Exploring the Majestic Ausangate Trek in Peru

Finding Serenity in the Shadow of Ausangate

Today was a day of profound connection with nature, a day where the sheer scale and beauty of the Ausangate region left me utterly speechless. It’s hard to put into words the feeling of standing beneath these towering peaks, the crisp mountain air filling my lungs, and the ancient energy of the Andes swirling around me. Pieter and I ventured deeper into the heart of this majestic landscape, discovering hidden gems and experiencing the warm hospitality of the local communities.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cuchara de Palo Restaurant in Cuzco. Fuelled up with traditional Peruvian flavors, we set off early, eager to explore the Área de Conservación Regional Ausangate.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Área de Conservación Regional Ausangate, a must-visit nature preserve in the heart of Peru's Andes.

The drive itself was an adventure, winding through valleys dotted with small villages and framed by the ever-present, snow-capped mountains. As we approached the conservation area, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of vibrant colors – from the deep greens of the high-altitude grasslands to the ochre and red hues of the mineral-rich soil.

The Área de Conservación Regional Ausangate, established to protect the region's unique biodiversity and vital water resources, is a testament to Peru's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. It encompasses a vast expanse of glaciers, glacial valleys and high mountain ecosystems. The local communities of Phinaya and Sallani were instrumental in the creation of this area, recognizing the importance of preserving their cultural and natural heritage. It felt incredibly special to be walking on land that is so deeply valued and protected.

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

Pieter, ever the enthusiastic photographer, was in his element, snapping away at every turn. I, on the other hand, found myself simply wanting to soak it all in, to imprint the images onto my memory. We hiked along trails that meandered through valleys carved by ancient glaciers, the silence broken only by the sound of the wind and the occasional call of a bird. The air was thin, a reminder of the altitude, but the views were more than worth the effort. October is proving to be a wonderful time to visit, with the weather mostly dry and the temperatures relatively warm during the day. Though I made sure to pack waterproofs just in case of a shower.

One of the highlights of the day was our visit to Mano de Ausanagate, a truly unique geological formation.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Mano de Ausanagate in Uchullujllo, Peru - a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Uchullujllo, it stands as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The name translates to Hand of Ausangate, and as we approached, it was easy to see why. The rock formation resembles a giant hand reaching out towards the sky, a surreal and awe-inspiring sight. Local lore suggests that the Mano de Ausanagate embodies the essence of local traditions and stories passed down through generations.

We had lunch at Morena Peruvian Kitchen, savoring the flavors of the Andes.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Morena Peruvian Kitchen in Cusco – where every dish celebrates rich flavors and tradition.

I opted for a quinoa salad with local vegetables, while Pieter enjoyed a hearty trout dish. The food was delicious, but the view from the restaurant was even better – a panoramic vista of the Ausangate range bathed in the afternoon sun.

As we explored, we encountered local Quechua communities. Their vibrant textiles and traditional way of life added another layer of richness to the experience. I was particularly struck by the intricate weaving patterns, each telling a story of their ancestors and their deep connection to the land. We stopped at EKEKOS SAN BLAS -art & COLORS, a small shop in San Blas, where I bought a beautiful hand-woven scarf as a reminder of our journey.


Discover a vibrant collection of Peruvian art and handicrafts at EKEKOS SAN BLAS, a must-visit destination in the heart of Cusco.

In the evening, we returned to Cuzco, tired but exhilarated. Dinner at Senzo was the perfect way to end the day, a celebration of Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine at Senzo in Cusco's luxurious Belmond Palacio Nazarenas—where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still feel the mountain air on my skin and the awe in my heart. Ausangate is more than just a mountain; it's a place of profound beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual significance.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Sacred Valley and the ruins of Rumicolca. I’m excited to delve deeper into the history and culture of this fascinating region, but I know that today’s experience in the shadow of Ausangate will stay with me long after we leave Peru.

The Ausangate region has four major geological features: the Andean uplift formed by granites, the hanging glaciers and glacial erosional valleys, the Permian formation with its singular colors (red, ochre, and turquoise), and the Cretaceous limestone forests. It's a land of vibrant colors and breathtaking vistas. The mountain itself is venerated as a divinity by the local people, a testament to its enduring spiritual significance.

I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such incredible beauty and to connect with the local culture in such a meaningful way. As a sustainability consultant, I’m always looking for ways to travel more responsibly, and I’m heartened to see the efforts being made to protect this precious environment and support the local communities who call it home. I feel like this trip is also helping me reconnect with my Canadian roots. Growing up in Rimouski, I was always surrounded by nature, and this trek is a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our planet's wild spaces.

Looking ahead to tomorrow's journey to the Sacred Valley, I'm eager to explore more of Peru's ancient wonders. I’ve heard so many stories about the valley's historical significance and breathtaking landscapes, and I can't wait to experience it firsthand with Pieter. We’ll start our day with breakfast at Restaurante Tupana Wasi, followed by a visit to the impressive ruins of Rumicolca. For lunch, we’re planning to indulge in the culinary delights of Hacienda Huayoccari, and in the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner at Full House Peruvian cuisine & craft beer. If we're not too tired, we might even check out Mythology bar.

As I drift off to sleep tonight, I’m filled with a sense of peace and gratitude. The mountains have a way of putting things into perspective, of reminding us of the simple beauty of life and the importance of protecting our planet for future generations.