13 Reasons to Hike the Lares Trek

The remote Andean communities on the mountain sides of the Lares Valley have been isolated for thousands of years. This is why their customs, language and general way of life has gone relatively unchanged for centuries. They still speak the native language of the Incas, Quechua. In these villages the women hand weave vibrant multi colored clothing while the men are tasked with herding the alpacas and the llamas in the vast mountain landscape. During this hike you will have the privilege of interacting with these people. These people have a lot of wisdom and are willing to share what they know. Take this opportunity to learn customs and traditions that have survived the passage of time.

The Lares trek and the Inca trail are very different experiences. They both have a lot to offer and they both have their faults. In a nutshell, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu takes you on the same path the Inca walked on their journey to Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail will take you through various different Inca ruins and is a great way to better understand the history of the Inca Empire. The Lares trek on the other hand has no ruins but, instead has authentic Andean villages and beautiful landscapes. Essentially, on the Inca Trail you are looking into the past at an empire long gone, whereas on the Lares trek you will be seeing that history living, breathing, and flourishing.

There is a chance that you can hike the last section of the Inca Trail which is arguably the best part. Some Lares packages offer the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu included. On the Lares trek you will be visiting various different places including, Cusco, Huarani, Cancha Cancha, Quiwarani, Cuncani, Lares Hot Springs, and Ollantaytambo. If you want to hike the Short Inca Trail you can start at KM 104. With this option you can have you cake and eat it too!

Arguably the best part of the Lares Trek is how remote it is. You will be in places that most travelers have never even heard of. Because of this most of the time it’s just you and your party on the trail. You may have to share the trail with the friendly alpacas and llamas that call this place home or the occasional shepherd.

The locals in the area are extremely kind and are willing to show and teach you, their customs. Take this chance to learn some Quechua, the vast majority of the people only speak Quechua ask your guide for help and they will share with you what they know. The Andean people are also master weavers and have vibrant clothing of all shapes and sizes. Ask to learn this ancient technique maybe you’ll get good enough to set up your own shop in Cusco!

Stunning is the best way to describe the night sky on the Lares trek. Deep in the Andes there is no light pollution or normal pollution for that matter. Every night you’ll be blessed with a star filled night sky. Ask your guide about the Incan constellations which have helped guide the Andean agricultural practices for thousands of years. Take in the silence and tranquility of the pure unadulterated nature.

The Lares Hot springs are situated in the Lares Valley surrounded by two steep mountains and the roaring Trapiche River. The water is a brownish yellow due to the many natural healing minerals. There are different pools with different temperatures so you can pick the one that best suits you. A great place to soak your sore muscles and relax after hiking. The Lares hot springs staff always keep the pools and facilities clean, there are also lockers where you can safely put away your belongings.

Lares trek offers pure nature that is hard to find on some of the other treks. The hike will leave you speechless as you gaze upon pristine alpine lakes tucked away in picturesque mountain valleys with llamas and alpacas grazing on the surrounding hillsides. The Lares valley has some of the tallest mountains in the region. Eventually you will come across the great Mount Salkantay which is the tallest mountain in the Vilcabamba mountain range.

You will not be carrying all of your own belongings on the trail. Pack animals such as horses and mules are allowed on the Lares Trek unlike the Inca Trail where animals are not permitted. The pack animals will carry all camping cooking equipment and 7kgs of your personal belongings such as your mattress, clothing, and sleeping bag. However, you will have a small day bag with you during the trek with your essential personal items. When you book the hike with a reputable tour operator such as Inca Trail Hike Peru they will also provide an emergency horse in case someone on the hike needs assistance

It’s very important to always practice responsible habits when on any trail. In the remote region of the Lares Valley, it’s even more important. This region has gone been largely unaffected by the modern world and pollution that comes with it. Make sure you are following the “pack it in pack it out” philosophy. Show your appreciation and support of the local communities by purchasing some of their textiles or by donating clothing or gifts. Remember to make good memories, take only photos and leave only footprints.