The Lares trek (known as the Lares trek) is a high-altitude trek in Cusco, Peru, which begins near the town of Lares, approximately 64 kilometers north of Cusco and 56 kilometers east of Machu Picchu, and which leads from two to three days. The Lares valley lies to the east of the Urubamba mountain range and crosses part of the Sacred Valley. To reach the starting point of the hike, a trip of approximately 5 hours by bus or by van from the town of Lares is required. The route of the Lares trek crosses the typical mountainous Andean areas of Peru.
The Lares valley is home to many weavers and farmers famous for their handmade fabrics. The natives of this region speak Quechua and Spanish and are always willing to give you an opportunity to knit something with your own hands.
The Lares trek is one of the main alternative routes to Machu Picchu, it is slightly shorter but higher than the Inca Trail, and can be accessed from Cusco, unlike the Inca Trail, no permits are required. walk the Lares trek.
You should bring along with you:
Your trek begins in the small village of Lares located at 70km from Cusco.On this first day, we will cover approximately 11 km while climbing we make our way towards the village of Chancachaca where we will our lunch. Continue hiking, along the way, we will see and learn about the native plants, flowers and birds that inhabit this region. This particular route of the Lare’s trek is much less traveled than other routes, which means we can enjoy the peace and tranquility of our surroundings without any distractions or disturbances. So few people visit the area that there is a good chance of seeing Viscachas (a rabbit-like Chinchilla), as well as some Andean Fox. Our campsite for the night is at Cuncani (3900 m /12700 ft). It is quite barren at this altitude and is not uncommon for it to snow up here during the dry season so gloves and a hat are recommended.
Today is the most spectacular day of the trek and a bit less strenuous than Day 1. You will cover approximately 16 km today. Throughout the day you will pass by snowcapped peaks and serene mountain lakes including Yanacocha or “Black Water” and will stop for lunch at Queuñapata.
As you walk, your guide will educate you on the local culture, introducing you to a few Quechua phrases so that you can interact with the locals as you pass through their village and admire their traditional bright red attire. You will be introduced to a local family and given an opportunity to give any gifts you’ve brought for them, as well as, the opportunity to purchase locally-made alpaca products the region is known for. Our campsite for tonight will be at Paccha.
DAY 3 : PACCHA – PUMAHUANCA – AGUAS CALIENTES
After breakfast, we will continue our hike for 4 hours approximately, along the way we will pass through Andean communities and see llamas, alpacas and sheep until we reach Pumahuanca, where we will our lunch.
Then you will be picked up by car for 30 minutes ride to the town of Ollantaytambo, afterwards board the train for the 1.5 hour ride to the delightful town of Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of your afternoon “at leisure” before joining the group for dinner optionally.
In an attempt to capture a beautiful sunrise over Machu Picchu, you will have an early breakfast and then catch one of the first buses to the park. Once you arrive in Machu Picchu, you will be given a 2-hour guided tour and then you will have some time to explore on your own. You may choose a 1.5 hour hike to the Sun Gate or a 1 hour hike to the Inca Bridge; these hikes are free to all.
Most of the train departures to Ollantaytambo are in the afternoon, please be aware of the time. After disembarking the train in Ollantaytambo, you will be transferred to your hotel in Cusco, by car.