The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most authentic and less crowded routes to reach the Inca Citadel. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, this trek takes you through living Andean communities, breathtaking mountain scenery, and relaxing natural hot springs.
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Why Choose the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Lares route to Machu Picchu is perfect for travelers who want a more cultural and personal experience. No special permits are required, and you can hike at your own pace.
Highlights:
- Local community encounters: Visit villages like Huacahuasi and Patacancha, where people still speak Quechua and preserve their ancestral traditions.
- Lares Hot Springs: Start or end your journey with a soak in natural thermal baths surrounded by the Andes.
- Stunning landscapes: Snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and valleys filled with llamas and alpacas await.
Typical Lares Machu Picchu Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Lares – Huacahuasi
Enjoy the Lares hot springs before hiking to Huacahuasi, where you’ll stay overnight in a local homestay or campsite.
Day 2: Huacahuasi – Ipsaycocha
Climb over the Ipsay Pass (4,450 m) with panoramic mountain views, then camp near the serene Ipsaycocha Lagoon.
Day 3: Ipsaycocha – Ollantaytambo
Walk through fertile valleys and small villages before reaching Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes.
Day 4: Machu Picchu
End your trek with an unforgettable visit to the ancient Inca city.
The Hot Springs: A Natural Reward
The Lares hot springs are a highlight of this trek — natural pools with mineral-rich waters that help relax muscles and restore energy.
Living Andean Culture
Communities such as Cuncani and Huacahuasi keep alive the art of weaving alpaca wool and traditional farming. This cultural exchange is a defining part of the Lares route to Machu Picchu.
Practical Tips
- Best season: April to October
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Altitude acclimatization: Spend 2 days in Cusco before the trek
- Guide: Hiring a local guide supports community tourism
Conclusion
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is more than just a trail — it’s an immersion into Andean life and landscapes. Perfect for those seeking a meaningful and less touristy experience.
