The group is awake and packed by 5:30AM (some with more prodding than others) for what will be our toughest climbing day. We will spend just over ten hours on the trail and cover 15 miles crossing the Salkantay Pass at 15,100 feet.

Fatigue from traversing the endless switchbacks gives way to exuberance as we reach the rock strewn pass with phenomenal views in all directions.

Our guide, Willie, takes pictures of the group as we briefly rest at the highest elevation on our trek.

Now the toughest part of the trek begins for me, the descent. I find going down far more difficult because of the impact on my knees, and I break out my trekking poles to help absorb some of the strain. I have managed to keep pace with the youngsters as we climb, but will be last into camp every day that we descend. Around 1PM, we reach Huayracmachay, where we pause for lunch and rest.

Every few hours along the trail, one can find a tiny little shack where the local farmers add to their income by selling bottled water, sodas, and snacks. They are welcome waypoints, and the group is always happy to take a break from the climbing.

Following the group all day is Taylor, the cute little dog owned by the tender of the horse carrying my photo gear. (S)he is very careful not to get underfoot and has been a great traveling companion who can be counted on to pick the easiest path through mud and water. We arrive at our camp in Chaullay with the last light of the day and enjoy a well-earned dinner by candlelight. Each tent holds two people, but as the eleventh member of the group and the one with the most stuff (read camera gear), I am afforded single occupancy.