

 Posas e instalaciones de las aguas Termales de Lares ubicados en la provincia de Calca-Cusco, una de las razones para realizar lares Trek | Lares trek and its hot springs

Baños termales del pueblo de Lares en Cusco
Hot Springs of Lares

Lares hot springs are located in the Lares Valley, in Cusco. This valley is characterised by its warm climate and stunning natural beauty surrounded by mountains. There are thermal pools which allow deep relaxation enjoyment.

3. APPRECIATE THE IMPRESSIVE SNOW-CAPPED MOUNTAINS

Trekking involves observing Cusco’s snow-capped mountains from the Urubamba Mountain Range. These imposing snow-capped mountains are one of the most impressive natural wonders of the region and offer an exceptional and unforgettable experience for hikers. Taking a picture next to breathtaking Andean landscapes is one of the coolest things to do.

The most outstanding snow-capped mountains on the Lares Trek Cusco route are Pitusiray, Sahuasiray and Chicon, each with its own beauty and charm. Pitusiray is one of the most impressive, with a height of 4,991 m/16375 ft. Sahuasiray, equally impressive, boasting a height of 5,818 m/19088 ft, is a snow-capped mountain that you can see close-up by trekking.

Finally, the Chicon is another of Cusco’s most significant snow-capped peaks with 5,530 m/18143 ft. This mountain is known for its scenic beauty and imposing presence in the landscape while trekking. These snow-capped mountains are critical because they provide water to different ancestral villages and towns located at its foothills.

Nevado Pitusiray, Calca | Lares Trek. This photo had been taken form the Sacred Valley

Nevado Pitusiray, Calca
The imposing snow-capped Pitusiray

4. ENJOY OUTDOOR CAMPING

Camping in the Andes Mountains of Cusco is one of the most challenging and adventurous activities worldwide. While breathing fresh air and disconnecting from civilization, camping allows you to enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, clear lakes and green valleys.

Camping in the Andes mountain range allows you to interact with local culture. In addition, many campsites are managed by local communities, which means you’ll interact with them and learn about their way of life.

pasajeros disfrutando del campamento al aire libre. | Lares Trek and its camping activity

Our travellers enjoy camping in the open air.

 

5. ENJOY THE LOCAL CUISINE

Keep in mind that an authentic culinary experience is one of the best aspects of your adventurous trek through the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. The Lares Trek Cusco, because of its location, provides land for farmers and is home to a variety of delicious dishes made from fresh organic products. Here are some of the most popular dishes you could try:

CALDO DE GALLINA

This dish is similar to chicken soup but the most significant ingredient is hen. Also, it is accompanied by potatoes, manioc and vegetables. Furthermore, it is a comforting and warming dish perfect for cold mountain days.

CHICHARRON WITH MOTE (White corn boiled)

This dish is a delicious combination of fried pork and Mote. It is a crispy and tasty dish perfect for a quick lunch on the street.

CUY AL PALO

Cuy al Palo is a typical dish of Cusco and is the most common preparation method of the locals. The villagers do not have access to an oven in the countryside, so the most effective way to prepare it is to roast it in front of their “Qonchas”, or wood-burning cookers. This style can be seen throughout the Sacred Valley and is available to travellers.

6. PASS THROUGH THE RELICT FORESTS OF QUEUÑA.

Queua’s relict forests have survived for centuries despite deforestation and fires. They are forests that take us back to a time when nature was pure and primitive, in other words, pristine.

These forests are a natural treasure unique in the world, found only in the Andes. Also, Queuña trees grow between 3,000 – 4,500 m / 9843 – 14764 ft. They are endangered and scattered along the Lares Trek tour. Also, it is the highest forest in the world.

The Queuña forests have a high ecological importance, as they shelter many species of animals such as foxes, deer, and pumas. In addition, the trees of Queuña are essential for the inhabitants of the nearby communities, as they provide wood for construction and firewood for cooking and heating their homes.

7. APPRECIATE THE FLORA AND FAUNA OF THE ANDEAN ECOSYSTEMS

The Andes are home to many animals, and some of them are very special. One of the most famous is the condor, a bird of prey that flies over the Andes. This bird can reach three three-metre wingspan!

Another emblematic animal is the vicuña, a species of camelid found at high altitudes that produces a very valuable fibre used to make high-quality clothing. There are other emblematic species such as the llama, the alpaca, the spectacled bear, the puma and the Andean fox. All of them dwell among the bushes and hide in the Andes.

Observing these animals requires luck and expertise because they sneak through the vegetation and have cryptic camouflage, especially the spectacled bear, the fox and the puma.

The Andean ecosystems are also home to many native plants and endemic ones. The most representative species are the Queuña, the Chachacoma, the Molle (false pepper), the Ichu (grasslands), etc.

8. ENJOY THE EXCITING HIKE

Enjoy trekking during the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. It could be an experience that helps you improve your physical and mental state in your life. The Lares Trek Cusco is 32 km / 19.8 mi long of exciting trekking, and the trek lasts 4 days!

Along the whole trek, you must interact with the guides, nature and above all enjoy the imposing panoramic views of the Andes, the valleys of that mountain range and the local villages and towns.

Turistas realizando la Caminata Lares a Machu Picchu | Hikers approaching to a wetland.

Turistas realizando la caminata Lares a Machu Picchu
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

9. LEARNING ABOUT OUR ANCESTRAL CULTURE

If you hike the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, you will immerse yourself and discover the Andean ancestral culture. These people have preserved their ancestral roots for thousands of years. Join us on this unique adventure! Discover traditions, history and a friendly environment.

During the trip, we will be able to appreciate customs such as the Tarpuy, an ancestral tradition that takes place from August until November; where the farmers of Lares, with colourful typical costumes, work with harmony and enthusiasm removing the fertile land with the oxen and Yuntas to the sound of the Tinya; these activities are guided by a chief.

The farming tools used for the Tarpuy are made of wood, produced by the prodigious nature which are made especially of Eucalyptus and Chachacomo trees.

¡Pobladores de Lares, quienes nos enseñarán algunas frases en Quechua! | Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

¡Pobladores de Lares, quienes nos enseñarán algunas frases en Quechua!
Wearing a traditional costume, a mother feeds her daughter.

 

10. APPRECIATE THE BREATHTAKING SCENERY.

One of the most enjoyable ways to appreciate the Peruvian Andes landscape is trekking. The Lares Trek tour is an alternative option for those looking for a tough hike through the Peruvian Andes. The trek will take you through natural landscapes such as lakes, waterfalls, valleys, canyons, native forests, glaciers, puna grasslands, wetlands, and rocky areas. All of them are on the eastern slope of the Andes.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE LARES TREK

There are some reasons to consider before hiking the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.

  • It is advisable to acclimatise and adapt to the Andean environment before trekking, to avoid altitude sickness.
  • It is critical to carry water with you to keep hydrated. The more hydrated you are the better acclimatized you will be.
  • It is advisable to maintain a steady walking pace. So, you must not exceed your body’s capacity and give it time to acclimatise better.
  • Drinking coca tea or chewing it during the Lares Tre tour. It would alleviate altitude sickness and improve walking performance.
  • It is imperative to carry documentation.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate flexible, comfortable and waterproof clothing such as trousers, trekking shoes, windbreakers, hats, etc. Prefer gore-tex material.

Other items to pack in your backpack.

  • Sunblock and insect repellent.
  • Dried fruits, chocolates or candies.
  • Personal care items.
  • Money.
  • Walking stick.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Camera.

“Remember, although Lares Trek 4 days is almost always available, it is wise to book in advance as Lares Trek requires ticket reservations to Machu Picchu”.

Doing the Lares Trek with our travel agency Inkayni Peru Tours, guarantees you a safe and unforgettable experience providing high-quality service to all its customers.

  • Gonzalo Rodrigo Tapia Condori

    Gonzalo Tapia was born in the rainforest of Peru, Madre de Dios, and he's been living in Cusco since 2008. He has been exploring Peru due to his main hobby as a birdwatcher. Also, he has a lot of experience in outdoor activities and wilderness.

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