A Quick & Dirty Guide to the Cordillera Blanca Traverse

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In the summer of 2014, I put together a traverse of Peru’s Cordillera Blanca. One of the world’s highest and most beautiful mountain ranges, to the best of my knowledge, it was the first time that such a trek had Read More …

Ausangate Circuit: Independent Hiker’s Guide

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The Ausangate Circuit is a classic Andean trek that features glaciers, hot springs, turquoise lakes, and traverses four high altitude passes. Despite the fact that it boasts some of the finest mountain scenery in Peru, it receives only a fraction Read More …

Salkantay Trek: Independent Hiker’s Guide

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When most people think of hiking to Machu Picchu, the first name that comes to mind is the Inca Trail. And justifiably so. For decades that classic trek was the sole focal point for anyone looking to arrive at the Read More …

Cordillera Blanca Traverse – Stage 4 – Chavin to Pastoruri

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Distance: 48 miles (77km) Time: 3 days (September 4 – 6) Start: Lake Queracocha Finish: Pastoruri Glacier   Day 14  Setting out from Lake Queracocha just before midday, I made my way cross country over the windswept, treeless landscape. Navigation Read More …

Cordillera Blanca Traverse – Stage 3 – Pitec to Chavin

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At a Glance Distance: 46 miles (74 km) Time: 3 days Start:  Pitec Finish: Chavin   Stage 3 Notes Day 11 Upon arriving back at the Pitec trailhead, I met a park ranger by the name of Pedro. Pedro the Read More …

Cordillera Blanca Traverse – Stage 2 – Pompey to Pitec

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Distance: 65 miles (105 km) Time: 5 days (including a rest day in Huaraz) Start: Pompey Returned to the CBT via a colectivo minibus from the town of Chacas. Finish: Pitec From Pitec, I got a 1 hr ride down Read More …