In the heart of Peru, where the mountains whisper tales to the clouds, I embarked on a pilgrimage that would fuel my soul with inspiration and ignite the embers of wanderlust within. The Salkantay Trek, a five-day odyssey through the sacred Andes, unfolded like a poetic crescendo, each day weaving a new verse in the symphony of my artistic journey.
Day 1: Soraypampa Camp, Peru
As the first light kissed the peaks of Mollepata, our journey commenced. A ballet of colors painted the sky as we traversed the serpentine roads to Challacancha. Soraypampa, our first camp, cradled at 3,920 meters, welcomed us with vistas of snow-capped sentinels. The crown jewel of the day, Laguna de Humantay, mirrored the majesty of the Andes. The day ended with a celestial lullaby, the crisp mountain air serenading dreams of what lay ahead.
Day 2: Colcapampa Camp
At dawn’s embrace, we embarked on a dance with altitude, ascending towards the lofty pass at 4,650 meters. Salkantay and Humantay, colossal guardians of the realm, bestowed upon us a panorama of celestial grandeur. The descent, a ballet of steps, led us to Huayracpampa, where a tapestry of flavors awaited. Colcapampa, our haven in the high jungle, cradled us in its verdant embrace, whispering tales of ancient times.
Preparing for the Salkantay Trek: Your Ultimate Training Guide
Day 3: Santa Teresa Town
The day unfurled through the verdant tapestry of the upper jungle, crossing rivers and valleys. La Playa welcomed weary souls, and Santa Teresa town embraced us in its warmer bosom. The option to bathe in the hot springs felt like a benediction, a communion with nature’s warm caress after the arduous tryst with the mountains.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes
The sun painted the sky with hues of warmth as we strolled from Santa Teresa to the hydroelectric station. Along this pilgrimage, we paused for a communion with a box lunch, preparing for the final ascent to Aguas Calientes. The town, a tranquil prelude to Machu Picchu, cradled us in anticipation of the wonders awaiting us on the morrow.
Day 5: Machu Picchu, Peru
In the early morning embrace of darkness, we boarded a bus to Machu Picchu. As the sun unveiled the ancient citadel, my heart echoed with awe. A guided tour, a brushstroke of knowledge, unveiled the mysteries of this archaeological masterpiece. The optional ascent to Huayna Picchu beckoned, a challenge embraced by those hungry for panoramic perspectives. The day unfolded, a canvas of exploration, and as the sun dipped below the horizon, we bid farewell to Machu Picchu, carrying its magic in our hearts.
Final Word
The Salkantay Trek, a five-day odyssey, was more than a physical journey; it was a spiritual dance with the Andean realms. The mountains, the valleys, and the ancient stones spoke to me in whispers, inspiring a tapestry of cartoons that would capture the essence of this sacred trek. As I bid adieu to the Andes, a fire of wanderlust burns within, eager for the next canvas, the next adventure, and the next chapter in the eternal dance of exploration. Until we meet again, dear Salkantay, my heart remains entwined with your majestic melody.
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Guest post written by Bobby Wills
Meet Bobby Wills, a whimsical cartoonist whose love for drawing is only surpassed by his passion for travel.
