The mountains are more than just a destination; they are a transformative experience. This is the story told by Andrea Ghitti, an aspiring Alpine Guide and ambassador for Great Escapes, who recently embarked on a breathtaking adventure in Peru, amidst glaciers, stunning sunrises, and iconic peaks. Let’s explore his journey and the valuable lessons he brought back with him.
A Lifelong Passion for the Mountains
Born in Clusone in 1991, Andrea’s passion for the mountains has grown since childhood. “At 10 years old, I took my first steps in the mountains with my father. Here, in the mountains near my home, the desire for adventure, sleeping in a tent, instantly made me feel free,” he says. “As a child, I always skied, but later switched to cycling. Still, I felt that the mountains were the real world to discover.” Thanks to friends, Andrea started ski mountaineering and eventually moved on to high-altitude climbs. He has scaled 56 peaks in the Alps over 4,000 meters, fostering a deep respect for his beloved home mountains, the Presolana and the Pre-Alps.
Challenges in the Cordillera Blanca: A Wild Land
The expedition was far from easy. After acclimatizing with treks up to 4,500 meters and taking advantage of the excellent weather conditions, Andrea and Luana embarked on several climbs. After two days, they reached the summit of Vallunaraju at 5,686 meters.
Following a week of rest, Andrea decided to attempt the Tocllaraju solo, standing at 6,034 meters. However, at 5,800 meters, due to ice conditions and safety concerns, he decided to turn back. The difficult conditions of the Cordillera Blanca, such as collapsing crevasse bridges and falling seracs, made this part of Peru a real test. “It takes two to three days on foot to reach these mountains, and they’re very isolated. Mountain rescue doesn’t exist in Peru, so you’re alone with the mountains,” Andrea recalls. Having a satellite phone can be a true lifeline in critical situations.
The Alpamayo Plan: An Unexpected Challenge
The decision to tackle Alpamayo, one of the most famous peaks in the Cordillera Blanca, wasn’t part of the original plan. Andrea explains that the idea came from a close friend who is an expert on Peru: “Alpamayo wasn’t on the agenda; the plan was to climb a 6,000-meter peak or a few other mountains in the Cordillera Blanca.” However, the desire to explore and the passion for high altitudes pushed Andrea and his partner, Luana, to take on this adventure. “In the last days, we decided to dedicate them to Alpamayo, reaching the high camp at 5,500 meters. But due to timing issues and our flight home, we couldn’t reach the summit. We planned to summit in four days, but due to a minor accident and the length of the route to the high camp, we had to descend,” Andrea shares.
Emotions and Mountain Reflections: An Unforgettable Landscape
Despite the challenges and the missed opportunity to summit Alpamayo, Andrea holds onto unforgettable memories from this experience. “I will always carry with me the colors the sunrise gave us every day, these endless horizons, and the 6,000-meter peaks covered with ridges that look almost like meringues.” The untouched nature of the region and its isolation made every moment in the mountains unique, reinforcing Andrea’s deep connection to them.
Preparation and Training: A Mountain Routine
Andrea doesn’t follow a specific training regimen for his expeditions. “I go to the mountains, climb, and ski. Additionally, I run in the winter to prepare for ski mountaineering, but the important thing is to gain elevation,” he explains. This practical approach to preparation reflects his genuine love for the mountains and his philosophy of tackling them with respect and humility, without shortcuts.
The Return Home: New Projects and Advice for Aspiring Adventurers
Back in Italy, Andrea reflects on the experience he lived, already eager to return to the Andes. Although he doesn’t have any concrete plans for the future, he will continue training and climbing new peaks, always with the same enthusiasm. His advice for those looking to embark on a similar adventure? “Do your research and train regularly to be ready for new challenges!”
Great Escapes: The Perfect Companion for Your Adventures
Andrea Ghitti’s story embodies the spirit of adventure that Great Escapes represents. If you too want to explore the mountains in a simple and genuine way, rely on our gear, designed for those who love nature and freedom. From waterproof jackets to technical pants, every piece is crafted to withstand extreme conditions and allow you to fully embrace your adventure.
