Huaraz Hiking Safety

Hiking, Trekking, Climbing

V!VA User‘s Description

Every year climbers of all skill levels perish after failing to take weather conditions seriously. The intense sun makes mountain snow more porous and causes glaciers to move more rapidly, which means even the most experienced climbers should take the proper precautions. In particular, Huascarán's ice fall has become increasingly more unstable in recent years. Although both Huascarán and Alpamayo are among the most popular peaks in the Cordillera Blanca, a number of other equally challenging options exist, which do not pose the same inherent danger.

You should always report to Casa de Guías before departing, remembering to leave a date at which a search should begin. It’s also a good idea to leave your embassy’s phone number with them. A 35 member rescue team known as Unidad de Salvamento de Alta Montaña was established in 1999 by the Policia nacional de Peru. This organization has 24 hour phone service and vhf/uhf radio dispatch, in addition to two rescue helicopters and trained search and rescue dogs. In the event of an emergency, contact either the Unidad de Salvamento de Alta Montaña (tel 51-43-793-333 or 51-43-793-327 or 51-43-793-291, usam@pnp.gob.pe, URL: www.huaraz.info/usam/, www.pnp.gob.pe/direcciones/altamontana.asp, 24 hours Mon.-Fri.), or the Casa de Guías (Parque Ginebra 28-G, tel. 51-43-721-811, agmp@terra.com.pe, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 4 - 8 p.m. , Saturday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.).

Though the majority of visitors to the region leave without encountering problems larger than sore legs and the occasional blister, the influx of travelers from around the world has also triggered a rise in local crime. Reports of robberies, sometimes at gun- or knife-point, have been reported in the Huaraz area; be especially vigilant around popular base camps in the Cordillera Blanca. To reduce your chances of being robbed, hire a camp guardian to watch over your base camp while you’re away (usually around $15 per day).

Assaults on trails have also been reported. Trekking and climbing in groups of 4 or more is highly recommended, and an even better option is to hire a local arriero (horseman), who knows the area and can steer you clear of trouble. A number of more remote areas, especially the valleys above Huaraz offer safer alternatives to the major routes, and provide ample opportunities for soloist to get out and explore. If you're traveling through the Cordillera Huayhuash, be sure to bring ample supplies. Although basic items can be bought in larger villages located in the range, such as Llamac, Pocpa and Huayllapa, there are few other places on the trail, and evacuations can take several days. 

Some final words of wisdom: Always respect the locals' property, and don't leave garbage behind. Finally, don't give sweets or money to children who beg.