LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU | The Compass Travel

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most enchanting and less-travelled hiking routes in the Andes of Peru, offering an authentic Andean experience that contrasts with the more popular Inca Trail. The Lares Trek is well known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and relative tranquillity.

The Lares Trek 4 Days provides an unforgettable journey through high altitudes, valleys, Andean villages, and expansive mountain vistas. In the last years this trek has grown in popularity but still remains a less crowded alternative to its more famous counterpart, providing a chance to immerse oneself in the heart of Peru’s natural and cultural wonder.

Lares Trek Overview

Hiking in the Andes mountains means a journey of a lifetime, and what is the best way through the Lares Trek, a multi-day hiking trail that takes adventurers through the stunning Andean highlands, connecting Cusco with the Sacred Valley and its communities. The trek typically lasts 3 to 4 days and can be tailored to a variety of difficulty levels, making it suitable for both seasoned hikers and those looking for a slightly gentler alternative to other treks in Cusco.

Hiking Distance along the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

The most popular route covers a distance of 33 to 45 kilometers (20 to 28 miles) with altitude ranging from 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) to 4,600 meters (15,090 feet) above sea level. This alternative trek usually ends with a visit to Machu Picchu on the final day, offering a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty, perfect for those who are looking for local traditions, culture, and history.

Why Choose the Lares Trek?

Machu Picchu is the highlight of travelers, and getting there through the best route The Inca Trail can be complicated due to the limited spots; however, nowadays we have some of the best alternative treks, which can be even better than the Inca Trail itself, and the Lares Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu is one of these, offering a more intimate experience in less crowded areas.

This trek combines some of the important features for hikers looking for a lifetime adventure in Peru. Connect with local children and their communities that have preserved traditional farming practices and crafts. You will also be surprised with the stunning landscapes, from lush valleys filled with vibrant green terraces to rugged mountain passes, snow-capped mountains, serene alpine lakes, and colourful wildflowers.

Highlights of the Lares Trek (4 Days)

While the entire Lares Trek is filled with memorable moments, there are several highlights that make the journey particularly special.

Lares Hot Spring: More of the tour operators start the hike in Lares town, where trekkers have the option to soak in the hot springs, a series of natural thermal baths that are said to have healing properties. Perfect way to start an incredible experience in the Andes Mountains.

Pampa de Misky: The most important highlight during the Lares Trek is the Pampa de Misky, a wide-open valley surrounded by towering snow peaks. This area is dotted with small villages and traditional farms where locals raise llamas, alpacas, and sheep.

High Mountain Passes: While you hike through incredible lakes, snow-peaks, and herds of alpacas, the mountain passes are the most challenging sections along the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. The most popular route goes through the Ipsaycocha pass, at an altitude of 4,450 meters (14,600 feet). From the top, hikers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The Kiswarani Village: This village, located at the base of the stunning pass, is one of the most picturesque spots along the trek. Kiswarani is home to the small community of Quechua-speaking people who still live in the traditional adobe homes and practice subsistence farming. Trekkers can explore the village, learn about the local customs, and interact with villagers.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas: The hike concludes with a visit to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, one of the most important cultural regions in Peru. Here hikers can explore some of the highlights, such as Ollantaytambo town and Inca site,

Best time to hike along the Lares Trek

The best time to hike the Lares Trek is during the dry season, which usually runs from May to October; during this period, the weather is typically sunny and clear, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10ºC to 20ºC (50ºF to 68ºF). However, temperatures can drop significantly at night. The rainy season is from November to March.