Mountain Safety and Risk Management at Exploria
At Exploria, safety is an essential part of every journey. Each experience is built on careful planning, professional judgment, local knowledge and the operational ability to manage mountain travel responsibly.
Safety and Prevention on Every Exploria Adventure
At Exploria, safety and prevention are considered throughout every stage of the journey from initial route planning to your return. Our team evaluates mountain and terrain conditions, follows established procedures and works with experienced guides prepared to respond when circumstances change.
Our approach to safety and risk management is designed to help you experience the Andes with confidence, professional support and continuous attention throughout your journey.
Our Philosophy
Prevent, Don’t Improvise
Equipment & Communication
Safety Equipment and Monitoring
We do not rely on luck in the mountains. We rely on preparation, appropriate equipment and clear communication. Depending on the route, activity and operating environment, our safety resources may include:
- Communication & navigation: Satellite devices, radios, and navigation equipment for remote areas.
- First aid: Mountain first aid kits for injuries and altitude related incidents.
- Technical & rescue gear: Ropes, harnesses, belay and rescue equipment suited to each activity.
- Participant monitoring: Pulse oximeters and continuous observation of physical condition and altitude related symptoms.
Equipment and procedures are adapted to each program and its technical requirements.
Continuous Training
Guides Prepared for the Unexpected
Our team participates in ongoing training that may include glacier rescue exercises, Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or remote first aid training, technical equipment updates and decision-making exercises for demanding mountain situations.
Our lead mountain guides include professionals with AGMP – IFMGA certification, but professional development does not end with certification. The mountains change. Conditions evolve. Good professionals continue learning.
Acclimatization & Pace
Respecting Your Body at Altitude
Altitude affects every traveler differently. That is why our itineraries are designed around progressive acclimatization, appropriate pacing and alternative plans whenever necessary. Rather than gaining altitude too quickly, our programs may incorporate acclimatization hikes, gradual elevation gain and additional adaptation days according to the demands of the itinerary.
Before your trip, we provide preparation guidance to help you arrive better prepared for the physical demands of your adventure. During the journey, our team pays attention to hydration, rest, pace, physical condition and possible warning signs related to altitude.
Accident Response and Evacuation Protocol
When every minute matters
Safety is considered throughout every stage of an Exploria expedition. If an incident occurs, our priority is to assess the situation, protect the affected participant and the rest of the group, communicate clearly and determine the most appropriate response according to the circumstances.
Accident or Incident During the Expedition
If an accident or incident occurs, the guide takes initial control of the situation. The immediate priorities are to assess potential hazards, secure the area when possible and evaluate the condition of the affected participant.
Initial Guide Assessment
The guide assesses the severity of the accident, the participant’s physical condition, weather conditions, terrain, location, and the overall safety of the group.
Minor Incident or Serious Emergency?
Based on the assessment in the field, the guide determines whether the situation may be managed through first aid and observation or whether the emergency response procedure needs to be activated.
First Aid & Observation
For a minor incident, the guide provides appropriate first aid and keeps the participant under observation. Based on the participant’s condition and the circumstances, the guide determines whether the activity can safely continue, should be modified or needs to be stopped as a precaution.
Immediate Emergency Response
If the situation may threaten the participant’s life, mobility or safety, the guide activates the appropriate emergency procedures and contacts the Exploria operations team as soon as circumstances allow.
Communication with Exploria Operations
The guide communicates the relevant information available from the field, which may include: Location or GPS coordinates, Condition of the affected participant, Nature of the accident or emergency, First aid already provided, Weather conditions, Terrain and accessibility, Current condition of the group, Potential evacuation requirements. This information helps the operations team evaluate the situation and coordinate the next steps.
Coordination with Rescue and Support Services
When external assistance is required, the Exploria operations team coordinates with the appropriate organizations and service providers according to the seriousness of the incident, location, accessibility and resources available at the time. External support may include:
Communication with Emergency Contacts
Depending on the seriousness and circumstances of the incident, Exploria may communicate with: • The traveler’s registered emergency contact or family • The traveler’s insurance or assistance provider • The appropriate embassy or consulate when relevant for an international traveler.
Evacuation, Medical Care & Follow Up
When evacuation is required, Exploria assists with the operational coordination of the response according to the circumstances. We maintain appropriate communication during the process and keep a record of relevant actions and information related to the incident. Medical decisions and treatment are ultimately determined by qualified healthcare professionals.
Important Information About Insurance & Emergency Costs
The costs of our expeditions do not include rescue, evacuation, medical care, hospitalization, medication, emergency transportation, or medical insurance expenses.
We strongly recommend that each participant have personal travel, rescue, and medical assistance insurance that covers trekking, mountain activities, high altitude mountaineering, and evacuation in remote areas.