Peru’s iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is often considered the holy grail of treks in South America, but it’s not the only route leading to the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu. The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, a lesser-known alternative, has gained popularity in recent years among adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts.However, a common query among prospective trekkers is whether this scenic route ultimately leads to the Sun Gate, the legendary entrance to Machu Picchu.In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the Lares Trek and answer the question on everyone’s mind: does it indeed take you to the legendary Lost City of the Incas?
Does the Lares Trek Go to Machu Picchu?
The Lares Trek is a popular alternative to the Inca Trail, offering breathtaking scenery and a glimpse into traditional Andean culture. However, one common question among travelers is whether the Lares Trek actually goes to Machu Picchu.The short answer is no, the Lares Trek does not go directly to Machu Picchu. The trek ends in the town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, which is located at the foot of the mountain. From there, you can take a bus or hike up to the Sun Gate to enter Machu Picchu.
What’s the Route of the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek typically begins in the town of Lares, located about 3 hours north of Cusco. The trek takes you through picturesque Andean villages, rolling hills, and stunning mountain scenery. You’ll pass through the towns of Huacahuasi, Pumamarca, and Ollantaytambo before reaching Aguas Calientes.
Why Choose the Lares Trek Over the Inca Trail?
The Lares Trek offers several advantages over the Inca Trail. For one, it’s generally less crowded and more off-the-beaten-path. You’ll have a more authentic experience, interacting with local villagers and immersing yourself in traditional Andean culture.Additionally, the Lares Trek is considered slightly easier than the Inca Trail, with fewer steep inclines and shorter days.
What to Expect in Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
After completing the Lares Trek, you’ll arrive in Aguas Calientes, a bustling town with a variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels. From there, you can take a bus or hike up to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.Be sure to book your Machu Picchu tickets in advance, as they often sell out quickly.
Trek
Route
Duration
Lares Trek
Lares to Aguas Calientes
4-5 days
Inca Trail
Cusco to Machu Picchu
4-5 days
What is the top trek to Machu Picchu?
The best trek to Machu Picchu is a matter of personal preference, physical ability, and the type of experience you’re looking for. Here are some of the most popular options:
Inca Trail: The Classic Route
The Inca Trail is the most famous and popular trek to Machu Picchu, and for good reason. This 4-day, 26-mile trek follows the original Inca path, passing through cloud forests, tunnels, and stone pathways. You’ll see ancient ruins, scenic vistas, and experience the thrill of walking in the footsteps of the Incas.Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Scenic views: The Inca Trail offers breathtaking views of the Andean mountains and the Urubamba Valley.
Historical significance: You’ll see ancient ruins and pass through original Inca tunnels and pathways.
Challenging terrain: The trail includes steep inclines, uneven terrain, and high altitude, making it a challenging trek.
Salkantay Trek: The Alternative Route
The Salkantay Trek is a 5-day, 37-mile trek that’s considered one of the most beautiful and challenging treks to Machu Picchu. It takes you through diverse landscapes, including cloud forests, glaciers, and rugged mountains.This trek is ideal for those who want to avoid the crowds and experience a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Scenic diversity: The Salkantay Trek offers a wide range of landscapes, from cloud forests to glaciers.
Less crowded: This trek is less popular than the Inca Trail, making it a great option for those who want to avoid crowds.
Challenging terrain: The trek includes steep inclines, river crossings, and high altitude, making it a challenging trek.
Lares Trek: The Cultural Route
The Lares Trek is a 3-day, 22-mile trek that focuses on cultural immersion and community-based tourism. You’ll visit traditional Andean villages, learn about local customs, and experience the daily life of rural Peruvians.This trek is ideal for those who want to delve deeper into the local culture and avoid the crowds.Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Cultural immersion: The Lares Trek offers a unique opportunity to experience Andean culture and community-based tourism.
Easy terrain: The trek is relatively easy, with minimal altitude gain and gentle terrain.
Less scenic views: The Lares Trek doesn’t offer the same level of scenic views as the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek.
Is the Lares or Inca Trail better?
The Lares Trek and the Inca Trail are two of the most popular hiking routes to Machu Picchu, but they offer distinct experiences. While both trails lead to the Sun Gate, they differ in terms of scenery, difficulty, and cultural immersion.
Scenic Differences
The Lares Trek takes you through the Lares Valley, a remote and lesser-visited region of the Andes. You’ll hike through traditional Quechua communities, surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers, and picturesque lakes.The scenery is breathtaking, with a focus on high-altitude landscapes and traditional Andean villages. In contrast, the Inca Trail follows the original Inca path, winding through cloud forests, tunnels, and stone pathways.You’ll pass by ancient ruins, including Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, and enjoy stunning views of the Urubamba Valley.
Difficulty Levels
The Lares Trek is generally considered a more challenging hike due to its higher altitude and steeper inclines. You’ll reach altitudes of over 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) on the second day, and the hike can be quite strenuous.In contrast, the Inca Trail is a more gradual ascent, with a highest point of 4,215 meters (13,829 feet) at the Dead Woman’s Pass. However, both trails require a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization to the high altitude.
Cultural Immersion
The Lares Trek offers a more authentic cultural experience, as you’ll spend more time interacting with local Quechua communities and learning about their traditional way of life. You’ll have the opportunity to visit local markets, participate in traditional ceremonies, and stay in community-run lodges.The Inca Trail, on the other hand, focuses more on the ancient Inca ruins and the history of the Incas. You’ll still have some interaction with local communities, but it’s more limited compared to the Lares Trek.
Lares Trek: More challenging, higher altitude, and steeper inclines.
Inca Trail: More gradual ascent, but still requires good physical fitness.
Cultural Immersion: Lares Trek offers a more authentic cultural experience, while Inca Trail focuses on ancient Inca ruins.
How difficult is the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek, suitable for experienced hikers and adventure seekers. It’s a 3-4 day trek that covers a distance of approximately 33 miles (53 km) and reaches altitudes of up to 15,584 feet (4,750 meters) above sea level. The trek involves traversing rugged terrain, including steep inclines, rocky paths, and high-altitude landscapes.
Physical Demands
The Lares Trek demands a good level of physical fitness, as hikers need to be able to walk for several hours a day, carrying a backpack with essential gear and supplies. The trek involves:
Steep ascents and descents, which can be challenging, especially at high altitudes.
Long hiking days, with some days stretching up to 8 hours or more.
Carrying a backpack, which can weigh between 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs), depending on the amount of gear and supplies.
Weather Conditions
The Lares Trek takes place in the Andean highlands, where the weather can be unpredictable and harsh. Hikers need to be prepared for:
Rain and snow, which can make the terrain slippery and treacherous.
Extreme temperatures, ranging from freezing cold to scorching hot.
High winds, which can make it difficult to walk and set up camp.
Altitude Sickness
The Lares Trek reaches high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness in some individuals. Hikers need to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions, including:
Acclimatization, by spending a few days in Cusco or other high-altitude locations before embarking on the trek.
Monitoring body symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue, which can be signs of altitude sickness.
Drinking plenty of water, to stay hydrated and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
What is the hardest trek to Machu Picchu?
The hardest trek to Machu Picchu is the Salkantay Trek, a 5-day, 46-mile journey that takes you through the Andes mountains and cloud forests. This trek is considered the most challenging due to its steep inclines, rugged terrain, and high altitude.
Why is the Salkantay Trek so challenging?
The Salkantay Trek is a demanding hike that requires a good level of physical fitness. Here are some reasons why it’s considered the hardest trek to Machu Picchu:
Altitude sickness: The trek reaches altitudes of over 15,000 feet, which can cause altitude sickness in some hikers.
Steep inclines: The trek involves steep climbs and descents, which can be exhausting and require a good level of physical fitness.
Unpredictable weather: The Andes mountains are known for their unpredictable weather, which can make the trek more challenging.
What are the benefits of taking the Salkantay Trek?
Despite its challenges, the Salkantay Trek offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among hikers. Here are some of the benefits:
Breathtaking scenery: The trek takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Andes, including glaciers, lakes, and cloud forests.
Less crowded: The Salkantay Trek is less crowded than the Inca Trail, which means you’re more likely to have a peaceful and serene hiking experience.
Cultural immersion: The trek takes you through traditional Andean villages, where you can experience the local culture and hospitality.
How to prepare for the Salkantay Trek?
To ensure a successful and enjoyable hike, it’s essential to prepare properly for the Salkantay Trek. Here are some tips:
Acclimatize to the altitude: Spend a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude city to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
Train physically: Start training at least 2-3 months before the trek to build up your physical fitness.
Hire a guide or tour operator: Consider hiring a guide or tour operator who has experience with the Salkantay Trek and can provide valuable insights and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Lares Trek go directly to Machu Picchu?
The Lares Trek is an alternative route to the Inca Trail, but it does not go directly to Machu Picchu. Instead, it takes you through the stunning Lares Valley, where you’ll have the opportunity to experience traditional Andean culture and see breathtaking scenic views.The trek ends in the town of Ollantaytambo, from where you can take a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. From there, you can take a bus up to the Sun Gate and explore the ancient Inca city.
Can I still visit Machu Picchu after completing the Lares Trek?
Absolutely! While the Lares Trek doesn’t take you directly to Machu Picchu, you can still visit this incredible Wonder of the World after completing the trek. As mentioned earlier, you’ll end your trek in Ollantaytambo, from where you can take a train to Aguas Calientes.From there, you can take a bus up to the Sun Gate and explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. You can even spend an extra day or two in Aguas Calientes to relax and unwind before visiting the ancient Inca city.
How does the Lares Trek compare to the Inca Trail in terms of Machu Picchu access?
The Inca Trail is the most famous trek to Machu Picchu, and it takes you directly to the Sun Gate, the main entrance to the ancient Inca city. In contrast, the Lares Trek takes you through a different route, ending in Ollantaytambo, from where you need to take a train and bus to reach Machu Picchu.While both treks offer stunning views and unforgettable experiences, the Inca Trail provides more direct access to Machu Picchu. However, the Lares Trek offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience, with fewer tourists and a deeper immersion in Andean culture.
Is the Lares Trek a good alternative to the Inca Trail for Machu Picchu-bound travelers?
Yes, the Lares Trek is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a less crowded and more peaceful trek, allowing you to connect with nature and the local culture more deeply. Secondly, it offers stunning scenic views and a unique perspective on the Andean landscape.Finally, it’s a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of the Lares Valley and its traditional communities. While it doesn’t take you directly to Machu Picchu, it’s a wonderful way to experience the region’s culture and natural beauty before visiting the ancient Inca city.
