Trekking the Huayhuash Circuit: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

Wilcacocha's Calm Embrace

Today was a day of reflection and gentle exploration. After several days of strenuous trekking, the Huayhuash Circuit offered a moment of respite at Laguna de Wilcacocha. It was a chance to absorb the sheer beauty of the Cordillera Blanca from a different vantage point, a welcome change of pace that allowed us to appreciate the journey so far.


Experience the tranquility of Laguna de Wilcacocha, a stunning swimming lake in the Andes, perfect for relaxation and adventure in Huaraz, Peru.

The morning started, as usual, with breakfast at our campsite within the Cordillera Huayhuash. The familiar routine of packing up our gear and preparing for the day's activities was comforting. We ate heartily, knowing we needed the energy for whatever the day held, even if it promised to be less physically demanding than previous ones. The air was crisp, the sky a brilliant blue, and the mountains stood majestically around us, their snow-capped peaks gleaming in the early morning light. It’s moments like these that make me realize how far I am from my Berlin apartment, and how much I appreciate this disconnect.

As we started our trek towards Laguna de Wilcacocha, the landscape began to shift. The rugged, rocky terrain gradually gave way to gentler slopes and more verdant vegetation. It was a subtle change, but noticeable. The trail was less challenging, allowing us to walk at a more leisurely pace and truly take in our surroundings. I found myself falling into step with the rhythm of the mountains, my mind quieting as my body moved. Lena would have loved this part of the trip; she always appreciates a change of scenery and a chance to photograph the local flora.

The hike itself was relatively short, and before we knew it, the Laguna de Wilcacocha came into view. It wasn't the most massive lake I've ever seen; in fact, some might even call it a pond. But what it lacked in size, it more than made up for in serenity and the stunning panoramic views it offered. The still waters reflected the towering peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, creating a mirror image that was simply breathtaking. The contrast between the dark blue of the water and the bright white of the snow-capped mountains was striking, a visual feast that filled my senses.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in conquering the highest peaks, but in savoring the quiet beauty of the valleys below.

We spent a good portion of the day simply sitting by the lake, soaking in the view and enjoying the tranquility. I took out my camera and snapped a few photos, trying to capture the essence of the moment, knowing full well that no image could ever truly do it justice. It's one of those places you have to experience firsthand to fully appreciate. I thought about Lena and how much she would have loved this view. I made a mental note to bring her back here someday. Maybe we could even convince some of our friends from Berlin to join us. I think they’d appreciate the break from the city.

The peacefulness of Laguna de Wilcacocha was only enhanced by the sounds of nature surrounding us. Birds chirped in the nearby trees, and the wind rustled gently through the tall grasses. The air was clean and crisp, carrying the scent of wildflowers and damp earth. It was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of Berlin, a chance to reconnect with the natural world and find some inner peace.

As the day wore on, we decided to explore the area around the lake a bit more. We walked along the shoreline, taking in the different perspectives and angles. We even ventured up a small hill on the far side of the lake, which offered an even more expansive view of the Cordillera Blanca. From up there, we could see for miles in every direction, the snow-capped peaks stretching out as far as the eye could see.

One of the interesting things about Laguna de Wilcacocha is that it's not located within Huascarán National Park, so there's no entrance fee. This makes it an accessible option for those on a budget, or for those who simply want to experience the beauty of the Cordillera Blanca without the crowds. It also means that the area is less regulated, giving it a more natural and authentic feel. I appreciate the effort to keep sites like this available to everyone.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, we packed up our gear and began the trek back to our campsite. The walk was uneventful, but filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude. We had spent a wonderful day at Laguna de Wilcacocha, recharging our batteries and reconnecting with nature. It was a welcome break from the challenges of the Huayhuash Circuit, a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding experiences are found in the simplest of things.

Back at camp, we enjoyed another hearty dinner, sharing stories and laughter with our fellow trekkers. The camaraderie that has developed over the past few days is something I truly cherish. It's amazing how quickly you can bond with people when you're sharing such an incredible experience. After dinner, as the stars began to emerge in the night sky, I took a moment to reflect on the day. Laguna de Wilcacocha had been a welcome respite, a chance to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the Cordillera Blanca. It was a day I wouldn't soon forget.

Before heading to bed, a few of us decided to check out Paso Trapecio, Cordillera Huayhuash, which our guide mentioned was a popular spot for a drink. It was a small, unassuming place, but the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. We sat around a crackling fire, sipping on local beer and swapping stories with the other patrons. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. I’m not much of a drinker, but the beer tasted especially good after a day of hiking and fresh mountain air. I even managed to practice my Spanish a bit, chatting with some of the locals. They were curious about our trek and eager to share their knowledge of the area. It’s always a pleasure to connect with people from different cultures and learn about their way of life.

As I lay in my tent, drifting off to sleep, I thought about tomorrow's trek through the Callejón de Huaylas. I’m looking forward to seeing more of the Peruvian countryside and experiencing new landscapes. I also plan to visit the local shops tomorrow to see if I can pick up any souvenirs for Lena and the family. I know they’ll appreciate a little piece of Peru to remind them of my adventure. It's hard to believe that the trip is coming to an end. I'm already starting to think about my next adventure. Maybe I'll convince Lena to join me on a trek through the Himalayas. Or perhaps we'll explore the rainforests of Brazil. The possibilities are endless.

For now, though, I'm content to be here, in this moment, surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Cordillera Huayhuash. I’m grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible place with my friends, and I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings. I closed my eyes, and the image of Laguna de Wilcacocha, with its serene waters and stunning mountain views, filled my mind. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we head towards Callejón de Huaylas, and I am hoping to find a nice shop to buy some gifts for Lena. It will be a welcome change to be in a more populated area again.