I’ve just returned from an unforgettable 5-day, 4-night trek through the stunning Huayhuash region of Peru. This challenging adventure took me across four breathtaking mountain passes, with elevations ranging from 4,700 meters to a staggering 5,080 meters at their highest point. Covering a total distance of 60 kilometers, the journey began at an altitude of 4,180 meters and required camping every night above 4,000 meters, with the highest campsite reaching 4,660 meters.
The first two days tested my resolve as I braved heavy rain, howling winds, and even hail in this rugged landscape. And since I embarked during the off-season—also known as the rainy season—I didn’t encounter a single other traveler along the way. It was truly a solitary voyage into the untamed wilderness, where nature reigned supreme and silence echoed around every peak and valley.
