Exploring the Majestic Ausangate Trek in Peru

Whispers of the Wind and Stone

Today felt like stepping into another world, a realm dominated by towering peaks and the silent strength of ancient stone. Leaving behind the cozy familiarity of our campsites, Pieter and I ventured deeper into the Ausangate region, eager to embrace whatever adventures the day held. Little did we know, we were about to be humbled by the sheer scale and raw beauty of Nevado Auzangate and the surreal Bosque de Piedras.


Explore the majestic Nevado Auzangate, a breathtaking mountain peak in the Peruvian Andes, perfect for adventurous trekkers and nature lovers.

Our day began, as many have on this trek, with a hearty breakfast at Mamá Jama Restaurant. The warm food and even warmer hospitality fortified us for the day's hike. I swear, every sip of coca tea feels like a little hug, helping to ward off the lingering effects of the altitude. It’s becoming a ritual I quite enjoy, a little taste of Peru to kickstart the day. After breakfast, we set off towards Nevado Auzangate.


Explore the breathtaking Bosque de Piedras, a unique nature preserve with stunning stone formations and exhilarating hiking trails in Peru.

The trek itself was challenging but rewarding. The air was crisp, and the sky, a brilliant blue, offered unobstructed views of Auzangate's snow-capped peak. It felt like the mountain was watching over us, a silent guardian of the Andes. Pieter, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the geological formations, pointing out different rock strata and glacial features. I, on the other hand, was lost in the sheer majesty of it all, feeling a sense of awe that's hard to put into words. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – to witness the grandeur of nature and feel connected to something far greater than myself.

The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir

As we hiked, the landscape transformed, leading us into the Bosque de Piedras, a 'forest' of towering rock formations sculpted by centuries of wind and weather. It was like wandering through an ancient city built by giants, each stone a monument to the passage of time. We spent hours exploring this surreal landscape, scrambling over rocks, and marveling at the bizarre shapes. Pieter, with his love for photography, was in his element, capturing the interplay of light and shadow on the weathered stone. I found myself simply sitting in silence, soaking in the atmosphere and feeling a profound sense of peace. It’s amazing how nature has this ability to quiet the mind and bring you back to the present moment.

Lunch at Apu Ausangate Restaurant was a welcome break. We devoured traditional Peruvian fare, refueling our bodies and spirits. The food tasted even better after a morning of hiking, and the friendly chatter of fellow trekkers added to the cozy atmosphere. I even managed to practice my (still very basic) Spanish with one of the local guides, much to Pieter's amusement.

The afternoon brought its own set of challenges. The altitude was starting to take its toll, and the terrain became steeper and rockier. There were moments when I questioned my ability to keep going, when every step felt like a monumental effort. But then I would look up at Auzangate, its snow-capped peak gleaming in the sunlight, and find a renewed sense of determination. It was as if the mountain was whispering, 'You can do this. Keep going.' And so I did.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape, we made our way back towards our accommodation. Exhausted but exhilarated, we reflected on the day's adventures. We enjoyed dinner at Calle del Medio Restaurante Bar, savoring the flavors of Peru one last time before turning in for the night.

But the day wasn't quite over yet. After dinner, with the stars beginning to pepper the inky sky, we decided to check out Mama Africa, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere. While I usually prefer quiet evenings, there was something about the energy of the place that drew me in. We shared a few drinks with our fellow trekkers, swapping stories and laughter. It was a perfect way to celebrate another incredible day on the Ausangate Trek. The music was infectious, and before I knew it, I was dancing with Pieter under the Peruvian stars. It was a moment of pure joy, a memory I will cherish long after we leave this magical place.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited about the prospect of seeing the Cordillera del Arcoiris Palccoyo, another rainbow mountain, and exploring the Andes Path. Pieter is already talking about finding the perfect spot for landscape photography, and I'm eager to immerse myself in the natural beauty of the region. We'll start the day with breakfast at Artisano Regocijo Restaurant, followed by lunch at Huillca Restaurant, hoping to fuel up for another day of adventure. And who knows, maybe we'll even find some unique souvenirs at ARTESANÍAS ASUNTA before calling it a night.

But for now, I'm content to snuggle into my sleeping bag, listening to the whispers of the wind and the distant rumble of the mountains. Today was a day of challenges and triumphs, of breathtaking beauty and quiet reflection. It was a day that reminded me of the power of nature to inspire and heal, and the importance of cherishing every moment, big or small. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey and the opportunity to explore the majestic Ausangate Trek with my beloved Pieter.

I'm also grateful that we decided to come in October. While some sources state that the rainy season is from October to April, we've been fortunate to experience the warmest temperatures of the year with only occasional light showers. The reduced crowds compared to other times of the year have also made the experience more intimate and special. Of course, we packed waterproofs and warm layers, as recommended, and it's a good thing we did, as the nights can still get quite cold.

As I close my eyes, I can still see the towering peaks, hear the wind whistling through the stone forest, and feel the warmth of the Peruvian sun on my skin. These are the memories I will carry with me, long after the trek is over. And I know, with absolute certainty, that this is just the beginning of our adventures in this beautiful and magical country.