The Lares trek is a two- or three-day high-altitude hike in Cusco, Peru, starting near the village Lares, approximately 40 mi (64 km) north of Cusco and 35 mi (56 km) east of Machu Picchu.
Reaching the start of the trek requires a bus or van trip of approximately five hours from the village of Lares.
The Lares Valley is home of many traditional weavers and farmers and famous for homemade textiles.
While slightly easier than the Inca Trail based on terrain, the increased altitude can be more physically challenging as there are three high passes to cross, the highest being 4,400 m (14,400 ft).
The second day of trekking is the shortest and steepest as one crosses over the Ipsaycocha Pass (4,450 m [14,600 ft]), the highest point on the trail.