Family Trekking Adventure in the Huayhuash Circuit

Day 9: Peaks, Purchases, and Peace in Huayhuash

Today was a day of personal triumphs amidst the grandeur of the Cordillera Huayhuash. It was a day where the physical challenges of the trek met the simple pleasures of exploring local crafts, creating a unique blend of exertion and relaxation. The mountains continue to test us, but the spirit of the Andes uplifts us.


Explore the stunning Cordillera Huayhuash, a Peruvian treasure offering breathtaking landscapes, challenging treks, and rich wildlife experiences.

The morning began, as most have on this trek, with the crisp mountain air biting at our cheeks as we emerged from our tents. Mateo, ever the early riser, was already outside, attempting to capture the sunrise with his little camera. Sophie and I joined him, mugs of steaming coca tea in hand, watching as the first rays of light painted the peaks in hues of gold and rose. It's moments like these, shared with my family, that make all the hardship worthwhile.

Our primary objective today was simply to continue absorbing the awe-inspiring beauty of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Waking up amidst the Cordillera Huayhuash is a unique experience. The sheer scale of the mountains dwarfs everything, making you feel both insignificant and incredibly connected to something ancient and powerful. The silence, broken only by the occasional cry of a bird or the rush of a distant stream, is profound. It’s a silence that allows you to hear your own thoughts, to reflect on your life, your journey, and your place in the world. I made sure to take it all in during breakfast. The simple act of preparing and sharing breakfast as a family, surrounded by such majesty, felt like a sacred ritual.

We had our breakfast at the Cordillera Huayhuash. As I savored the last of my morning meal, I knew I had to visit the local shop. Though not a planned part of our itinerary, I wanted to support the local economy. It was a modest establishment, more of a stall than a shop, really, but it was stocked with an array of handmade goods. Colorful textiles, intricately woven alpaca scarves, and small, carved figurines were on display. I'm always drawn to items that reflect the local culture and craftsmanship, a habit I likely picked up from my grandfather, who was a master carpenter back in Huancavelica. He always said that an object made by hand carries the soul of its maker.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

I purchased a small quena, a traditional Andean flute, hoping to add to my collection back home in Montreal. Mateo was fascinated by it, and I promised to teach him how to play when we returned. Sophie, ever practical, found a beautiful hand-woven blanket that she said would be perfect for our living room. It’s these little treasures that help us keep the memories of our travels alive long after we've returned home. Supporting the local artisans felt good, a small way to give back to the communities that have welcomed us so warmly. Knowing that our purchases contribute to their livelihoods adds a layer of meaning to the souvenirs we bring home.

The afternoon was dedicated to savoring the Cordillera Huayhuash. After our shopping trip, we continued our trek, the landscape unfolding before us in a series of stunning vistas. We stopped for lunch by a crystal-clear stream, the water so pure we could drink straight from it. Mateo, of course, had to test this, filling his bottle with a grin. We ate in comfortable silence, each of us lost in our own thoughts, but connected by the shared experience of being here, in this extraordinary place. As we hiked, I thought about the architectural work I do back in Montreal, and how that work preserves the past. Here in the Andes, the mountains themselves feel like ancient monuments, testaments to the enduring power of nature. It's a humbling perspective.

As the day waned, we found a peaceful spot to simply sit and observe. The sun began its slow descent, casting long shadows across the valleys. The air grew cooler, and we huddled together, sharing stories and jokes. Mateo, full of energy as always, started a game of tag, his laughter echoing through the mountains. Even Sophie, usually reserved, joined in, her face flushed with joy. It was a perfect family moment, one that I know we will all cherish for years to come. As a family, we sat and had dinner at the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Back at camp, as the stars began to pepper the night sky, I reflected on the day. It wasn't about conquering a mountain or reaching a specific milestone. It was about the small, meaningful moments shared with my family, the connection to the local culture, and the sense of peace that comes from being immersed in nature. It was about finding triumph in the simple act of being present.

Tomorrow, we continue our trek towards Peruvian Mountains Trek Climb. I’m looking forward to the challenge, to seeing what new wonders await us. But more than that, I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with my family, to create memories that will last a lifetime. Perhaps we'll celebrate with a drink at Paso trapecio, Cordillera Huayhuash. Tonight, though, I will sleep soundly, lulled by the gentle whispers of the Andes, dreaming of the peaks we've conquered and the treasures we've found along the way. I'm also grateful that I was able to pick up a few items to bring back home, and remember this experience for a long time. I’m especially excited to learn how to play the quena, as I had always wanted to learn the instrument as a child. My grandfather, who I mentioned earlier, used to play the instrument beautifully.

As I sit here, writing by the dim light of my headlamp, with the wind gently buffeting the tent, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Gratitude for my family, for this incredible journey, and for the chance to experience the raw beauty of the Cordillera Huayhuash. It's a privilege to be here, to witness this natural wonder, and to share it with the people I love most in the world. I'm also grateful for the small victories of the day, like finding a unique souvenir or sharing a laugh with my son. These are the moments that make a trip truly special, the little details that weave together to create a tapestry of unforgettable memories.

And as I drift off to sleep, I know that even though the challenges of the trek will continue, the rewards – the stunning landscapes, the cultural encounters, and the unbreakable bonds forged with my family – will make it all worthwhile. We may be tired, our muscles may ache, but our spirits are soaring, lifted by the majesty of the Andes and the joy of shared adventure. This is what it means to truly live, to embrace the unknown, and to find beauty in the most unexpected places. The memory of the textiles and alpaca wool products in the shop are still fresh in my mind.

Goodnight from the Cordillera Huayhuash. Tomorrow we continue our adventure!