Avid hiker and kimkim traveler Kristin Monesmith lives in Peru halftime, working remotely and exploring the endless mountain trails. The Ausangate Trek checked all her boxes: incredibly beautiful, essentially devoid of tourists, and enough of a challenge to leave her feeling accomplished at the end. She spoke with us about her five-day adventure circumnavigating one of the most spectacular mountains in Southern Peru.
**Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from, and what type of travel do you enjoy?**
My life is somewhat split between two distinct worlds. I dedicate my time as an emergency room nurse in Augusta, Georgia, providing care and support to those in need. However, my heart also resides in the vibrant and culturally rich Cusco, Peru. I spend two weeks a month immersed in each location, resulting in a significant amount of time spent traversing the skies on airplanes.
I often embark on solo travel adventures and have a deep passion for exploring the world, particularly through hiking. My demanding job in Augusta can be quite taxing, so venturing into new and breathtaking environments offers a much-needed mental and emotional reset. The act of hiking allows me to clear my head, reconnect with nature, and restore my sense of well-being. While I appreciate a bit of leisurely travel from time to time, I generally prefer to stay active. Even a relaxing day on the beach might involve some invigorating kayaking!
**How did you first set your sights on the Ausangate Trek?**
My connection with Peru began unexpectedly. After joining a friend on a spontaneous trip, I found myself completely captivated by the country, especially the area surrounding Cusco. The decision to spend a portion of my time there was made easier by my fortunate work schedule, which allows for flexible travel. The Ausangate Trek is widely recognized as one of the most remarkable hiking experiences in Peru. After spending some time in the country, I learned about it through conversations with friends, including my Spanish professor, who had completed the trek twice and considers it her favorite. Inspired by their enthusiasm, I decided that I absolutely had to experience it for myself. I generally gravitate towards hikes that are less frequented by mainstream tourists, and the Ausangate Trek certainly fits that criteria.
**This trek has notoriously high altitudes, including three mountain passes over 16,000 feet. How did you prepare?**
Knowing the challenges that lay ahead, I committed to a rigorous training regimen in the weeks leading up to the trek. I spent countless hours at the gym, pushing myself on the elliptical machine, the treadmill with a high incline, and the stair climber. In addition to physical conditioning, I also utilized decadron, starting two days before the hike began. This was coupled with the local remedy of coca tea, which I consumed liberally throughout the trek. I estimate that I drank around three cups of coca tea each day, while also chewing on the leaves. To my pleasant surprise, I felt remarkably well at the high altitude!
**What part of your trek will you always remember?**
Choosing just one favorite moment from the trek is an impossible task. Each day brought new and unique experiences, and the sheer beauty of the landscape was simply astounding. I don’t believe my camera could fully capture the grandeur, and I’m not even sure my eyes could either! Seeing the diverse array of animals, especially the graceful vicunas, was a constant source of delight. We even spotted a lizard at an incredible altitude of 15,000 feet! We were discussing that rare sighting for a solid hour afterward, marveling at the resilience of life in such a challenging environment.
One particularly unforgettable moment occurred within the first hour of the hike. It felt as though Apu, the mythological spirit of the Peruvian mountains, decided to test our resolve to see if we were truly worthy of traversing his domain. The weather turned dramatically, unleashing a torrent of rain, hail, snow, and sleet. I was soaked to the bone within moments and began questioning my sanity. We paused for lunch, but the wind made it impossible to set up the dining tent. Instead, we sought refuge at the humble home of a local Quechua woman. She graciously allowed us to use her barn, and, sensing my discomfort, brought me two incredibly warm alpaca blankets and bundled me up. Her kindness completely restored my faith in humanity. I know that it is something that I will never forget. The simple act of compassion provided warmth and a sense of connection amidst the harsh conditions of the mountains.
**What’s your best advice for travelers interested in doing the Ausangate Trek?**
Preparation is key. Train, train, train! It’s imperative to be in excellent physical condition before attempting this trek. Equally important is ensuring you have the proper equipment. During my trek, we encountered a couple who were forced to cut their trip short because they lacked the necessary gear and were without a suitable guide. The Ausangate Trek is not something to be taken lightly, and it is absolutely essential to undertake it with a guide you can trust, someone who is experienced and knowledgeable about the area. The terrain can be treacherous, and it is easy to become disoriented and lost. Wearing appropriate clothing is also crucial, as the weather can be unpredictable, with extreme cold and wet conditions. The altitude presents significant challenges and should not be underestimated. Despite these challenges, I wholeheartedly recommend this trek. I enjoyed it so immensely that I have decided to make it an annual tradition.
**Where are you planning to go on your next adventure?**
My upcoming travel plans are quite extensive and filled with exciting destinations! First, I will be heading to Italy in December to explore its historical sites and indulge in its exquisite cuisine. Then, in April, I plan to venture to Torres del Paine in Patagonia, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes and challenging hiking trails. August will see me tackling the iconic Inca Trail, a must-do for any avid hiker. Finally, next October, I will return to Peru for my second annual Ausangate Trek, eager to experience the magic of those mountains once again.
B-2119