{"id":13715,"date":"2024-01-08T08:42:09","date_gmt":"2024-01-08T13:42:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.inkayniperutours.com\/blog\/?p=13715"},"modified":"2026-05-11T16:52:47","modified_gmt":"2026-05-11T21:52:47","slug":"how-long-is-the-lares-trek","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.inkayniperutours.com\/blog\/how-long-is-the-lares-trek","title":{"rendered":"HOW LONG IS THE LARES TREK? DISCOVER THE DURATION OF THIS INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE IN THE MAJESTIC PERUVIAN ANDES"},"content":{"rendered":"

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<\/strong> offers a unique encounter with traditional and real Andean culture<\/strong>. During the trek, you’ll meet local communities and of course, people who live there. So, maybe in one night, Quechua<\/strong> will be the main language you will hear around.<\/p>\n

What makes the Lares Valley stand out from others?<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Now, the most important question of this blog: How long is the Lares Trek?<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

\"Lares

Yanacocha Lake is just one of the Lares Trek highlights.<\/p><\/div>\n

WHAT IS THE LARES TREK?<\/h2>\n

The Lares Trek also known as the route of the weavers<\/strong>, 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.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n

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.<\/p>\n

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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.<\/p>\n

BRIEF HISTORY…<\/h2>\n

The history of the Lares Trek dates back to the Inca Empire in the 15th century.<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

The Incas had used this route to communicate between the Lares Valley and Sacred Valley to finally reach Machu Picchu.<\/strong> This trail is not as famous as the Inca Trail, but there are great trekking options.<\/p>\n

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.<\/strong> The Lares Trek has been rediscovered as a less crowded but equally exciting option for reaching Machu Picchu.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\"Local

During the Lares Trek, you will visit charming rural communities<\/p><\/div>\n

HOW HIGH IS THE LARES TREK?<\/h2>\n

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.<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

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Sicllakasa pass at 4, 830 meters\/ 15, 846 feet ASL.<\/p><\/div>\n

HOW LONG IS THE LARES TREK IN KILOMETERS?<\/h2>\n

The Lares Trek has an approximate distance of 31 kilometers in total, or 19 miles.<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

HOW LONG IS THE LARES TREK IN MILES?<\/h2>\n

This fascinating trekking route, with an approximate distance of around 19 miles<\/strong>, will immerse you in the Peruvian Andes<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
How long is the Lares Trek?<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
DAYS<\/td>\nCovered Places<\/td>\nDistance in KM<\/td>\nDistance in MI<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Day 1<\/td>\nPumahuanca \u2013 Puyoc<\/td>\n11 km<\/td>\n6,84 mi<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Day 2<\/td>\nYanacocha \u2013 Cuncani<\/td>\n12 km<\/td>\n7,46 mi<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Day 3<\/td>\nCuncani \u2013 Lares<\/td>\n8 km<\/td>\n4,97 mi<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Day 4<\/td>\nMachu Picchu \u2013 Cusco<\/td>\n——————————————————-<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

WHERE DOES THE LARES TREK START?<\/h2>\n

The Lares Trek<\/a> generally starts<\/strong> in the charming village of Pumahuanca,<\/strong> located at an altitude of 3,150 meters\/10,334 feet ASL.<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

\"Starting

Inkayni Peru Tours’ group starting the Lares Trek<\/p><\/div>\n

WHERE DOES THE LARES TREK END?<\/h2>\n

Almost all Lares Trek<\/a> 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<\/a>).<\/p>\n

\"lares-trek-4d\/3n-punto

Lares Trek 4D\/3N, ending in Lares<\/p><\/div>\n

However, there is the Lares Trek and Short Inca trail<\/a> which is the unique option culminating in Machu Picchu directly.<\/p>\n

\"Turistas

The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail ends in Machu Picchu<\/p><\/div>\n

HOW LONG IS THE LARES TREK?<\/h2>\n

The duration of the Lares Trek<\/strong> 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<\/a> is ideal for you. In just 4 days, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and immerse yourself in the rich local culture.<\/p>\n

On the other hand, if you are ready for a more extensive and challenging adventure adding some patches of Inca Trail<\/a>, the Lares Trek<\/a> + Short Inca Trail<\/a> 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!!<\/p>\n\n

Whether you choose the 4-day or the 5-day version<\/strong>, the Lares Trek will provide you with unforgettable moments and connect you with the true essence of the Peruvian Andes.<\/p>\n

\"Lares

No matter which version you choose, the Lares Trek is an unmissable experience within the Peruvian Andes.<\/p><\/div>\n

VERSIONS OF THE LARES TREK<\/h2>\n