Trekking the Huayhuash Circuit: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

The Adventure Begins

After months of planning and anticipation, the day finally arrived. Today marked the start of our 15-day trek around the Cordillera Huayhuash, a journey I'd been dreaming about since I first stumbled upon its breathtaking landscapes online. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Berlin, and the routines of my life with Lena, I was ready to embrace the raw, untamed beauty of the Peruvian Andes. The air was crisp, the mountains loomed large, and a sense of excitement buzzed through our small group of friends as we set foot on the trail.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cordillera Huayhuash, a premier trekking destination in Peru with stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences.

The journey to get here was an adventure in itself. After flying from Berlin to Lima, and then catching a connecting flight to Huaraz, we took a bus to the trailhead. The bus ride was a vivid introduction to Peru, with bustling markets, colorful houses clinging to hillsides, and the constant, energetic hum of daily life. It was a stark contrast to the orderly streets of Berlin, and I found myself completely captivated by the change of scenery.

As a software engineer, I spend most of my days immersed in lines of code and the structured world of technology. This trek, however, was about disconnecting from the digital and reconnecting with the natural world. It was about challenging myself physically and mentally, and sharing an unforgettable experience with close friends. I was also hoping that I would find inspiration for new photographs, maybe capture the essence of the Andes, and bring that back home to share on my blog.

Our first day was primarily about acclimatization. The Huayhuash Circuit is notorious for its high altitude, with most of the trek hovering above 4,000 meters. As someone who lives in Berlin, which sits at a mere 34 meters above sea level, I knew that taking it easy on day one was crucial. We took a slow and steady pace, focusing on hydrating and listening to our bodies. We spent the day around the Cordillera Huayhuash, simply absorbing the views and letting our systems adjust to the thinner air.

We had breakfast, lunch, and dinner amidst the stunning scenery of the Cordillera Huayhuash. The food was simple but satisfying, providing the fuel we needed for the days ahead. I must admit, though, that I already started missing Lena's amazing cooking. I made a mental note to bring back some Peruvian recipes for her to try.

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

In the late afternoon, we found ourselves at Paso Trapecio, a local bar in the heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash. It wasn't exactly what I expected to find in such a remote location, but it was a welcome surprise. We shared a few drinks with some other trekkers, swapping stories and tips about the trail. The atmosphere was convivial, and it felt good to connect with like-minded adventurers from all over the world.


Explore the breathtaking Paso Trapecio in the Cordillera Huayhuash, a hiker's paradise with stunning views and unforgettable adventures.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the snow-capped peaks, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude. The Huayhuash Circuit was already exceeding my expectations, and I knew that the next 14 days would be filled with challenges, discoveries, and unforgettable moments.

One thing I realized I had forgotten was a satellite phone. I should have known better, but I was so focused on the trek itself that I didn't take into account just how remote the area is. I also realized I should have brought more memory cards for my camera. I am already snapping away and I don't want to run out of space!

Even though the weather in September is considered to be in the dry season, with average high temperatures around 11.9°C (53.4°F) and lows around 2.7°C (36.9°F), we were prepared for anything. The mountains are notorious for their unpredictable weather, and we knew that we could encounter rain, wind, and even snow at any time. Fortunately, today was relatively mild, with clear skies and a gentle breeze.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our itinerary includes a trek to Paso Rasac. I've heard that it's a challenging climb, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. I'm also looking forward to visiting the local shop in the Cordillera Huayhuash, where I hope to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home. I am also hoping to get some photos of the local flora and fauna. I read that the Huayhuash is home to a variety of wildlife, including vicuñas, condors, and the Andean fox.

As I lay in my tent tonight, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and excitement. The journey has just begun, but I already know that this trek will be one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to explore this incredible part of the world with my friends, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I am excited to share the rest of this journey with you all. Stay tuned for more updates from the Huayhuash Circuit!

One thing is for sure, though: the mountains here are much more impressive than anything I've ever seen back in Cameroon or even in Germany. It's a different kind of beauty, raw and imposing, and I feel humbled by its grandeur. This is going to be an amazing trip!

I am also excited to see how this trip will affect my photography. I've been trying to develop my own style, and I think the unique landscapes of the Huayhuash will provide me with plenty of inspiration. I am hoping to capture the essence of the Andes, the spirit of the people who live here, and the beauty of the natural world.

The trek, at approximately 120 km and with elevations ranging from 3,300 to 5,000 meters, is considered moderately strenuous. Proper acclimatization, as we are doing today, is key to preventing altitude sickness. Altitude sickness can range from mild headaches and nausea to more severe conditions that require immediate descent. We're all keeping a close eye on each other, and we're prepared to adjust our plans if necessary.

As I drift off to sleep, I can hear the sounds of the mountains all around me. The wind is whistling through the peaks, and the river is gurgling nearby. It's a symphony of nature, and it's the perfect soundtrack to my dreams. I am already looking forward to tomorrow, and to all the adventures that lie ahead.