Are you thinking about visiting Machu Picchu in Peru? Are you talking about hiking to the Sun Gate? Even the harshest critics agree the trip is well worth it. However, they also agree the Inca Trail is often too crowded at times. As an alternative, they suggest such options as the Lares Trek.
The Lares Route
The Lares route begins at Lares, a small town some 35 miles east of Machu Picchu and 40 miles north of Cusco. It begins in the Lares Valley, just east of the Urubamba mountain range. Although an enjoyable route on its own, it is currently becoming the favorite alternative to the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. Hiking the trail to the Hidden City can take between 4 or 5 days.
Why Choose The Lares Trek?
Those who decide on the Lares Trek do so for any of several reasons. The most popular ones are:
* It does not require a permit: Unlike the Inca Trail, people do not have to purchase a permit to hike the Lares trail
* It is easier to Hike: Although there are several changes in altitude, the actual trail is deemed easier than the Classic Inca Trail is
* The Scenery: The views are tremendous. Although lacking in Incan ruins, it offers, instead, glacier-topped mountain ranges and lush valleys
* The Peace and Quiet: The Inca Trail can be quite busy, making it louder and heavily trod. For now, the Lares Trail offers peace and quiet with the opportunity to commune with nature and actually interact with locals
* The Culture: If you want to explore traditional indigenous culture in Peru, consider the Lares Trail. Many of the communities living here offer you a glimpse of what life has been like for more than 500 years
Such qualities combine to create an experience that makes Lares Trek more than an alternative route to Machu Picchu but a viable choice of its own.
