My Pick- Lares Trail

I had the choice of Inca Trail or Lares Trail.

I picked Lares for three reasons:

1. It gives you more of the village/locals experience.
2. Supposed to be less crowded while walking.
3. Not as many steps as the Inca Trail

I´ll find out in a few days if I made the right choice!

Most of the group is doing the Inca Trail.

Anita, Sam and I are the only ones doing Lares.

Trekking off the beaten path and still visiting Machu Picchu has always been tricky, but the Lares Valley trek offers this rare combination to travelers looking for an authentic Peruvian experience.

Hiking between rugged alpine peaks, passing cobalt-blue glacial lakes and pausing to watch alpacas graze in open mountain meadows, all without another tourist in sight. This is the way most people envision their trek to Machu Picchu.

Views of the snow-capped Veronica, Chicon, Pitusiray and Sawasiry peaks keep us company most of the way. You will encounter locals carrying out ancient traditions, such as herding llamas, planting potatoes and weaving in the fields as they have for centuries amidst beautiful Andean surroundings. You will be camping near villages where you have the chance to chat and barter for woven goods with locals. This trek also boasts the lovely Lares hot-springs for soaking your weary muscles and Inca ruins, including the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress.