Adventurous Trek Through Peru's Huayhuash Circuit

A Symphony of Summits

Today's adventure on the Huayhuash Circuit was all about perspective, literally and figuratively. We traded the close embrace of the valleys for sweeping panoramas, seeking out vantage points that would etch themselves into our memories. It's amazing how a shift in altitude can change everything you thought you knew about a place.

The day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast courtesy of Cordillera Huayhuash. Fuelled up and ready, we set our sights on Mirador de Rataquenua. The air was crisp, a typical December morning in the Andes, and the promise of clear skies spurred us onward. As a software developer, I usually spend my days staring at lines of code, but out here, the only code I needed to crack was the one to nature's beauty. My friends and I have been looking forward to this part of the trip, and it didn't disappoint.

The climb to Mirador de Rataquenua was invigorating. The trail wound its way up, offering glimpses of the valley below, each more stunning than the last. The landscape was dotted with hardy vegetation, a testament to the resilience of life at this altitude. I couldn't help but think of my wife, Aisha, and our son, Zayn. I know they would have loved this view. I made a mental note to find a way to bring them here someday. Maybe when Zayn is a little older and can appreciate the grandeur of it all. I am sure Aisha would love to photograph the landscape, with her keen eye for detail.

Reaching the Mirador de Rataquenua was like stepping onto the edge of the world. The vista was simply breathtaking. The city of Huaraz sprawled below us, a tapestry of red-tiled roofs and bustling streets. But it was the Cordillera Blanca that stole the show. The snow-capped peaks, Huandoy, Huascarán, Chopicalqui, Hualcán, Copa, Vallunaraju, Rima Rima, Churup and Huantsán piercing the sky, formed a jagged, awe-inspiring horizon. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated wonder.


Experience the grandeur of the Andes at Mirador de Rataquenua, a top viewpoint in Huaraz, Peru, perfect for stunning photos and unforgettable moments.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

We spent a good hour at the Mirador, simply soaking in the view and snapping photos. I experimented with different angles, trying to capture the immensity of the landscape, but no photo could truly do it justice. It was one of those moments you just had to experience to understand. I thought about my homeland, the Maldives, a world away from this mountainscape. The endless ocean versus the towering peaks – two extremes of natural beauty. Both have their own unique charm, but the mountains definitely have a certain majesty.

After our fill of the Mirador, we descended, our legs a little weary but our spirits soaring. Our next destination was Laguna de Wilcacocha. The journey to the Laguna was a pleasant walk through the Andean countryside. We passed small farms, where locals were tending to their crops. It was a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. I always find it fascinating to see how people adapt to different environments, how they make a living in even the most challenging conditions.


Experience the tranquility of Laguna de Wilcacocha, a stunning swimming lake in the Andes, perfect for relaxation and adventure in Huaraz, Peru.

Laguna de Wilcacocha was a different kind of beautiful. Where the Mirador offered a grand, sweeping panorama, the Laguna was more intimate, more serene. The still waters reflected the surrounding mountains, creating a mirror image of the sky. The air was still, and the only sound was the gentle lapping of the water against the shore.

We found a spot by the lake and ate our lunch, again supplied by Cordillera Huayhuash. As I munched on my sandwich, I gazed out at the water, lost in thought. I reflected on the journey so far, the challenges we had overcome, the beauty we had witnessed. It struck me how fortunate I was to be here, to experience this incredible place with my friends. As someone who grew up in a small island nation, surrounded by the sea, the mountains have always held a special allure for me. They represent a different kind of challenge, a different kind of beauty. I am glad my friends convinced me to join this trek.

After lunch, we explored the Laguna a little more. We walked along the shore, watching the birds flit across the water. I even spotted a few wild ducks, their plumage shimmering in the sunlight. I tried to take some photos, but they were too quick for me. Maybe tomorrow I will have better luck. We also did some shopping around Cordillera Huayhuash, picking up some souvenirs for our families. I got Aisha a beautiful hand-woven scarf, the colours reflecting the hues of the mountains. I know she will love it.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way back to camp. The sky was ablaze with colour, a fiery farewell to another incredible day. The mountains were silhouetted against the sky, their peaks glowing with the last light of the day. It was a scene that would stay with me forever.

Back at camp, we gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter. We talked about the day's adventures, the views we had seen, the challenges we had overcome. We reminisced about past trips, the funny moments, the near disasters. It's amazing how travel can create such strong bonds between people. I feel so lucky to have these friends in my life.

As I write this, curled up in my sleeping bag, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place, gratitude for the friends who share this adventure with me, gratitude for the simple things in life – a warm meal, a comfortable bed, a stunning view. Tomorrow, we continue our trek, heading towards Callejón de Huaylas and Cordillera Huayhuash. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, what new wonders await us around the next bend. And perhaps we might even celebrate with a drink at Paso trapecio, cordillera Huayhuash.

Before drifting off to sleep, I double-checked my backpack, making sure I had everything I needed for tomorrow's hike. I chuckled as I remembered I forgot my portable charger and an extra pair of socks. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear waters. I am truly living the dream.

The weather in December in Huayhuash is generally cool, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 12.6°C. It's the summer season in Peru, so while it can be hot during the day, the nights can get quite cold, sometimes even below freezing. It's essential to bring layers and be prepared for all types of weather.