Exploring the Majestic Ausangate Trek in Peru

A Palette of Wonders
Today was a day where the Andes truly showcased their artistic flair. From the vividly colored Laguna Roja to the majestic Farallones de Tecsecocha, every moment felt like stepping into a painting. Pieter and I embarked on a journey that was as challenging as it was rewarding, pushing our limits while soaking in the raw, untamed beauty of Peru. It’s days like these that remind me why we traded our cozy Delft apartment for the rugged trails of the world.

Our day began in Cusco, where we savored a delightful breakfast at Crepería & Backpacker La Bo'M. The crepes were as charming as the atmosphere, with a cozy balcony offering a sweet view over the city. I opted for a savory crepe filled with local cheeses and herbs, while Pieter, ever the traditionalist, went for a classic sweet crepe with dulce de leche. Fueled up and ready to go, we made a quick stop at Trekking Store to pick up a few essentials we realized we were missing – mostly extra snacks, because one can never have too many snacks on a trek like this!

The drive to Laguna Roja was an adventure in itself. The landscape transformed dramatically as we ascended, from rolling green hills to stark, rocky terrain punctuated by the occasional grazing alpaca. The air grew crisp and thin, a reminder of the altitude that commands respect. When we finally arrived at Laguna Roja, I was utterly speechless.


Discover the stunning vistas and serene beauty of Laguna Roja, a breathtaking hiking area in Peru's majestic Andes mountains.

The lagoon, nestled at the foot of the Ausangate peak, was a mesmerizing shade of deep red, almost like a pool of blood, living up to its other name, Yawarcocha, which means 'Laguna de Sangre' in Quechua. The color is caused by the minerals in the surrounding soil, a phenomenon that made the landscape feel otherworldly. The wind whipped around us, carrying whispers of ancient tales and Andean spirits. Pieter and I stood in silence, absorbing the sheer magnitude and beauty of this hidden gem. We walked around the lagoon, taking in the views from every angle. The surrounding mountains, dusted with snow, created a dramatic backdrop, their reflections shimmering in the crimson waters. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly convey the feeling of being there, immersed in such raw, untamed beauty.

Sometimes, the most breathtaking views are those that demand a little bit of effort to reach.

After spending a good amount of time at Laguna Roja, soaking in its beauty and snapping countless photos, we began our journey towards the Farallones de Tecsecocha. The drive took us through winding mountain roads, offering panoramic views of the Andes. The landscape was dotted with small villages, where we caught glimpses of local life – women in colorful traditional clothing herding sheep, children playing in the fields, and the ever-present sight of adobe houses clinging to the hillsides.


Explore the stunning Farallones de Tecsecocha in Cusco, where breathtaking rock formations meet rich Incan history amid the beauty of the Andes.

The Farallones de Tecsecocha were unlike anything I had ever seen. These towering rock formations, reaching up to 80 meters high, rose dramatically from the valley floor, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring landscape. It was hard to believe that these formations were not on a coastline but high up in the Andes. We hiked through the canyon, marveling at the sheer scale of the rocks and the intricate patterns carved by centuries of wind and rain. We even spotted some ancient cave paintings, remnants of the Inca civilization that once thrived in this region.

The hike to the Farallones de Tecsecocha was relatively easy, making it accessible for all levels of hikers. The trails winded through the canyon, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The air was fresh and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and the sound of rushing water from a nearby waterfall. We took our time, stopping frequently to admire the scenery and snap photos. Pieter, of course, was in his element, scrambling over rocks and exploring every nook and cranny of the canyon. I, on the other hand, was content to simply soak in the beauty and serenity of the place.

After a day filled with such visual splendor, we were famished. Back in Cusco, we headed to Qespi Restaurant & Bar for a well-deserved lunch. The restaurant was elegant, and the food was a delightful fusion of Peruvian and international flavors. I ordered the alpaca steak, a local delicacy, while Pieter opted for the traditional ceviche. Both dishes were exquisite, a perfect way to end a day of adventure.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Qespi Restaurant & Bar in Cusco's historic center, where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over Cusco, we found ourselves at Restaurante Ausangate for dinner. The restaurant was cozy and intimate, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. We savored traditional Peruvian dishes, accompanied by local wine. It was the perfect ending to a day that had been nothing short of extraordinary.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Restaurante Ausangate - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. The Ausangate Trek has been an incredible journey so far, pushing us both physically and mentally, but also rewarding us with experiences that will stay with us forever. The beauty of Laguna Roja and the majesty of the Farallones de Tecsecocha are etched in my memory, a testament to the power and beauty of nature.

Tomorrow, we set our sights on the majestic Nevado Auzangate and the intriguing Bosque de Piedras [Bosque de Piedras]. I can only imagine what wonders await us as we continue our journey through this breathtaking landscape. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of today, the vibrant colors, the towering rocks, and the feeling of being utterly insignificant yet completely connected to something far greater than myself. As we prepare for another day of trekking, I'm reminded of the importance of packing properly for the Ausangate weather in October, with its mix of warm days and cold nights. I’m also mentally checking our gear, making sure we have everything we need for the challenges ahead. Pieter, ever the pragmatist, is already studying the map, planning our route for tomorrow. I smile, knowing that we are in this together, ready to face whatever adventures lie ahead.

And who knows, maybe we'll even stumble upon another hidden gem along the way. After all, that's the beauty of travel – the unexpected discoveries, the moments of pure, unadulterated joy, and the memories that last a lifetime.