Experience an unforgettable adventure with Lares Treks in Peru, a peaceful route to explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of the Andes. escape the crowds and dive into pure beauty, traveling through chill valleys, old-school Andean villages, and epic mountains Ready to discover a hidden gem of Peru? Start your adventure now!
Unlike the packed trails of the usual routes, the Lares Treks give you some peace and a closer bond with the Andean vibe Do you wanna adventure and chill? this is the path less crowded, gives u the chance to see the awesome nature and cool culture of the Andes without all the noise from big crowds
Journey through lush valleys up to the highest mountain passes and lakes on an ancient route. We think this trip is a photographer and nature enthusiast dream. Options to photograph the Andes are infinite due to the diversity of fauna and flora as well as incredible landscapes, without any doubt. Whether you are a pro hiker or first time visitor. Seeking to uncover the Luncha Valley and its exclusive culture and spectacular beauty?
Discover our Salkantay camps and experience the ultimate trekking adventure in the heart of the Andes with eco-friendly campsites and stunning views.
Ready to discover the secret valleys of Cusco? Our Lares Treks Tours take you through mountains, lagoons, and Andean communities steeped in history and tradition. As local operators, we work alongside the valley’s families to offer you an authentic, cultural, and sustainable experience, with options from one day to several days of adventure.
The Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail are two fantastic alternatives to the traditional Inca Trail, offering breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. The Lares Trek takes you through beautiful valleys, remote villages, and high-altitude mountains, providing a unique glimpse into Andean life. The Short Inca Trail combines stunning natural beauty with ancient ruins, culminating at the Sun Gate for an unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. Both treks offer a more serene and less crowded experience.
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The Luxury Lares Trek to Machu Picchu combines adventure with comfort, offering a unique hiking experience through the scenic Andean highlands. Over 4 days, you’ll explore picturesque villages like Ipsaycocha, Patacancha, and Willoq, while staying in luxury glamping tents with plush bedding, private bathrooms, and gourmet meals. After the trek, enjoy a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll visit the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. This trek is perfect for those seeking a blend of nature, culture, and luxury.
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Walking the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is more than just a hike — it’s an immersion into the living heart of the Andes. As we make our way through quiet valleys and over dramatic mountain passes, we’re not just covering ground — we’re weaving through centuries of history, tradition, and untouched nature.
Each village we pass tells a story. Locals wrapped in colorful textiles, children waving from terraced hillsides, and the scent of woodsmoke lingering in the crisp mountain air — all of it forms part of the Lares experience. The trail is quiet, far from the crowds, but rich in authenticity.
From peaceful hot springs nestled between green hills to soaring peaks dusted with snow, the route constantly surprises. It’s a landscape shaped by time and belief, where every step feels sacred. And then, after days of effort and awe, there it is — Machu Picchu, rising from the mist like a whispered legend finally revealed.
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The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in 3 days is far more than a walk through mountains, it’s a deep journey into the soul of the Andes. Over the course of three unforgettable days, the trail leads through serene valleys and high mountain passes, where nature, culture, and history blend effortlessly.
On Day 1, the journey begins in Cusco, passing through Calca to the Lares Hot Springs, where warm waters offer a relaxing start to the trek. The trail then continues through Huacahuasi and Isaycocha, crossing quiet valleys and traditional villages before reaching Patacancha for the night.
Day 2 focuses on cultural connection, hiking from Patacancha to Willoq, where Andean traditions remain part of daily life. The route passes the archaeological site of Pumamarka and descends to Ollantaytambo, before traveling by train to Aguas Calientes.
On Day 3, the highlight of the trek awaits: Machu Picchu. Rising through the morning mist, the citadel offers a powerful and unforgettable ending before returning via Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
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Our lares trek tours have been recognized for sustainable travel practices and community-based tourism in the Andes. These distinctions reflect our commitment to responsible trekking and high service standards.
Tired of mass tourism? The Lares treks takes you to Peru, between mountains and authentic Andean communities. Contact us today and experience the Peru you truly want to see. Your story in the Andes starts here!
If you’re looking for an authentic and adventurous experience, Lares Trekking is the ideal option. We’ll tell you what you can enjoy:
hiking through the breathtaking snow-capped peaks of Mount Salkantay and the lush green valleys of Lares. You’ll pass pristine lagoons like Laguna de Huillca and Laguna de Chancachaca, where the serene waters reflect the towering mountains around them.
Visit traditional villages such as Patacancha, Wacahuasi, and Cuncani, where you can immerse yourself in the daily life of indigenous communities. These villages offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Andean people.
Enjoy the tranquility of the Lares Valley, away from the crowds of popular tourist spots. Trek through peaceful areas like Q'elloq'asa and Cuncani, where nature’s calm is the perfect escape.
The flora and fauna of the valley including alpacas, Andean condors, and vibrant wildflowers in this untouched natural paradise.
Travel the valleys of Lares alongside gentle llamas, following ancient Andean routes through peaceful mountain landscapes. This authentic experience connects you with nature and tradition in every step.
The best time to do the Lares Trek is during the dry season, from May to October, when the sunny weather offers the perfect temperature at high altitudes and will help you walk on a firmer, mud-free path.
The essence of the Andes with a glimpse of our Lares treks in Cusco, the best alternative cultural route for travelers seeking authentic Andean traditions, passing through remote villages, high mountain passes, and the natural hot springs of Lares.
Travelers consistently rate our lares trek tours highly for cultural authenticity, breathtaking scenery, and personalized attention. Many reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere and meaningful local interactions.
Planning your adventure on the Lares? Here, we’ve gathered the most common questions to help you prepare for an unforgettable experience.
A 2-4 day hike through remote Andean villages with authentic cultural experiences and stunning mountain scenery. Unlike the Inca Trail, you'll interact with local communities and encounter way fewer tourists. Most trips end at Machu Picchu.
Lares is a rural area located in the Sacred Valley about 3-4 hours northeast of Cusco, Peru. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional Andean villages, and natural hot springs.
Moderately challenging. You'll hike at high altitude (up to 4,600m), covering 10-15 km daily with steep climbs. The thin air is tough, and nights get cold. You need decent fitness and a few days in Cusco to acclimatize first.
Turquoise mountain lakes, snow-capped peaks, and traditional villages where life hasn't changed in centuries. You'll visit communities, soak in natural hot springs, camp under incredible starry skies, and meet locals living authentically. It's cold, challenging, and absolutely worth it.
You'll pass through authentic Quechua villages like Huacahuasi, Cuncani, Quiswarani, and Willoc. These are real communities where families farm, weave textiles, and speak Quechua.
Most people do the 3-day version (about 35 km), which balances hiking and culture nicely. There's a 2-day express option or a 4-day slower-paced version. Almost all include Machu Picchu at the end.
May through September offers dry weather and clear mountain views. June-August is peak season with more hikers but still uncrowded compared to other treks. November-March brings rain but greener landscapes and solitude. April and October are perfect middle-ground months.
First, ask yourself if you want a peaceful and relaxing trip through the valleys and lagoons. If the answer is yes, then the Lares Treks are worth it. It's ideal for those looking to experience traditional Andean culture and pristine landscapes away from the crowds. It's definitely a must-do in Peru!
The Lares Trek reaches altitudes of up to 4,600 meters (15,100 feet) at the highest pass, which is a challenging but rewarding part of the trek. It’s important to acclimatize to the altitude before starting, but don’t worry, there are plenty of beautiful stops along the way to help you adjust.
