Hatun Cuyoc (Peru)

If you end up visiting Hatun Cuyoc, it means you're doing one of the most spectacular treks (if not the most spectacular) Peru has to offer. It also means you'll be spending quite a few days walking. I suspect, however, you won't want it to end, despite the chilly nights, cold showers and getting up at dawn each day!

As with just about every other moment of the hike, arriving at the Hatun Cayoc campsite will be a memorable experience. Firstly, because you will have reached your first mountain pass, 5000 metres up (I'll let you imagine the astounding beauty of the views for yourself), and you'll be happy to be able to finally set your rucksacks down. And because secondly, if you're following the same route as I did, it means you'll be facing another, equally high mountain pass (paso San Antonio) the following day, before then tackling the most difficult descent of the entire route. Luckily, however, the wonderful environment in which the campsite is located is conducive to rest and relaxation, thus guaranteeing you the chance you to recharge your batteries. There are little streams where you can wash your legs and feet, onsite toilets, and, most importantly of all, plenty of space available, which means you don't have to site your tent right next to your neighbour's (phew!!!), and all this against a backdrop offering a variety of yellow and green tones: paradise on earth!