Description

From Cusco, it's a two hour drive to Cusipata, which is where the adventure begins. This is where you access the road that takes you to the trail head.

If you are not used to driving on Peruvian roads, it's best to take a taxi. The fare is only 50 Soles ($18.00), and the road is one your Mother would advise you to avoid at any cost, even as a passenger.

It's a mud road that does not appear to be maintained much, if at all. There's a mountain on one side and a treacherous drop of on the other. No, there are no guard rails. The road is only about 13 miles long, but the conditions are such that it takes over an hour to travel it. This all probably translates to the white knuckle ride of your life. Be prepared for some excitement

When you arrive at the trail head, the second part of the adventure begins. You'll be somewhere around 4200 meters (12,600 ft.) above sea level. And, unless you're used to this kind of height, you'll most likely feel the altitude. 

I stepped out of the cab and immediately my legs felt heavy, I was light headed, and my breath was labored. I felt as though I had a few, yet I was completely sober. After some time (and when I was treading on level terrain), the feeling of exhaustion resided. But every time I encountered any grade, no matter how slight, I was hit by a wave of intense and relentless fatigue.

The trail is only about 2.5 miles long. It should be easy, right? It was the most difficult 2.5 miles I've ever hiked. I trudged along at a snail's pace, taking about 2 1/2 hours. That's slow!

There were many instances when I seriously considered throwing in the towel. But I powered through it with the help of many kind strangers, who gave me handfuls of coca leaves, hits of breathalyzers, and loads of encouragement.

In the end, reaching the 5060 meter (15180 ft) summit was worth every bit of the pain. The views were breathtaking and the feeling of accomplishment was great.

Photos