FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Trekking, Climbing & Day Hikes with Inkaland Treks

This guide answers the most common questions about trekking, climbing, acclimatization, logistics, and booking your adventure with Inkaland Treks. We operate our own expeditions in Huaraz, Cordillera Blanca, and Cordillera Huayhuash, and we coordinate programs in Cusco through trusted partner agencies.

If you need more information, feel free to contact us — we’re here to help.

1. ABOUT US & OUR SERVICES

What type of experiences does Inkaland Treks operate?

We specialize in:

  • Multi-day trekking (Huayhuash, Santa Cruz, Cedros–Alpamayo, and more)
  • Premium Day Hikes (with personalized service, private transportation, and flexible pace)
  • Climbing expeditions in the Cordillera Blanca
  • Tailor-made private trips for individuals, groups, and international agencies
  • Full logistical support (guides, cooks, muleteers, porters, equipment, transport)

Do you operate your trips directly?

Yes.
All programs in Huaraz, Cordillera Blanca, and Cordillera Huayhuash are operated 100% by Inkaland Treks with our own certified guides and staff.

Do you also organize trips in Cusco?

Yes — but only through our trusted partner agencies.
We coordinate Salkantay, Sacred Valley, Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, and Machu Picchu tours.

2. TREKKING FAQ (Cordillera Blanca & Huayhuash)

How difficult are the treks?

Difficulty varies by region:

Cordillera Blanca

  • Santa Cruz: Moderate
  • Cedros–Alpamayo: Moderate–Challenging
  • Short treks (3–4 days): Moderate

Huayhuash

  • 6, 8, 10, 12-day circuits: Moderate–Challenging
  • Passes reach 4,650–5,000 m

All treks require good physical condition.
Previous experience is helpful but not mandatory.

HUAYHUASH inkalandtreks

What altitudes will we reach?

  • Santa Cruz: Up to 4,760 m
  • Cedros–Alpamayo: Up to 4,860 m
  • Huayhuash: 4,650–5,000 m
  • Day hikes: 3,800–4,950 m

What is included in your trekking programs?

  • For all treks operated by Inkaland Treks:
  • Certified trekking guide (AGOCP), English-speaking
  • Donkeys and muleteers for cargo (8–10 kg per person)
  • Experienced cook + assistant
  • All meals during the trek
  • 4-season personal tent (2-person capacity)
  • Dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, lighting
  • First-aid kit and altitude management
  • Emergency horse (Huayhuash & long treks)
  • Daily boiled or filtered water

How many hours do we walk per day?

Most trekking days include 5–7 hours of walking.
Huayhuash can have longer days (7–8 hours).

What is not included?

  • Entrance fees (Huayhuash communities / Huascarán National Park)
  • Sleeping bag rental
  • Trekking pole rental
  • Hotel in Huaraz
  • Transportation to Huaraz (flight/bus)
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Tips

3. PREMIUM DAY HIKES

What makes your day hikes “premium”?

  • Small private groups
  • English-speaking guide
  • Flexible pace
  • High-quality box lunch
  • Comfortable private transportation
  • Acclimatization guidance

Unlike classic tours, we prioritize quality, safety, and personalization

How long are the day hikes?

Depending on destination, 6–10 hours total, including driving and hiking time.

4. CLIMBING EXPEDITIONS (Cordillera Blanca)

Do you operate climbing programs?

Yes — from beginner-friendly summits to challenging technical ascents.

Are climbing guides certified?

All climbing expeditions are led by AGMP–UIAGM/IFMGA certified mountain guides, the highest professional standard worldwide.

What climbing equipment do you provide?

  • Ropes & anchors
  • Ice and snow protection
  • Basecamp infrastructure
  • Porters
  • Cook and camp staff

Personal equipment (boots, crampons, harness) can be rented upon request.

5. ACCLIMATIZATION & HEALTH

How many acclimatization days do I need?

We recommend 2–3 days in Huaraz prior to any trek above 4,000 m.

What acclimatization hikes do you recommend?

  • Laguna Llaca
  • Rocotuyoc
  • Laguna Wilcacocha
  • Laguna 69
  • Pastoruri Snow Forest

What if I get altitude sickness?

Our guides monitor symptoms daily, apply safety protocols, and manage evacuations if necessary.

6. FOOD & DIETARY NEEDS

Are meals included?

Yes — all meals during trekking or climbing.

Do you offer vegetarian/vegan options?

Yes. We also accommodate gluten-free and other dietary restrictions.

Pisco Inkaland Treks

7. EQUIPMENT & RENTALS

Do you provide tents?

Yes — we use 4-season high-quality tents, double occupancy.

Can I rent a sleeping bag?

Yes — warm sleeping bags (–16°C / –18°C) are available.

Do you provide trekking poles?

Yes — trekking poles can be rented.

How much weight can the donkeys carry?

Up to 8–10 kg per traveler in a personal duffel.

8. SAFETY

Are your guides certified?

  • Trekking: AGOCP certified
  • Climbing: AGMP/UIAGM certified
  • All speak English

What safety measures do you follow?

  • Emergency horse
  • First-aid kit
  • Altitude monitoring
  • Weather checks
  • Evacuation procedures
  • Staff training every season

9. TRANSPORTATION & HOTELS

How do I get to Huaraz?

Two options:

  • Flight (LATAM) – Lima → Anta Airport (25 min from Huaraz)
  • VIP Bus – Cruz del Sur or Móvil Bus (7–8 hours)

Do you help book transportation?

Yes — we assist with:

  • VIP bus booking
  • Private transfers from Lima
  • Airport transfers (Anta–Huaraz)

Do you help book hotels?

Yes — we can recommend and book hotels of any category.
Popular options include:

  • San Sebastián Hotel Boutique
  • Hotel Churup
  • Olaza’s Guest House
  • El Jacal Classic

Clients may also book independently.

punta union pass santa cruz trekking inkaland treks

10. BOOKING, PAYMENTS & CANCELLATION

How do I book a trek?

Write to us via WhatsApp or email with your preferred dates.
We confirm availability and send you a secure payment link.

How much is the deposit?

We request a 40% deposit + 5% card processing fee.

What payment methods do you accept?

  • Credit & debit cards
  • Bank transfers (with transfer fee)
  • Online secure link

When do I pay the balance?

Before starting the trek — in Huaraz.

11. PRIVATE VS GROUP TREKS

Can I join an existing group?

Yes — we have confirmed departures for Huayhuash and Santa Cruz.

Can I open a private departure?

Yes — any date, depending on staff availability.

Which is better for me?

Group treks

  • Lower price
  • Small, friendly groups
  • Fixed departures

Private treks

  • Full flexibility
  • Private guide & staff
  • Custom itinerary
  • Ideal for couples, families & agencies

Still Have Questions?

We’re here to help!