Adventures of Wes and Laura

(Subriendo en hielo) Ice Climbing

(WES) We had to get to over 5,000 m(more than 15,600 ft) to get there, which meant 1.5 hr drive and then a short hike up to the edge of the fast-disappearing remnants of the glacier. Our guide hiked up and around and set the anchor, just gave us a short lesson, strapped on our harness, crampons(metal teeth for the boots), and handed us the ice axes before we took turns climbing the wall of ice. We probably only climbed 10-15 m(30-40 ft) but it was a challenge digging in to the inconsitent ice, holding up your weight and extricating the axe that you had to secure tight - well I thought it was a challenge but Laura said - owe that was easy! She debating now over a second career in photography(she takes most of the pictures) or mountain climbing. It was a great experience.

Ive posted pictures since Friday -- starting with the trip from Cajamarca to Trujillo, one shot of Trujillo in the plaza, yesterday at the lagoons and then of course today climbing the ice.

Tomorrow were going to Chavin to see some old Incan sites - probably low key. Tuesday and Wednesday we are going on a two day hiking trip.

We soaked again in some thermal baths at the end of the day and are feeling good (no altitude symptoms).

posted by Wes and Laura @ 7/15/2007 06:50:00 PM