El Misti, new mood

Vulcan Misti under heavy snow.

El Misti

Unusual weather lately..

Mollendo and Matarani Port

Mollendo, on the Pacific Ocean about 2 1/2 hours from Arequipa
It was once the main port on the southern coast of Peru but was replaced by nearby Matarani about 50 years ago. Not much going on in Mollendo this time of year, aside from late night strip clubs appearing out of nowhere and casinos opening up below your fine hotel, hidden during daylight.
We expected somewhat of an oasis by the ocean but we got scorched earth right up to the pounding Pacific.

Soccer game, Mollendo.

Jogger on Playa 1, Mollendo


Mollendo vendor



Ally, Mollendo

Cactus, Mollendo
The following morning, with the promise of sea lions, more sea birds and a wild, rugged coastline, we headed off to the nearby Port of Matarani.

Sea lion, Matarani Port

Matarani Port

Matarani Port, fisherman

Ally

Canon de Colca, Peru

Condors at Cruz Del Condor

Beginning the trek toward the canyon

Ally and our guide Marco beginning the 4 hour descent

Villages of Malata, Cosnurgua and Tapay perched on the canyon wall. We will arrive there the following day.

Mule, preferred transport and only way to get goods into the canyon villages.



San Juan de Chuccho

Malata's church, open one day each year for the Festival of the Virgin Mary







Ally in Sangalle

On the way out on Mule-back


Cabanaconde




Chivay


El Misti on the way back to Arequipa