Claire Dean
Claire Dean

Claire Dean

Travel in South America is a joy to behold. The rich variety of destinations, experiences, landscapes and geography fascinated me so much, that I chose to relocate here, over 20 years ago! The best thing I ever did! Allow me to share my knowledge and passion for Central and South America with you and help you plan your holiday of a lifetime!

The Packing List For The 4-Day Lares Trek

The Packing List For The 4-Day Lares Trek

4MINREAD

Written by:Claire Dean

Last Update: 2025-02-02

The stunning Lares trek is an alternative trek to the Inca trail that will take you to Machu Picchu. This 4-day trek involves 2 nights camping and a night in the hotel in Aguas Calientes. Experience Andean nature, archaeological sites, thermal baths, typical flora and fauna, and the majestic Andean range all around. Also, you will meet Cusco’s indigenous people, who still maintain most of their ancient Inca traditions and worldview. This Lares trek is available on a daily basis, throughout the year, and is the perfect option when there are no Inca trail permits and if you are trekking during the rainy season, but what should you pack? Find out more here about what to pack for the 4-day Lares trek.

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a lesser-visited alternative to the Inca Trail trek. It offers hikers a more cultural experience as well as spectacular Andean landscapes. The Lares trek passes through remote Andean hamlets, crosses high-altitude passes, and passes through picturesque valleys, to arrive at the iconic Machu Picchu.

Mountains on The Lares Trek

 

Clothing

  • Sun hat or cap (for daytime), woolen hat (for nights and cold elevations)
  • Sunglasses
  • Scarf
  • Gloves
  • T-shirts (pack polyester ones: they absorb sweat and are the fastest drying)
  • A warm jacket  (fleece)
  • Waterproof lightweight jacket, especially, if you’re trekking in the rainy season (November to March), or rain poncho.
  • Nylon pants (they are the most resistant and dry, ideal if reversible to shorts)
  • Mountaineering socks
  • Hiking boots (you must give them some use before, so your feet will be adapted, no sores)

Swimming Costume. The Lares trek package gives you the added opportunity of enjoying the relaxing hot springs both in Lares (day 1) and Aguas Calientes (day 4). In this case make sure you bring a swimsuit, towel, sandals, and comb.

 

The Lares trek lasts 3 to 4 days, covering approximately 33 kilometers (20.5 miles). It is super important to pack intelligently for the Lares Valley Trek to Machu Picchu. This is so that you are not carrying unnecessary items in your day pack, yet are still well prepared for the conditions ahead.

Trekking Trousers

 

Gear

  • Decent  Daypack
  • Camera!
  • Smartphone
  • Charger cables
  • Portable solar panels (not essential but super handy)
  • Money (limited opportunity to buy during the Lares trek but needed for tipping and Machu Picchu day as lunch is not included)
  • Passport (for Machu Picchu and the train)
The Lares trek passes through traditional Andean villages such as Huacahuasi and Patacancha. Here you can interact with local communities to learn about their weaving traditions and experience their way of life. The Lares Trek is considered the most cultural Trek in the Cusco region.

Larger Sized Daypack

 

Toiletries and Medicines

  • Baby wipes
  • Deodorant 
  • Dry shampoo
  • Suntan lotion (vital)
  • Insect repellent
  • Toilet paper
  • Band-Aids
  • Basic first aid kit with any personal medications

Llamas are an integral part of the Andean landscape. This is especially along trekking routes such as the Lares Trek. These gentle, fluffy animals are not only a common sight on the trek, but they also serve an important role in the lives of local Andean communities.

Llamas on The Lares Trek

 

Food and Drinks

  • Refillable water bottle
  • Coca leaves tea is a great idea for preventing altitude sickness, giving you extra energy, and sharing with the wonderful muleteers.
  • A good supply of snacks (you can choose among energy bars, chocolates, canned food, fruits, crackers, etc) Main meals are provided but there is nothing like enjoying our favorite snack after a hard day trekking!
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers the unique blend of cultural immersion, spectacular scenery, and high-altitude trekking trails. This makes it a wonderfully different way to hike to Machu Picchu. The Lares Trek is an excellent choice for those looking for a less crowded alternative to the trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Sunrise on The Lares Trek

 

If you need more information about what to pack for The Lares Trek or would like to book this 4-day hike, ask us here! 
 

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