During our time in Peru we spent one day out of our ten in the mountain region of Ausangate. While the initial plan was to ride horses up to the base of the mountain, another student and I decided we wanted to just hike through the surrounding area with a guide. We both came to the conclusion on this small hike that we had made an excellent choice, and our small jaunt through the hill was refreshing and truly extraordinary.
The trail we followed was thin and rocky, but not quite strenuous. Surrounding us was just miles and miles of cliffs and mountainsides. The region we were in was quite harsh, not housing any trees and only very tough bushes. The grass itself was very rough, occasionally making up of small spiky sections that would stick to your clothes or skin when you sat down. We all took a break on top of a small hilltop, sitting on some rocks to avoid those aforementioned spikes. During our break our guide demonstrated and allowed us to participate in a coca leaf ceremony for Pachamama and the Apu.
Following this ceremony we continued on our little hike through the area and took in the beautiful sights around us. Our guide explained different plant life and different rock meanings to us as a lot of the material on this mountainside cannot be found in the States. We stopped and placed our hands in a small river run-off; the water was ice cold and crystal clear. We were told by our guide that the water is sometimes used for cleansing by cupping your hands and either placing it on your head to clear your mind or placing it in your belly button to clear your stomach and heart.
As we made our way back to the family with whom we were staying with, we got to enjoy a second view of the gorgeous landscape that surrounds the Ausangate region. Piercing blue skies, icy fresh air, and the unique sounds of nature made this a hike that I will never forget and will dream about for the rest of my life.