Eight hours by bus north of Lima is one of the most popular trekking areas in Peru. At least for its diversity and large number of mountain peaks clustered so conveniently in one central area, the Cordillera Blanca is a trekkers' dream.
The Cordillera Blanca is full of striking views and unique adventures. Hikes from one day to 10 are possible, combinations producing even more possibilities if desired. Here limitations are only the result of a lack of imagination.
The past few years have, however, seen a dramatic improvement in the situation as the center of terrorist activity moved away from the sierra and into the coca growing areas of Peru, most notably the Huallaga Valley.
For the more adventurous and technically-minded mountain enthusiast, the Cordillera Blanca is unrivaled for the pursuit of mountaineering. With glacier-covered peaks varying in altitudes from 5,495 meters (18,000 feet) to 6,795 meters (20,000 feet), and technical levels from very easy to extremely difficult, there is something for everyone. However, because all climbing here is at high altitude, and any glacier travel requires technical knowledge, climbing in the Cordillera Blanca should be attempted by those with experience. Besides the usual trekking equipment, a rope, ice axe, crampons and ice stakes or screws are necessary.
Trekkers generally don't experience anything more than soroche, or mild altitude sickness, but at higher altitudes serious complications can occur. Pulmonary Edema occurs when the lungs begin to fill With fluid. Early symptoms include a dry, incessant cough, a rattling sound and tightness in the chest. Cerebral Edema occurs when fluid collects in the brain. Symptoms include loss of coordination, incoherent speech, confusion, and loss of energy. Both of these illnesses are extremely serious and possibly fatal. The only cure is an immediate descent to a significantly lower altitude. The victim is usually the last one aware of the problem, so it's essential that each person in the group keep an eye out for symptoms in the others. Another high-altitude problem is hypothermia, or exposure.
This occurs when the body loses more heat than it can replace. The symptoms begin with uncontrolled shivering that will eventually cease, though the body is still cold. Lack of coordination, confusion, drowsiness and even a feeling of warmth are other symptoms. A victim suffering from hypothermia will need to be immediately dried-off, placed in a warm sleeping bag, and given warm liquid to drink. In advanced cases, the victim will not be able to generate any body heat and will need the warmth of other bodies to get his temperature back to normal. Hypothermia is prevented by staying warm and dry. Wearing wool or a synthetic insulating material next to the skin will help hold in warmth, even when wet. Cotton has no insulating properties and will actually draw off body heat when wet. Layering clothes is an effective way to regulate body temperature during times of exertion and rest. Food also helps stove the internal generators, so eating quickly assimilated food like chocolate will help keep the system functioning.
