Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
MOUNTAIN, ROCK & ICE CLIMBING
Peru has the highest tropical mountains in the world, offering some absolutely inspired
climbs, though acclimatization to altitude is essential. The Cordillera Blanca, with its
dozens of snowy peaks exceeding 5000m, is one of South America's top destinations. The
Andean town of Huaraz has tour agencies, outfitters, guides, information and climbing
equipment for hire. Still, it's best to bring your own gear for serious ascents. Near Huaraz,
Ishinca (5530m) and Pisco (5752m) provide two ascents easy enough for relatively inex-
perienced climbers. For experts, these mountains are also good warm-up climbs for bigger
adventures such as Huascarán (6768m), Peru's highest peak. Other challenging peaks in-
clude the stunning, knife-edged Alpamayo (5947m) and Yerupajá (6634m), Peru's second-
highest mountain, located in the Cordillera Huayhuash. Rock and ice climbing are also tak-
ing off around Huaraz, where a few outfitters have indoor climbing walls, rent out technical
equipment and organize group trips.
Mountaineering in Cordillera Blanca (
Click here
) DAMIAN TURSKI/GETTY IMAGES©
In southern Peru, the snowy volcanic peaks around Arequipa can be scaled by determin-
ed novice mountaineers. The most popular climb is El Misti (5822m), a site of Inca human
sacrifice. Despite its serious altitude, it is basically a very long, tough walk. Chachani
(6075m) is one of the easier 6000m peaks in the world - though it still requires crampons,
an ice ax and a good guide. Other tempting peaks tower above the Cañón del Colca.
For beginners looking to bag their first serious mountains, Peru may not be the best place
to start. Not all guides know the basics of first aid or wilderness search and rescue. Check
