Ausangate. Bathing at altitude.

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The Ausangate trek is a multi-day trek at high altitude ranging between 4500 to 5000m, we did a one day option taking in the lakes and first day scene. This is a walk I have been hankering to do since my aborted trip in 2010 after getting shin splints walking to Machu Picchu (a great walk see my 2010 blog)

We started with a drive from Cusco in the early hours of the morning when the nightlife has only just begun to subside. Waiting in the eerie light of the night we were beginning to wonder as to whether we were scammed as the driver didn't arrive until nearly 1/2 an hour beyond the appointed time. He made up for lost time driving like a rally driver all the way with two hands on one side and leaning over as he was steering round the mountain bends. Luckily the car was somewhat under powered and it was more the clapped out suspension providing the lean.  Nether-the-less Steph and I were having our reservations.
We were the only two on this trip. The cost would barely cover 1/2  a day's wages at home, let alone several hours driving to and from the start, hire of guide and horse and lunch. We started the day with a simple breakfast.  In the meantime the horses were prepared.
The horses were there as an insurance policy as it is quite a transition from 3300m to 4500m. Many trekkers suffer trying to cope with the rarified air. I have trouble with my back riding horses so I elected not to ride. Steph rode some of the way and also walked quite a bit. 
 
We were still taking the Diamox as insurance, even though we were acclimitized from our sting in Huaraz.  The walking was not too demanding being on a plateau, however a jog was out of the question !
I am so glad to have had this opportunity to do Ausangate, or at least visit the start. My desire eight years ago to has been fulfilled with good weather and scenic reward; enhanced by the presence of my daughter to share in its beauty.
The horses too are somehow fitting.  They were well treated and quite happy to amble along and come at the beckoning of the guide.

Seeing the high mountains with its rural scene of alpaca and their allied species along with the lakes can only partially be described by my words and these pictures capture a mere glimpse. Sitting down and contemplating is a special spiritual moment.
If  you are in Peru, lured by a visit to the well marketed Red Mountain, consider a day trip to Ausangate or even better a full circuit trek. You won't be disappointed. This first day introduction is sublime with the  crystal clear lakes, animals and mountain surrounds.
What better than to top off a hard day of walking and sightseeing than  some bathing with the locals in the hot springs  ? 
The only unfortunate element was the rally driver, I sure he was enthused by his warm on the way . Like a horse coming home for its hay, he bolted home. Somehow,  we made it in one piece to Cusco. 
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