The land of the intriguing “Machu Picchu”, surrounded by gigantic peaks which pull you towards them. The journey through the beautiful country is bound by changing landscapes at every step. Did you guess it or is it too hard? Well, we are talking about Peru! With mountain summits rising above 5000m to 6000m above sea level, it is true that the magnetic pull towards higher altitudes is pretty obvious.
For many years now, mountaineering in Peru has achieved cult status. The natural giants challenge all those who seek to conquer them with their insolent mountain ranges. While the climb is considered to be dangerous by many, people still try to explore these inaccessible regions just to get a glance of the vegetation and experience out of ordinary.
Best Time For Mountaineering In Peru
Mountaineering in Peru is hugely dependent on the climate. As the country lies in the southern hemisphere, the seasons also vary hugely. The optimum time for mountain climbing can be considered in between May to December. During this time the country experiences a dry season and due to the locales, huge proximity to the equator makes it an apt for climbers to go on for higher altitudes. July is considered an ideal time for conquering the peaks and the time between September to December is also perfect for climbing smaller mountains. Also, one thing to keep in mind is that temperatures tend to drop drastically over 4,500 m so be prepared in advance.
6 Best Places For Mountaineering in Peru
The country is immersed in rich geography that seems fascinating to every traveler. The landscape of peru tends to alter at different places leaving visitors perplexed. For mountaineering in Peru, we have compiled a list that consists of mountain ranges that range from a scale of difficult to slightly difficult. Weaving a masterpiece with guidance from nature, let us now explore these staunch peaks.
1. Mount Huascaran, Cordillera Blanca
The quaint little town in Peru is always tucked away from the list of favorites. The town of Huaraz can be reached by taking a short detour from Lima. Painted with scenic lakes the town makes a perfect base for camping. Also, those who want to drift a little further towards mountaineering in Peru, Mount Huascaran is the best choice. Although difficult climb mountaineers have found the peak quite amazing. Complimenting perfectly with the surroundings are a lot of turquoise-hued lakes in the base which seem to reward you once you come down
Climb Duration: 6 days
Price: Package starts from INR 59,113
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2. Rainbow Mountain, Cusco
A natural wonder which managed to stay away from the limelight, Rainbow Mountain is one of the unexplored mountaineering in Peru sites. But not for too long. The gorgeously striped mountain is one of the best explorations when it comes to mountaineering. Due to its famous geology, the natural peak finds it to the pages of hungry climbers. To start the journey one has to reach the town of cusco and follow the Ausangate trek to see the spectrum of colors bursts in front of your eyes.
Climb Duration: 6 hours
Price: Start from INR 2152.
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3. El Misti Volcano, Arequipa
How about if we say that you can climb up an active volcano? The thought itself gave you the chills right. El Misti volcano overlooks the town of Aqueripa and pulls in major climbers due to the trek it offers and is one of the most famous mountaineering in Peru sites. The climb may be difficult for most of the crowd and is also quite challenging. Rising 5,825 m above sea level the peak is covered in snow at some time of the year. So gear up with your equipment and conquer one of the active volcanoes in the country.
Climb Duration: 2 days
Price: Start from INR 5,022.
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4. Mount Chanchani, Arequipa
Another face representing the chain of volcanoes in the country, this time though the volcano in question is extinct. The 6,057 m peak is very easy to conquer on a two-day trek from the town and is a perfect option for the ascent and also happens to be a popular mountaineering in Peru site. The base camp can be set up in Arequipa and the only difficulty encountered is altitude sickness as one rises up. The extinct volcano is always on the hit list of climbers for mountaineering in Peru.
Climb Duration: 2 days
Price: Start from INR 6,466
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5. Mount Alpamayo, Cordillera Huayhuash
Boasting of an asymmetrical peak, Mount Alpamayo is a beautiful face of the Andes. The ascent towards the peak is challenging and dangerous. Rising to a height of 6,000m above sea level, the trek is very demanding. Although the mountain range has so many problems in its first step, mountaineers like to think otherwise. So get ready for the best climb of your life and take one step ahead towards your conquest.
Climb Duration: 8 days.
Price: Start from INR 1,07,609
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6. Mount Diablo Mudo, Cordillera Huayhuash
Moderate climbing experience is what this peak rewards everyone with. Filled with stunning views and captivating ambiance the trek to the summit is tough but not impossible. Given the basic fact is that the climb to the top can be completed in a day and can be reached through the Huayhuash circuit trek. The peak provides the best experience for mountaineering in Peru, and the climb is satisfying in every aspect. An overall trip can be organized from the town of Huaraz which serves as the base.
Climb Duration: 1 day.
Price: Start from INR 66,000
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What To Pack For Mountaineering in Peru
If you are planning for mountaineering in Peru then packing the essentials with keeping the must haves in mind is very important. Some of the things you must carry are:
Equipment: Mountaineering equipment, GPS, Compass, Sleeping pads, Tent for hilly areas
Outfit: Jackets, Woolen clothes, Gloves, Socks, Windcheaters, Boots, Nuts
Miscellaneous: Dry fruits, Chocolates, Medicines, Insulated mugs
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Tips For Mountaineering In Peru
One of the few things to do before going to climb a mountain is to get prepared for the upcoming hurdles. Apart from proper exercise, there are some points that have to be followed religiously.
- Keep the surroundings clean by correctly disposing of trash.
- Do not scribble on trees and barks during the hike.
- Be considerate of other fellow hikers as well. Keep the noise level to a minimum in every situation.
- Give way to uphill climbers by stepping off the path during ascent or descent.
- Set up your camp on durable resting grounds.
- Minimize the campfire impact and respect the wildlife.
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Peru with its never-ending trail of mountains has kept hikers on the edge for too long. There are a number of highlands along the topography of the country which makes it perfect for mountaineering in Peru. Beautiful and unexplored regions along with surrounding mountains make it a perfect combination to indulge in some climbing. So plan your trip to Peru right now and be the early bird that catches a good number of deals that act as a plus point to the expedition.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mountaineering In Peru
What is the highest point in Peru?
Huascaran is the highest point in Peru.
When can we go Mountaineering in Peru?
The months between May to September are perfect for mountaineering in Peru.
Where are the Rainbow mountains situated?
Rainbow mountains are situated in the Cusco region of Peru.
How many days does it take for climbing Mount Alpamayo?
A minimum of 8 days is required for climbing up to the summit of Mount Alpamayo.
What are the mountains of Peru called?
The mountain ranges of Peru are known by the name Andes.
Can you get altitude sickness in Mount Chanchani?
Yes, a person can suffer from altitude sickness in Mount Chanchani.
How long is the hike to Mt Diablo Mudo?
1 day on an average is required for the hike to complete while reaching the peak of Mt Diablo Mudo.
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