How Long is the Lares Trek?

Approximately 33 km

Lares Trail Altitude

The Lares Trek is a high-altitude trek that reaches a maximum elevation of around 4,600 meters (15,092 feet) above sea level. The trek starts in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, which has an elevation of around 2,800 meters (9,186 feet), and it climbs gradually through the Andean mountains, passing through several mountain passes that reach elevations of over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet).

Lares Trek Highest point

The highest point on the trek is the Pachacutec Pass, which stands at an altitude of around 4,600 meters (15,092 feet) above sea level.

Lares Trek Difficulty

The Lares Trek is considered to be a moderate to challenging trek, with several steep ascents and descents, as well as high altitude sections.

It’s important to note that the difficulty of the trek can vary depending on factors such as the route taken, the pace of the group, and individual fitness levels and acclimatization to altitude. To prepare for the trek, it’s recommended to engage in regular physical exercise and practice hiking at high altitudes. It’s also important to stay hydrated and well-fed during the trek, and to follow the guidance of experienced guides and trekking companies.

Overall, while the Lares Trek can be challenging, it offers stunning views of the Andean mountains and the opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of local communities.

Lares Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco to Cancha Cancha You will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and driven to the town of Calca, where you’ll stop for breakfast. Then, you’ll continue on to the trailhead at Huaran, where you’ll begin the trek. The first day is the longest and most challenging, as you’ll hike uphill through the stunning Sacred Valley, past traditional Andean villages, and over a high mountain pass before descending to the village of Cancha Cancha where you’ll camp for the night.

• Distance: 12 kilometers (7.5 miles)
• Altitude: 3,800 meters (12,467 feet)

Day 2: Cancha Cancha to Quishuarani After breakfast, you’ll continue hiking uphill to cross another high mountain pass, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. You’ll then descend to the village of Quishuarani, where you’ll camp for the night. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their traditional way of life.

• Distance: 8 kilometers (5 miles)
• Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)

Day 3: Quishuarani to Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu After breakfast, you’ll hike downhill through the beautiful countryside, past the Incan site of Huchuy Qosqo, and into the town of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll catch the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. You’ll spend the afternoon exploring the breathtaking Machu Picchu before taking the train back to Cusco in the evening.

• Distance: 13 kilometers (8 miles)
• Altitude: Descending from 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) to 2,430 meters (7,972 feet) at Machu Picchu

Lares trek to Machu Picchu Video

Travel Details

What Included?

• Cusco hotel transfer: transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the starting point of the trek
• Professional guides: experienced guides who will lead the trek and provide information about the sites and culture
• Porters & horsemen: support staff who will carry equipment, set up camp, and take care of the horses
• Emergency horse: a horse that can be used in case of an emergency, such as injury or illness
• Accommodation: tents or other camping gear that will be provided for overnight stays
• All trekking and camping equipment: gear necessary for the trek, such as backpacks, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, etc.
• Food: meals and snacks that will be provided during the trek
• Water: clean and safe drinking water for the duration of the trek
• Oxygen: portable oxygen canisters that can be used in case of altitude sickness or breathing difficulties
• First aid kit: a kit containing basic medical supplies for emergencies
• Air mattress: a lightweight and portable mattress for added comfort while sleeping
• Train to Aguas Calientes and back: transportation by train to the town of Aguas Calientes, which is the starting point for visiting Machu Picchu.

Not Included

• Breakfast on the first morning of the trek: the first meal provided before starting the trek
• Lunch and dinner on the last day: the last meals provided before the trek ends
• Any private expenses: personal expenses that are not included in the package, such as souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, or additional activities not included in the itinerary.

What to pack for Lares Trek

• Original passport: the official document that proves your identity and citizenship
• Travel insurance: a policy that provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events that may occur during the trip
• Personal hygiene items: toiletries and personal care products, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, etc.
• Extra shoes and clothes: additional footwear and clothing items for different weather conditions or for changing into after the trek
• Peruvian soles in cash: the local currency in Peru, which you should bring in cash to pay for any expenses not included in the package
• Sleeping bag: a lightweight and portable bag that you can use to sleep in during the trek
• Rain poncho (during the rainy season): a waterproof poncho that can protect you and your belongings from getting wet during periods of rain.

Lares Trek Price

The price for Lares Trek is: $590

Additional Info

Lares Trek Weather

The Lares Trek in Peru is located in the Andean highlands and its weather can vary greatly depending on the time of year. Here’s a general overview of the weather conditions for each month:

• Lares Trek in January: This is the rainy season in the Andes, with frequent rainfall and high humidity. Temperatures during the day can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and can drop to below freezing at night.
• Lares Trek in February: Similar to January, this month is also characterized by frequent rain and high humidity. Temperatures can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) during the day, and can drop below freezing at night.
• Lares Trek in March: This is the end of the rainy season, with occasional rainfall and lower humidity. Temperatures during the day can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and can drop below freezing at night.
• Lares Trek in April: This is the beginning of the dry season, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Daytime temperatures can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and nighttime temperatures can drop to around freezing.
• Lares Trek in May: This is the start of the high tourist season, with warm and dry weather. Temperatures during the day can range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), and nighttime temperatures can drop to around freezing.
• Lares Trek in June: This is the peak tourist season, with warm and sunny days and cool nights. Daytime temperatures can range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), and nighttime temperatures can drop to around freezing.
• Lares Trek in July: This is also a peak tourist season, with warm and sunny weather during the day and cold nights. Temperatures can range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) during the day, and can drop below freezing at night.
• Lares Trek in August: This month is similar to July, with warm and sunny weather during the day and cold nights. Daytime temperatures can range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), and nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
• Lares Trek in September: This is the end of the high tourist season, with dry and mild weather. Temperatures during the day can range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), and nighttime temperatures can drop to around freezing.
• Lares Trek in October: This is the beginning of the shoulder season, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Daytime temperatures can range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), and nighttime temperatures can drop to around freezing.
• Lares Trek in November: This month is similar to October, with clear skies and mild temperatures. Temperatures during the day can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and nighttime temperatures can drop to around freezing.
• Lares Trek in December: This month is characterized by occasional rainfall and high humidity. Daytime temperatures can range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), and can drop to below freezing at night.

Lares Trek Review

Lares Trek Blog

Mountain Lodges of Peru Lares Trek

The Mountain Lodges of Peru Lares Trek typically takes seven days to complete, covering a total distance of around 50 kilometers (31 miles). The trek starts in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and passes through remote Andean villages and stunning mountain landscapes, reaching a maximum elevation of around 4,600 meters (15,092 feet) above sea level at the Pachacutec Pass.

The Mountain Lodges of Peru Lares Trek is considered to be a moderate trek, with several steep ascents and descents, as well as high-altitude sections. It’s important to note that the trek is still physically demanding and requires a certain level of fitness and acclimatization to altitude.

Overall, the Mountain Lodges of Peru Lares Trek offers a unique and luxurious way to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Andean region of Peru.

Lares Trek without Guide

Technically, it is possible to do the Lares Trek without a guide, but it’s not recommended for most people. The Lares Trek is a high-altitude trek that requires a certain level of fitness and experience with hiking at high altitudes. Additionally, the trail can be difficult to navigate, especially for those who are not familiar with the area.

Having a guide on the Lares Trek provides several benefits, including:

• Safety: A guide can help ensure your safety on the trail, especially if you encounter any unexpected weather conditions or health issues related to high altitude.
• Navigation: A guide can help navigate the trail and ensure that you stay on the right path. This can be especially helpful if you’re not familiar with the area.
• Cultural experience: A guide can provide insights into the local culture and history of the area, which can enhance your overall experience of the trek.
• Logistics: A guide can assist with logistics such as transportation, food, and accommodations, which can help make your trek more comfortable and stress-free.

That being said, if you have extensive hiking experience at high altitudes and are comfortable with navigation and the potential risks, you can consider doing the Lares Trek without a guide. However, it’s still recommended to have a support team or trekking partner for safety and logistical reasons.

FAQ

How high is the Lares Trek?

The average altitude on the Lares Trek is around 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) above sea level.