Difference between Inca Trail and Lares Trek

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

The Inca Trail and the Lares Trek are both popular trekking routes in Peru that lead to the famous Machu Picchu, but they have key differences in terms of scenery, difficulty, cultural experiences, and overall trekking experience. Here’s a comparison of the two hikes in Peru:

1. Route and Scenery:

• Inca Trail:
  • The Inca Trail is the most famous and traditional trek to Machu Picchu. It follows an ancient Inca route that passes through stunning mountainous terrain, cloud forests, and impressive Incan ruins along the way.
  • You’ll see incredible archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna, Phuyupatamarca, and Intipata.
  • The trek includes the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which offers a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu at the end of the journey.
• Lares Trek:
  • The Lares Trek offers a more remote and less crowded experience. It goes through rural Andean villages and showcases stunning mountain landscapes, lakes, and hot springs.
  • The route is a mix of hiking through the Andean highlands, past traditional farming communities, and exploring Inca culture.
  • You won’t see as many archaeological sites, but the scenery is spectacular and gives you a closer connection to local culture.

2. Difficulty on the Trek:

• Inca Trail:
  • The Inca Trail is generally considered moderate to challenging. It has high altitudes, steep ascents and descents, and some narrow pathways.
  • The altitude can make it physically demanding, especially as you approach Dead Woman’s Pass (the highest point at 4,215 meters / 13,828 feet).
• Lares Trek:
  • The Lares Trek is typically considered easier and less strenuous compared to the Inca Trail, especially in terms of altitude and terrain.
  • The trek usually reaches lower altitudes than the Inca Trail, but it still provides a good challenge with steep ascents.

3. Cultural Experience in each Treks:

• Inca Trail:
  • While the Inca Trail is steeped in Incan history and culture, the trek itself is more focused on archaeology and ancient ruins. You’ll pass through various Incan sites and learn about the Incan Empire’s history.
  • The trail is quite popular and, during peak season, can feel crowded, which can detract a bit from the cultural immersion.
• Lares Trek:
  • The Lares Trek provides a more authentic cultural experience, as it passes through remote Andean villages where you can interact with locals who maintain traditional lifestyles, including farming and weaving.
  • It’s a great option if you’re interested in learning about indigenous Andean culture and seeing traditional practices firsthand.

4. Crowds on the Classic Inca Trail and Lares trek:

• Inca Trail:
  • Th Classic Inca Trail is a well-established route, and permits are limited, so it’s often booked up months in advance. This means the trail can get crowded, especially during peak seasons (May to September).
• Lares Hike:
  • The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is much less crowded, making it a great option if you’re looking for a more peaceful and tranquil experience in nature. You’ll encounter fewer tourists along the way.

5. Permit Requirement:

• Inca Trail:
  • You need to secure a permit to hike the Inca Trail, and there are a limited number of 500 permits available each day. They often sell out months in advance, especially in the peak season.
• Lares Trek:
  • The Lares Trek doesn’t require permits, which makes it easier to plan on shorter notice. It’s a more flexible option if you’re looking for a last-minute trekking experience.

6. Duration:

• Inca Trail:
  • The Inca Trail is typically a 4-day trek, though there are shorter and longer variations available. Most people opt for the traditional 4-day trek.
• Lares Trek:
  • The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu can be done in 3 to 4 days, depending on the chosen route. It’s a little shorter than the Inca Trail and can be customized for different levels of difficulty and duration.

7. Access to Machu Picchu:

• Inca Trail:
  • The Inca Trail ends at Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), providing a spectacular first view of Machu Picchu before descending to the site. This route allows you to enter Machu Picchu early in the morning, often before the crowds arrive.
• Lares Trek:
  • The Lares Trek doesn’t directly connect to Machu Picchu. At the end of the trek, you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes, and then catch a bus to Machu Picchu. While this adds some time to the journey, it still offers a great experience.

Summary of both Treks:

• Inca Trail: Iconic, challenging, lots of ruins, and the classic way to reach Machu Picchu. Can be crowded.
• Lares Trek: Less crowded, more cultural immersion, scenic and peaceful, but doesn’t include as many archaeological sites.

Both treks offer amazing experiences, so it really depends on what kind of adventure you’re looking