Acclimatization

Proper acclimatization is the single most important factor for a safe and enjoyable trekking or climbing experience in the Andes.
Whether your adventure takes you to the Cordillera Blanca, Cordillera Huayhuash, or Cusco, allowing your body enough time to adjust is essential for performance, safety, and overall enjoyment.

Inkaland Treks — as a local operator trusted by international travel agencies — follows the highest standards of altitude preparation for all travelers, both private and group.

Altitude affects everyone differently, regardless of age, fitness level, or experience.
Both Huaraz and Cusco sit at high elevation:

• Huaraz: 3,052 m (10,013 ft)
• Cusco: 3,399 m (11,152 ft)
• Most treks reach 4,000–5,000+ m

A proper acclimatization process helps you:

• Prevent altitude sickness
• Improve breathing and sleep
• Increase physical performance
• Reduce fatigue
• Enjoy the trek without discomfort
• Stay safe during steep climbs and high passes

Without proper acclimatization, even strong hikers struggle at altitude.

We strongly recommend:

✅ A minimum of 2–3 full days of acclimatization before any multi-day trek or climb.

⭐ If you can do 4 days — even better.

This is the standard we follow for all international agency groups we operate.

❗ Never begin a trek or climb the day you arrive in Huaraz or Cusco.

A progressive, step-by-step acclimatization is the safest and most effective method.

1) Easy level (gentle acclimatization)

Perfect for your first day at altitude
Examples:

• Wilcacocha (3,700 m)

2) Moderate level (middle acclimatization)

Good for Day 2
Examples:

• Rocotuyoc (4,300 m)
• Llaca Valley (4,400 m)

3) Challenging level (strong acclimatization)

Never on Day 1 — these are only recommended for Day 2 or Day 3 (depending on your condition):

• Laguna 69 (4,600 m)
• Laguna Churup (4,450 m)
• Laguna 513 (4,400+ m)

These challenging hikes prepare you for demanding treks such as:

• Huayhuash (8–10 days)
• Santa Cruz
• Mateo Mountain
• Climbing extensions (Pisco, Vallunaraju)

Attempting these hard hikes too early greatly increases the risk of altitude sickness.

Day 1 — Arrival in Huaraz (3,052 m)
Rest, hydrate, eat lightly, and move slowly.

Day 2 — Easy Hike
• Laguna Wilcacocha (3,700 m)

Day 3 — Moderate Hike
Choose one:
• Rocotuyoc (4,300 m)
• Llaca Valley (4,400 m)
• Laguna Churup (4,450 m)

Day 4 — Challenging Hike (only if ready)
• Laguna 69 (4,600 m)
• Laguna 513 (4,400 m)

• Drink 2–3 liters of water every day
• Avoid alcohol for 24–48 hours
• Eat light meals
• Walk slowly and take deep breaths
• Sleep well
• If you feel symptoms, tell your guide immediately

As a high-standard local operator, we provide:

• Personalized acclimatization planning
• Professional guides for all day hikes
• Private transportation for premium acclimatization tours
• Oxygen, first aid kits, and radio communication
• English & Portuguese-speaking assistance
• Safety protocols based on international standards