Short Lares Trek: A Scenic Journey Off the Beaten Path

The Short Lares Trek is a 3-day trek in the Cusco region of Peru, offering a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail. It takes you through beautiful Andean landscapes, remote villages, and provides a deeper cultural experience with the local Quechua communities.

The trek begins in Lares, a town known for its natural hot springs, and usually ends in Ollantaytambo, where you can catch a train to Aguas Calientes for a visit to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll pass through valleys like Lares and Patacancha, with stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lakes, and wildlife.

You’ll also have the opportunity to see traditional weaving and farming practices, as well as ancient Inca ruins. The lares trek reaches altitudes over 4,400 meters, so proper acclimatization is important. The difficulty is moderate, with long days of hiking over rugged terrain, but it’s a rewarding experience for those looking to explore the less-visited side of Peru.

What to Expect

Lares Trek 3 Days On the Short Lares Trek, you can expect a combination of stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and physical challenge. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Physical Challenge: The trek is moderate, with a mix of uphill, downhill, and flat sections. The high altitude can make breathing more difficult, so acclimatization is essential before the trek.
Camping: You’ll camp in scenic locations such as Wacawasi and have simple but hearty meals provided by the trekking crew. Camping in remote areas offers a more authentic and peaceful experience than staying in towns.
Weather: Expect cool to cold weather, especially at higher altitudes (4,000+ meters). Days can be sunny, but temperatures can drop significantly at night, so pack accordingly with warm clothing and a good sleeping bag.
Cultural Interactions: Along the way, you’ll meet locals from small villages who still practice traditional ways of life, such as farming and weaving. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about Quechua culture.

Short Lares Trek: Day-by-Day Itinerary

Trek to Lares Day 1: Cusco to Lares – Trek to Wacawasi
The journey begins with a scenic 3-4 hour drive from Cusco to Lares, where you’ll have the chance to relax in the town’s natural hot springs. Afterward, the trek begins, leading you into the beautiful Lares Valley, which is dotted with traditional Andean villages and stunning mountain landscapes. You’ll hike through lush valleys, pass local farmers tending to their crops, and interact with the friendly Quechua people. The day ends with camping at Wacawasi, a peaceful village situated at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet), where you’ll enjoy a quiet night under the stars.

Day 2: Wacawasi to Ollantaytambo – Train to Aguas Calientes
Start the day with a climb to the high pass (4,400 meters/14,500 feet), where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and alpine lakes. After soaking in the vistas, descend into the Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo, a picturesque town known for its impressive Inca ruins and cobblestone streets. From Ollantaytambo, take the train to Aguas Calientes (1.5 hours), the gateway to Machu Picchu, where you’ll stay overnight.

Day 3: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes to Cusco
After an early breakfast, take a short bus ride up to Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the breathtaking Inca citadel with a guided tour. Discover the history, architecture, and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site while enjoying the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch, and then take the train back to Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, catch a bus back to Cusco, where you’ll arrive by the evening.

Includes:

Transport: Round-trip transport from Cusco to the trek start and return to Ollantaytambo or Aguas Calientes.
Meals: All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping bags, mats, and dining tent.
Guides: Experienced guide and local cultural insights.
Entrance Fees: Fees for archaeological sites and possibly Machu Picchu (if included).
First Aid: Basic first aid and emergency support.
Hot Springs: Access to Lares Hot Springs (optional).
Train Tickets: If continuing to Machu Picchu, the trek often includes train tickets from Ollantaytambo or Pugllay to Aguas Calientes.
Snacks: Energy snacks (like fruit, nuts, and granola bars) during the trek for additional fuel.
Horse or Mule Support: In some cases, horses or mules may be provided to help carry personal gear (especially if you want to bring more than the typical weight limit for porters).
Water: Purified drinking water throughout the trek (usually provided by the guide, but it’s wise to bring a refillable bottle).
Optional Extras: Some tours may offer additional activities, like a visit to local communities or special cultural experiences along the way.
Private Campsites: Some tours provide access to private campsites or exclusive areas away from other trekkers, offering a more intimate and peaceful experience.
Personalized Service: Smaller groups may receive more attention from the guide, ensuring a more tailored and enriching experience throughout the trek.

The Best Time to Do the Short Lares Trek

The best time to do the Lares Trek is during the dry season (April to October). This period offers clear skies, sunny days, and cooler nights, making trekking conditions ideal.

Peak months: June to August provide the clearest weather, though they can be busier with tourists.
Shoulder months: April, May, September, and October are great for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Rainy season: November to March brings frequent rain, making trails muddy and more challenging, so it’s better to avoid trekking during these months.

In general, the dry season offers the best conditions for the Lares Trek, with manageable temperatures and safer trails.

Why Choose this Trek?

The Lares Trek is ideal for those who want a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, cultural enthusiasts interested in interacting with local Andean communities, and nature lovers seeking stunning landscapes. It’s great for moderate hikers looking for a challenging but not overly strenuous trek, and for those with limited time, as it can be completed in 3 days. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for variety in terrain and a quieter, more remote experience in the Andes.

Short Lares Trek Difficulty

The Short Lares Trek is considered moderate in difficulty.

Distance: Typically 2 to 3 days, covering 25-33 km (15-20 miles) in total.
Altitude: The trek reaches altitudes up to 4,500 meters (14,764 feet), which can make it challenging due to the thinner air.
Terrain: Involves steep ascents and descents, but no technical climbing. Some parts can be rocky or muddy, especially after rain.
Fitness Level: Suitable for hikers with a moderate fitness level; it requires stamina but is manageable for most people who are used to walking or hiking.

It’s important to acclimatize to the altitude before the trek to avoid altitude sickness.

Altitude Sickness

the Altitude sickness can occur on the Short Lares Trek due to high elevations (up to 4,500 meters). Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. To prevent it, spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco, ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol. If symptoms appear, the best treatment is descending to a lower altitude. Medication like Diamox and pain relievers can help. Always listen to your body and seek medical help if symptoms worsen.

In conclusion, the Lares Trek 3 Days offers a fantastic alternative to the Inca Trail, combining natural beauty, cultural immersion, and moderate difficulty. It’s ideal for those who want to experience the Andes in a quieter, more peaceful setting, with opportunities to explore Andean villages, meet local communities, and enjoy stunning landscapes.

Overall, the Short Lares Trek is a memorable and rewarding experience, perfect for those seeking adventure, cultural insight, and breathtaking scenery without the crowds of more popular

routes.