The Lares Hot Springs are one of the most visited destinations in the Cusco region, renowned for their therapeutic properties and stunning natural surroundings. Situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and rivers, these thermal baths offer six pools of warm waters that not only help to relax the body but also possess minerals beneficial for health.
If you are looking for a place to disconnect from stress, relieve muscle aches, or simply enjoy an outdoor thermal experience, the Lares hot springs are the ideal destination. Furthermore, their location in a privileged natural environment makes them an excellent starting point for hikes and outdoor activities.
Contents
- Where are the Lares Hot Springs located?
- Healing properties of the Lares Hot Springs
- How to get to the Lares Hot Springs?
- What is the best time to visit the Lares Hot Springs?
- Entrance fees to the Lares Hot Springs
- Activities you can do at the Lares Hot Springs
- What tourist services are there at the Lares Hot Springs?
- What to bring to the Lares Hot Springs? Before visiting the Lares Hot Springs, make sure to bring:
Where are the Lares Hot Springs located?
The Lares Hot Springs are located in the town of Lares, 150 kilometers from the city of Cusco, in the province of La Convención. This destination is surrounded by Andean mountains and is situated at an altitude of approximately 3,200 meters above sea level, which provides a mild climate during the day and cool nights.
Distances and travel times from Cusco:
- From Cusco to Calca: 1.5 to 2 hours by bus or colectivo.
- From Calca to Lares: 2 to 3 hours by taxi or combi.
- From Lares to the hot springs: 15 minutes on foot or by taxi.
Healing properties of the Lares Hot Springs
The waters of the Lares hot springs have a yellowish color due to their high concentration of essential minerals for the body. Among their main benefits are:
✔ Relief of bone diseases such as osteoporosis and arthritis.
✔ Muscle and bone recovery, ideal for people in rehabilitation from fractures or injuries.
✔ Improves blood circulation and reduces blood pressure.
✔ Relaxing and anti-stress properties, relieving tension and physical exhaustion.
✔ Digestive benefits, helping to alleviate stomach problems.
The minerals present in its waters include: iron, sodium, potassium, zinc, and calcium, which contribute to cell regeneration and strengthening of the immune system.
How to get to the Lares Hot Springs?
Option 1: Tour with a travel agency
The most comfortable and safe way to visit the hot springs is through a travel agency, which takes care of transportation, tickets, and tourist guides.
Option 2: Traveling on your own from Cusco
If you prefer to go on your own, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Take a bus or colectivo on Calle Puputi in Cusco towards Calca (S/ 5.00 per person, 1.5 to 2-hour trip).
2️⃣ From Calca, take a taxi or combi to Lares (cost between S/ 6.00 and S/ 10.00, 2 to 3-hour trip).
3️⃣ Upon arriving in Lares, walk or take a taxi to the hot springs (15-minute walk or local taxi).
4️⃣ Buy the entrance ticket and enjoy the hot springs.
What is the best time to visit the Lares Hot Springs?
The best time to visit the Lares Hot Springs is during the dry season, which runs from April to October, as rainfall is less frequent and the roads are in better condition.
🔹 Recommendation: The best time to enjoy the hot springs is in the morning or at night, when there are fewer visitors and fewer mosquitoes.
Entrance fees to the Lares Hot Springs
| Visitor Type | Price (Soles) |
|---|---|
| Foreign Tourist | S/ 15.00 |
| National Tourist | S/ 8.00 |
| Foreign Child | S/ 7.00 |
| National Child | S/ 4.00 |
| Room rental per night | S/ 50.00 |
| Camping space | S/ 7.00 |
🔹 Opening hours: From 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, every day of the year.
Activities you can do at the Lares Hot Springs
In addition to enjoying the thermal pools, you can do a variety of activities at this destination:
🌿 Camping: There are designated camping areas near the hot springs.
🚶♂️ Hiking: Explore the Andean landscapes with nearby trekking routes.
📸 Photography and filming: Ideal for capturing the natural beauty of the valley.
🛶 Relaxation and meditation: A quiet environment to rest and disconnect from urban noise.
🏕️ Starry nights: Enjoy a clear sky without light pollution.
What tourist services are there at the Lares Hot Springs?
The hot springs have several amenities for visitors:
✔ Changing rooms and showers for comfortable changing.
✔ Accommodation with rooms available for those who wish to stay overnight.
✔ Camping areas, ideal for adventure tourism lovers.
✔ Small shops where you can buy snacks and drinks.
What to bring to the Lares Hot Springs? Before visiting the Lares Hot Springs, make sure to bring:
✔ Sunscreen to protect yourself from the Andean sun.
✔ Hat and sunglasses for greater comfort.
✔ Water and snacks to stay hydrated.
✔ Swimsuit and towels to enjoy the thermal pools.
✔ Camera to capture the natural landscapes.
✔ Light clothing for the day and warm clothing for the night due to temperature variations.
The Lares Hot Springs are a perfect destination for those seeking rest, health, and connection with nature. With medicinal waters, spectacular landscapes, and options for adventure tourism, this corner of Cusco is ideal for weekend getaways or stops within trekking routes such as the Alternative
