Hiking The Lares Trek With Kids

Can You Hike The Lares Trek With Kids?

Quick Answer: It’s definitely possible to complete the Lares Trek with kids, and many families in the past have had happy hiking experiences along this route (which is the same story for those who hiked the Inca Trail with kids),

However, as always, it’s important to know what the route is like and what to expect beforehand. With the 4 Day Lares Trek there will be an overall walking distance of 42km, with many uphill stretches (as well as downhill too).

It’s important to keep in mind that there’s also no one-size-fits-all approach, and that it really depends on your individual case. Perhaps your kids are young but are already used to long hikes, and as such could happily complete the route. In other cases it may be ideal to prepare them properly, and later in this guide we’ll take a look at the different methods.

How Difficult Is The Lares Trek?

Considered a moderately difficult hike, the 4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is no easy and simple feat given it’s a longer four day route. However, on the same hand, the terrain is quite forgiving and it’s easy to get lost enjoying the various scenery you’ll see along the way.

The highest point of the Lares Trek is 4735m, which we will pass over on the second day. These higher elevations can be tough to hike through, which is why we recommend properly acclimating in Cusco with your kids for a few days beforehand.

The great thing about hiking the Lares Trek with kids is that you can head on this route any month of the year and still have a fantastic time. Whilst other routes can be more difficult during the wet season (and even dangerous at times – which is why we won’t organize treks during certain months), the Lares Trek remains safe and memorable from January all through to December.

Preparation Advice Before Hiking The Lares Trek With Kids

Dealing With High Altitudes

First and foremost it’s important we discuss the altitude. Like with many other hikes such as the Ausangate Trek, the Lares Trek can reach altitudes that will affect most people. Whilst adults can take Coca Leaves and Soroche Pills, it’s not recommended for children since there is little medical research on the effects for this younger age group.  

Heading On Treks Around Cusco 

Instead what we recommend doing is first spending a few days in Cusco to begin acclimating, which has an altitude of 3399m. From here it’s a good idea to then head on a couple of gentle treks for your kids to get used to walking in high altitudes before embarking on the Lares Trek. This includes hiking up to the Cristo Blanco statue in Cusco, and also exploring towns in the Sacred Valley such as Pisac and Urubamba. You can learn more about how to deal with altitude sickness in Cusco.

Preparing Well Back Home

Another important suggestion is for you to be honest with your child’s current hiking capacities. Hiking in Peru will be tougher given the altitude and climates, so if your child has little experience then you’ll want to head on weekly walks back home before coming (for at least a couple of months). This will get them used to walking for long distances, and if you can then it’s preferable to hike in similar regions with mountains and incline stretches.

Overview Of Hiking The Lares Trek With Kids

And that’s all for this guide on whether you can hike the Lares Trek with kids.

The only multi-day hike that’s suitable during all months of the year, the Lares Trek is rapidly growing in popularity. Here we can enjoy fabulous scenery and also see many wild animals along the way. If you’re planning on hiking the Lares Trek with kids, then you will be happy to know it’s definitely doable as long as you follow our tips in this guide.

Take a look at our 4 Day Lares Trek To Machu Picchu, which combines unforgettable vistas along with a private tour of the formidable ancient ruins.