Santa Cruz Trek hiking, Peru - Details for Organizing the Hike

Details for Organizing the Hike

Water

You must treat water for:

protozoans

bacteria

viruses

You have a choice of water treatment methods:

boiling (minimum 10 minutes at altitude)

chemical disinfection

filters

purifiers

On Santa Cruz we recommend you take a good purifier — the Katadyn is a favourite though we've had good luck with many other units.

Make sure your purifier is well maintained. They need frequent cleaning.

Pony’s in Caraz will likely have chemicals for sale if you do not have your own.

Campsites

There are official campsites on Santa Cruz with very nice signage. But you can camp anywhere you like.

There is no cost for camping.

Our recommended route does specify where we think you could stop each night.

E-mail us with any alternative camp site recommendations.

Night 3 campsite not shown on most maps called Cachinapampa has a toilet building. When you see this, you know you are there. We camped quite a distance from the toilet block closer to the river where there was more protection from the wind.

Cooking

Though guides & locals will light a wood fire, all hikers should cook on a lightweight camping stove. Bring a back-up stove if possible, in case your primary stove breaks down.

Fuel for almost any stove is available in Huaraz — not necessarily in Caraz.

Meals should be as simple & quick-cooking as possible. Instant mashed potatoes are a staple in South America. We rehydrate in soup rather than water.