Santa Cruz Trek Tour

This tour is rated as a 5 out of 5 for difficulty, largely due to the altitude of this circuit. Acclimatization to the altitude prior to the start of the tour is recommended.

Every country is different. It’s important to check with your country to see if they require a visa. You could also try this website, though it’s important that you verify with your government.

5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners are included.

In order to participate in this tour, it is mandatory that you have Health and Medical travel insurance. You can get travel insurance here.

Most guests fly into Lima and then take a bus to Huaraz. You can add on the bus trip to Huaraz from Lima during the booking process.

The trek ends in the Ulta Valley, where you’ll get a transfer back to Huaraz. You can book a bus back to Lima during the booking process.

Yes, the tour guide is English speaking.

Yes, you can rent any gear you may need.

Check with your family doctor or a Travel Medical Clinic to confirm required immunizations or vaccines.

The altitude on this trek ranges between 2900-4900 m. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and fatigue. Consult a doctor before the trip regarding the risk of altitude sickness. Prescription medication is available to help minimize the symptoms. The best way to deal with altitude is to spend time beforehand at elevation. We recommend at minimum a 3-day, 2-night hiking trip based out of Huarez.

The tents used are 3 season, 3-person tents, however tents are only shared for 2-participants. The specific tent used is typically the Doite Cara Kailas.

Yes you can bring your own tent, however you won’t save any money.

Yes, tips are optional and based on good service.

Please try to travel as light as possible. Although you do not need to carry your luggage while walking, you will still need to carry it over short distances. Also, remember you unpack and repack on most nights.

• 1 backpack with a capacity of 60 to 70 L (or a similarly sized duffel bag or travel bag)
• 1 daypack
• Sleeping bag (should be lightweight, rated to 0 degrees F., down or synthetic, and compressible)
• 1 warm jacket or parka
• 3 pairs of outdoor pants (jeans are not recommended as they are slow to dry)
• Warm sweaters
• Hiking socks (with optional liner socks) for walking
• T-shirts, shirts, hats or caps
• 1 set of long underwear
• Quality hiking boots that are broken in.
• Spare shoes for the evenings (optional)
• 1 set of light rain gear such as a pant and jacket combination or a good poncho
• Your own personal water bottle (at least 1 liter, preferably two bottles).
• 1 pocketknife or hunting knife
• 1 pair of sunglasses (VERY IMPORTANT!)
• A supply of sun blocker or sunscreen lotion and lip protection (VERY IMPORTANT!)
• Personal medications
• Underwear, personal items, and toiletries
• 1 pair of fleece lipants
• 1 wool or fleece hat
• Headlamp and Batteries (bring at least 2 spare sets)
• 1 pair of gloves (wool or shell gore-tex)

The recommended months to travel to Huaraz are from May to September. This period is cold but dry. You should avoid travelling to this region for trekking during the rainy season as the snow makes some of the high passes impassable.