Personal Preparation

Altitude and Acclimatization
At higher altitudes, the levels of oxygen, humidity, and pressure are reduced. Huaraz is situated at an elevation of 3,052 m (10,013 ft), so those arriving from lower elevations or coastal areas may experience some effects related to the altitude gain. To minimize these effects, we recommend the following:

• Stay Hydrated: It’s essential to drink plenty of water to replenish fluids lost during physical activity and to meet the demands of higher altitudes. We suggest drinking twice the amount you normally would.
• Gradually Increase Activity: Engage in physical activities at a slower pace and gradually increase your exertion from the moment you arrive in Huaraz.
  Our guides will set an appropriate pace during treks to help mitigate any altitude-related side effects.
  We recommend spending 1-2 acclimatization days with short hikes before undertaking a longer trek. We recommend visiting our acclimatization tours page.
• Awareness of Acute Mountain Sickness: We take every precaution to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), but it can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Our guides will monitor your condition throughout the trek for early signs of altitude sickness. In the event of a serious case, our staff is fully trained in emergency procedures. If you have any concerns or pre-existing medical conditions that may be impacted by high altitude, we advise consulting your personal physician.

For more information on altitude sickness, you can visit Wikipedia

Fitness
A general level of fitness is essential to fully enjoy the treks. On average, you can expect to walk for about 5-7 hours each day. The walking pace is deliberately slow to accommodate the altitude, with plenty of rest stops and breaks for lunch. On summit days, be prepared for a longer climb, typically involving a 7-9 hour ascent followed by a 5-6 hour descent.

First Aid
Your guide will carry a First Aid Kit and is trained in first aid procedures. However, please keep in mind that these supplies are intended for emergencies. It is advisable to bring your own personal medications and any specific items you may need.

Electricity
The voltage is 220 at 60Hz. There are 2 kinds of outlet:

Money
The local currency is the "Sol." The current exchange rate is 1.00 USD to 3.8 PEN (see Currency Converter).
Reliable banks and ATMs are available throughout the area, with most banks operating Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

US dollars are accepted in many large hotels, tourist restaurants. However, it can be challenging to exchange currencies other than US dollars or Euros. We recommend changing your money at banks or certified exchange locations rather than using street money changers.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Huaraz, with Visa being the most commonly used. Additionally, we accept USD and EUR at our office.

Weather
The main tourist season runs from May to October, when the weather is generally dry, bright, and sunny. However, trekking is possible year-round. From November to April, most afternoons may experience some rain, but mornings are typically clear and sunny. Many tourists actually prefer this quieter season.
Temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day, reaching highs of around 25°C during the dry season, while nighttime temperatures can drop below 5°C. As with any mountainous region, the weather can be unpredictable and is influenced by the effects of global warming.

Accommodation / Equipment
There are very few mountain huts in the mountains⁽¹⁾, therefore accommodation during the treks and climbs is in tents. Depending on group size, a cooking/dining tents are provided. Additionally, a toilet tent will always be available.⁽²⁾
(1) There is the possibility to stay in a refuge at the base camp of Huascaran, Pisco and Ishinca.
(2) In the Huayhuash region, toilet tents are not necessary.

Food
Our trained cooks produce amazing food at high altitudes and are always pleased to accommodate specific dietary requirements. Food is always cooked to meet the highest standards of hygiene. Menus vary daily but always include breakfast, lunch and dinner (vegetarian or vegan option). Lunch may be in the form of a packed lunch or a light. You will be provided with supplementary snacks between meals to keep your energy levels high.

Water
For the first day of your trek/climb, you will be asked to bring along your own water. Thereafter, boiled water will be provided each morning to fill your water bottles or hydration pouches.

Washing facilities
Washing facilities are limited therefore we suggest you bring along moist towelettes (wet wipes).

Renting Equipment
We can recommend reliable locations for renting essential gear for both treks and climbs.
You can also rent equipment directly from us. For pricing details, please visit our rate table page.

Group size
We are able to arrange treks for individuals, couples, families or groups. If you wish to join a group (see our group deparures), we will do our best to help you find trekking partners.

Tipping guides, porters, cooks and donkey handlers
The guides, porters, cooks and donkey handlers work hard in difficult conditions to ensure your trek runs smoothly. They depend heavily on tourism during the high season and often only have the opportunity to farm on a small scale during the low season. Therefore tips are greatly appreciated, whether in the form of money, clothing or other useful items. However, tipping is obviously discretionary and in accordance with your opinion of their services.