Where can I buy / rent gear?
It is fairly easy to rent gear in Cuzco though both Huaraz & Arequipa are better.
Check around in the many outdoor shops & tour operators near the main plaza & in gringo alley (Procuradores). Price varies with quality, but expect to pay US$3-6 / item / day. (i.e. tent, sleeping bag, stove, etc.)
You can purchase basic gear too. Quality, selection & price are, of course, not what you might hope for. Many items cost about double what we pay in Canada.
There is one high end gear shop if you really need quality: Tatoo, on the Plazoleta de las Nazarenas.
Best is to bring everything with you to Peru.
Do I need a Reservation to hike?
No. Nada.
Ausangate is completely unregulated.
No hassle. Hike when you want. Camp where you want.
This is the biggest advantage of Ausangate over the Inca Trail which officially requires a minimum of 30 day advance booking.
Who should NOT hike Ausangate?
Anyone not yet well acclimatized for altitude.
NOT those with chronic knee, ankle or back injuries.
There are rough & steep sections. Evacuation from the far side of the mountain is nearly impossible.
What's the most difficult section?
The many high passes, two over 5000m are your greatest challenge. Weather is a concern. Expect wind & cold!
Many hikers experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
