Day 3: Trek to Kiswarani

TREK OVERVIEW

Trekkers are picked up from the hotel at 7:00 AM. They’ll drive through the Sacred Valley for three hours to the trailhead called Punta Carretera. After breakfast, they’ll start their trek. They’ll trek for two hours uphill to lunch at Kiswarani village. This part of the hike is through the potato valley where people farm many varieties of organic potatoes. Guides will also point out indigenous plants growing along the way. After lunch, horsemen called llameros will do a ceremony with llamas showcasing their training and skill. The incas considered lamas to be sacred and fundamental to their economy. After the ceremony, trekkers will have time to tour the village. They’ll learn about the traditions of the villagers. If they have time, they’ll also visit the school where the children still speak Quecha. Afterward, they’ll continue uphill for another two hours to camp where they’ll have a hot dinner prepared by the expedition chef.

TREK STATS

Starting elevation 10,120 feet

Ending elevation 12,795 feet

Elevation gain 2,675 feet

Distance hiked 6.2 miles

Average hiking time 4 hours

JOURNAL ENTRY BY CRAWFORD FOLK

What a day! Our adventures began at 5:30 this morning as we had to eat breakfast and pack up by 7:00. We embarked from the hotel and began our three hour bus ride to the start of our hike. I would be lying if I told you the bus ride was fun. Myself and few others struggled with car sickness. When we finally arrived at the trail head, we were eager to begin the hike. With high spirits we began our walk. After about an hour and a half we arrived at our lunch destination. Thanks to our porters, we were blessed with a hot meal and a tent to eat in. After lunch we had about another two hours to camp. Along the way we saved a pond of fish and passed a beautiful waterfall! We finally arrived at camp to find our tents set up for us and lots of blankets to keep us warm.

Our day is not quite over yet; however, the sun has started to set and it is getting cold. Dinner smells amazing and I can’t wait! I am very grateful for our guides: Ronald (Mr.President) and Jimmy! Overall, today was absolutely wonderful and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow holds!