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Peru, the Hell of the Peaks | Deadliest Journeys
Peru. From North to South, the Andes Cordillera, with peaks over 6000 meters. Between these mountains, a network of roads, the most dangerous in Latin America. Connecting the Pacific Ocean to the Amazon rainforest is a feat. In this country, each year, more than 3000 people die there. . Twice a week, Juan Carlos takes up a challenge. Deliver without any breakage, a shipment of eggs from the Pacific coast to Yungay, in the heart of the Andes. He has no choice, he must take the Canyon del Pato. A track full of ruts and potholes, bordered by impressive ravines. Just like Pedro, with his cement truck, who also has to cross the highest passes of the Cordillera Blanca. For three days, far from the big cities, he struggles with a succession of mechanical breakdowns on a hostile road. Precipices do not frighten him. He relies on God, just like these thousands of Indians, who each year go to the greatest pilgrimage in Latin America, the procession of the Senor of Quoylloriti. Insensitive to cold and fatigue, Indians of all ages, a cross on their backs, stuffed with amulets, climb a mountain over 5000 meters above sea level, to collect the protection of the gods. For 5 days and 5 nights, in minus 10 degrees, to the sound of bewitching music, they danced and prayed until they were exhausted.
Published Nov 20, 2022
