Lares In April

Is it worth hiking Lares in April?

Known for its much quieter trails yet incredible Andean vistas, Lares is one of the most up-and-coming treks you can enjoy within the Cusco region of Peru. April begins to mark a shift in weather as we come to the end of the wet season, and there are many unique benefits of choosing to hike Lares in this particular month.

In this comprehensive guide we’ll explore everything you need to know about Lares in April, and whether it’s worth hiking during this month. This includes what to expect on the trail, how to prepare and our own top tips to help you have the most memorable experience possible.

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Everything You Need To Know About Lares In April 

Below we’ll now explore what Lares in April is like. This includes whether it’s worth hiking this route in this month, what to expect with the weather as well as how to prepare for the trek.

Is It Worth Visiting Lares In April?

Another autumn month for the Cusco Andes like March in Lares, April is a perfect month for a solid hiking climate. Rainfall begins to curve off this month, putting to an end the previous heavy months of downpours. Of course showers are still likely to occur (especially during the initial couple of weeks), however they tend to be much lighter and shorter.

Like with other hiking circuits around the Cusco region such as Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Salkantay, April is a special month to come. Tourist crowds are quite low so we can enjoy a much more peaceful hike, and this is especially felt around Lares given it’s still not that known. The recent months of rain will also mean we can continue to enjoy bright green pastures and landscapes, which makes it easier to take unforgettable photos along the hike.

The Weather Of Lares In April

Having just touched on the climate in the previous section, April really is a wonderful time to go hiking along the Lares circuit (and around the Cusco region in general). Showers are less heavy and less frequent than previous months, so we’ll have more clear skies to enjoy when hiking. Of course it may still rain, so it’s important to pack a poncho or rainproof jacket ready in your daypack.

The other major benefit of choosing to hike Lares in April, is that the temperatures are still quite favorable. Whilst daytime temperatures are quite stable year-round, the evening temperatures won’t be as cold as they can get in later winter months like July and August. So whilst you’ll still need to pack multiple layers ready for having dinners and relaxing at night, it won’t be as cold as it can get in later months.

Lares In April Weather

A Packing List For Lares In April 

Here we will now list everything that you’ll need for your hike for Lares in April.

  • Various jumpers and a thick coat.
  • Thin layers for hiking during the day (temperatures can get quite warm up at high altitudes).
  • A poncho or raincoat (showers are still possible in April).
  • A hand towel.
  • Sturdy hiking boots or other shoes that are suitable for hiking.
  • Thick pijamas to help keep you warm during the cooler nights.
  • A baseball cap or Andean-style hat (it’s easy to burn your head at high altitudes).
  • Sunglasses in order to protect your eyes from harsh sun and glare.
  • High SPF sunscreen.
  • A thick hat, scarf, and gloves which will keep you warm at night.
  • A water bottle that can be reused.
  • A day pack to hold everything you need during your treks and day trips.
  • Hiking poles if necessary.
  • A quality camera or mobile phone.
  • Medication for personal use.
  • Extra batteries for your camera or a portable power bank.

Preparing For An April Trek Around The Lares Region

Once you’ve decided you want to hike around Lares in April, now we’ll need to prepare properly before heading on our trek.

Given the Lares Trek often sees us climbing above the 3000-4000m range, it’s important that we take the altitude seriously. The first thing we must do is spend a few days in Cusco prior to the trek doing little – as this helps our bodies acclimate naturally – which will aid in making the trek less difficult. We’ll also want to bring Coca Leaves and altitude sickness pills (such as Diamox or Soroche Pills) which prevent symptoms from occurring.

Bringing the right kind of equipment is also very important before hiking the Lares Trek. You’ll firstly need thin layers as the daytimes can get pretty warm, but also a rainproof jacket in your daypack ready in case it starts to rain. As well as needing high quality hiking boots and hiking pants, it’s also essential to bring warm layers as the nights can get very cold up in these mountainous regions. 

How To Book Your Four Day Lares Trek

When compared with say the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, booking your Lares trek is very simple. This is because demand is much lower, meaning it’s easy to organise this trek even a few weeks before if you didn’t book it before. However it’s important to mention that when booking the Four Day Lares Trek, there is the entrance of Machu Picchu included too – and given this can sell-out in certain months (such as between June and September), it’s worth booking your spot at least a couple of months prior just to be safe.

It’s also worth considering the Five Day Lares Trek too for those who want the most complete hiking experience possible. This is because this route also includes a portion of the Inca Trail, where we can learn about Inca history and see ancient ruins such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. From here you’ll directly arrive into Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate – which is by far the most authentic experience that you can enjoy in this region.

Why Book With AB Expeditions?

Here at AB Expeditions we are renowned leaders for treks and hikes all over the Cusco region. This includes famous hikes such as the Inca Trail and around Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain, but also the Lares Trek where we can really get off the grid and get to know proper, authentic Andean culture. 

During your trek with us you’ll benefit from the very best service and attention. Not only do we limit group sizes for a more intimate experience, we also ensure the very best lodging and camping spots for your group, all-inclusive professional meals and top hiking equipment too. This way you won’t just be heading on a hike – however having the most complete and unforgettable experience whilst getting to know Peru’s Andean Mountains.

Lares In April Trek

The Main Advantages Of Hiking Lares In April

During April we will have numerous benefits and advantages of heading on this hike when compared with different months. First of all, rainfall levels are quite low after the first week or two weeks (especially compared with Lares in February or January), and even if it does rain it will be light and short-lived. Daytime temperatures are warm, and during the evening they are cold (but not as bitterly cold as they can get in say July or August during the heart of the dry season).

The other main advantage of hiking Lares in April is the fact that there will be virtually no other tourists on the trail. Lares in general is much quieter than the Inca Trail or Rainbow Mountain trek all months of the year anyway – however April is a low tourist month so it will be even quieter. This makes it a perfect time to enjoy nature with no distractions around, and properly take in the very best landscapes around you when hiking along the route.

The Main Disadvantages Of Hiking Lares In April

Being completely honest, there are virtually no disadvantages of hiking Lares in April – given it’s one of the best overall months of the year! This is because rainfall is now becoming much less (especially during the latter weeks of the months), and as temperatures are still moderately warm before the latter winter months arrive. Tourist crowds are also still low – so overall April is a perfect month to hike the Lares Trek.

Overview Of Lares In April

And that’s all for this guide on hiking the Lares Trek in April.

Known for its incredible waterfalls and opportunities to really immerse yourself in raw Andean culture, the Lares Trek is a fantastic addition to any itinerary in Cusco. April sees a large reduction in showers compared with earlier months of the year, which along with minimal crowds makes it a great time to head on the hike.

Check out our Four Day Lares Trek, where we will explore the complete route as well as Machu Picchu on our final day. As well as including an experienced lead guide and cosy lodging along the trek, you’ll also have a professional chef join your group who will be preparing tasty meals for you each day between hikes.