The Ausangate Trek is stunning, challenging, remote, and occasionally responsible for emotional turbulence that rivals flying into Cusco, Peru.
Whether you’re a seasoned high-altitude hero or someone who packed five different types of trail snacks “just to be safe”, these five feelings are guaranteed.
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1. The Sudden Realization That You Are Very Small
We all know that in the grand scheme of things on our planet, we’re pretty small, right? But when you’re trekking in Peru and Ausangate first appears in front of you, you really realise how teeny tiny you actually are. It’s huge. It’s icy. It’s magnificent. And to be honest, it looks like it could definitely swallow you up in a second if it really wanted to.
Upon laying eyes on this majestic mountain, you stop, gasp, take 59 photos, and dramatically whisper to yourself, “I am but a speck”. Emotional moments with Mother Nature don’t get much finer than this.
2. The First High Pass Breakdown
At almost 5,000 m / 16,404 ft, that first pass hits hard. Don’t be surprised if your lungs protest, your legs feel like pillars, and your rucksack seems to gain 30 pounds.
Everyone has the same thought at first, “I could be at home right now, sipping coffee. What am I doing here?”
But then you look around and realise exactly why. Jagged peaks dot the skyline, glaciers shimmer in the sun, and alpacas roam the grasslands below. Yes. This is why you took on the challenge and this is only the beginning of the rewards that await. After this, it’s much easier to keep going because you get that it’s worth it. Every. Single. Step.
3. The “Therapeutic Lake Stare” That Lasts Much Longer Than Intended
The lakes and lagoons along the Ausangate trail are insanely beautiful. Almost surreal. Kind of like the most picturesque painting you can imagine and it’s been brought to life.
Earlier in the day, you thought you’d arrive, take a photo or two, and be on your way. Instead you end up standing there like a reflective historical poet, pondering all of life’s mysteries. How is the water so blue? Why have I never felt this peaceful?
What seems like 5 minutes can quickly turn into an hour if you’re not careful. The lake soothes your soul and reminds you of everything good in life. Don’t sit and stare too long, though. You need to make it to the lunch spot!
4. The Rainbow Mountain “I Can’t Believe I’m Here” Moment
Oh, Rainbow Mountain. You attract visitors with your surreal stripes of color and sheer natural beauty. There’s a reason this place is one of Peru’s biggest highlights and you made it here.
You suddenly feel powerful and heroic and ready to take on anything. You feel pure joy. Sure, you might be feeling a little delirious from all the hiking and the altitide, but there’s a lot of joy there nonetheless.
Make sure you’ve got your camera handy. You’ll want to remember this moment for a lifetime. Oh, and that photo of you and Vinicunca will look great on display at home.
5. The Final-Day Emotional Exhale
The trek ends. Your legs shake. Your backpack smells a little funky. Your camera roll could crash a cloud server. And then it hits you. The biggest emotional moment of all.
Expect a wave of triumph, gratitude, and the impressive realization that you are now the kind of person who can casually drop, “Oh yes, when I was trekking at 5,200 metres…”
There’s no doubt you’ll be exhausted, but the pride and sense of achievement will bring a range of emotions that wash over you like the shower you’re seriously going to need after that adventure.
Why You’ll Still Be Talking About Ausangate In 20 Years
The Ausangate Trek gives you landscapes that seem unreal, emotions that you never knew were possible, and memories that’ll stick with you long after the blisters fade. It’s not just a trek. It’s a beautiful journey and one you’ll be talking about for years to come. Hey, probably even your whole life!
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