Why Disconnecting Can Lead to More Meaningful Travel Experiences
Sometimes, the best part of an adventure is just pausing to breathe it all in. Here, Jorge is embracing the serenity of the landscape, letting the moment settle. | @fabiokotinda
The Need to Disconnect
In today's hyperconnected world, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to truly escape. Whether it's for work, social media, or staying in touch with loved ones, we often find ourselves tethered to our devices, even when we’re on an adventure meant to be an escape. However, some of my most fulfilling moments while traveling have come when I’ve fully disconnected.
I always try to disconnect when I travel, but the real magic happens when I have no choice but to step away from technology. Earlier this year, during my Huayhuash Trekking in Peru—a remote and tough adventure known for its rugged beauty and difficulty—I experienced this firsthand. For 10 days, there was no phone service, no Wi-Fi, and no distractions. It was just me, my friends, and the stunning landscape of one of the most challenging treks in the world.
Victor, all smiles and soaking in the beauty of this stunning valley behind him. Moments like these are what make the adventure unforgettable. | @fabiokotinda
We didn’t use guides or porters, we carried everything ourselves—food, tents, and equipment—each of us with backpacks weighing around 20 kg. Every night, we had to set up our own tents and cook our own meals. But the real challenge? The biting cold. Temperatures dropped below freezing at night, and the altitude only made things harder. The highest pass we crossed, Punta Cuyoc, reached an elevation of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), and every step at that height felt like a test of endurance.
Without the temptation to check notifications or post updates, I could fully immerse myself in the experience. Each day became a rhythm of walking through breathtaking landscapes, focusing on the basics—staying warm, sharing food with friends, and making sure we had enough energy for the next day. It reminded me how important it is to be present, not just for the big moments, but for the small ones—like feeling the weight of the mountains around us.
Jorge, filled with anticipation as he wakes up, takes a moment to admire the majestic mountains surrounding our campsite. Nature’s beauty fuels us for the next leg of our adventure. | @fabiokotinda
The Power of Immersive Experiences
Disconnecting doesn’t just help you enjoy the moment; it enhances your overall experience. The Huayhuash Trek is known for its physical demands, but without the constant buzz of technology, I found myself more attuned to the natural beauty around me. Each step, even when it was tough, felt like meditation.
Background on Huayhuash Trekking:
Located in the Peruvian Andes, the Huayhuash Circuit is one of the most challenging treks in the world, covering about 130 kilometers (81 miles). With passes reaching over 5,000 meters, like Punta Cuyoc and Siula Grande (made famous by the book and movie Touching the Void), the altitude adds a layer of difficulty to an already demanding trek. Each day, we faced around 700-1,000 meters of elevation gain or loss, making the trek both physically and mentally exhausting.
“ The cold, the weight of the backpacks, and the altitude didn’t just test our limits—they brought us closer together.”
The isolation, though tough, made the experience even more rewarding. There was no need to worry about emails or social media; it was just about surviving the cold nights, overcoming the high-altitude challenges, and enjoying the beauty that surrounded us. Without technology, I was able to focus fully on each moment—whether it was navigating a steep ascent or reflecting on life during a quiet sunset. It wasn’t just a trek; it became a journey inward.
By disconnecting from the digital world, I ended up more connected to myself, to nature, and to the people around me. Without the distractions of daily life, my mind had space to reflect, my body had the challenge it craved, and my relationships with my friends deepened as we relied on each other for support. The cold, the weight of the backpacks, and the altitude didn’t just test our limits—they brought us closer together.
Jorge and Victor, capturing the bond we’ve built during our incredible journey. We’ve been great friends since 2017, ever since our enlightening days at a Buddhist monastery in Nepal. From trekking the challenging three passes of the Himalayas to this adventure, every shared moment has deepened our connection and enriched our lives in ways we’ll never forget. | @fabiokotinda
Practical Tips for Disconnecting on Your Next Trip
While not every adventure demands such an extreme level of disconnection, incorporating elements of a digital detox into any trip can help you create a more meaningful and fulfilling experience. Here are some tips for unplugging on your next adventure:
Set Device-Free Hours:
Establish specific times during your trip when you intentionally leave your phone off or in airplane mode. Start with mornings or evenings, giving yourself time to fully enjoy the experience without any distractions.
Choose Remote Destinations:
Opt for places with limited connectivity. Remote treks, mountain retreats, or rural areas offer a natural way to disconnect. Locations like Huayhuash, where there’s no signal, push you to be fully present.
Use Your Camera Mindfully:
While it's tempting to constantly snap photos, limit your photography to specific times. Enjoy the beauty first, and capture the moment later. Focus on the experience, not just the content creation.
Practice Journaling:
Instead of scrolling through your phone, bring a journal to document your thoughts, reflections, and daily adventures. Writing can help you process your experiences more deeply and create lasting memories.
Engage with Your Surroundings:
Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, make a conscious effort to engage with your environment or fellow travelers. Conversations become richer, and connections more profound when you’re fully present.
While Victor was taking in the breathtaking view, Jorge and I were busy capturing the moment—just like this shot. It was a perfect scene that truly captured the essence of our adventure. | @fabiokotinda
Conclusion
In the fast-paced world we live in, taking the time to disconnect can feel counterintuitive. However, it’s often the moments when we step away from our screens that we rediscover the true beauty of travel—immersing ourselves in the present, connecting with the world around us, and finding space for reflection.
On my trek through the Huayhuash, I learned that the more I disconnected, the more connected I felt—to nature, to my friends, and to myself. I challenge you to embrace this practice on your next trip and experience for yourself how stepping away from the digital world can deepen your journey.
A sense of humor is truly the key that allows us to face all adversities with resilience and strength, while also serving as a common thread that unites us all in our shared experiences.
