10 Things to Know About Hiking the Lares Trek.

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If you are looking for a new adventure, the Lares Trek is a perfect fit. This popular trek goes through some of the most beautiful areas in the Peru. From the snow-capped Andes Mountains to the cloud forests, this trek has it all.

If you’re thinking about hiking this route, here are some great tips and tricks that will make your trek more enjoyable and easier.

The Lares Trek

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most popular treks. This is a popular alternative to the renowned Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

This trek features various different climates and landscapes. It is usually done over the course of about five days. But you can also do it in as little as two days if you are on a tight schedule.

The first day of the trek is called “Day of Preparation” where the hiker will start at Pumahuanca, a town about 2 hours away from Cusco. The second day takes you to the highest point of the Lares trek to Machu Picchu.

The third day is relatively easy with only an hour or so of walking and onward transfer to Aguas Calientes town.

The fourth day culminates with a guided tour of Machu Picchu and then a drive back to Cusco City along the Sacred Valley of the Incas .

What to Pack

It’s important to pack wisely for your trek. One of the most important things you need is a good pair of shoes. The Lares Trek goes through many different terrains and you might be hiking some long distances, so make sure your shoe choice is comfortable and appropriate for the terrain you’ll be covering. You should also bring some snacks and water.



The more prepared you are, the better your trek will go! Read on to learn more about packing for this popular trek to Machu Picchu.

What to Expect

There are a few things you should know before you start this trek. Some of the terrain you will be hiking is quite steep, so make sure that you are in good physical condition before starting this hike. You will also need to carry your own pack, which can weigh up to 30 pounds.

The Lares Trek is about 37 kilometers in total with an elevation change of about 4850 meters. The trek usually takes between five and eight hours to complete, depending on how fast you walk.

Once you start this adventure, there are some other things to consider before starting your journey.

Getting There

The Lares Trek is about a two hour drive from Cusco. It's important to be prepared for the drive.



You'll want to pack some clothes that are appropriate for hiking because there may not be any laundry facilities available along the way. Towels are also recommended because showers are not always accessible either.



If you are traveling by bus, take a few precautions as well! Check the weather before your trek so that your outfit is appropriate for what Mother Nature has in store. It's also important to pack plenty of snacks if it takes more than one day to hike the trail, just in case there aren't any healthy options at your destination.

Different Routes

There are a couple different routes that you can take to hike the Lares trek including the North Sacred Valley route (through Pisac) or going through Chinchero to Pumahuanca.

The first route is a shorter.

Short Hike

The Lares Trek is a moderate hike that can be completed in about three days. You will traverse through different landscapes and climates which makes it enjoyable and diverse.

Do you need to know the elevation changes? The Lares Trek has an elevation change of about 1,500 meters (4,921 feet). It is worth noting that this trek is not for beginners.



If you are thinking about taking this trek, here are some great tips and tricks you should know before you start:



- Pack plenty of food and water.

- Wear appropriate clothing and stay hydrated.

- Bring sturdy hiking boots for the rough terrain.

- Pack a medical kit and first aid kit just in case something happens.

Medium Length Hike

The Lares Trek is a medium length hike. It can be completed in 2-3 weeks, so it’s perfect for people who don’t have the time to do a long trek.

Trail Length: 37 Kilometers

Duration: 4 days

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Route Type: One way hike

Long Hike

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu can only be hiked on a guided tour with a local company.

Conclusion

The Lares Trek is a popular and beautiful hike in the Cordillera Blanca of Peru. It's a great way to see some of the best views in the area and see some of the most striking lakes and lagoons.



It's not a difficult hike and it takes about 4 days, but you should still come prepared with all the necessary gear and supplies. You'll want to pack enough food, water, warm clothes and supplies for the duration.



Before you hike the Lares Trek you must spend a few days in Cusco to acclimate.

The trek is popular and you'll find that there are many different routes to take.

It's important to note that this trek is in an alpine environment and trekking in this climate can be challenging.

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