Protocol 2026 / Updated: April

General Trek & Climb Information

Essential logistical protocols, safety standards, and regional specifications for mountaineering in the Peruvian Andes.
[ 01 ]

Climate & Best Seasons

The Peruvian Andes are subject to conflicting weather influences coming both from the Pacific Ocean and from the jungle. Traditionally there is a "dry" and "rainy" season.

Generally, the months with more settled weather are May until September, with shoulder periods in mid-April and late September to October. However, world climatic changes are affecting weather patterns in Peru. Periods of cloud and rain during what were traditionally the driest months are possible.

Mountaineering Specifics: For 5000m and non-technical peaks, the optimal window is May to September. 6000m and highly technical peaks can generally only be climbed safely from mid-June to August, as conditions stabilize.

[ 02 ]

Group Sizes & Huaraz Access

We cater to private groups, families, and solo travelers. If you are traveling alone, you can join our confirmed departures to share logistics and costs (groups are strictly capped at 6 to 8 people to preserve quality).

Travel from Lima to Huaraz: Huaraz is located 400km north of Lima. You can access our base via a 1-hour LATAM flight (morning departures) or via premium VIP bus services (Cruz Del Sur, Oltursa Bus, Movil Bus) which take approximately 8 hours. We also arrange private vehicular transfers upon request.

[ 03 ]

Camp Life, Hygiene & Load Limits

On treks and base camp approaches, our donkey trains carry the main logistical load. We request clients limit their personal duffel bag to a maximum of 12kg - 15kg. You will only carry a light daypack.

Water & Sanitation: All drinking water is boiled aggressively for 2 minutes to eliminate organisms. We provide hand-washing stations, private toilet tents (in the Cordillera Blanca), and enforce strict food-handling hygiene.

Regional Analysis

Ecosystem Comparison

We are frequently asked what is the difference between the two regions or which is better for trekking in. Both areas are very spectacular but different and it is impossible to compare them. Both have amazing snow capped mountains and glaciers that you hike by very close to & both have continuous breath-taking hikes up to high passes with incredible views on most days of the treks.

Cordillera Blanca Spectrum

  • Located within Huascaran National Park (Entry ticket required)
  • 1 to 4 hours drive to trailheads (Start hiking on Day 1)
  • Steep granite valleys, glaciers, and terminal turquoise lakes
  • High biodiversity with 6 unique habitats and forested areas
  • More interaction with local agricultural villages and communities
Alpamayo Circuit Master Entry

Cordillera Huayhuash Spectrum

  • Private community-owned land (Multiple local camping fees apply)
  • Minimum 5 hours drive to trailhead (Actual hiking starts on Day 2)
  • Open, vast valleys, expansive grasslands, and razor-sharp peaks
  • Large alpine lake systems, many containing trout for fishing
  • Extremely remote with very few local settlements or farms
Jahuacocha Alpine Loop Entry
Expedition Logistics

Expedition Trekking Gear

Load Protocol

Donkey Train Only

We Provide (PAA Logistics)

  • Four-season client tents & sleeping mats

  • Dining tent with tables, chairs, and lighting

  • Private toilet tent with paper, water & soap

  • All cooking equipment, gas, and gourmet meals

  • Emergency oxygen cylinder & pulse oximeter

You Need to Bring (Personal)

  • High-quality sleeping bag & personal liner

  • Day backpack & large duffel bag (Max 15kg load)

  • Worn-in, waterproof hiking boots & camp shoes

  • Goretex rain jacket and waterproof overtrousers

  • Down jacket, warm layers, UV sunglasses & 2L water capacity

Expedition Logistics

Mountaineering Gear Specs

Load Protocol

Porters & Donkeys

We Provide (PAA Logistics)

  • High-altitude four-season expedition tents

  • Dynamic climbing ropes & technical group gear

  • Ice screws, snow stakes, and anchor systems

  • VHF Walkie-Talkies & Satellite Phone (if remote)

  • High camp specialized stoves & dehydrated provisions

You Need to Bring (Personal)

  • Double plastic or heavily insulated mountaineering boots

  • Technical ice axes, harness, ATC, and automatic crampons

  • Climbing helmet, carabiners, and prusik slings

  • Extreme sub-zero sleeping bag & inflatable Thermarest

  • Expedition-grade down jacket, overmittens, and snow gaiters

Critical Evacuation Protocol

Acclimatization, Rescue & Insurance Protocol

Mandatory Acclimatization: We strictly mandate at least 2 full days (3 nights) in Huaraz prior to any trek, and a minimum of 3 to 4 days of active acclimatization prior to high-altitude climbing. Altitude sickness (including Pulmonary or Cerebral Edema) is a lethal threat if ignored.

Rescue Limitations: There is NO helicopter rescue available in the Huaraz region. All search and rescue operations are conducted manually by specialized teams of Police and UIAGM Mountain Guides. Evacuations demand extreme physical effort and time.

Susan (USA) - Evacuated from IshincaYour evacuation process was very impressive, as was your ability to get me directly to the correct doctor once back in Huaraz. I will be having surgery and look forward to a fairly speedy recovery.

Insurance Requirement: The Peruvian Police will NOT initiate any high mountain or large-scale rescue until they have received either cash payment in advance or a verifiable guarantee of payment. Comprehensive mountaineering travel insurance covering medical, rescue, and repatriation is absolutely mandatory to join our expeditions.

Rescue Commitment

Our high staff-to-client ratio ensures that in the event of an emergency, a dedicated team is immediately detached for evacuation without compromising the mission of the main group.