Adventurous Escape to Peru: The Ausangate Trek

Reaching New Heights

Today was a day of sheer, unadulterated awe. As I sit here, recounting every moment, I'm filled with a sense of accomplishment and a profound connection to the Andes. The Ausangate Trek continues to challenge and reward us in ways I never imagined. Each step we take reveals a new layer of this ancient land, and today was no exception.

The day began, as most do on this trek, with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Tupana Wasi. Fuelling up is essential before facing the day's adventures. The food was simple but satisfying, providing the energy we needed for what lay ahead. It's funny how the most basic meals can taste like a feast when you're surrounded by such incredible scenery.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Restaurante Tupana Wasi near Machu Picchu – where every meal tells a story.

Our main objective for today was to experience the grandeur of Ausangate itself. Standing at a staggering 6,384 meters (or 20,945 feet), it's the fifth highest mountain in Peru and a sacred Apu to the local people. The mountain dominates the landscape, its snow-capped peak piercing the sky. It's a sight that humbles you, reminding you of the raw power and beauty of nature.


Explore the breathtaking Ausangate Glacier, a stunning natural wonder in the heart of the Andes, rich in beauty and cultural heritage.

The weather in Ausangate in December is characterized by warmer days and colder nights. Daytime temperatures can range from 14°C to 16°C (57°F to 61°F), but nighttime temperatures can plummet to -4°C (25°F). December also falls within the rainy season, so frequent rain is common. It could be sunny one minute and start to rain the next.

As we trekked closer, the mountain revealed more of its majestic features. The turquoise lakes mirrored the sky, creating an ethereal landscape that felt both real and dreamlike. The glaciers clung to the mountainside, their icy blue contrasting sharply with the red, ochre, and turquoise hues of the Permian formations.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

One of the highlights of the day was visiting Mano de Ausanagate, a unique rock formation that resembles a hand reaching towards the sky. It’s a surreal experience, standing before this natural sculpture, feeling the wind whip around you, and gazing up at the imposing Ausangate. I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and reverence for the forces that shaped this landscape over millennia.


Explore the captivating Mano de Ausanagate in Uchullujllo, a stunning tourist attraction steeped in rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes.

I took some time to simply sit and absorb the atmosphere. The sheer scale of everything is overwhelming, but in a good way. It’s a reminder that we're just a small part of something much bigger. I thought about my family back in Toronto, about David and Jasmine, and how much I wished they could experience this with me. I made a mental note to bring them here someday, to share this incredible journey with the people I love most.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Full House Peruvian cuisine & craft beer. Finding such a gem in this remote location was a pleasant surprise. The Peruvian cuisine was delicious, and the craft beer was a welcome treat after a long morning of hiking. It’s these small comforts that make the journey all the more enjoyable.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Full House - a must-visit restaurant in Aguas Calientes for food lovers exploring Machu Picchu.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, we made our way back to our campsite. The air grew colder, and the stars began to emerge, twinkling like diamonds scattered across a velvet cloth. Before settling in for the night, we decided to visit The Space Club Cusco for a nightcap. The club is known for its great music and electronic beats, providing a stylish and comfortable setting.


Discover the electrifying nightlife of Cusco at The Space Club, where vibrant beats and an energetic crowd await every night.

Back at the Novotel Cusco, I enjoyed dinner at Qespi Restaurant & Bar. I savored every bite, reflecting on the day's adventures and the incredible beauty that surrounded us. Qespi aims to combine the old with the new while respecting tradition. I feel that the restaurant definitely achieved this goal.


Experience luxury and comfort at Novotel Cusco, a gateway to ancient wonders and vibrant culture. Perfect for families and explorers alike.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Qespi Restaurant & Bar in Cusco's historic center, where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.

It's funny the things you miss when you're away from home. I found myself thinking about my garden back in Toronto, about the Caribbean herbs and vegetables I grow, and about how much I enjoy tending to them. I even missed the Gombey dancing troupe I participate in. It's these little pieces of home that keep me grounded, even when I'm thousands of miles away.

As I prepare for tomorrow's trek to Nevado Ausangate and Campo Base Ausangate, I feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. Each day brings new challenges and new rewards, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds. I'm also looking forward to visiting Munaycha Outdoor, as I forgot my sunglasses and portable phone charger at home, and need to replace them.

This journey is more than just a trek; it's a pilgrimage to the heart of the Andes. It's a chance to connect with nature, with history, and with oneself. And as I drift off to sleep, I'm filled with gratitude for this incredible experience and for the opportunity to share it with you all.

Tomorrow, we venture further into the heart of the Ausangate region, with plans to visit Nevado Ausangate and Campo Base Ausangate. Each day seems to bring even more breathtaking views and unique experiences. I'm eager to see what tomorrow holds and to continue sharing this incredible journey with you all.

It's amazing that I can still see the snow-capped massif from Cusco. I am truly blessed to be here.

Goodnight from the Andes.