Shuffle on over! We’re about to dive headfirst into a wild ride of choices.
Lares Trek and Salkantay Trek are two of the most popular options for visitors. In this analysis, we will explore both routes to help you choose the best adventure option towards the jewel of the world heritage, Machu Picchu. The Incan city is one of Peru’s natural and historical wonders. Accessing this ancestral site is an unparalleled experience, and there are various routes for different tastes.
Differences:
| Salkantay Trek | Lares Trek |
| Difficulty. Salkantay Trek is more physically challenging, making it ideal for experienced hikers in good physical condition. Panoramic Views and Hiking. The route focuses more on the natural beauty and physical challenges of the journey. Throughout the Salkantay hike, you will need to focus on your physical condition. Landscapes. Salkantay Trek offers a greater diversity of landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to tropical jungles. Tourist Experience. Salkantay offers a more crowded experience compared to Lares Trek. Due to its popularity, it is more common to find many more groups of travelers. | Difficulty. Lares Trek is more accessible for those seeking a more relaxed and manageable hiking experience. Local Communities and Culture. Lares Trek stands out for its focus on culture and local communities, providing hikers with the opportunity to interact with local residents and learn about their way of life. Landscapes. Lush valleys and beautiful panoramic views of the Andes are the main features of Lares Trek. Tourist Experience. Lares Trek tends to be less crowded and quieter, an advantage for those seeking to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience in nature. |
References for both routes:
| Salkantay Trek | Lares Trek |
| Importance. Known for its impressive landscapes, Salkantay Trek is one of the most famous and challenging routes to reach Machu Picchu. Through majestic mountains, lush tropical jungles, and ancient Incan sites; this route offers an unforgettable adventure. Location. The Salkantay Mountain is located in the Vilcabamba range, the central Andes, 37.28 miles north of Cusco. Altitude. It can reach a maximum of 15 190 feet / 4632 meters above sea level. Time. 5 days, depending on the tour package. Ideal Season. From April to November. You can also hike in March and December, with a high probability of heavy rainfall. | Importance. A less traveled route compared to Salkantay is Lares Trek. This route offers a quieter and more secluded experience as it takes you through beautiful valleys, passing through picturesque Andean villages. It starts in the town of Lares and offers you the opportunity to interact with the local communities that live traditionally. Location. It is located in the eastern range of the Central Andes, in the province of Calca, in the district of Lares, Cusco. Altitude. It can reach a maximum of 15 583 feet / 4 750 meters above sea level. Time. It can be 5 days or less depending on the package you choose. Ideal Season. Lares Trek is available all year round. Even in the rainy season, this hike is manageable and quite. |
Characteristics:
| Salkantay Trek | Lares Trek |
| Varied Landscapes. The diversity of landscapes is one of the major attractions of Salkantay Trek. From imposing snow-capped mountains to lush tropical forests, this route offers a visually stimulating experience at every step of the way. Physical Challenge. You will face difficult terrain, high altitudes, and long hiking days. Salkantay Trek is known to be more physically challenging compared to Lares Trek. Views of the Snowcapped Peaks. You will have the opportunity to contemplate the majestic Salkantay snowcapped peak from various points along the way. This route offers views of one of the holiest mountains in the Andes. Direct Access to Machu Picchu. One of the advantages of Salkantay Trek is that it offers the option to reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, a traditional entrance to the lost Incan city. This route offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Machu Picchu. | Local Culture. You will have the opportunity to visit authentic communities and learn about the traditions, customs, and lifestyle of the local inhabitants because Lares Trek offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in Andean culture. Hot Springs. During the hike, you will have the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs of Lares, a relaxing experience after days of hiking. All surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Breathtaking Landscapes. Lares Trek offers spectacular views of the Andean peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush valleys, providing countless opportunities for stunning photographs. Brace yourself for mind-bending vistas of those mammoth Andean peaks. Accessing Machu Picchu. The journey commences with a train ride from Ollantaytambo. As you embark, relish the tranquility and stunning scenery from the train, embracing it as a momentary pause to absorb the beauty of the Andes before immersing yourself in the enchantment of Machu Picchu. |
Destinations along the route:
| Salkantay Trek | Lares Trek |
| You will have the opportunity to contemplate the highest mountains in the Cusco region and beautiful glacial lakes. You will also get to know the cloud forest where the climate is warm and there is lush vegetation. You will be able to visit coffee farms and see banana and avocado trees. Important Points and Landscapes: Humantay Lagoon Salkantay Mountain Cloud Forest Coffee farms Llaqtapata Mandor Machu Picchu | Lares is not just a spot on the map because is located high in the mountains, which is why during the hike you will see incredible views of the crystalline glacial lakes. You will visit local schools and walk alongside llamas and alpacas. You will also visit the Sacred Valley and travel by train to the town of Machu Picchu. Important Points and Landscapes: Lares, remote local village Local schools Views of various Andean lakes Hike with llamas and alpacas Sacred Valley Maras Salt Mines Ollantaytambo Machu Picchu |
In the end, it all boils down to one question: What are you seeking from your Machu Picchu escapade? Are you chasing cultural immersion, craving a leisurely stroll through history’s footsteps? Or perhaps you hunger for the thrill of a physical challenge, a dance with danger amidst nature’s grandeur? The choice between Lares Trek and Salkantay Trek isn’t just about maps and trails – it’s about tapping into your inner adventurer and embracing the journey that speaks to your soul. So lace up those boots, strap on that backpack, and get ready for a wild ride through the heart of the Peruvian Andes.
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