Inca Trail vs Lares Trail: The Best Hikes in the Cusco

Is the Inca Trail or the Lares Trek better? It is hard to compare them because both share similarities and, at the same time, some contrasting features. Both include several kilometers of hiking up and down mountains through the majestic Andes mountain range. Of course, one is more famous and the other offers the hiker a more intimate and authentic feeling.

Doing the Inca Trail Trek is the most popular option, where travelers walk on stone paths that the Quechua people used centuries ago to connect their administrative centers; also, there are ancient constructions of the Inca civilization before reaching the citadel of Machu Picchu.

On the other hand, the Lares Trek is known as the "cultural route", as it allows direct contact with Quechua-speaking communities that keep their textile and farming traditions, far from the most crowded commercial routes. Therefore, if you are planning your vacations this 2026, understanding the logistical and landscape differences of each one is essential to choose the adventure that best fits your expectations.

About the legendary Inca Trail

This route is not simply a trekking path; it was part of the most ambitious road network in pre-Columbian America. The Qhapaq Ñan was a structure of more than 23,000 kilometers that integrated the Tahuantinsuyo, allowing the movement of messengers (chasquis), traders and the imperial army toward ceremonial sites.

Today, the Inca Trail is the absolute reference for treks Cusco. The start of this adventure is at the Piscacucho control post (the famous Km. 82), located about 3 hours by bus from the imperial city. Although much of the original road network disappeared over time, it is still possible to walk the 42 kilometers of the original path that leads directly to the citadel of Machu Picchu.

What makes it special?

Unlike other hikes in Cusco, this route allows you to see:

• Archaeological Remains: Visit exclusive complexes like Llactapata, Sayacmarca, and Winay Wayna, which can only be accessed by walking this path.
• Biological Diversity: Cross from the high Andean mountains to the cloud forest (jungle brow), observing an incredible variety of orchids and exotic birds.
• Triumphant Arrival: Be among the few privileged people who enter Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) at dawn on the fourth day.

Lares Trek: The Cultural Route

The Lares Trek is one of the most fascinating and authentic alternatives for your Cusco Peru trips. It is a two to three-day journey that begins near the picturesque town of Lares, located approximately 64 kilometers north of the city of Cusco and 56 kilometers east of the Machu Picchu citadel.

This route unfolds through the majestic Urubamba mountain range, crossing the eastern section of the Sacred Valley. To start this adventure, a trip of about 5 hours by bus or van is made from Cusco, ascending through landscapes that show the true essence of the Peruvian highlands.

Why choose Lares for your Cusco vacations?

Unlike the Inca Trail, the focus of this route is human and landscape contact:

• Meeting communities: You will pass through remote villages where Quechua is the main language and you will see the residents dedicated to herding alpacas and weaving fine textiles with ancient techniques.
• Lares Thermal Baths: The trip usually begins with a visit to the thermo-medicinal pools of the town, ideal for relaxing your muscles before starting the climb.
• Glacial Landscapes: You will cross mountain passes that exceed 4,400 masl, surrounded by turquoise lagoons and impressive snowy peaks.
• Flexibility: Since it does not require strict government permits (unlike the Inca Trail), it is an excellent option for those organizing their Cusco Peru trips with less time in advance.

Which trekking should I do?

If you are still debating between both routes, here are the key points that make the difference. No matter which one you choose, we assure you that the experience in the Andes will be unforgettable:

• Popularity vs. Exclusivity: There are many more people who have completed the hike on the Inca Trail and they usually talk about how impressive the historical path is. However, Lares has MUCH LESS tourist flow, offering a feeling of peace that is hard to find on the classic route.
• Culture vs. Archaeology: While the Inca Trail stands out for its constant and impressive ruins along the way, the Lares route makes up for the lack of archaeological remains with human contact, crossing through traditional towns.
• Landscapes: Lares is characterized by its spectacular views of glacial lakes and beautiful waterfalls, offering a wilder natural beauty.
• Distance and Time: For its part, Lares is a journey of 33 km (20.5 miles) that is completed in approximately 48 hours of actual hiking. While the Inca Trail is longer, with 44 km (27 miles), and lasts three full days of trekking plus a final stretch on the fourth day.
• Difficulty: The Inca Trail is technically harder due to its steep climbs and long descents over stone steps that can be tough on the knees.
• The Final Destination: No matter the route, both paths have the visit to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu as a final reward.

Comparison Chart: Inca Trail vs. Lares Trek

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