Climate and Weather Preparation
Understanding the Climate
The Lares Trek route passes through several distinct climate zones as you ascend and descend. At lower elevations in the Sacred Valley (around 2,800 meters), temperatures are relatively mild and can reach approximately 20 degrees Celsius on sunny days. As you ascend to higher elevations (3,500 to 4,700 meters), temperatures drop significantly, particularly at night.
On the highest elevation passes, nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing, potentially reaching -5 to -10 degrees Celsius. The 2nd campsite at Cancha Cancha, located at 3,700 meters elevation, experiences temperatures around 3 degrees Celsius at night. These cold temperatures make proper insulation critical for your sleeping comfort and health.
Rainfall occurs throughout the year in the Cusco region, but the wettest months are November through March. The drier season runs from April to October, though isolated rain showers can occur even during the dry season. Weather conditions are highly variable and can change rapidly, particularly at higher elevations where wind patterns influence precipitation and cloud cover.
Clothing Strategy for Different Seasons
May to September (Dry Season):
During these months, rainfall is minimal, and days are generally sunny. However, temperature swings between day and night are significant. During the day at high elevations, temperatures may reach 10-15 degrees Celsius with strong sun exposure. At night, temperatures drop to near or below freezing.
Pack: light insulating layers, fleece jacket, warm down jacket, rain jacket (for occasional showers), warm hat, gloves, and sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat).
October to April (Wet Season):
During these months, rainfall is more frequent and heavy. Afternoon thunderstorms are common at high elevations. Morning hours are often clearer before afternoon clouds develop. Temperature variations are less extreme than during the dry season, but temperatures still drop significantly at night.
Pack: all items listed above plus additional rain protection such as waterproof pants or heavy-duty rain jacket. Bring extra dry clothing layers, as damp conditions make staying warm more difficult.
Best Trekking Months:
May to September represents the optimal period for trekking, with more predictable weather and clearer visibility. March to April and October can also be suitable, though some rain should be expected. November to February experiences the highest rainfall and is the least desirable trekking period.
Local Culture and People
Meeting Local Communities
The Lares Valley contains some of the most isolated and culturally traditional communities in the Cusco region. Residents of these communities maintain ancestral lifestyles and continue to speak Quechua, the ancient Inca language. Many residents have had limited contact with outsiders, and some may appear shy or reserved when first encountering trekkers.
Respectful interaction is essential. Greetings should be polite and low-key. Ask permission before photographing residents or children, as some people prefer not to be photographed. Small gifts such as toys, useful clothing, notebooks, or fruit are appreciated but not expected. Avoid giving money directly to children or adults, as this can create dependency or expectations that undermine community dignity.
Cultural Sensitivity
Respect local customs and religious practices. The community members maintain strong connections to the land and practice traditional spiritual beliefs. Do not remove plants, stones, or other items from sacred locations. Do not touch or disturb any structures or artifacts within Inca sites.
Learn basic Quechua phrases to show respect and interest in the local language. Your guide can teach you greetings and simple expressions. Even attempting to speak the local language demonstrates respect and often creates positive interactions.
Local Economy and Fair Trade
The communities you visit rely on agriculture, animal herding, and increasingly, tourism for their livelihoods. Purchase handicrafts and products directly from local artisans when possible, ensuring they receive the full benefit of your purchase rather than middlemen. Fair prices for handicrafts support local economies and encourage cultural preservation.
Food and Eating Habits
Local Cuisine and Ingredients
The traditional Andean diet centers on potatoes, grains like quinoa and maize, beans, and high-altitude vegetables. Animal proteins include alpaca, guinea pig (cuy), chicken, and occasionally llama. These ingredients have been cultivated and consumed in the region for centuries and are adapted to high-altitude growing conditions.
Meals prepared by your professional chef utilize these local, naturally-sourced ingredients. The chef prepares authentic Andean cuisine that reflects traditional recipes and food preparation methods. You can expect meals that are hearty, nutritious, and prepared with attention to dietary balance.
International Cuisine Options
If you prefer international cuisine options beyond traditional Andean meals, these can be arranged through consultation with MACHU PICCHU TEAM’s reservation team. International meals may be prepared differently or sourced from outside the immediate region, potentially resulting in additional costs. Discuss international cuisine preferences with your guide or reservation staff at the time of your booking or during your trek briefing.
Eating Schedule and Meal Frequency
Your trekking days follow a consistent eating schedule: breakfast in the morning, lunch in midday, afternoon tea (a light snack and beverages), and dinner in the evening. This frequent eating schedule maintains energy levels for physical exertion and supports altitude acclimatization. Between these scheduled meals, you consume personal snacks from your day backpack.
Breakfast is typically hearty and includes grains, proteins, and warm beverages. Lunch provides substantial nutrition with entrees, vegetables, and fruits. Afternoon tea offers light snacks, tea, coffee, and hot chocolate. Dinner is a substantial meal similar to lunch. Food portions are adequate for the energy demands of trekking at high altitude.
Special Dietary Requests
If you follow a specific diet (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.), inform MACHU PICCHU TEAM at the time of booking so your professional chef can prepare appropriate meals. Your chef can typically accommodate most dietary requirements using local ingredients. Discuss any dietary needs with your guide at your pre-trek briefing to ensure proper meal planning.
Hygienic Food Preparation
All water provided for drinking is boiled water, ensuring water safety. Food is prepared in a dedicated cooking tent using clean equipment and utensils. Your chef follows food safety practices including hand washing, equipment sanitization, and proper food storage. If you have concerns about food safety, discuss these with your guide.
Affordable Dining and Budget Options
Eating in Cusco
Cusco offers a wide range of dining options at various price points. Casual restaurants (comedores) offer authentic Peruvian cuisine at very affordable prices. A typical meal at a comedor costs 15-25 Peruvian soles (approximately $4-7 USD). These casual eateries serve local diners and offer genuine food at budget prices.
Markets such as Calca market (visited on Day 1 of your trek) also have food stalls offering affordable meals and snacks. Local markets provide opportunities to purchase fresh produce, prepared foods, and snacks.
Higher-end restaurants in Cusco cater to tourists and charge higher prices (40-100+ Peruvian soles per meal or $12-30+ USD). These restaurants often offer international cuisine or upscale Peruvian food.
Eating in Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu Inca City, offers numerous dining options at various prices. Tourist restaurants near the main plaza charge higher prices, while restaurants away from tourist areas offer lower-cost meals. Local comedores and small cafes provide affordable authentic meals.
Meals in tourist restaurants typically cost 30-80 Peruvian soles ($9-24 USD), while local establishments charge 15-35 Peruvian soles ($4-10 USD).
Optional Activities Without Cost
Free Activities in Cusco
- Walking the Historic Center: Cusco’s historic center includes architectural and cultural sites visible from public streets without paid admission. Wander the plazas, observe colonial architecture, and experience the urban layout of this historical city at no cost.
- Market Observation: Visit local markets like Calca market (included in your Day 1 itinerary) to observe daily life, purchase goods, and experience local commerce. Market entry is free; costs apply only if you purchase items.
- Church and Convent Exteriors: Many colonial churches and convents have impressive exteriors visible from public streets. Photography of external architecture is generally permitted without fees.
- Plazas and Public Spaces: Cusco’s main plazas (Plaza de Armas, Plaza San Francisco) are public spaces where you can sit, observe, and experience local culture without fees.
Free Activities in Aguas Calientes
- Town Exploration: Walking through Aguas Calientes town provides opportunities to observe how tourism shapes a mountain community. Explore shops, restaurants, and local streets without specific costs unless you purchase items.
- River Walking: Walking along the Urubamba River near Aguas Calientes provides scenic views and outdoor time without fees.
Free Activities Included in Your Trek
- Sun Gate Walk: Walking to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) on the 4th day of your trek does not require a separate entrance fee beyond your Machu Picchu admission (already included). This walk provides alternative perspectives of Machu Picchu Inca City.
- Community Interaction: Visiting Quiswarani and Cancha Cancha communities and meeting local residents does not involve entrance fees. Your guide facilitates these interactions as part of your trek experience.
Physical Effort and Health Requirements
Understanding the Physical Demands
The Luxury Lares Trek is classified as challenging due to several factors: the 39-kilometer total distance, 4 consecutive days of hiking, maximum elevation of 4,700 meters, and steep ascending and descending terrain. Most trekkers walk between 4 to 8 hours per day on trekking days. The combination of distance, elevation, and duration requires physical endurance and cardiovascular fitness.
However, the trek is not an extreme mountaineering expedition. Trekkers of varying abilities complete the trek successfully each year. Your pace is determined by your own capability, and your guide adjusts the group’s pace to accommodate all participants comfortably.
Fitness Preparation Timeline
Begin preparing for your trek 2 to 3 months before your trek date if possible. This preparation period allows your body to build endurance and cardiovascular fitness.
6-8 Weeks Before Your Trek:
Start walking 5 kilometers (3 miles) 2 to 3 times per week. Gradually increase the distance by 1 to 2 kilometers per week. Include some uphill walking if possible. Continue this pattern for 4 to 6 weeks.
4-6 Weeks Before Your Trek:
Increase walking distance to 8 to 12 kilometers (5 to 7.5 miles) per hiking session. Include 1 to 2 sessions per week where you walk the entire distance without stopping. Begin walking with a weighted day pack (starting with 5 kilograms of weight) to simulate trek conditions.
2-4 Weeks Before Your Trek:
Complete at least 1 to 2 long walk sessions of 15 kilometers (9 miles) or more per week. Wear your hiking boots and backpack to condition your feet and practice your hiking system. Walk on varied terrain including hills and stairs if possible.
1-2 Weeks Before Your Trek:
Reduce physical training intensity but maintain some moderate activity. Focus on rest and recovery rather than pushing maximum efforts. Ensure you are well-rested and hydrated heading into your trek.
Cardiovascular and Leg Strength
Walking provides excellent cardiovascular training for trekking. Supplement walking with other cardiovascular exercises such as cycling, swimming, or stair climbing if available. These alternatives develop the cardiovascular system while using different muscle groups than walking.
Leg strengthening exercises such as squats, lunges, and stair climbing prepare your leg muscles for sustained walking and descending. Strong legs reduce knee and ankle strain on descents.
Altitude Acclimatization
Altitude acclimatization cannot be replicated at lower elevations. You must spend time at high elevation to allow your body to adjust to reduced oxygen availability. Arrive in Cusco (at 3,350 meters elevation) at least 2 to 3 days before your trek begins. These days in Cusco allow your body to acclimatize before you begin more strenuous trekking.
During your acclimatization days in Cusco, engage in light activity such as walking around the city at a relaxed pace. Avoid intense exercise during these initial days. Eat small, frequent meals, drink plenty of water, and rest adequately. These activities support the acclimatization process.
Altitude Sickness Symptoms and Management
Common symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms typically appear 6 to 12 hours after arriving at high elevation.
Management Strategies:
- Drink plenty of water to maintain hydration (at least 2 liters daily, more if possible)
- Eat regular meals even if not feeling hungry
- Rest adequately and avoid strenuous activity during acclimatization days
- Consume coca tea (available in Cusco and provided during your trek)
- Move slowly and deliberately to conserve oxygen
- Inform your guide if you experience symptoms; your guide can provide oxygen and support
Altitude sickness typically resolves within 1 to 2 days as your body acclimates. Descent to lower elevation is the most effective treatment if symptoms do not improve.
Medical Conditions and Trek Suitability
Persons with certain medical conditions should consult their physician before booking this trek. Conditions of concern include: severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe lung disease, uncontrolled diabetes, severe arthritis affecting joints, or recent surgical procedures. Your doctor can advise whether this trek is medically appropriate for your individual condition.
MACHU PICCHU TEAM can discuss your medical condition confidentially if you have concerns about trek suitability.
Age Considerations
The trek is generally suitable for persons from early teenage years to older adulthood, depending on individual fitness and health status. Younger children (under 10 years) may find the daily distances and altitude challenging. Older trekkers successfully complete this trek regularly if they maintain adequate fitness and acclimatize properly.
Discuss your specific age situation with MACHU PICCHU TEAM if you have concerns about appropriateness for your or a family member’s age.
Practical Travel Information
Currency and Money Management
The Peruvian currency is the Peruvian sol (PEN). U.S. dollars (USD) are also accepted in tourist areas. Exchange rates fluctuate; approximately 3.5 to 4 Peruvian soles equals 1 U.S. dollar (rates vary).
Automated teller machines (ATMs) throughout Cusco allow you to withdraw Peruvian soles using your bank debit card. Bring your bank card and remember your PIN number. Some ATMs charge transaction fees (typically 5-7 PEN per transaction).
Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, but smaller establishments may only accept cash. Bring sufficient cash for meals, tips, souvenirs, and activities in smaller communities.
Communication and Internet
Cellular phone signals are available in Cusco and Aguas Calientes. Signal is unavailable or very weak along the trekking route in isolated areas. If you need to stay connected, inform MACHU PICCHU TEAM in advance; satellite phones can potentially be arranged.
WiFi internet is available at your hotel in Cusco and at the Aranwa Hotel on your 3rd night. WiFi is not available during your first 2 nights of camping in the Lares Valley.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost baggage. Evacuation insurance is particularly important for high-altitude trekking. Verify that your insurance policy specifically includes evacuation from remote high-altitude areas.
Vaccination and Health Precautions
Consult your doctor regarding vaccinations recommended for Peru. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for some regions. Altitude sickness is not prevented by vaccination; acclimatization is the only prevention method.
Malaria is present in some lowland jungle regions of Peru but not in the Cusco highlands. The Lares Trek area does not present malaria risk.
FAQs
