Lares Trek - Day Two

Unfortunately my notebook with the names of the mountains and passes we hiked is not with me. I'll have to add the names later.

In the moring we were bussed to a small village about an three hours above Ollaytatambo. After lunch the donkeys were loaded up and we headed op the mountain. We started at around 3600 m. The pass which we were to make it through that night was at 4100 m. It took about 2 1/2 hours to hike the 5 km of very steep mountain. Down the other side took about 2 hours. Luckily I'm a much faster downhill hiker than up. I was able to make it to the campsite before dark. Most of the group had to pick their way down by flashlight.

The two Irish women did not seemed to be phased by either the steepness of the ascent or the lack of oxygen. They were rarely more than a few feet from the guide. The rest of us had considerably more trouble. I firmly believe my body was meant to enjoy a near sea level existence. I didn't have as much trouble breathing as some, but it was very, very difficult. At points I would have to stop ever minute or so.

The porters, who are capable of running up the hills we struggle with, arrived before us and fixed dinner. We ate a very good meal and were in bed by 8. Sleeping at this height is difficult because the lack of oxygen wakes you up frequently.