Peru trekking and climbing FAQs
Find information about bookings, traveling in Peru, acclimatization, trekking, climbing, and safety in the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash.
Bookings & Planning
What kind of experiences does Exploria organize?
We organize day hikes, acclimatization programs, trekking circuits, climbing expeditions, and tailor-made trips in the Cordillera Blanca, Cordillera Huayhuash, and other destinations throughout Peru.
Can the programs be customized?
Yes. We adapt each itinerary to your travel dates, previous experience, fitness level, pace, interests, and goals. We also organize private trips for couples, families, groups of friends, and special groups.
How can I book a trip?
To confirm your booking, you will need to complete our booking form and make the required initial payment. You will then receive your booking confirmation, detailed itinerary, and all the information you need to prepare for your trip.
What is included in the price of each program?
Inclusions depend on the program and may include transportation, guides, meals, camping services, accommodation, group equipment, pack animals, and entrance fees. Each itinerary clearly specifies which services are included and which are not included.
Can I change or cancel my booking?
Yes, subject to availability and the conditions of our service providers. Changes or cancellations may result in penalties, so we recommend requesting them as early as possible and reviewing our Terms and Conditions.
Travel to Peru & Huaraz
What is the best time of year to travel?
The dry season, generally between May and October, offers favorable conditions for trekking and climbing. However, mountain weather can change quickly at any time of the year.
How can I get to Huaraz?
Huaraz is connected to Lima by several transportation options. Exploria can help you arrange the most convenient transfer according to your travel dates, budget, and overall trip planning.
Do I need a visa to enter Peru?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality. Before traveling, check the official information provided by the appropriate Peruvian embassy or consulate and make sure your passport is valid.
What currency should I bring?
The official currency is the Peruvian sol. In major cities, you will find ATMs and businesses that accept credit and debit cards, but we recommend carrying cash for small purchases and expenses in rural areas.
Will I have internet access during the trip?
Mobile internet and Wi-Fi are available in Lima and Huaraz. During treks, climbs, and trips through remote areas, the signal may be limited or completely unavailable for several days.
Altitude & Acclimatization
How many days do I need to acclimatize?
We recommend spending at least two days in Huaraz before beginning a demanding trek or climb. The time required may vary depending on your previous experience, fitness level, and individual response to altitude.
What are acclimatization hikes?
They are progressive day hikes that help prepare your body for higher altitudes. They include routes to glacial lakes, viewpoints, and valleys in the Cordillera Blanca.
What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
The most common symptoms include headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, or difficulty sleeping. Any discomfort should be reported to your guide immediately.
What happens if I feel unwell during the hike?
Your guide will assess your condition, reduce the pace, and determine whether you should rest, descend, or receive assistance. Decisions will always be made with your health and safety as the priority.
Can I participate if I have a medical condition?
You should consult your doctor beforehand and inform Exploria about any heart, respiratory, or other medical condition that could be affected by altitude or physical exertion.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Your policy should cover the activities and maximum altitude of your program, as well as medical treatment, rescue, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
Trekking & Hiking
What is the difference between the Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash?
The Cordillera Blanca offers day hikes, multi-day treks, and mountain climbs close to Huaraz. Huayhuash is known for more remote circuits, high mountain passes, campsites, and a greater sense of isolation.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Not for every program. We offer routes for beginners, regular hikers, and experienced travelers. We will help you choose an option that matches your experience and fitness level.
How many hours do we hike each day?
It depends on the distance, elevation gain, altitude, and type of route. Each program includes approximate hiking times, difficulty level, and preparation recommendations.
What pace do you maintain during the hikes?
We maintain a progressive pace that is appropriate for high-altitude conditions. Small groups allow us to take breaks, closely support each traveler, and adapt the pace whenever necessary.
What should I carry in my daypack?
You should carry water, sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, gloves, waterproof clothing, warm layers, snacks, and personal items. Before departure, you will receive a specific packing list for your activity.
What kind of food is provided during the treks?
We prepare nutritious meals suitable for the demands of mountain activities. We can accommodate vegetarian diets, food intolerances, and other dietary needs when informed in advance.
How is the luggage transported?
On certain routes, we use donkeys, mules, or porters to transport camping equipment and the permitted luggage. You will hike with a small backpack containing your daily essentials.
Can children or older adults participate?
It depends on the route, altitude, experience, and health condition of each participant. We assess each case individually to recommend a suitable and safe experience.
Climbing & Expeditions
Do I need experience to climb in the Cordillera Blanca?
It depends on the mountain. Some climbs require good physical condition and basic preparation, while others require technical experience with ice, ropes, crampons, and an ice axe.
How do you choose the right mountain for me?
We assess your experience, fitness level, acclimatization, goals, and available dates. Based on this information, we recommend a mountain and a realistic progression for your level.
Are your guides certified?
We work with specialized and accredited professionals for each activity, including guides with AGMP or UIAGM certifications for high-altitude expeditions.
How many clients are assigned to each guide?
We use small guide-to-client ratios according to the level of difficulty. On less technical climbs, we may work with up to three participants per guide; on technical routes, the ratio may be 1:1 or 1:2.
Can I rent technical equipment in Huaraz?
Yes. We can provide or arrange mountaineering boots, crampons, harnesses, ice axes, sleeping bags, and other equipment, subject to availability, sizes, and expedition requirements.
Is reaching the summit guaranteed?
No. Reaching the summit depends on the weather, glacier conditions, acclimatization, and the condition of the group. The guide may modify or stop the ascent whenever safety requires it.
Safety & Responsible Tourism
What safety measures does Exploria use?
We plan every trip considering altitude, difficulty, weather, route conditions, and the abilities of the group. Depending on the activity, we carry a first-aid kit, supplemental oxygen, a pulse oximeter, and communication equipment.
What happens in case of an emergency?
The guide will activate the appropriate emergency protocol, provide first aid, and coordinate the descent or evacuation. In remote areas, access to roads and medical assistance may take time.
Are trips operated in large groups?
We prioritize small groups to provide personalized attention, greater flexibility, better pace management, and a quieter mountain experience.
How does Exploria promote responsible tourism?
We respect the regulations of protected natural areas, reduce waste, and work with local guides, muleteers, drivers, cooks, and service providers, contributing to the economies of Andean communities.
Are tips mandatory?
No. Tips are voluntary and are left to each traveler's discretion as recognition for the work of guides, cooks, muleteers, porters, and drivers.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is ready to help you choose the right route and organize every detail of your next adventure in the Andes.
Talk to a Specialist