The place that changed my way of seeing (and feeling) the world

From tears of joy to tears of exhaustion, experiencing Pico da Bandeira was feeling things I had never felt before.

Pico da Bandeira is the third highest peak in Brazil, standing at 2,890 meters, on the border between two states, Espírito Santo and Minas Gerais. We did the traverse: we climbed from Espírito Santo and descended through Minas Gerais. It was 12 hours and about 15 km of pure intensity.

Right at the start, the cold made me layer up, but it didn’t take long for the sun to force me to shed almost everything. The trail was steep, full of rocks and dust. I had to cover my nose to breathe better, but even so, I felt capable. The last kilometer was the most challenging: strong winds, high altitude, and mandatory pauses. But the view… indescribable.

At the top, the sun warmed me like a gentle hug. Among clouds and icy wind, I put all my clothes back on. We decided to wait for the sunset (and it was a full moon) — it felt like a dream.

The descent through Minas was long and exhausting. Technically easier, but endless, full of loose rocks and darkness. I saw people hurt, almost twisted my ankle, complained silently. When I finally reached the lodge, exhausted, I cried with relief. My body ached, but all I could do was smile and be grateful.

Looking at the photos brought tears again. It was hard, intense, unforgettable. Today, I miss every moment (even the struggles).

If you ever get the chance to experience something like this, go. You will feel alive.