Adventurous Escape to Peru: The Ausangate Trek

Reaching New Heights on the Ausangate Trek

Today, on day seven of our Peruvian adventure, the Ausangate Trek presented us with its most formidable challenges and its most stunning rewards. As I sit here, recounting the day's events, I'm filled with a sense of accomplishment and a deep appreciation for the raw beauty of this Andean landscape. This journey has tested my limits, but the camaraderie with my friends and the sheer magnificence of our surroundings have made every step worthwhile.

The day began, as many have on this trek, with an early start and a hearty breakfast at Cuchara de Palo Restaurant. Even though it meant a detour to Pisac, the Cuchara de Palo was well worth the visit. I had heard great things about it, and wanted to try it out myself. The food was delicious, and fueled us up well for the day ahead. We enjoyed the traditional Peruvian cuisine, made with local ingredients. I started with an infusión de jengibre (kion) con miel de abeja. It was quite delicious, and really helped with the altitude sickness.

Our main objective for the day was to experience Nevado Ausangate and reach Campo Base Ausangate. The weather in December can be unpredictable. We knew we had to be prepared for anything, from sunshine to rain. Fortunately, we had packed layers and waterproof gear, thanks to my meticulous pre-trip planning. I almost forgot my portable phone charger and sunglasses, but thankfully I remembered to pack them at the last minute. The weather was chilly, but we were prepared.

As we set off, the imposing presence of Nevado Ausangate dominated the horizon. The mountain, a colossal figure of rock and ice, seemed to watch over us as we began our ascent. The frequent rain showers made the trails muddy and slippery. Each step required careful consideration, testing our balance and resolve. The air was thin, and the altitude made every breath a conscious effort. I found myself relying on the steady rhythm of my hiking poles and the encouraging words of my friends to keep pushing forward.

The mountain doesn't care about your aspirations; it only respects your dedication.

Reaching Campo Base Ausangate was a moment of triumph. The camp, nestled at the foot of the majestic peak, offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Glaciers clung to the mountainsides, their icy fingers reaching down into the valleys below. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional rumble of distant avalanches. We paused to take it all in, snapping photos and sharing a sense of shared accomplishment.

After taking in the views and snapping photos, we made our way to Munaycha Outdoor. I was in need of a warmer pair of gloves, and my friend needed a new rain jacket. We had heard great things about the store, and wanted to check it out for ourselves. The staff was friendly and helpful, and we were able to find what we needed. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone needing outdoor gear.

For lunch, we stopped at Yaku Restaurant in Cusco. We had heard great things about their traditional Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. The cozy ambiance and fireplace made it a perfect spot to relax and refuel after a challenging morning. I ordered the trout ceviche, and it was amazing. The service was excellent, and the staff was very attentive. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting Cusco.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Tres Keros for dinner. After a long day of trekking, we were looking forward to a nice dinner. It turned out to be the perfect choice. The restaurant had a wide variety of options, including gluten free and vegetarian options. I ordered the Pork Tomahawk in port wine sauce, and it was delicious. For dessert, I ordered the lime tiramisu. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for a great meal in Cusco.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, Day Eight promises another set of breathtaking experiences. We plan to visit Upis Qocha and Bosque de Piedras, further immersing ourselves in the natural wonders of the Ausangate region. And in the evening, we'll celebrate our journey at Oxygen Lounge and Cafe, a well deserved treat after another day of adventure. I'm particularly excited about Bosque de Piedras, which I've heard is an otherworldly landscape of towering rock formations.

As I reflect on today, I'm reminded of the importance of embracing challenges and pushing beyond my comfort zone. The Ausangate Trek has been a physical and mental test, but the rewards have been immeasurable. The beauty of the Andes, the camaraderie of my friends, and the sense of accomplishment have created memories that I will cherish for a lifetime. And as I prepare for the final leg of our journey, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead.

This trip has been an incredible adventure, and I can't wait to share more stories and photos from the final days of our trek. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore the magical landscapes of Peru!

I'm also looking forward to returning to Toronto and sharing my experiences with the community. I'm planning to organize a presentation at the non-profit where I work, highlighting the importance of sustainable tourism and cultural heritage preservation. And who knows, maybe I'll even start a Gombey dancing class to share a taste of my Bermudian heritage with my new friends in Canada. The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to see what the future holds.