Altitude sickness does it for some..............................

We’ve come to Huarez for the high Andes hiking. One of the best is the hike to Laguna 69, a lake at 4600 in the Huascaran National Park. We set of at 6.30am and drove up to the start point at 4000m.

The walk takes three hours, stating on the 'Peruvian flat'……. (a euphemism) And then a couple of steep ascents to reach the beautiful  turquoise lake.

Altitude sickness can hit anybody and can cause any or all of the following; severe headaches, dizziness, shortage of breath, chest pains, nausea, fainting and a racing heart beat.

After the gentle start the 14 started up, eventually walking at our own pace, digging in. It’s the closest thing to running a half marathon I've experienced, except you have to stop every few minutes to get your breath and to try and get your heart rate down. Sickness eventually made 4 turn back and 10 made it to the top.

After nearly three hours hiking we both managed it, with Deb being the first woman up. Despite the cold and sleet 3 blokes took a swim.

We also enjoyed the town of Huaraz, great food, lovely local market and friendly people. Many of the locals in traditional dress.

Next stop Lima.