Overview
What this place is
Lares is a classic high-valley soaking stop in the Cusco region, set up as a public bath complex rather than a resort. The listing places it at 3,250 m, so you get crisp mountain air, steep valley scenery, and big temperature swings between day and night.
The complex is described as having six pools of different sizes and depths, with water that runs yellowish through channels and arrives at different soaking temperatures. It is a simple, functional place where people come to soak, warm up, and move on.
Water and setting
Reported pool temperatures range from about 35°C to 48°C, so you can usually find a pool that feels comfortable. The description ties the spring system to local geology, noting mineral-rich waters associated with volcanic and saline rock.
Facilities noted on the listing include warm-water jets, restrooms, green areas, camping zones, and viewpoints. Expect a practical layout, not a polished spa finish.
Location & Access
Where it is
The baths are listed in the district of Lares (Cusco), and the access route is laid out as a road trip via Calca. From Cusco’s main square area to Calca’s Plaza de Armas is listed at about 51 km (around 1 hour). From Calca to Lares town is listed at about 57 km (around 1 hour 30 minutes) on asphalt.
Last mile
From Lares town to the baths, the listing shows 1.2 km. That can be done by taxi (about 3 minutes) or on foot (about 14 minutes), both on asphalt. Because it is short, many travelers do the walk if they are acclimatized and carrying little.
Hours and tickets
The listing states 24-hour attention (shown as 12:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.) and ticketed entry with published prices: S/8 for national tourists, S/4 for national children, and S/15 for foreign tourists.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, and sandals. Add layers for the walk back, and bring cash in soles even if you are staying nearby.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who it suits best
Lares works best for travelers who want a high-Andes soak with minimal fuss. It fits well into an itinerary built around the Sacred Valley and Calca Province, and it is also used by hikers on routes that pass through the Lares valley.
Families
Families can use the complex because it is structured and close to town, but the altitude (3,250 m) is the main limiter. Kids can get cold quickly once they leave the water, so plan short sessions and have dry layers ready.
Mobility and accessibility realities
The listing mentions changing areas and facilities, and separately notes wheelchair access as limited. In practice, expect wet floors, steps, and pool-edge lips that make independent access hard. If you need step-free circulation, you should check on-site conditions with staff before buying tickets.
If your group wants privacy or silence, manage expectations. This is a public bath, often social, sometimes busy, and the experience depends on timing more than scenery.
Safety & Etiquette
Altitude and overheating
At 3,250 m, dehydration and lightheadedness are more common. Start with a short soak, then reassess. The upper end of the stated temperature range (up to 48°C) can feel intense quickly, especially if you have been walking uphill or arriving from lower elevation.
Slips, lighting, and night visits
With 24-hour attention listed, people sometimes soak late. That can mean colder air, darker walkways, and reduced supervision. Bring a headlamp if you plan a night soak, and take wet surfaces seriously. Sandals with grip are not optional here.
Etiquette
Rinse before soaking when possible. Keep lotions and sunscreen out of the pools. Avoid dunking your head in communal water. Keep the noise down, especially at night, because nearby lodging and other visitors are trying to sleep.
Leave the place cleaner than you found it. Use bins, do not wash clothes in the pools, and keep food away from the water edge. If you are camping nearby, follow local rules and avoid fires unless they are clearly permitted.
FAQs
How hot are the pools?
The listed soaking range is about 35°C to 48°C, spread across six pools with different temperatures and depths.
Is it walkable from Lares town?
Yes. The listing shows 1.2 km from the town center to the baths, about 14 minutes on foot, or about 3 minutes by taxi.
What are the opening hours?
The listing states 24-hour attention (shown as 12:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.).
How much is entry?
Published prices are S/8 for national tourists, S/4 for national children, and S/15 for foreign tourists.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Access is described as limited. Expect wet surfaces and steps, and confirm current entry routes on site.
