July 8, 2018
-
- Look at those views! (Betsy Dain-Owens)
-
- Enjoying the Altiplano (Betsy Dain-Owens)
-
- En route to camp near Lagoon Mituchoocha (John Hodder)
It’s been a busy time down in Peru over the holiday weekend, IMG Lead Guide Betsy Dain-Owens has been checking in via sat phone about once a day, so let’s get caught up with how our Huayhuash team is doing!
After spending two nights at the launching point further acclimating to the altitude, the team began their trek on Thursday at Cuartelwayin, 13,800′. The next day, Friday, the team began their day with an uphill ascent to their first pass at 15,400′. Just after they started their descent from the pass to the next valley, a couple of Andean Condors flew just over the team…a lucky and incredible close sighting of these rare raptors–with huge wing spans of 10-11 feet. Talk about luck! Their trail then lead down to a fertile valley, around a ridge, and then up to their camp at 13,000′. After a short break at camp and some drinks and snacks, the team took a hike up to Lagoon Mitucocha, over 14,000′. The weather was super clear with a slight breeze…perfect for trekking and the incredible views.
A great way to start in the Huayhuash!
All is well,
Jason Edwards