Source : Perth Now news
A solo hiking trip through Peru’s rugged mountains has ended in heartbreak, with Melbourne man Jordan Yap found dead after weeks of searching in a remote, high-altitude region.
The 30-year-old had been missing since last month after failing to return from a trek in the Huayhuash region.
The news was confirmed in a statement shared on a social media page set up to support the search effort.
“With a heavy heart we are so sorry to tell you Jordan has been found, and he did not survive,” the statement said.
“Please remember Jordan as the vibrant man he was, and for the immense joy he brought to so many people’s lives.”
Authorities informed Mr Yap’s family and friends that his body was found in the Mitucocha Lagoon area, a remote part of central Peru.
The lake sits more than 4000 metres above sea level and lies about 200 kilometres north of Lima.
Mr Yap had set out on a solo hike in the Huayhuash region, with the journey expected to take about 10 days.
He left his hostel in Huaraz on September 14 and was due to check into a hotel on September 23 before flying from Lima to Cusco the next day.
Photo: iStock Credit: istock
Concern grew when he failed to arrive at the hotel and missed his flight.
His family then reported him missing and hired a local private mountain rescue team to help search for him.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed it was assisting the family of an Australian who died in Peru.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time,” a spokesperson said.
Mr Yap was an experienced hiker, although the Peru journey was among his first solo adventures.
