These days not only do trekkers want to do the famous Inca Trail but there are many more treks that attract hikers from all over the world. In this article we look at 2 of the most popular alternative treks in the Cusco region, The Salkantay and the Lares Treks, both have their different attractions, both equally as beautiful. Read on and discover which trek you would choose on your next trip to Peru.
The Salkantay Trek
Advantages
The Salkantay Trek is one of natural beauty. Hike through high mountain passes, past wonderful landscapes. Trek to the wonderfully beautiful Humanytay Lake and admire the special colors. See high mountain peaks of Humanytay, Salkantay and Huayanay. Trek on the ancient path of the Inca while you enter the Amazon Jungle and experience a change of climate, noticing the distant fruit plantations. Discover the Inca site of Llactapata directly in front of Machu Picchu. See this incredible Inca site from afar and marvel at the size of this wonder of Inca engineering.
One of the things that most talk about on their return is the food they received on the trail. The trail cooks serve up a hot delicious breakfast, a filling and tasty lunch, and the best buffet you will receive in the middle of nowhere for dinner, complete with dessert.
Another advantage is that of the Salkantay Trek has no regulations, you can trek at any time without a permit. There is no need to book in advance, most agencies will have groups most days so a trek will not be difficult to find. You may trek this trail alone with out a guide, if you do so you will need to carry all you need for 4 or 5 days. It is a advantage to use a tour company and have a guide to learn about this wonderful trek.
The end goal of the Inca Trail trek is the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu. One of the new 7 Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is one of the most famous sites in South America and what most come to visit when traveling to Peru. Hear and learn from your guide the history of Machu Picchu, take in the energy and leave refreshed with a new vigor for life.
Disadvantages
In recent years the popularity of the Salkantay trek has skyrocketed. This means that Salkantay trek is crowded. There are no permits required to trek the Salkantay trek so there are many organized groups as well as many independent travelers hiking the trail. This makes the Salkantay trek a little disorganized.
With the crowds also brings the rubbish. The campsites are full making it difficult to reserve a spot for groups. If you go on your Salkantay trek in the high season expect to see many other on the trail with you.
When is the best time to do the Salkantay trek?
The trek is the most crowded in the dry season. This is the preferred time if you want clear skies and sunshine. The dry season months are May, June, July, August and September.
The Lares Trek
Advantages
The Lares trek is something completely different to the other treks you will find in the Cusco region. The trek is more of a cultural immersion into the local region. Visit local communities and interact with the local children.
Not only cultural see wonderful high mountain passes and verdant landscapes. Visit some magnificent hot springs where you can soak away all your aches and pains while enjoying the massive mountains that surround.
Also, a highlight for the Lares Trek is the wonderful food that you will receive while trekking, Three meals a day feature, to keep you fueled for the journeys ahead. Daily you will enjoy different meals each day to fill your belly.
Another highlight of the Lares trek is that you will end the trek in Machu Picchu, this ancient Inca city is a marvel of human brilliance. See the different sections, the guide will explain all the theories of the site. Take in the ambience, feel the spirit of the ancient inhabitants.
The Lares trek does not require permits, you are free to trek this trail alone, but always remember with a guided tour you will learn more about the history of the trek and the sights along the way.
Disadvantages
As this is a cultural trek you will not see Inca ruins along the way. On this trek you will see the wonderful landscapes but there is no ancient Inca architecture to visit.
Disadvantages are few so there is nothing really negative to say about this wonderful trek.
When is the best time to trek the Lares trek?
As with most other treks in the Cusco, there are 2 seasons, the Wet Season and the Dry Season. Most people prefer the dry season, where you get warm sunny days and cold nights and mornings. You will need to take your warm clothes as the night are chili. You will need to dress in layers during the day.
The other season is the wet season, you will get rain most days but the temperature is a bit warmer. You will need to take your wet weather gear making sure that you have waterproof boots, good rain poncho and rain pants. Many people prefer the wet season as there are less crowds and everything is more peaceful.
Depending on your preference both treks are a wonderful experience for the adventure seeker. Beautiful scenery, magnificent mountains, great adventure is what you will get on a Salkantay or Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. So make your decision and talk to one of our knowledgeable sales consultants for more information before you book.
