Family Trekking Adventure in the Huayhuash Circuit

A Valley of Memories

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet reflection in the Callejón de Huaylas. It’s funny how some days on a long trek stand out not because of any grand adventure, but because of the small moments of connection with the land and the people. As we continue our journey through Peru, I find myself more and more drawn to the simple beauty of the Andean landscapes and the enduring spirit of its inhabitants.


Discover the stunning landscapes and cultural richness of Callejon de Huaylas, Peru's breathtaking natural wonder.

Our day began, as most have on this trek, with a hearty breakfast at our campsite courtesy of Cordillera Huayhuash. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of mountain herbs and the promise of a clear day. The Callejón de Huaylas unfolded before us, a vast valley cradled between the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra. The contrast between the snow-capped peaks and the stark, rocky mountains was as striking as ever, a constant reminder of the diverse beauty of this region.

The plan for today was simple: to soak in the atmosphere of the Callejón de Huaylas, a valley known for its stunning views and rich agricultural lands. We didn’t have a specific destination in mind, allowing us to wander and discover at our own pace. Mateo, full of energy as always, was particularly excited about the prospect of exploring freely. Sophie and I were equally eager to embrace the tranquility of the valley after several days of challenging trekking.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in conquering mountains, but in surrendering to the simple beauty of the valleys.

We started with a leisurely walk along the Santa River, the lifeblood of the Callejón de Huaylas. The river's course is dramatic, cutting through the valley and creating a vibrant contrast between the arid mountains and the lush vegetation along its banks. Mateo, ever curious, peppered me with questions about the river's source and its importance to the local communities. I explained how the Santa River originates from the lagoons and melting glaciers high in the Cordillera Blanca, providing water for agriculture and sustaining life in the valley.

As we walked, we passed through small villages, each with its own unique charm. The architecture, a blend of traditional Andean styles and modern influences, caught my eye. Having spent years working as a restoration technician in Montreal, I have a deep appreciation for the way buildings reflect the history and culture of a place. The houses in the Callejón de Huaylas, built with adobe bricks and topped with red-tile roofs, seemed to grow organically from the landscape.

We stopped at a local market, drawn in by the vibrant colors and the lively chatter of the vendors. Sophie was particularly interested in the textiles, admiring the intricate patterns and the rich hues of the handwoven fabrics. We bought a few small souvenirs, promising ourselves to return for more before we leave the region. It’s important to support the local artisans, especially in a place where tourism plays such a vital role in the economy.

Lunch, again at Cordillera Huayhuash, was a simple but satisfying affair. We enjoyed a traditional Andean meal of quinoa soup, trout, and fresh vegetables, savoring the flavors of the region. Mateo, always a fan of trying new things, declared the quinoa soup his new favorite dish. It warmed my heart to see him embracing the local cuisine with such enthusiasm.

After lunch, we found a quiet spot overlooking the valley and simply sat, taking in the view. The Callejón de Huaylas stretched out before us, a tapestry of green fields, patchwork farms, and distant mountains. The air was still and the only sound was the gentle murmur of the wind. It was a moment of perfect peace, a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with ourselves.

As I sat there, I couldn't help but reflect on my own journey. Born in Huancavelica, I left Peru many years ago in search of a better life. Montreal has become my home, but a part of me will always belong to the Andes. This trip, this return to my roots, has been a powerful reminder of where I come from and what truly matters.

Sophie, sensing my thoughts, took my hand and smiled. This is beautiful, Juan, she said. I understand why you love this place so much. Her words meant the world to me. Sharing my heritage with my family, showing them the beauty of Peru, has been one of the greatest joys of this trip.

Mateo, restless as always, soon broke the silence. Papa, can we go explore some more? he asked. I laughed and ruffled his hair. Of course, hijo, I said. There's always more to discover.

We spent the rest of the afternoon wandering through the valley, exploring hidden trails, and marveling at the natural beauty around us. We visited a small church, its walls adorned with colorful murals depicting scenes from the Bible. We met a local farmer, who shared stories of his life and his connection to the land. We even stumbled upon a group of children playing soccer in a field, their laughter echoing through the valley.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Callejón de Huaylas, we made our way back to our campsite. Dinner at Cordillera Huayhuash was a festive affair, with music, dancing, and plenty of laughter. We shared stories of our day, reminiscing about the sights we had seen and the people we had met. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.

Later, as I lay in my tent, listening to the sounds of the night, I thought about what tomorrow would bring. According to the itinerary, we will continue exploring the Cordillera Huayhuash [ITINERARY OF TOMORROW]. I am eager to see what wonders await us, but I also know that no matter what happens, I will always cherish the memories of this day, this quiet moment of connection with the Callejón de Huaylas.

The weather in May in this region is quite agreeable, with average temperatures ranging from 2.1°C to 12°C. The humidity is around 78%, and there can be some rainfall, so it’s important to be prepared. But the clear days and the stunning views make it all worthwhile.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy some insect repellent when we get the chance [TripEssentialsForgotten]. The mosquitoes have been particularly bothersome in the evenings.

As I close my eyes, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for this journey, for the opportunity to share my heritage with my family, and for the chance to experience the beauty of Peru once again. The Callejón de Huaylas has touched my heart in a profound way, reminding me of the importance of simplicity, connection, and appreciation for the natural world. It is a lesson I will carry with me long after this trek is over.

And who knows, maybe one day I’ll bring Sophie and Mateo back to Huancavelica, to show them the place where I grew up, the place where my own journey began. That would be a dream come true.

For now, good night from the Callejón de Huaylas. Tomorrow, we continue our adventure, with open hearts and eager spirits.