Exploring the Alpamayo Circuit: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

Reaching New Heights

Today marked a significant milestone in our Alpamayo Circuit adventure. The climb was demanding, pushing us both physically and mentally, but the reward was more than worth the effort. We were treated to panoramic vistas that stretched as far as the eye could see, a true testament to the raw beauty of the Peruvian Andes. I felt a profound sense of accomplishment, mixed with awe at the sheer scale of nature's grandeur.

Day six on the Alpamayo Circuit began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at Casa Hotel Alpamayo. It's become a comforting ritual, fueling up for the day's challenges with good food and the camaraderie of my friends. We knew today would be particularly tough: conquering Cara Cara Pass, one of the highest points on the trek.


Experience comfort and culinary delights at Casa Hotel Alpamayo in Yungay, your gateway to Peru's breathtaking landscapes.

The morning air was crisp as we set off, Nevado Alpamayo looming in the distance. The initial ascent was gradual, allowing us to find our rhythm and enjoy the serene surroundings. The landscape was a tapestry of greens and browns, dotted with hardy shrubs clinging to the steep slopes. As we climbed higher, the vegetation thinned, giving way to rocky terrain.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Nevado Alpamayo, a stunning glacier in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

The climb to Mesapata Pass (4600m) was tough, but it was just a prelude to the main event. From there, we traversed towards Cara Cara Pass (4830m), and the wind picked up considerably. It howled around us, testing our resolve, but the views kept us going. Alpamayo, Santa Cruz, and Quitaraju stood majestically in the distance, their snow-capped peaks piercing the azure sky.

Reaching the summit of Cara Cara Pass was an emotional moment. The wind whipped our faces, but the 360-degree panorama was simply breathtaking. We could see the lakes glistening below, reflecting the sunlight like scattered jewels. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated joy, a feeling of being on top of the world with my friends.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

After soaking in the views and snapping a few photos, we began our descent towards Lake Safuna. The trail was steep and rocky, requiring careful footing. My trekking boots, one of the essentials I packed, were definitely earning their keep. I was thankful for them, especially since I forgot sunscreen and extra snacks. The descent was tough on the knees, but the scenery was a constant distraction, with stunning vistas at every turn.

We finally reached Lake Safuna, where we set up camp for the night. The sense of accomplishment was palpable as we pitched our tents and prepared dinner. We shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about the day's challenges and triumphs. As the sun set, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible experience.

Even though we were exhausted, the thought of heading to ValeTodo DownTown for a night out crossed my mind. However, the lure of a warm sleeping bag and the promise of another day of trekking won out. Maybe another time!


Dive into the lively atmosphere of ValeTodo DownTown, Lima's premier gay nightclub with electrifying performances and two dynamic dance floors.

For lunch, we had a quick bite on the trail, nothing fancy but enough to keep us going. Dinner was a simple affair at the camp, but after a long day of hiking, everything tastes delicious. After dinner, we enjoyed some stargazing. Away from city lights, the night sky was ablaze with countless stars, a truly magical sight.

Before turning in, I took a moment to reflect on the journey so far. The Alpamayo Circuit is more than just a trek; it's an adventure that challenges you physically, mentally, and emotionally. It pushes you to your limits, but it also rewards you with unparalleled beauty and a sense of accomplishment.

Tomorrow, we continue our journey, heading from Safuna to Paso Pucajirca, and finally camping in the open grassy valley of Jancapampa. I'm excited to see what new wonders await us, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my friends.

I also thought about Aishath and Ibrahim back home in Toronto. I miss them dearly, and I know Aishath would be worried about me tackling such a challenging trek. But I also know she understands my need for adventure, for pushing myself beyond my comfort zone. I can't wait to share my stories and photos with them when I get back, maybe even inspire them to join me on a future adventure.

Back in Toronto, I often find myself missing the simple life I had in the Maldives. The ocean, the warmth, the close-knit community – it's all a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life. But I've also come to appreciate the opportunities that Toronto offers, the diversity, the culture, the chance to pursue my dreams. And who knows, maybe one day I can find a way to combine the best of both worlds, to live a life that's both adventurous and fulfilling.

As I drifted off to sleep, I thought about the incredible day we had, the challenges we overcame, and the breathtaking beauty we witnessed. The Alpamayo Circuit is a journey of a lifetime, and I'm so grateful to be experiencing it with my friends. I am excited for tomorrow, and the chance to see Alpamayo up close.

Before falling asleep, I made sure to jot down some notes for my blog. It's important to capture these memories while they're still fresh in my mind, to share the experience with others and inspire them to embark on their own adventures. And who knows, maybe one day I'll even write a book about my travels, a collection of stories and photos that celebrate the beauty of our world and the human spirit's capacity for adventure.

I am very much looking forward to tomorrow and the chance to see Alpamayo up close. I'm also excited about the prospect of visiting Cafe Andino for breakfast, Chilli Heaven for lunch and Restaurant Tourístico for dinner. Maybe we'll even have time to stop by the Cordillera Blanca Lodge for a drink. It will be great to relax and enjoy the views.