Exploring the Alpamayo Circuit: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

Cullicocha's Embrace

Today was a day of remarkable beauty and cultural immersion as we continued our trek through the Alpamayo Circuit. The landscapes shifted from rugged mountain passes to serene lakeshores, and the interactions with local communities added a rich layer to the experience. It's days like these that remind me why I embarked on this adventure in the first place, to witness the raw beauty of nature and connect with the people who call these mountains home.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Lazy Dog Inn. The inn was amazing, the hosts were incredible, and the food was insane. I had the most peaceful, wonderful stay with Diana and Gina at the lazy dog inn. After our meal, we set off towards Laguna Cullicocha, a jewel nestled high in the Andes. The morning air was crisp, and the anticipation of seeing the lagoon spurred us onward. The trek itself was moderately challenging, with a steady incline that tested our acclimatization. But the views more than compensated for the effort. As we ascended, the panoramic vistas of the Cordillera Blanca unfolded before us, revealing a tapestry of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys.


Experience the serene beauty of Laguna Cullicocha, a stunning hiking destination in Hualcallán, Peru, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush nature.

Laguna Cullicocha greeted us with its stunning turquoise waters, framed by the imposing Nevados Santa Cruz. The reflection of the mountains on the lake's surface created a mirror-like effect, amplifying the grandeur of the scene. I spent a good hour simply absorbing the view, taking photos, and committing the image to memory. The sheer scale of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of nature's power and artistry. We hiked around the lake, each angle offering a new perspective on its beauty.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest moments, like gazing upon a pristine lake surrounded by towering peaks.

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For lunch, we stopped at Don Cuy, a local restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine. I decided to try the pachamanca, a dish cooked in an underground oven with hot stones. It was a delightful culinary experience, the flavors rich and earthy, the meat tender and succulent. I learned that Don Cuy is renowned for its succulent cuy (guinea pig), which is prepared with expert care, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. Although I didn't try that, I did enjoy the causa, tuna fish and pickled vegetables with a spicy accompaniment. Mohamed said the service was fast and the staff were gracious.

After lunch, we made our way to Jancapampa, a remote village where we had the opportunity to shop for local crafts. The village was small and unassuming, but it exuded a sense of authenticity that I found incredibly appealing. The local artisans displayed their wares – hand-woven textiles, intricate wood carvings, and colorful ceramics. I purchased a beautiful alpaca scarf, a tangible reminder of my time in the Andes and a practical item to keep me warm on chilly evenings. Talking with the villagers, I learned about their way of life, their traditions, and their deep connection to the land. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the simple joys in life and the importance of community. There were a lot of farming families living in the valley and many curious local children.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Peru at Jancapampa, a charming grocery store offering fresh produce and local delicacies.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Hacienda Huayoccari for dinner. The restaurant gives off the beaten path new meaning. The setting was opulent, with the dining room offering views over the valley and ringed by the Andes mountains. The hacienda itself was a treasure trove of art and history, with a private collection of Tiwanaku, Incan, and post-Columbus artifacts. Dinner was a multi-course affair, each dish a celebration of Peruvian flavors. I savored the ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew, and the lomo saltado, stir-fried loin with vegetables. The meal was a perfect end to a day filled with natural beauty and cultural immersion.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Hacienda Huayoccari in Huycho.

Wayne and I reminisced about our visit to Maldives, and Aishath sent pictures of Ibrahim. I miss them dearly, but I know this adventure is something special that I will cherish forever. I am looking forward to tomorrow when we Trek Santa Cruz.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our trek, and we will celebrate with breakfast at Green House, lunch at Dos Bross - Snack Bar and dinner at Inti House. We might even stop at Churup Mountain Lodge for a drink.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this remarkable region and connect with its people. The Alpamayo Circuit has been more than just a trek; it has been a journey of discovery, a testament to the power of nature, and a celebration of the human spirit.

I think it is something my family would appreciate as well. I think I will bring them next time. It will be a new experience for Ibrahim, but I think he will love it. Especially the lakes.

I am exhausted, but I know that I have to prepare for tomorrow. I want to say goodbye to the Alpamayo Circuit in style.