Lares Trek, Peru Travel Guide
Discover the Lares Trek in Peru: A Serene Andean Adventure with Stunning Landscapes, Cultural Encounters, and a Gateway to Machu Picchu.
The Lares Trek is a lesser-known but equally stunning alternative to the famous Inca Trail in Peru. This trek takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andean mountains, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque valleys. Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, the Lares Trek allows you to experience the tranquility and untouched beauty of the Peruvian wilderness. One of the highlights of the Lares Trek is the opportunity to visit remote Andean villages. Here, you can witness the daily lives of indigenous Quechua people, who have preserved their traditional customs and attire. The trek also provides a chance to interact with local communities, offering a unique cultural immersion that is hard to find on more popular routes. Throughout the journey, trekkers can enjoy natural hot springs, ancient Inca ruins, and diverse wildlife. The trek typically ends in the town of Ollantaytambo, from where you can take a train to the iconic Machu Picchu. The combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and historical significance makes the Lares Trek an unforgettable adventure for any traveler.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lares Trek.
- Pack layers of clothing to adapt to the changing weather in the Andes.
- Bring cash for small purchases and tips, as ATMs are scarce in remote areas.
- Acclimatize in Cusco for a few days before starting the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
- Hire a local guide to enrich your experience with historical and cultural insights.
- Don't forget to bring a good pair of hiking boots for the rugged terrain.
- Consider visiting the Lares hot springs to relax your muscles after the trek.
Explore Lares Trek: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Best attractions in Lares Trek
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Best Attractions
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Centro Arqueológico de Chinchero
Explore the Incan legacy and vibrant culture at Centro Arqueológico de Chinchero, a breathtaking archaeological site in the heart of the Andes.
Sapantiana Aqueduct
Experience the architectural beauty and rich history of the Sapantiana Aqueduct, a unique treasure in the heart of Cusco.
Templo del sol
Experience the awe-inspiring Templo del Sol in Ollantaytambo, a remarkable historical landmark showcasing the brilliance of Inca architecture and culture.
Awana Kancha
Discover the rich traditions and stunning textiles of the Andes at Awana Kancha, where culture and wildlife come together in a vibrant experience.
Best landmarks in Lares Trek
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Best Landmarks
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Museo Inkariy
Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Andes at Museo Inkariy, a must-visit museum in Calca, Peru, showcasing art, history, and traditions.
Hot Springs - Lares
Discover the healing waters and stunning scenery of Lares Hot Springs, a serene escape in the heart of Peru's Andes.
Calle Loreto
Discover the historical charm of Calle Loreto in Cusco, Peru, where culture, architecture, and local life converge in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lares Trip
Discover Cusco with Lares Trip, your gateway to personalized travel experiences and unforgettable adventures in Peru's rich cultural landscape.
Best restaurants in Lares Trek
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Don Angel Inka Casona Restaurant
Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Don Angel Inka Casona Restaurant in Maras – where every dish tells a story.
Hacienda Puka Punku Restaurante
Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Hacienda Puka Punku Restaurante in Moccopata - A culinary haven showcasing local flavors.
Pakakuna Restaurante
Savor authentic Peruvian cuisine at Pakakuna Restaurante in Urubamba - a culinary journey through rich flavors and local traditions.
Hatuchay Restaurant Craft Beer & Peruvian Cuisine
Savor the essence of Peru at Hatuchay Restaurant with exquisite local cuisine and a selection of craft beers in vibrant Cusco.
Best bars in Lares Trek
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Best Bars
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LIMBUS RESTOBAR
Experience the taste of Cusco at LIMBUS RESTOBAR, where delicious Peruvian cuisine meets breathtaking views.
Molly's Irish Bar and Restaurant Cusco
Experience a lively Irish pub atmosphere in Cusco, featuring delicious food, live music, and a friendly ambiance perfect for relaxation.
Republica Del Pisco - Cusco
Discover the rich flavors of Peru at Republica Del Pisco in Cusco, where traditional cuisine meets the finest Pisco cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant
Discover the unique flavors of Peru at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant, where traditional dishes meet artisanal brews in a vibrant setting.
Best nightclubs in Lares Trek
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Ukukus Music Club - Bar
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Cusco at Ukukus Music Club, where live music and delicious fast food create unforgettable experiences.
Inka Team
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cusco at Inka Team, where dance, drinks, and a diverse crowd create unforgettable memories.
El Muki
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cusco at El Muki, a disco club that ignites the dance floor with local beats and international hits.
Black & Red
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Cusco at Black & Red, where music, dancing, and vibrant energy create an unforgettable experience.
Best shops in Lares Trek
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Best Shops
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Handicraft Center Cusco
Explore the vibrant world of Peruvian crafts at Handicraft Center Cusco, where every purchase supports local artisans and preserves cultural heritage.
Hot Springs - Lares
Discover the rejuvenating power of Hot Springs - Lares, a serene escape in the Andes with healing thermal waters and breathtaking mountain views.
ARTESANÍAS ASUNTA
Explore the heart of Peruvian craftsmanship at ARTESANÍAS ASUNTA, a hub for unique handicrafts and artisanal treasures in Cusco.
EKEKOS SAN BLAS -art & COLORS
Discover the vibrant world of Peruvian handicrafts at EKEKOS SAN BLAS, where art and culture come to life in every unique piece.
Explore Lares Trek on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Lares Trek, mapped for you.
Lares Trek Essentials
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The Lares Trek is located in the Sacred Valley region of Peru. The nearest international airport is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, which is approximately 64 kilometers away. From Cusco, you can take a bus or taxi to the town of Calca, which serves as the starting point for many Lares Trek routes. The journey from Cusco to Calca typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road.
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While in Cusco, you can find various transportation options such as taxis, buses, and private transfers to get to the starting point of the Lares Trek. Local buses and colectivos (shared minibuses) are the most economical options for traveling to Calca. For those who prefer more comfort, private taxis or arranged transfers can be booked through travel agencies. During the trek, transportation is generally on foot, but some tour operators may include mule or horse support for carrying luggage.
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The official currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops in Cusco, but cash is essential for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Cusco, so it is advisable to withdraw enough cash before heading to the Lares Trek. Be sure to carry small denominations as it can be difficult to change large bills in remote areas.
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The Lares Trek is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. While Cusco is relatively safe, some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates targeting tourists, so always stay in well-populated and well-lit areas. When trekking, always stay with your group and follow your guide's instructions.
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In case of an emergency, dial 105 for the police or 116 for medical emergencies in Peru. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. During the trek, your guide should have a first aid kit and knowledge of the nearest emergency facilities. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in Cusco where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring rain gear. Don't wear overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove hats. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenos días.' A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as quinoa soup and trout. Accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.
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To experience the Lares Trek like a local, try to engage with local Quechua communities along the route. Learn a few basic phrases in Quechua and Spanish to communicate better. Visit local markets in towns like Calca and Lares to buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Participate in traditional ceremonies if invited, and respect local customs and traditions. Don't miss soaking in the natural hot springs in Lares after a long day of trekking.
When is the best time to visit Lares Trek?
Useful Local Phrases for Lares Trek
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Lares Trek. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- Hello¡Hola!
[oh-lah] - Goodbye¡Adiós!
[ah-dee-ohs] - YesSí
[see] - NoNo
[noh] - Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
[por fah-vor/de nah-dah] - Thank youGracias
[grah-see-ahs] - Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
[pair-dohn/loh see-en-toh] - How are you?¿Cómo estás?
[koh-moh ehs-tahs] - Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
[bee-ehn. ee too] - Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
[ah-blahs een-glays] - I don't understandNo entiendo
[noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- Hello¡Hola!
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
[meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vor] - I don't eat meatNo como carne
[noh koh-moh kahr-neh] - Cheers!¡Salud!
[sah-lood] - I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
[meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, poor fah-vor]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
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- Help!¡Ayuda!
[ah-yoo-dah] - Go away!¡Vete!
[veh-teh] - Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
[yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah] - Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
[yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr] - I'm lostEstoy perdido
[ehs-toy pair-dee-doh] - I'm illEstoy enfermo
[ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
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- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
[meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr] - I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
[soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh] - How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
[kwan-toh kwehs-tah] - That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
[ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh] - Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
[pweh-deh bah-har ehl pree-see-oh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
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- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
[keh oh-rah ehs] - It's one o'clockEs la una
[ehs lah oo-nah] - Half past (10)Y media (10)
[ee meh-dee-ah (deez)] - MorningMañana
[mah-nyah-nah] - AfternoonTarde
[tahr-deh] - EveningNoche
[noh-cheh] - YesterdayAyer
[ah-yehr] - TodayHoy
[oy] - TomorrowMañana
[mah-nyah-nah] - 1Uno
[oo-noh] - 2Dos
[dohs] - 3Tres
[trehs] - 4Cuatro
[kwah-troh] - 5Cinco
[seen-koh] - 6Seis
[says] - 7Siete
[syeh-teh] - 8Ocho
[oh-choh] - 9Nueve
[nweh-veh] - 10Diez
[dyehs]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
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- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
[dohn-deh ehs-tah] - What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
[kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon] - Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
[pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)] - When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
[kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)] - A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
[oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
History of Lares Trek
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The Lares Trek, nestled in the Sacred Valley of Peru, has been inhabited for centuries by indigenous communities who have maintained their traditional ways of life. The trek itself traverses ancient paths that were used by the Inca civilization, serving as a vital network for communication and trade.
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The Inca Empire, which flourished from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 1530s, left an indelible mark on the Lares region. The Incas constructed complex agricultural terraces, irrigation systems, and stone-built structures along the trek, which are still visible today. These innovations allowed them to cultivate crops at high altitudes and sustain their communities.
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The Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in the 16th century brought significant changes to the Lares region. The invaders imposed their culture, language, and religion on the indigenous populations, while also exploiting the area's natural resources. Despite this, many indigenous traditions and languages, such as Quechua, have endured and are still practiced today.
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The communities along the Lares Trek have managed to preserve much of their indigenous culture and traditions. Visitors will encounter locals dressed in traditional Andean attire, weaving intricate textiles, and practicing age-old agricultural techniques. These cultural practices offer a unique glimpse into the rich heritage of the Andean people.
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Today, the Lares Trek is a popular alternative to the more crowded Inca Trail, attracting trekkers from around the globe. The route offers stunning landscapes, including high-altitude lakes, snow-capped mountains, and lush valleys. The trek also provides opportunities to visit remote villages and interact with local communities, allowing for a deeper understanding of their way of life.
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The Enchanting Lares Trek: Peru's Hidden Gem
The Lares Trek is a lesser-known but equally stunning alternative to the famous Inca Trail in Peru. This trek takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andean mountains, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque valleys. Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, the Lares Trek allows you to experience the tranquility and untouched beauty of the Peruvian wilderness. One of the highlights of the Lares Trek is the opportunity to visit remote Andean villages. Here, you can witness the daily lives of indigenous Quechua people, who have preserved their traditional customs and attire. The trek also provides a chance to interact with local communities, offering a unique cultural immersion that is hard to find on more popular routes. Throughout the journey, trekkers can enjoy natural hot springs, ancient Inca ruins, and diverse wildlife. The trek typically ends in the town of Ollantaytambo, from where you can take a train to the iconic Machu Picchu. The combination of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and historical significance makes the Lares Trek an unforgettable adventure for any traveler.