Fitness
A general fitness is necessary to enjoy the treks. On average you would expect to be walking for about 6-8 hours per day. The walking pace is slow to allow for altitude conditions and is broken up by plenty of rest stops and lunch. On climbs, the summit day is usually long with a 6-7 hour ascent followed by a 4-5 hour descent.
Higher altitudes have less oxygen, humidity and pressure. Huaraz lies at an elevation of 3100m, thus anyone arriving from lowland or coastal areas is likely to experience some effects of the altitude gain. In order to keep these effects to a minimum, we recommend the following:
Drink sufficient water
it is vital to drink sufficient water to replace lost fluids from exercise and to keep up with the demands of higher altitudes. It is recommended that you drink twice as much as you would normally.
Maintain your calorific intake
Ample and varied food is provided on the treks but you may want to stock up with some of your favorite snacks.
Increase exercise gradually
Physical activity should be carried out at a slower pace than usual and increased gradually from the time you arrive in Huaraz. The guides will set an appropriate pace on the treks to minimize any side effects of the altitude. We recommend you spend 2-3 acclimatization days with day treks or tours before embarking on a longer trek.
Risk of Acute Mountain Sickness
we take every precaution to ensure that Acute Mountain Sickness does not occur. However, it can happen to anyone regardless of age or fitness. The guides will monitor you throughout the trek for early signs of altitude sickness. In the event that a serious case should occur, our staffs are fully trained in emergency procedures. For clients who require extra reassurance, an emergency horse can be provided. Please note that there is an extra charge for this. If you have any doubts or prevailing medical condition that may be affected at altitude, please consult your personal doctor.
First Aid
Once you have made a reservation, you will be provided with details of what we carry in our First Aid Kit. However, please be aware that these items are intended for emergencies and it is preferable to carry your own personal and preferred medications.
As Huaraz is at 3,100m, it is not necessary to take precautions against malaria. However we advise in updating typhoid, hepatitis and tetanus. It is always advisable to check with your local doctor. Apart from the state hospital, there are a few private clinics. We are happy to recommend doctors and clinics.
The voltage is 220 at 60Hz. There are 2 kinds of outlet
Regular AA and AAA batteries are available but it is advisable to bring spare batteries for mobile phones and cameras.
The local currency is the Nuevo Sol. The current exchange rate is 3.30 NS to U.S. $ 1 Banks and ATM’s are available and reliable. Most banks open Mon – Fri 9.00 –12.00 and 16.00-18.00, Saturdays 09.00 - 13.00
U.S. dollars are accepted in most large hotels, tourist restaurants, in some pharmacies and supermarkets. It is difficult to change currencies other than the U.S. dollar or Euro. We recommend you change your currencies in banks or certified exchange locations rather than on-the-street money changers. Traveller’s Cheques in American dollars or Euros can be changed in major banks. American Express Travellers Cheques are recommended for ease of transaction.
Credit cards are not widely used in Huaraz. Of the major cards, Visa is the most accepted.
You will receive an equipment and clothing list after you have made a reservation.