Exploring the Alpamayo Circuit: A Peruvian Adventure with Friends

Andean Heights and Culinary Delights

Today was a day of stunning vistas, delicious food, and a touch of retail therapy, all while continuing our trek through the magnificent Santa Cruz valley. The air is crisp, the company is fantastic, and the scenery is simply out of this world. I feel incredibly grateful to be experiencing this with my friends, even missing my wife, Aishath, and son, Ibrahim, back home in Toronto. I know they'd love this.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Trek Santa Cruz, a premier hiking destination in the heart of Peru's Andes mountains.
We started our day with a hearty breakfast at the Green House in Huaraz [i]. Fueling up with some traditional Peruvian fare was essential before hitting the trail. The Green House was a delightful spot, filled with the aroma of fresh coffee and the promise of a day filled with adventure. I made sure to grab an extra cup of coca tea, hoping it would help with the altitude. It's a habit I've picked up since arriving in Peru, a little piece of the local culture to help ease the challenges of the high altitudes. I can't help but think about how different this is from my usual mornings in Toronto, rushing to get Ibrahim ready for school before heading to my software development job. Here, life feels simpler, more connected to the earth.

The Santa Cruz trek itself was nothing short of breathtaking. Surrounded by towering peaks and vast valleys, every step felt like a privilege. The trail was moderately challenging, but the views more than compensated for the effort. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to snap photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the Cordillera Blanca. I know pictures won't truly do it justice, but I want to have something to show Aishath and Ibrahim when I get back home.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this landscape is from my home in the Maldives. The stark, rugged beauty of the Andes is a world away from the lush, tropical paradise of my childhood. Yet, both places have a unique charm that captivates the soul. Perhaps that's why I love to travel – to experience the diverse beauty of our planet and to broaden my perspective on life.

For lunch, we stopped at Dos Bross - Snack Bar. This snack bar is known for having some of the best ceviche in Peru. The ceviche was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a perfect midday treat. The snack bar was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the delicious food and lively atmosphere. I even managed to practice my Spanish with the friendly staff, a skill I've been trying to improve since planning this trip. It's always rewarding to connect with people from different cultures and to learn about their way of life.

Discover the culinary delights of Peru at Dos Bross - Snack Bar in Yungay, where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that push you out of your comfort zone and immerse you in the beauty of the natural world.

In the afternoon, we continued our trek, making our way through the stunning landscapes of the Santa Cruz valley. The weather was perfect – sunny and clear, with a gentle breeze to keep us cool. As we walked, we passed through small villages and saw local farmers tending to their fields. It was a humbling experience to witness their simple way of life, so different from the hustle and bustle of Toronto. I thought about how much we take for granted back home and how important it is to appreciate the simple things in life.

Before dinner, we made a detour to Mundo Alpaca, a shop dedicated to all things alpaca. As someone interested in sustainable living, I was intrigued to learn more about these animals and their role in Peruvian culture. We saw alpacas and llamas up close and learned about the process of making alpaca wool. The shop had a wide array of alpaca products, from sweaters and scarves to blankets and rugs. I couldn't resist buying a soft, warm alpaca scarf for Aishath. I know she'll love it, especially during the cold Toronto winters. It's a small way to bring a piece of Peru back home to her.

Explore the vibrant world of alpaca textiles at Mundo Alpaca, a cultural hub in Arequipa that blends shopping with rich Peruvian heritage.

For dinner, we dined at Inti House [i]. The meal was a delicious and satisfying end to a day of hiking and exploring. I enjoyed a hearty stew, filled with local vegetables and tender meat. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a long day on the trail. As we ate, we shared stories and laughter, strengthening the bond between us friends. These are the moments I cherish most – the shared experiences and the camaraderie that comes from traveling together.

Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Inti House in Aguas Calientes – your gateway to culinary delights near Machu Picchu.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. Today was a day filled with incredible sights, delicious food, and meaningful connections. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to experience this adventure with my friends and to immerse myself in the beauty and culture of Peru.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to continue our trek with Peruvian Mountains Trek Climb. I'm excited to see what new landscapes and challenges await us. I'm also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at ALPAMAYO CASA HOTEL - RESTAURANTE for breakfast, Restaurant. Turistico alpamayo. for lunch, and Andes Lodge Peru for dinner. And perhaps, we'll end the day with a relaxing drink at Hotel Mirador Alpamayo Huaraz (Con Cochera). I know tomorrow will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

But for now, it's time to rest and recharge. The mountains are calling, and I must go.

Until tomorrow,

Mohamed