Key facts

Trekkers in the Cordillera BlancaSeason

The Cordillera Blanca is open almost all year, however, the best season to visit the Huascaran National Park, is from April to October, the Andean summer. During these months the weather and climate are favorable for all kind of activities.

Language

Peru’s official language is Spanish, although a significant number of Peruvians speak Quechua and Aymara in the Andes, and other native languages in the Jungle. However in Huaraz the main city near to the Cordillera Blanca, the travel agencies or tour operators have staff who speaks English or other languages.

Entry to the Huascaran National Park

Almost all the area of the Cordillera Blanca is part of the Huascaran National Park. To visit the Cordillera Blanca and make one of the activities it is necessary to get permission in its offices located at Jr. Federico Sal y Rosas in Huaraz. The fee entrances are:

- 1 day S/. 30.00 (USD 9.40)
- From 2 to 3 days S/. 60.00 (USD 18.80)
- From 4 to 30 days S/. 150.00 (USD 47.00)

Currency and forms of payment

The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol (S/.), also the US Dollar is accepted in most local business, restaurants at the day’s exchange rate.
In Huaraz you can exchange foreign currency (USD and Euros) at the banks and Casa de cambios (for English: Money Exchange houses).
ATM machines can be found in Huaraz, and these accept a variety of cards, among the most accepted are: VISA, Mastercard, Dinners club and American Express

Safety

The Cordillera Blanca area is particularly safe, in the main trekking circuits and mount climbing access trails there are park ranger offices. When you are camping in the mountain range don’t leave your personal items outside your tents .
Police: From any telephone 105
Direccion de Turismo y Proteccion del Ambiente

YUNGAY HIGH-MOUNTAIN RESCUE SQUAD (Unidad de Salvamento de Alta Montaña USAM)
Telephone: (043) 39-3333. Attention: 24 hours.
E-mail: usam@pnp.gob.pe