Most travelers hear about Lares because of the treks that lead either from the Sacred Valley to Lares or from the town to the valley. The Lares trek is great but you don’t usually get any time to see the town of Lares and you have to ask if you’ll have any time at the hot springs.

The hot springs have a high mineral content, which is reputed to be medicinal and very good for you but the water never looks clear and it can stain your swimsuit. Several shops on the plaza sell swimsuits and if you’re buying in Lares opt for a dark color.

About halfway from Calca on your way to Lares it the Lares Pass (Abra de Lares) at 4,461 14,636ft above sea level. You can get out of the car to take a photo but I don’t recommend trying to run at that altitude.

You can get to Lares on your own with a colectivo taxi from Calca, a taxi in which you buy a seat and the taxi leaves when all the seats are full.