Adventurous Escape to Peru: The Ausangate Trek

A Kaleidoscope of Colors
Today was a day of vibrant hues and high altitudes as I embarked on a journey to Vinicunca, the famed Rainbow Mountain. The day was a sensory overload, from the breathtaking views to the unique flavors of Cusco. It was a day that tested my limits and rewarded me with memories I'll cherish forever.

The morning started early, as most adventures do, with a hearty breakfast at Jack's Café. David and I fueled up with their famous pancakes, a stack so high it felt like a mountain in itself. Jasmine, ever the health-conscious one, opted for the vegan breakfast, which she said was surprisingly delicious. It's always nice to find a place that caters to everyone's tastes, especially when you're traveling with friends and family. Jack's Cafe is known for its Western-style food that provides travelers with tastes from home. The cafe is a popular spot, and we had to wait in line, but it moved quickly.


Discover culinary delights at Jack's Café in Cusco—where every meal is made with love and local ingredients.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for Rainbow Mountain. The drive to the Rainbow Mountain Cusipata Trail Parking took a couple of hours, winding through the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian countryside. The views alone were worth the trip, with snow-capped mountains looming in the distance and quaint villages dotting the valleys. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. It reminded me of the rolling hills of Bermuda, but on a much grander scale.


Experience the vibrant beauty of Rainbow Mountain on the Cusipata Trail, a must-visit hiking destination in the captivating Peruvian Andes.

Arriving at the trailhead, the altitude hit us immediately. At over 16,000 feet, the air was thin, and each step felt like a monumental effort. Jasmine, being the energetic teenager she is, bounded ahead, while David and I took a more measured pace. I definitely felt the need for that portable phone charger and sunglasses I forgot! Luckily, the local community offered horses for rent, a welcome option for those struggling with the altitude. I opted to hike, wanting to earn the view, while David decided to take the equine route, saving his energy for the final ascent.

The trail itself was a mix of gentle slopes and steep inclines, each turn revealing a more breathtaking vista than the last. The landscape was surreal, with alpacas grazing peacefully against the backdrop of towering peaks. The vibrant colors of the mountain started to emerge in the distance, teasing us with glimpses of the spectacle to come. The Cusipata trail is well-maintained by the local community, who also sell water and snacks along the way.

The final stretch was the most challenging, a steep climb to the summit that left me breathless and lightheaded. But as I reached the top, all the hardship melted away. The view was simply mesmerizing. The mountain was a riot of colors, stripes of red, yellow, green, and blue swirling together in a breathtaking display. It felt like standing on another planet, a world of vibrant hues and otherworldly beauty.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, a vibrant natural wonder in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

I spent what felt like hours at the summit, simply soaking in the view and capturing as many photos as possible. The sheer scale of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. It was a moment of pure awe, one that I'll carry with me long after this trip is over.

Sometimes, the most breathtaking views come after the hardest climbs.

After descending from Rainbow Mountain, we were famished. Lunch at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant was the perfect reward. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the aroma of craft beer and local cuisine filled the air. We sampled a variety of dishes, from traditional Peruvian stews to wood-fired pizzas, each bursting with flavor. And of course, we couldn't resist trying their craft beer, a refreshing complement to the hearty meal. Mapacho is known for celebrating Cusco with flavor, tradition, and craft beer.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine paired with exquisite craft beers at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant in Cusco.

As the sun began to set, we headed back to Cusco, but the day wasn't over yet. We decided to experience some of Cusco's nightlife, ending up at Republica Del Pisco. The bar was lively, with music and laughter filling the air. We sampled a variety of pisco-based cocktails, each one a unique and delicious concoction. It was a perfect way to unwind after a long day of trekking, sharing stories and toasting to our adventures. Republica Del Pisco is located near the Plaza de Armas and captures the essence of Cusco.


Discover the essence of Peruvian cuisine at Republica Del Pisco - a vibrant restaurant-bar in the heart of Cusco offering exquisite dishes and cocktails.

Reflecting on the day, I'm filled with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. Conquering Rainbow Mountain was a physical and mental challenge, but the reward was well worth the effort. The beauty of the landscape, the flavors of the local cuisine, and the camaraderie of friends made it a day to remember. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel excited for what tomorrow would bring. We're heading to 7 Lagunas Ausangate and Aguas Termales Pacchanta, a promise of more natural beauty and cultural immersion. I'm especially looking forward to relaxing in the thermal waters after today's trek. I'm also hoping to find a portable charger at the Trekking Store, since I forgot mine!

The Ausangate Trek continues to surprise and delight, and I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all. Stay tuned for tomorrow's dispatch!

P.S. I'm seriously considering joining a Gombey dancing troupe here in Cusco. The energy and rhythm are infectious! Perhaps I'll learn a few new moves to bring back to Toronto.