Trekking the Southern Cordillera

At this time last year, a few friends and I were beginning our exploration of Torres del Paine National Park on the Chilean side of the Patagonian Region. Part of a larger adventure that took us to many remote terrains.

This picture was taken at one of the numerous lookouts along the highway, each with its own hike and unique view of the Andes. We tend to romanticize things, and I definitely had a mixed vacation owing to an illness that lingered throughout, but I still cannot believe that I was there only a year ago. Its memory may as well be a dream, for all its waning impressions.

The upside-down night sky of another hemisphere was an apt metaphor for a most unusual break from waking life. Outrun briefly but not escaped.

If you are curious, you can read my thoughts on the lure of faraway lands (what we seek), pre-trip musings (what we expect), or the more meditative post-trip reflection (on time and its binding nature).

The southern cordillera still calls to me. May the next retreat be as inviting.