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 Frequently Asked Questions at Skyline Adventures
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Climate |
Between the months of May and September, Peru experiences their dry season. During these months the climate stays surprisingly stable and predictable. In Huaraz, you can expect temperatures between 40 degrees Fahrenheit (at night) and 70 degrees during the day, with occasional rain. In the mountains and at higher altitude it will be colder. ![](blank.gif"){kind=spacer} Back to Top
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Altitude |
Huaraz is located at 3100 meters (approx. 11,000 feet) above sea level. For most people who arrive from lower elevations, as their bodies adjust they experience some shortness of breath, dizziness, insomnia, and a loss of appetite during the first few days. All of our guided trips and courses allow for proper acclimatization prior to ascending to high altitudes. For more information, check www.high-altitude-medicine.com. Back to Top
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Fitness |
Courses: The courses are physically demanding and consistently require physical effort. At a minimum you should be able to run two mountain miles in 20 minutes or less and be able to walk 10 miles in one day. Embarking on a fitness regiment once you have signed up is imperative to your comfort and success on the course. Guided Trips: With or without a backpack, hiking can be quite exhausting. The better physical condition you are in, the more you will be able to enjoy your experience. Being able to walk 4 miles in a day is the minimum requirement for all of our trips. Back to Top
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Gear |
As each trip requires a variety of gear, a gear list specific to the trip or course for which you apply will be sent with your application. A sample gear list for the courses can be found here. Less might be needed for shorter trips and we will be happy to help you determine what you need before your course. Back to Top
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Group Sizes |
Guided trips can run with group sizes between two and six; guide to client ratio depends upon specifics of trip. Courses will be filled with between six and ten students. Back to Top
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Vaccines |
Check with your doctor regarding what vaccines are currently being recommended for travelers that are headed to Peru. Note – Huaraz is located in the Sierra Mountain region of Peru and you will only need vaccines for this area if you do not plan on traveling to the Amazon before or after your course / trip. Back to Top
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Money |
Traveling with large amounts of cash is NOT recommended. In Huaraz there are several ATM machines which accept debit cards, VISA, and MasterCard. Travelers Checks are another option although you are limited in where and when you may cash them. While in the wilderness all of your expenses are covered, however, you will be responsible for purchasing all of your in-town meals. Back to Top
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Spanish |
As few Peruvians speak English, it will only enhance your experience in the country to understand a few Spanish words and try to communicate with the local people. You can study up at home before your trip, bring along a dictionary and learn a little as you go, or take a Spanish class while you are here in Huaraz! As a reassurance, many people travel in Peru without Spanish skills and get by.You can expect an English speaking staff person to help you with the language barrier during your time in Huaraz so don't let this discourage you... at the very least you will become a good actor! Back to Top
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Peru Safety |
In the last 13 years, Peru has made remarkable progress in becoming a stable and friendly place for all visitors. As a traveler, however, you will attract attention. You should be alert at all times, watch your luggage and keep your valuable items (cameras, wallets, music) on your person and as discreet as possible. You don’t want to wander around alone at night, and make sure to keep your important documents, cards, and cash with you or locked up in a secure place. Back to Top
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Entry Visas & Passports |
As of now, when traveling to Peru from the United States or England, you do not need a pre-arranged Visa. All you will need to have is a current Passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your departure. For US Citizens, information on applying for a passport in the United States is available at this site: www.travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html Back to Top
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Backpacks |
Courses: Although we will have pack animals along on some of our activities, you can expect to be carrying a 20-30 kilogram (40 - 65 pound) pack during our treks and climbs. Guided Trips: During treks and climbs we use donkeys, llamas, or porters to transport all gear and food. We do recommend that you have a daypack to carry your personal items like cameras, water bottles, warm layers, etc... For climbing trips, you will be carrying a backpack with your sleeping bag, clothing, and personal items, typically weighing about 10 kilograms (25 pounds). Back to Top
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Getting to Huaraz |
You can expect an arranged transport from the airport in Lima to Huaraz and back on all Courses and Guided Trips. If you are spending the night in Lima, you will have your hotel room arranged and transportation to and from the hotel, airport, and bus station set. Spanish speaking ability is not required as the driver will know your trip details and ensure you are well taken care of while in the city. You can expect English speaking staff in the hotels in Lima and Huaraz. Back to Top
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Accommodations |
You will be provided clean, friendly, accommodations in Lima and Huaraz for the extent of your course or trip (between set trip dates). Back to Top
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Expedition Safety |
As safety is our unquestioned priority, we cannot in any way guarantee you will get to the summit. Our Certified Guides and Instructors have undergone extensive skills and emergency training, and have been hired for their impeccable safety records and attention to your well being. They will act conservatively in the interest of safety over the desire to stand on top of something. In your application you will be asked to sign an assumption of risk form. Be sure to read it over carefully before signing. Contact us with any questions you have regarding the risks that you will be assuming. Back to Top |
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| Gear list | ||
Optional:
Clients will be supplied with all technical equipment for trek and/or climb (unless other arrangements have been made with SAS. This includes personal equipment (plastic boots, crampons, harness, helmet, and axes) as well as all necessary camping gear. If you have any questions, please feel free to send us an email and we’ll try to help! There are very few equipment stores in Lima or Huaraz and it is difficult and expensive to purchase items once in Peru. In terms of cultural sensitivity, try to dress modestly when in town and refrain from bringing/wearing expensive jewelry, watches, etc… Back To Top
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