Trekking the Huayhuash Circuit: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

A View from the Top

Today was a day of perspective – literally. After several days of intense trekking, we took a moment to soak in the grandeur of the Cordillera Blanca from a vantage point high above Huaraz. The Mirador de Rataquenua offered a stunning panorama that reminded me why I embarked on this adventure in the first place. It’s amazing how a change in altitude can shift your entire outlook.


Experience the grandeur of the Andes at Mirador de Rataquenua, a top viewpoint in Huaraz, Peru, perfect for stunning photos and unforgettable moments.
The day began, as usual, with breakfast at our campsite within the Cordillera Huayhuash [i]. The crisp mountain air was invigorating, and I felt a surge of energy knowing that a rewarding view awaited us. Lena always reminds me to take it slow and steady, especially at this altitude, and I’m grateful for her level-headedness. After packing up our gear and a quick shopping trip in Cordillera Huayhuash, we set off for the Mirador de Rataquenua [i].

The journey to the viewpoint was an experience in itself. The trail wound its way up the Cerro Rataquenua, gradually ascending to an altitude of 3,314 meters. As we climbed, the landscape transformed. The rugged terrain gave way to patches of green, with eucalyptus trees dotting the hillsides. I couldn't help but think of the vibrant artistic traditions of my hometown, Foumban, and how nature always finds a way to inspire creativity.

As we gained altitude, the city of Huaraz began to shrink below us, revealing itself as a tapestry of terracotta roofs and bustling streets. The air grew cooler, and the wind picked up, carrying with it the scent of pine and earth. I paused to catch my breath, taking in the vastness of the landscape. It was a humbling reminder of the sheer scale of the Andes.

Sometimes, all you need is a change in altitude to gain a new perspective.

Finally, we reached the Mirador de Rataquenua. And what a sight it was! Before me, the Cordillera Blanca stretched out in all its glory. The snow-capped peaks of Huandoy, Huascarán, Chopicalqui, and Hualcán pierced the sky, their icy summits shimmering in the sunlight. It was a breathtaking panorama that seemed to go on forever. Lena pointed out each of the peaks, her architectural eye appreciating the natural geometry of the mountains. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly do justice to the experience.

We spent a long time at the Mirador, simply soaking in the view. It was a perfect day with clear skies, ideal for photography. I thought about my life back in Berlin, the endless coding, and the urban hustle. Up here, surrounded by such natural beauty, those concerns seemed so distant. It was a moment of clarity, a reminder of what truly matters.

The Mirador itself had a large cross, a testament to the religious significance of the site for local pilgrimages. I watched as a few locals paid their respects, their quiet reverence adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the place. There was also a restaurant mirador, but we decided to have our lunch amidst nature.

As the afternoon wore on, we began our descent. The walk down was much easier, and we made good time. Back at camp, we enjoyed a well-deserved dinner, reminiscing about the incredible views we had witnessed. Evenings in the Cordillera Huayhuash are always special, with the stars putting on a dazzling display.

Tomorrow, we plan to trek towards Laguna de Wilcacocha, another scenic spot that promises even more stunning views. I’m looking forward to seeing what new perspectives tomorrow will bring. And perhaps, we'll stop by the Paso Trapecio bar for a well-deserved drink.

This trek is not just a physical challenge; it’s a journey of the mind and spirit. Each day brings new insights, new perspectives, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of our planet. As I sit here in my tent, writing these words, I feel grateful for this experience and for the opportunity to share it with you all. I am also glad I did not forget my camera, even though I did forget to pack extra memory cards. I´ll make sure to buy some when I get back to Huaraz!

The weather in September around here is quite nice. During the day, temperatures can reach around 11.9°C (53.4°F), but at night, it can dip to an average of 2.7°C (36.9°F). We have also experienced some rain, so it is good to always be prepared for rapid weather changes.

This trek through the Cordillera Huayhuash is turning out to be everything I hoped for and more. The challenges are real, but the rewards are immeasurable. If you’re looking for an adventure that will test your limits and inspire your soul, this is it. Just remember to bring your trekking boots, camping gear, warm clothing, and of course, your camera!

Looking forward to sharing more of my journey with you tomorrow.

Reflecting on the Trek

As the sun sets on another day in the Cordillera Huayhuash, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had so far. This trek has been more than just a physical challenge; it's been a journey of self-discovery and connection with nature. The stunning landscapes, the camaraderie with my friends, and the quiet moments of contemplation have all contributed to a truly unforgettable adventure.

One of the things that has struck me most about this trek is the sheer variety of landscapes we've encountered. From the rugged mountain passes to the turquoise lakes and the lush valleys, each day has brought new and awe-inspiring scenery. It's as if the Cordillera Huayhuash is a microcosm of the entire world, condensed into a single mountain range.

Today, as we stood atop the Mirador de Rataquenua, gazing out at the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such beauty. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but moments like these remind us of what truly matters: the connection with nature, the love of our friends and family, and the pursuit of experiences that enrich our lives.

Of course, the trek hasn't been without its challenges. The high altitude, the unpredictable weather, and the physical demands of the trail have all tested our limits. There have been times when I've felt exhausted, discouraged, and ready to give up. But in those moments, I've drawn strength from my friends, from the stunning scenery around me, and from the knowledge that I'm pushing myself to achieve something truly remarkable.

As I look ahead to the remaining days of the trek, I'm filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. I know that there will be more challenges to overcome, more mountains to climb, and more breathtaking views to behold. But I also know that I'm ready for whatever lies ahead, because I have the support of my friends, the beauty of the Andes, and the unwavering belief in myself.

And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I'll be dreaming of the snow-capped peaks, the turquoise lakes, and the warm smiles of the people I've met along the way. Because that's what this trek is all about: creating memories that will last a lifetime, and discovering the true meaning of adventure. Thanks to the local restaurant, Cordillera Huayhuash, for keeping us fed and happy!