FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Do hikers ever get lost?

Yes, but not badly. There is often a choice of routes to take.

But the valleys are wide open & you can often use huge mountain landmarks to ensure you do not somehow stray into the wrong valley.

With map & the LP guidebook you will make it.

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Should I bring a GPS?

No, not necessary. Bring it for fun, if you like.

We had a photocopied trip report from South American Explorers with GPS readings.

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What special gear should I bring?

Don’t forget:

warm clothes (6 layers!)
sunglasses
toilet paper
waterproof jacket
sufficiently warm sleeping bag to -15 Celsius
lip protection from sun and wind
• emergency cash (about US$50)
• disinfectant alcohol gel

We recommend disinfectant gel (sometimes called instant hand sanitizer) which you use to clean your hands before snack breaks & after toilet stops in the woods. Alcohol gel is essential hiking gear.

You might find it in Peru but it is easier to get overseas.

Stove fuel for almost any stove system can be purchased in Cuzco — but not Tinqui. Do not fly with it, obviously.

Peruse our general hiking gear checklist.

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What footwear is best for Ausangate?

You want to wear what fits you best & what works for you. No blisters!

Most experts recommend hiking boots. Modern boots are remarkably light & comfortable. A pair of good boots & gaiters make you feel invincible in the scree.

The valleys are wet. Stay high if you do not want to get your boots wet.

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Do I need a water filter?

You definitely must treat water. Much of the trek is in grazing land.

Some make a distinction between these two:

• Water filter removes protozoa & most bacteria
• Water purifier removes protozoa & bacteria and deactivates viruses

Viruses are too small to be filtered so purifiers add something to disinfect them.

Make sure your purifier is well maintained & frequently cleaned.

You must either filter, boil, use iodine or water purification tablets.

One guide recommended we boil for 10 minutes! as water boils at a lower temperature at high altitude.

We filter.

grazing alpacas can pollute the water

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