FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)Do hikers ever get lost?No, route finding is straight forward. Wide valleys provide great vistas of the route ahead. Signage is excellent — almost perfect. Double check the trail as you go with other hikers coming from the opposite direction. Be cautious on the sidetrips. Should I bring a GPS?No, it is not needed. Bring one for fun, if you like. What special gear should I bring?Don’t forget:
We recommend you bring 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 can buy it in Peru, but it can be difficult to find. Stove fuel for almost any stove system can be purchased in Huaraz (not necessarily in Caraz). Do not fly with it, obviously. Consider renting a large trekking stove if you hire pack animals. Peruse our general hiking gear checklist. If you hire pack animals, bring everything you might want. Weight is not much of an issue. Plan to leave your identification, passport, etc. locked up safely in Huaraz. Bring very little cash — US$50 in Soles or less. What footwear is best for Santa Cruz?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. If you hire pack animals, bring all your footwear. The more options for your feet you have, the better. Do I need a water filter?You should treat water on Santa Cruz. Some hikers make a distinction between these two:
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 on this hike. There are grazing animals everywhere. If you boil, bring plenty of fuel. Some recommend 10 minutes full boil to be safe at high altitude where water boils at a lower temperature.
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