Having arrived in Arequipa we first put all our clothes into the hotel Laundry, not the best decision when one hour later we decided to book into a two day trek in the Colca Canyon. Another purchase of clothes was necessary to ensure we were equipped for another high altitude trek.
The Colca Canyon is world famous for its condor population. Every morning as the sun comes up they ride the thermals out of the canyon and go in search for food. This gives humans an amazing sight as the condors fly past as close as 10 metres from the canyon edge. We got up at 3am so we could be at Cruz Del Condor the best viewing spot in the canyon. The condors were fantastic but the cynic in me couldn`t help but feel that it wasn`t entirely natural!
We then proceeded to trek for 7 hours from the canyon edge down to an Oasis at the bottom. This gave me my first opportunity to try Coca leaves, a local remedy to cure hunger, thirst, exhaustion and pretty much anything else! With a Coca inspired spring in our steps we managed to drag ourselves into a mini Eden with palm trees, swimming pools and a very welcome beer. Seeing as though there was no electricity we were quickly to bed once the sun had gone down.
A 5am start to climb the Canyon was not appreciated but making it up the majority of the way before the sun came up was necessary. It took us just under 3 hours, a bit depressing to get overtaken regularly by all the children on their way to school. The rest of the day was spent visiting the local thermal springs although I have to admit I appreciated the all you can eat buffet more!
Our training for The Inca trail is going well, high altitude trekking is now becoming easier as we get wise to the necessary preparations, early to bed and no booze! The Colca Canyon was a beautiful place and we both really enjoyed it.
Muggings: zero South Americas: I can`t count that high!
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Hi Guys, this all sounds amazing. I am so pleased that you are having such a great time. I am very jealous of the humpback whales - the photos look fantastic. All good here. Hectic as per usual but we are all moved in now and have our first guests this weekend, Mum and Dad are coming to stay. The house is still a mess but most of the time we can find what we need which is a relief. Missing you lots, loads of love Hayho xx
ReplyDeleteHi, its mum - staying in great luxury at Chateau Sylvester Street!! Thrilled to get so much news of your trip and it sounds as though you are having lots of different experiences - of all sorts!! Watch out for an e-mail about our Scottish trip - you were much missed!! poor Colin got all the flack.....xx Mum
ReplyDeleteTim, loved your words on those condors - it must have been pretty awe-inspiring.
ReplyDeleteI guess they were soaring a bit higher than your birds in Atlanta, who in turn are looking a bit better than the black and gold.
Maura, your mother assures me that you will be be sorely missed on her forthcoming business trip to London.
Stay safe