Family Trekking Adventure in the Huayhuash Circuit

Day 10: Conquering Heights and Reflecting on the Journey: Day 10 in Huayhuash

Experience the stunning Peruvian mountains on Day 10 of our Huayhuash trek. Join us as we climb, reflect, and prepare for our final day.

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Reaching New Heights


Today was a day of physical challenge and quiet contemplation amidst the towering peaks of the Huayhuash. As we approach the end of our family trek, the landscapes seem to whisper stories of resilience, both of the mountains themselves and of our little family unit. It's amazing how a journey like this can strip away the unnecessary and leave you with a profound appreciation for the simple things.

The day began, as most have on this trek, with a hearty breakfast at our campsite, courtesy of Cordillera Huayhuash. The crisp mountain air invigorated us as we prepared for our Peruvian Mountains Trek Climb.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Mountains through unforgettable treks and cultural experiences in the heart of the Andes.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Mountains through unforgettable treks and cultural experiences in the heart of the Andes.

Mateo, ever the energetic one, was particularly excited, eager to tackle the day's ascent. Sophie, with her characteristic thoughtfulness, made sure we were all properly layered, knowing how quickly the mountain weather can change. The average temperature in Huayhuash in May typically varies between 2.1°C (35.8°F) and 12°C (53.6°F).


As a restoration technician specializing in historical buildings, I often find myself drawn to the enduring nature of stone and structure. Perhaps that’s why mountains resonate so deeply with me. They stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, bearing the marks of countless seasons and enduring through immense change. Today, as we ascended, I couldn't help but feel a kinship with these ancient giants. It reminded me of the buildings I work on back in Montreal, each brick and beam holding a story of its own. It is important to spend at least 2 days in places above 3000m before starting the trek.


The trek itself was demanding, a constant negotiation with the altitude and the rugged terrain. Mateo, surprisingly, kept pace with me for most of the morning, his little legs pumping with determination. I was reminded of my own childhood in Huancavelica, exploring the hills with my grandfather, who instilled in me a love for the land and a respect for its challenges. I shared some of those memories with Mateo, hoping to pass on that same appreciation. Sophie, while not as outwardly enthusiastic about the climb, quietly persevered, her steady presence a source of strength for both Mateo and me.


Sometimes, the greatest journeys are not about the destinations we reach, but the bonds we forge along the way.


Reaching the summit was a moment of shared triumph. The view was, as always, breathtaking. The Cordillera Huayhuash stretched out before us, a tapestry of snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes.

Experience unparalleled beauty and adventure in Cordillera Huayhuash - Peru's premier trekking destination with breathtaking landscapes.
Experience unparalleled beauty and adventure in Cordillera Huayhuash - Peru's premier trekking destination with breathtaking landscapes.

We could see Paso Trapecio, Cordillera Huayhuash in the distance. I took a moment to identify some of the peaks, Yerupaja among them. The air was thin and the wind was biting, but the sense of accomplishment warmed us from the inside out. I thought about my grandfather again, about the sacrifices he made to provide a better life for his family, and about the journey that had brought me from the Andes to Montreal. It was a moment of profound gratitude. The Cordillera Blanca contains more than 300 summits and the world's highest tropical mountains.


After a brief rest and some photos, we began our descent. The way down was no less challenging, requiring careful footing and a constant awareness of our surroundings. We took our time, mindful of Mateo's little legs, and made frequent stops to admire the scenery. As we descended, the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the mountains. The sky was ablaze with color, a fiery farewell to another day in the Huayhuash. The best season for the 12-day trek is from May to September.

Paso Trapecio, Cordillera Huayhuash.

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

Before retiring for the night, I made a brief stop at a local bar, Paso Trapecio, Cordillera Huayhuash. Sipping on a warm drink, I reflected on the journey so far. It had been a challenging but rewarding experience, one that had tested our limits and strengthened our bonds. As I looked up at the stars, I felt a sense of peace and contentment. We had come to the Huayhuash seeking adventure, but we had found something far more profound: a deeper connection with ourselves, with each other, and with the natural world.


Tomorrow is our final day on the trek, and we will be visiting HUAYHUASH TREK PERÚ. We will be making our way back, carrying not only memories of breathtaking landscapes but also a renewed sense of gratitude for the simple joys of family, nature, and the enduring power of the human spirit. I am also planning to buy something at Cordillera Huayhuash. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for what tomorrow would bring, and a tinge of sadness that our adventure was coming to an end.


The Huayhuash has a way of getting under your skin, of leaving an indelible mark on your soul. I know that I will carry these memories with me for the rest of my life, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared them with my family.


Good night from the Huayhuash. I look forward to sharing my final thoughts with you tomorrow.


Go to day 9 Triumph and Tranquility: Conquering the Heights of Huayhuash
Go to day 11 Huayhuash Farewell: Reflecting on Our Family's Peruvian Trek
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Family Trekking Adventure in the Huayhuash Circuit

Join our family as we explore the stunning landscapes of Peru's Huayhuash Circuit on an unforgettable 11-day trekking adventure.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Juan Quispe
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Restoration Technician specializing in historical buildings
  • Country icon Country: Canada
  • Age icon Age: 42

¡Hola, amigos! I'm Juan Quispe, a Peruvian-born restoration technician living in Montreal. My journey has taken me from the Andean highlands of Huancavelica to the vibrant streets of Montreal, and along the way, I've developed a deep appreciation for history, culture, and craftsmanship. Through this blog, I share my passion for travel, exploring historical sites, savoring South American cuisine, and preserving cultural heritage. Join me as I recount my adventures with my wife, Sophie, and our son, Mateo, as we explore the world, one historical site and delicious meal at a time.

Interests:
  • History
  • Architecture
  • Cultural preservation
  • South American cuisine
  • Hiking
More about Juan Quispe

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