Looking out at the lake, the surrounding mountains were perfectly mirrored in the glassy water. The air was nippy - frescito, as the locals would say – and each breath in gave me a little jolt of energy. I sat on the remains of an adobe wall, now little more than a haphazard pile of bricks, and took in the scenery.

Peru is as diverse as it is beautiful and like many destinations, the people you meet are as much a part of the experience as the sights. The Peruvian highlands, which encompass Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Lake Titicaca (and more) are home to indigenous people who keep their traditions alive, providing an important insight into how highland communities live. 

For visitors to Torres del Paine, Llama Travel offers two trekking options. The Las Torres Trek is a full day trek of approximately seven hours, crossing uneven terrain, including rustic rope bridges, while the Hike to Lake Sarmiento option is an easier 3 hour walk with gentle undulations.

In either case, you will be exposed to the unpredictable weather conditions of Chilean Patagonia, and packing the right equipment is key to your enjoyment of either trek.