On a high in Huaraz

Immediately after getting into Huaraz, still stale and groggy from our overnight bus ride, we booked a 4 day trek scheduled to leave at sunrise the next morning. The Santa Cruz trek has been rated one of the top hikes in South America and it did not disappoint. After a nice lazy day in cafes drinking mate de coca tea, we felt rested and ready for the high altitude journey.

Each day ranged from dry valleys to snow-capped mountains, with rushing rivers and gorgeous teal lakes in between. We lucked out with a great group of fellow hikers. Even though we would all pass out with exhaustion by 9 o´clock, we spent every evening sitting around a table in the ¨dining tent¨. Our quirky guide, Orlando, always had useful information to share, whether it be about the Cordilla Blanca or new card games. We were all sad to leave each other by the end of the trip and celebrated our victorious trip in Huaraz with one too many games of jenga and a pisco sour.

the group


Day 1


The wonderful mules that carried our packs and food


taking in the view from over 5,000 meters


taking a lunch break after the highest and most strenous leg of the journey. (Orlando on left)


smiling faces and smelly clothes on day 3


hiking to the last campsite


tired donkey after a long day´s hike


our last campsite by the river


Katja poses with some locals back in downtown Huaraz