English French German Spain Italian Dutch Russian Portuguese Japanese Korean Arabic Chinese Simplified

Apu Pachatusan Mountain Scrambling

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels: ,
0

The Pachatusan mountain has a special meaning within the Andean culture, considered an Apu or sacred mountain venerated in the region of Cusco, where people held up ceremonies, rituals and offerings since Inka`s Time until these days, this mountain is located 30 km east of the city of Cusco, and its summit reaches 4700 meters. but The mountain has 3 different summits of similar altitude formed by sandstone, the weekend we organized a scrambling to this mountain, it took us two days.

the first day by morning we left Cusco, The Scrambling route begins in the village of Huasao located over 3130 mts at 30 km east of the city. the climb goes by the north face of the mountain and it has a distance of 10 km from Huasao village to the main summit, mostly all way up, through a semi desert area covered by Andean grass, and sandstone outcrops, the village of kacllapata is located halfway, the first day we camp before sunset near the top of mountain
the second day by morning we continued and reached the summit of Pachatusan mountain over 4700 mtrs at 11 am after half an hour to enjoy spectacular scenery, we decided to return, this time all way down straight to Huasao village, we arrived there at sunset.
there is also an Inca road that goes from Huasao to the top of the mountain the road is very noticeable wide in some parts of the route.

 This is a relatively easy scrambling it does not requires climbing equipment but you need a good physical condition to climb the 1570 mtrs of altitude and a distance of 20 km round trip preferably during 2 days.

This Scrambling is recommended during the dry season be carefull during the rainy season because there is danger of heavy rain,  fog, unexpected snowfall and lightning.


For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

Qampa Mountain Ice Climbing

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels: ,
0

The Qampa mountain is located south of Cusco city at north east area of the massif of Ausangate mountain into the Vilcanota mountain range located at 13 ° 46'33.54 " S 71 ° 10'52 .75 " W.
last weeks of december 2013 at end of mountain season we are part of a three-day mountaineering expedition  with six friends to conquer the mountain summit of Qampa 5500 ms, 18044 ft by North Face route after one day planning trip we realized this expedition 14 15 16 dic 2013.

The first day trip began in Cusco very early in the morning we headed to the town of Pacchanta in Ocongate southeast of Cusco, We arrived about 10 am, and after prepared equipment, horses loaded,  we start the approach with a hike of 3 and a half hours to reach base camp, near Qampa Pass within the Walking circuit around the Auzangate mountain passing by comercocha lake, we arrived to base camp during the afternoon and set tents, for the rest of the day we prepare ice climbing equipment , had dinner and rested early
The second day early in the morning, We left base camp before sunrise at 4am and began the ascent to the summit by the North Face route , after 2 hours crossing steep moraine, we reached glacier when sun rise, from here the route goes traversing areas with moderate slopes with crevasses, rocky walls , penitents , depending on the season appear mixed stripes with loose rock before the summit, it was awesome climbed this parts.
December 15, 2013 at 8 am we reached the summit of Qampa mountain 5500 m  18044 ft. after climbing 4 hours from base camp with very good weather, clear skies , good ice and snow conditions, we  contemplate a breathtaking view of the mountains of the Cordillera Vilcanota around us
after resting 1 hour on summit the return to base camp took about 3 hours because we rapelled the rocky part before the summit, and we had foggy conditions. Once in base camp after lunch we returned to Pacchanta to relax in the hot springs and finally back to Cusco.
The routes on the nort face of Qampa mountain are recommended for acclimatization or for people starting in the world of mountaineering because its moderate degree of difficulty, basic experience required.


For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

Apu Salkantay Mountain Trekking

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels: , ,
2

Apu Salkantay mountain is Immerse into the myth of ancient Andean histories, this sacred snow caped mountain (Apu) is worshipped as a deity by Andean people, the name means the wild mountain in Qechua a native Andean language of region. Located 60 km Northwest of Cusco city, into Vilcabamba Mountain Range, its summit reach 6271 m, 20,564 ft. This steep peak has a prominence of 2540 m, 8330 ft, and is the second highest in Cusco and the twelfth in Peru.
The Apu Salkantay  Trekking was consider by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine as the 25th best trekking in the world, Is a real challenge for walkers all around the world crossing a pass over 4600 mosl, 15,091ft, descent to mid elevation forest and cover 34 km / 21 miles. In wilderness is a perfect mix of trekking, culture and nature.
The landscape views are amazing, while you climb to the Salkantay pass and descend next to snow capped mountains of Tucarway 5910 m 19,389 ft, and Humantay 5917m 19,412 ft by Andean valleys  to the mid elevation forest with lush vegetation, orchids, vines, bromeliads, etc fauna, as  parrots, hummingbirds, etc. This trekking without doubt is a vivid experience for adventure travelers and recommended by tourist guides as the second best Trekking in Cusco.
The Apu Salkantay trekking course usually takes 5 days including the visit to Machupicchu.
To access the trail take 3 hours, from Cusco follow the road to Abancay until pass Limatambo village then take the dusty road to Mollepata and continue until  Soraypampa 3850 m, 12,631ft  where the trek start, the trekking course surround the South west face of Salkantay mountain then turn to the North until reach Sawayaco playa village 2000 m, 6561 ft the 3th day then the fourth day you should continue by car to Santa Teresa village, then to Hydroelectric power station from this point you can take the train or walk. Usually this touristic Circuit ends the fourth day at Machupicchu village, finally the fifth day you should visit Machupicchu archeological complex and return to Cusco.
You can arrange this trek with a tour agency or by yourself anyway a god physical condition is mandatory for this trek, make sure you are acclimatized to high altitude.
The best season is between April and October dry season and during the rainy season December and march depends of weather conditions, but in general be prepared to deal with cold, humid and hot conditions, during the trekking you can find many campsites and also locals sell food along the trail, make sure to have muleteers for carry your extra packs, and for the visit to Machupicchu you should reserve your entrance Ticket previously.


For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

"The Rock" Climbing Center

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in
0

With just one year since opening ¨The Rock¨ climbing center located in natural environment currently become a hot spot for climbers from all around world no matter if you are a serious climber or if you just want to know more about climbing I recommend this crag for all people like this outdoor activities and fun there you can practice top rope, lead climbing and classic climbing in a natural environment.

North face Bolted routes:1.-kids route (IV), 2.- Diedro (5c+), 3.- (5b), 4.- Yola puse (5b+), 5.-Tip top (5a), 6.-Chimney  (v), 7.- Chimney 2 (v).

This big Limestone outcrop also had many faces and disperse block sections, and caves If you like bouldering, Currently the center is equipped with more than 15 bolted routes and countless top rope routes rate from v to 6b and more difficult ones, with a height of 15 m and 25 m there are also routes for kits and instructional rock wall.

Born as a project of Chalex the owner a good climber and friend this place is one of the most complete climbing centers close to Cusco and is going bigger. Make sure you can find there climbing programs, interactive instructors, equipment for rent and lot of fun, a place to meet new people or bring old friends.

The center is located at 25 min road from Cusco before Izcuchaca village, Impossible to get lost, don’t miss it.

Bolted routes South Face 1.- Nelson (6b) 2.- (6a), 3.- (v).

For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

y

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in
0

.

Rappelling - Abseiling Ccorca.

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels:
0

Rappelling or Abseiling is the act of lowering oneself by a controlled descent by a rope in a vertical surface. It is actually considered a climbing skill that every climber should learn or a technique instead of a sport.
Under the right conditions with a guide instructor, the use of ropework, anchors, climbing ropes and safety gear as helmet, arnes, descender, safety knots, carabiners. Is a very safe activity, and can be done by anyone in good shape (physical condition). although
Abseiling can be a dangerous activity, especially for inexperienced or unsupervised people
A good place that I recommend for the practice of rappelling close to cusco city is Ccorca village, hidden into the mountains at west area of Cusco approximately at 25 km and 45 min by car, surrounded by a rocky landscape.
The sandstone cliffs and red rock formations of Tecsecocha are perfect for the practice of rappelling, this area is a photographer's dream, and the ancient Ccorca etnic group  mural painting will amaze you with their detail and history. They visited this area from approximately 300 B.C. to 1150 A.D. most likely for hunting, food gathering and religious ceremonies.
Your visit to Ccorca should include hiking, viewing of the mural painting, and Rappelling at sandstone cliffs. The rappelling is some of the best in the area, and is great for both beginners and experienced Rappellers. You will get 2 Rappels, ranging from 60-100 mtrs that you can chose according to your skills.


For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

Apu Picol Mountain Scrambling

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels: ,
0


let's start defining what scrambling is, this activity is an off trail trip with the objetive of ascent  a mountain of easy acces through ridges, rocky faces etc. often snow or rock with a non technical summit, it means that it is reached without need of certain climbing equipment.

in some cases hands must be used in the ascent for keep balance. and not to hold the body weight. however  it can mean negotiating lower angle rocks  and crossing streams , dense vengatation etc.

The Apu Picol mountain is located 10 km east of cusco city, the summit reach 4400 mt / 14 ,435 ft considered a sacred shrine into the Inca culture where ancient ceremonies were performed.

the scrambling route to Apu Picol ascent by the west face of mountain, it start near to Corao village, route is easy, good for novice scramblers and consist of a gentle slope cover  by dense vegetation andean grass, with rocky seccions at summit although reach summit is easy, 
during the Rainy season bad weather conditions could be dangerous because enviroment becomes cloudy, mist can disorient scramblers very quickly, rain also become grassland  really slippery. 

 Ussually summit can be reached in 2 hours, the round trip takes about 5 hours. the perfect activity for a half day excurcion.


For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

Rock Climbing - Bouldering La Garganta

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels:
2

One of The most popular crags between locals for bouldering is la Garganta, This small steep east facing crag, limestone of good quality is about 50 meters long and 10-12 meters height, surrounded by an eucalyptus forest, this wall is the perfect place to get started in rock climbing, for the variety of routes and difficulties. In addition caves and rock features in bottom for practice of traversing, and bouldering,  to develop technique and strength. Located at 25 min of Cusco city,  noted for its accessibility and proximity to the city,  There are countless beautiful limestone outcrops spread around this place.
Unfortunately this area is within the archaeological park of Sacsayhuaman and sometimes there is the possibility of meeting with the guardians of the park, they will be asked to leave immediately the archaeological park. One of the proposals of our project is trying to establish a dialogue with the ministry of culture to achieve an agreement for use and mark areas for the practice of this growing outdoor sport.
This guide on line is an updated review with the best routes to climb in la garganta.

The Updated Routes
1. 6a
2. 6b
3. 6a-6a+
4. 6a-6a+
5. 6b+-6c
6. 6b-6b+
7. 6a-6a+
8. 6b-6b+
9. 6b-6c
10. 6a-6b
How to reach
The crag can also be reached via public transportation, 30/25 min driving north from Cusco, just take “Señor del Huerto” vans on Paradero del Mercado de Rosaspata, ask driver for Huayllarcocha village, you should  reach the village then follow 10 min the trail between Huayllarcocha village and the moon temple, south direction, once there at right side you should be able to see the crag.

For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

Apu Ausangate Mountain ice Climbing.

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels: , , ,
0

Finally at June a dream come true, when a team of mountain guides and local mountaineers organized a 6 days mountaineering expedition to reach the Apu Ausangate summit at 6384m / 20944 ft. located 100 km south east  from Cusco. as the six people team were already acclimatized over 3500 meters, we decided to take the fastest access. 

First day expedition, We traveled by trucks about 5 hours to Hatun Chilca village. south cusco from there we walked 3 hours north to Andean lodge at Machurajay, we arrived at sunset and spent night there.
The second day we walked 5 hours north-east crossing the steep moraine to set the base camp 1 at 5200 m and prepare ourselves for the next day.
The The third day we tried to  reach Apu Ausangate summit by east face. we left camp 1 at dawn at 3 am, after 2 hours of climb a medium slope ice terrain, we found a 200 m vertical rock and ice wall called "the shield",  an 85 degrees technical slope full of mix parts and loose rock, 2 and a half hours later once on the upper part of the wall is set usually the camp 2, but we decided to continue through a quite long 3 km average snow slope until a big crevasse 120 m before summit, after cross it we continue by 75 degree slope until top of snow peak.
Reaching the summit.

June 12 2011 midday an amazing view wait for us, one remarkably moment into the mountaineers life, the summit of  the highest snow peak on Cusco, the fifth in Peru. We reach the Apu Ausangate summit 6384m / 20944 ft, after 8 hours of hard ice climbing and perfect weather. finally it took 5 hours to climb down to return base camp1. 
Day fourth we return to Andean Lodge at Machurajay for celebration, the fifth day we rested in the lodge and the sixth day we returned to Cusco .
Of course this is not a mountain for begginers, it is recommended have experience traversing glaciers, mix climbs on technical ice walls and an excelent phisical condition.


For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

Nada - nada Lead and Classic climbing.

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in
0

If you are going to the next level on climbing, Nada nada is the perfect place to practice different styles of climbing as lead climbing, classical climbing, and top roping.
located in a remote place, 25 minutes walk south of the village of Huayllarcocha, crossing countryside and eucalyptus forest, this route lies in the valley of Sebollahuayco knew by common consensus of climbers as "Nada-nada". This is a north facing limestone plaque with an approximate height of 14 meters / 45 feet,  you have many options to climb.
The lead climbing route offers  average difficulty with a 6b – 6b+ graduation  and protected with 4 bolts, this is the left side route, with the difficult step  between second and third bolt. Usually the run out is for left edge.
The classic route on the same plaque, right side large crag, has a difficulty of 6a and can be convine  with the first vobt of left side route and can protected it with 2 or 3 big nuts in the crack af right side, before the final run out
The top rope route can be fixed in up in middle of routes so you can climb both
1. Nada nada 6b - 6b+ , 2 clasica 6a - 6a+.

Efren at Nada - nada end.

For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

Canyoning Perolniyoc 100.m/328.f

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels: , ,
0

A 100.m/328.f vertical canyonig a real extreme experience if you like adrenaline, One of geographical features of Cusco region are canyons, as Perolniyoc eroded by natural water courses melted from snowpeaks, made this place rarely explored, remote and rugged settings of difficult approximation tucked in the surrounding of Ollantaytambo village, becoming the perfect area for canyoning route, this activity often requires wilderness travel skills the descent assisted by ropes trough waterfalls associated with technical descents those that require rappels (abseils) and ropework, technical down-climb, technical jumps, and/or technical swims, remarking the plenty levels of difficult, heights and waterfall groups.
How to reach:
take a transportation to urbamba continue to pachar bridge 12 km of urubamaba once there cross the brigde and continue around 5 km until soqma village there you need to cross a litle bridge and climb 10 min to soqma comunity there the only way to continue is walking 2 km more to perolniyoc waterfalls.
Video


For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com

Canyoning Paullo. Kloofing - River Trekking.

Posted: by EFREN LOPEZ in Labels:
0

Discover the most popular location for canyoning in Cusco, located in the Sacred Valley into rugged landscapes, this is a challenge which involves 1 hour walk up through a eucaliptus forest from a small village to the top of canyon, then prepare all equipment and descent by abseil or rappel all way down through the canyon. One of the crucial and mandatory skills required for most canyoning expeditions and tours is the ability to abseil. specially on rugged enviroments and wet conditions

This part of canyon start at 3350 m and ends at 2250 m. The canyon is cut into sandstone with moderate slopes and numerous drops, spectacular sculpted rock walls, cascades and waterfalls, this low volume canyon is recommended for beginners, it has many abseils including three spectacular waterfalls as long as 35/15/25 meters / 115/50/82 ft, and two small cascades of 5 meters / 16 ft, as a time where you have to lower yourself dealing with natural obstacles.

The best season to visit this place is dry season (from april to december)
. This is a canyon not to be missed!



For further info contact us: elefrenlp64@gmail.com