<--- Completely Awe-struck...

Wow.. beautiful. Probably the nicest photos I've seen in a trip report, great write up too. I normally don't take photos of flora, but those were awesome. Thanks for sharing.

I'm going to see if my Spanish speaking friend will want to go. These photos should help immensely.

Which map would you suggest and did you get it locally?

Thanks

Scott - Thanks for the kind words.
The map selection was pretty limited in Peru. We were based in Huaraz, which is the closest city the Huayhuash. There are many trekking stores and guide agencies there that can provide somewhat reliable information. You can easily find fuel, camping gear, and maps.

There are typically 2-3 choices for maps. You'll find a dated, but still usable, map made by a German hiking club/organization. A fairly new company, Aonek'er GIS Solutions, out of Argentina is printing very high quality maps tailored to specific hikes. They make a good map for the Huayhuash. There were other choices, but nothing worth buying.

Thanks for your great report and FANTASTIC pictures of striking scenery. I published a report on our Cordillera Blanca trek last year. We were considering the Huayhuash trek, too, but for various reasons settled on the Alpamayo circuit. I guess we will have to do Huayhuash the next time we're down there.

It should be noted that flights to Lima are not terribly expensive from many U.S. cities, and once in Lima it is a cinch to get to Huaraz. This is an easier trek to organize than Nepal.

Hi Richard - thanks for the note. Glad you enjoyed our report.

Yes, we read your trip report of the Alpamayo Circuit. It looked fantastic as well. Thanks for posting that!

There is so much to see in that part of the Andes that we could have easily hiked for 3-6 months. And you're right - Peru is very close and flights are reasonably priced. Also, Peru doesn't impose any visa fees like the $140 visas for Bolivia, Brazil, Chile and Argentina.

We did the Santa Cruz Loop as well and loved it. We found that as soon as we ventured into any of the side valleys, we had the trail to ourselves. Such a stark difference - no more massive groups with donkeys and circus tents and such.

We also had a good laugh when we talked with one of the mulateers. He had just finished working a 14 day guided trip on the Alpamayo Circuit, something that you did in about half the time, and these hikers didn't even have to carry their gear!

Reading this was a wonderful way to spend a few minutes this afternoon. The words describe the route and feel of the hike wonderfully and the photos are breathtaking.

Wow, what a spectacular set of photos, almost unreal. Great article, it's fun to imagine myself in your shoes (30 years ago maybe.). Have fun, be careful!

Howdy,
Great report. We will be there in June, and this is another great addition to our trip plans. Also,have been to the Khumbu twice, and November is my favorite month. October is the busiest.
This is at the park headquarters before you head up to Namche.



Nicole and stephan

Edited by khumbukat on 01/28/2011 19:44:46 MST.