Peru is a destination full of landscapes that touch the sky, perfect for those seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures at high altitudes. If you are planning a hike or trekking route with the goal of conquering the country’s highest peaks, this article is for you. Here I will tell you about the most famous mountains in Peru, from the imposing Huascarán to the mythical Alpamayo, icons of the Peruvian Andes that you cannot miss.
What are the famous mountains in Peru
Peru is home to many famous mountains located along the Andes, known for their impressive landscapes and importance for trekking and mountaineering. The most famous is Huascarán, the highest peak in the country at 6,768 meters, located in the Cordillera Blanca. Other well-known mountains include Ausangate, considered sacred in Andean culture, and Salkantay, a popular trekking route to Machu Picchu. Peaks such as Alpamayo, famous for its perfect pyramid shape, and Huayna Picchu, known for its dramatic views, also attract travelers and climbers from around the world.
The three andean ranges of Peru
The Peruvian Andes are divided into three main mountain ranges: the Occidental (Western), Central, and Eastern. The Central range is the highest and most impressive, home to the country’s snow-capped giants like Huascarán and the entire Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash. These peaks act as a massive natural barrier dividing the waters flowing toward the Pacific from those running to the Atlantic.
The Eastern Cordillera connects the mountains with the Amazon rainforest. Its slopes are blanketed with cloud forests and lush vegetation that transforms as you descend toward the Amazon. This range includes the Vilcabamba, where the Incas built Machu Picchu and other citadels hidden among the clouds and greenery.
This entire mountain system runs through Peru for nearly 3,000 kilometers from north to south, covering almost a third of the national territory. You’ll find everything from warm valleys at 2,000 meters to snow peaks exceeding 6,700 meters in elevation. Isn’t that amazing?
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Altitude and climate in the famous mountains in Peru
In the Peruvian mountains, the climate changes radically depending on the altitude. The temperature drops approximately 6.5°C for every 1,000 meters you climb, so while in Cusco at 3,400 meters you can wear a light jacket, at base camps at 4,800 meters you will need high-altitude clothing. The permanent snow line is around 5,000 meters, and above 5,200 meters, temperatures remain below freezing all year round.
In addition, our famous mountains in Peru have several well-defined climatic zones, such as the Yunga region (500–2,500 meters) with a warm climate, the Suni (3,500–4,100 meters) with mild to cold temperatures, and the Puna (above 4,100 meters) where the cold is intense. In places like Puno, frosts are recorded on up to 226 mornings a year, practically every month.
Glaciers and snowline in Peruvian peaks
The Cordillera Blanca is the tropical mountain range with the highest concentration of ice on the planet, with 722 glaciers covering more than 723 square kilometers. Every year, between 2 and 3 meters of fresh snow falls in the highlands (5,000-6,000 m), feeding these glaciers that are vital to the water supply of the entire region, but there is a worrying fact: from 1970 to 2020, the Cordillera Blanca has lost 41.5% of its glacier coverage in just 50 years.
Best season for mountain trekking
The best time for trekking in the Peruvian mountains is from May to September, with June, July, and August being the months with the best weather: sunny days, clear skies, and dry trails. However, these are also the busiest months, so if you are looking for fewer people, consider visiting in May or September when the weather is still good but there are fewer tourists.
What mountains are in Peru
Peru has the widest section of the Andes, stretching over 3,000 kilometers from the border with Ecuador to Bolivia. The crown jewel is the Cordillera Blanca, home to 18 peaks over 6,000 meters, including Huascarán (6,768m), the highest mountain in the country and in the global tropics. Right next door is the Cordillera Negra, which despite reaching over 5,000 meters, never has snow on its peaks due to its exposure to the sun.
Other important mountain ranges are the Huayhuash, small but impressive with Yerupajá (6,617m) considered one of the most technical peaks in the world, and the Vilcabamba, where Machu Picchu is hidden among its sacred mountains. In the south, Ausangate (6,384 m) stands out, a sacred apu for Andean communities and a pilgrimage site for the Qoyllur Rit’i festival. In total, Peru has more than 600 glaciers spread across these mountain ranges, creating a mountain landscape that is unique in the world.
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15 Famous mountains in Peru
Peru is not only the cradle of Machu Picchu, but also a country of majestic mountains that touch the sky. From the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca to the sacred mountains of the Cusco Andes, in this ranking you will discover the 15 most famous mountains in Peru that you can’t miss if you want to experience the true heights of the Andean range.
1. Huascarán (6,768 m)
Huascarán stands as Peru’s highest mountain and the tallest tropical peak in the world, located in the Cordillera Blanca of Ancash region. This massive granite mountain has two distinct summits, with the southern peak reaching the highest elevation at 6,768 meters above sea level. The mountain forms part of Huascarán National Park, a protected area encompassing over 340,000 hectares of pristine Andean wilderness. First summited in 1932 by a German-Austrian expedition, Huascarán continues to draw mountaineers from around the globe seeking to conquer one of South America’s most iconic peaks.
Climbing Huascarán requires serious mountaineering experience and typically takes 6-7 days to complete. The expedition begins in the town of Musho, where pack animals help transport gear to base camp at 4,400 meters. From there, climbers must navigate complex crevasse fields, steep ice slopes reaching 45-65 degrees, and the dangerous “Canaleta” section with overhanging seracs.
2. Salkantay (6,271 m)
Salkantay, meaning “Wild Mountain” in Quechua, stands as one of Peru’s most spiritually significant peaks and the second highest in the Cusco region. This massive snow-capped mountain dominates the Vilcabamba Range and serves as the centerpiece for one of South America’s most famous treks to Machu Picchu. The Incas revered Salkantay as a powerful Apu that controlled weather, fertility, and the wellbeing of local communities. To this day, Andean communities perform traditional ceremonies and make offerings to the mountain, maintaining a spiritual connection thousands of years old.
3. Yerupajá (6,635 m)
Yerupajá rises as the second highest mountain in Peru and the highest peak in the Cordillera Huayhuash, a compact yet dramatically beautiful mountain range southeast of Huaraz. This pyramid-shaped giant presents one of the most challenging climbs in the Peruvian Andes, with technical routes requiring advanced mountaineering skills. The mountain’s name comes from Quechua, though its exact meaning remains debated among scholars.
The Cordillera Huayhuash trek is the primary way to experience Yerupajá without technical climbing. This challenging 8-12 day circuit circumnavigates the range, crossing multiple 5,000-meter passes and offering spectacular views of Yerupajá from various angles.
Climbers attempting the summit should expect a highly technical expedition requiring rope work, ice climbing, and high-altitude experience. The approach typically begins from the village of Llamac, with several days of trekking to reach base camp.
4. Coropuna (6,377 m)
Coropuna, Peru’s third highest mountain, is one of the famous mountains in Peru and dominates the Arequipa region in southern Peru as a massive volcanic complex. Unlike the granite peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, Coropuna is an extinct stratovolcano covered by extensive glaciers that create a distinctive white dome visible for hundreds of kilometers. The mountain holds special cultural significance for the surrounding Andean communities, who have performed ceremonies on its slopes for centuries.
Climbing Coropuna typically requires 4-6 days and is considered a non-technical but physically demanding ascent due to the extreme altitude. The standard route follows the northwest ridge, which involves long days of walking on snow and scree but requires minimal technical climbing skills. Base camp is usually established around 5,000 meters after driving from Arequipa through small Andean villages.
5. Huandoy (6,395 m)
Huandoy rises dramatically in the Cordillera Blanca as a stunning pyramid-shaped massif with multiple peaks, the highest reaching 6,395 meters. Located near Huaraz, this mountain is renowned for its distinctive appearance and technical climbing routes that challenge even experienced mountaineers. The Huandoy massif consists of several summits, each presenting unique climbing opportunities ranging from moderate alpine routes to extremely difficult technical faces.
The standard route on Huandoy typically takes 5-7 days and requires solid ice climbing skills and high-altitude mountaineering experience. Base camp is accessed via the Llanganuco valley, one of the most scenic approaches in Peru. Climbers must be comfortable on steep ice slopes of 50-60 degrees and navigating complex crevassed glaciers.
6. Huantsán (6,369 m)
Huantsán stands as one of the most imposing peaks in the Cordillera Blanca, recognized by its massive east face that rises over 1,800 meters from valley floor to summit. This technically demanding mountain has earned a reputation among serious climbers for its challenging routes and unpredictable conditions. Located in the Huascarán National Park, Huantsán remains less frequently climbed than its neighbors, preserving a sense of wilderness and adventure. The mountain’s name comes from local Quechua language, reflecting its long-standing significance to indigenous Andean communities.
The east face of Huantsán is one of the largest and most impressive mountain walls in South America, featuring sustained steep climbing on mixed rock, ice, and snow. The peak sits at the head of the Rajucolta valley, surrounded by pristine glacial landscapes and turquoise mountain lakes. Huantsán’s glaciers have been retreating significantly over recent decades, changing the climbing routes and adding objective hazards like rockfall.
Climbers must be experienced in navigating seracs, ice walls, and mixed terrain. The approach trek itself is spectacular, passing through valleys filled with giant Puya raimondii plants and offering views of multiple 6,000-meter peaks.
7. Ausangate (6,384 m)
Ausangate reigns as the fifth highest mountain in Peru and one of the famous mountains in Peru, as well as the most sacred peak in the Cusco region, revered as a powerful Apu (mountain deity) in Andean cosmology. Located in the Cordillera Vilcanota, approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Cusco, this massive glacier-covered peak dominates a landscape of surreal beauty featuring rainbow-colored mountains, turquoise lakes, and traditional Quechua communities. Every year, thousands of pilgrims participate in the Qoyllur Rit’i festival, making offerings to Ausangate and celebrating the connection between the mountain spirits and Pachamama (Mother Earth).
The Ausangate treks are extremely challenging due to sustained high altitude above 4,000 meters and passes exceeding 5,000 meters. Spend at least 3-4 days acclimatizing in Cusco (3,400 m) before attempting this trek. The best season is May through September, with July and August offering the driest but coldest conditions. Night temperatures regularly drop below -10°C, so bring a four-season sleeping bag rated for extreme cold.
7. Chopicalqui (6,354 m)
Chopicalqui stands as an elegant snow-covered peak in the Cordillera Blanca, located just north of Peru’s highest mountain, Huascarán. Despite being overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Chopicalqui offers one of the most aesthetic and rewarding climbs in the range. The mountain’s symmetrical pyramid shape and relatively straightforward southwest face route make it popular among mountaineers seeking to climb a legitimate 6,000-meter peak without extreme technical difficulty. The name Chopicalqui comes from Quechua and roughly translates to “hanging ice mountain,” referring to the impressive glaciers adorning its faces.
Climbing Chopicalqui typically requires 5-6 days from Huaraz, including approach, acclimatization, and the summit push. Most expeditions start with a trek into the Ishinca valley, establishing base camp at approximately 4,300 meters. From there, climbers establish a high camp around 5,300 meters before making a summit attempt.
8. Vinicunca – Rainbow Mountain (5,200 m)
Vinicunca, known worldwide as Rainbow Mountain or the Mountain of Seven Colors, has rapidly become one of Peru’s most photographed natural wonders since its dramatic reveal to the world. This geological marvel remained hidden under glacial ice for centuries until climate change caused the snow to melt away around 2013, exposing stunning layers of mineral deposits in turquoise, scarlet, gold, lavender and rust-red hues.
Located in the Cusco region approximately 100 kilometers southeast of the city, Vinicunca sits within the shadow of the imposing Ausangate massif, one of the famous mountains in Peru. The mountain’s sudden rise to fame has transformed it from a little-known geological feature into one of Peru’s most visited attractions, drawing thousands of hikers weekly who make the challenging high-altitude trek.
9. Huayna Picchu (2,720 m)
Huayna Picchu meaning “Young Mountain” in Quechua, stands as the iconic pointed peak that appears in the background of nearly every classic photograph of Machu Picchu. Rising 360 meters above the ancient citadel, this steep pyramid-shaped mountain served sacred purposes for the Inca civilization, hosting temples, terraces, and ceremonial sites at its summit and along its flanks. The Incas carved an intricate network of stone staircases directly into the mountainside, including the famous “Stairs of Death” section with nearly vertical steps clinging to exposed cliff faces. Archaeological evidence suggests that high priests and chosen women lived at the summit, performing daily rituals dedicated to the sun god Inti.
10. Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082 m)
Machu Picchu Mountain, often confused with the citadel itself, towers as the highest peak in the immediate vicinity of the ancient Inca ruins. Standing at 3,082 meters above sea level, this imposing mountain rises over 600 meters above the archaeological site and offers the most comprehensive panoramic views available in the area. While less technically challenging than Huayna Picchu’s vertiginous passages, Machu Picchu Mountain presents a longer and more physically demanding hike with over 1,600 stone steps carved into its slopes.
The Incas considered this peak sacred, building ceremonial platforms and observation points along its flanks to monitor the surrounding valleys and perform astronomical observations. The mountain’s name, meaning “Old Mountain” in Quechua, contrasts with its younger neighbor Huayna Picchu and reflects its broader, more ancient appearance. A rewarding challenge often recommended in many machu picchu tours for travelers seeking the best viewpoints.
11. Alpamayo (5,947 m)
Alpamayo was officially named “The Most Beautiful Mountain in the World” in 1966 by the German magazine Alpinismus, beating iconic peaks such as K2, the Matterhorn, and Mont Blanc in a photographic contest. Its name comes from Quechua: allpa (earth) and mayu (river). Locally it is known as Shuytu Rahu, meaning “elongated snow mountain,” a reference to its iconic pyramidal silhouette.
Located in the northern Cordillera Blanca within Huascarán National Park, its southwest face displays a striking fluted ice wall that makes it one of the most photographed landscapes in the Andes.
The first ascent was completed on June 19, 1957 by a German team. The most popular routes today are the Ferrari Route (AD+) and the French Direct (D), both featuring sustained ice sections between 50° and 60°. The recommended season is June to September.
12. Tocllaraju (6,034 m)
Tocllaraju rises to 6,034 m in the Chinchey massif, within the Ishinca Valley, one of the most complete climbing valleys in the Cordillera Blanca, sharing the area with peaks like Ranrapalca (6,162 m) and Palcaraju (6,274 m). It is considered an excellent first 6,000-meter summit. The north ridge is mostly a broad snow walk with a few technical sections of 60°–65°, requiring solid crampon, ice axe, and rappel skills.
Summit day begins around 1:00 a.m. From the top, views extend over Palcaraju, Ranrapalca, Ocshapalca, and Akilpo. Access departs from the village of Pashpa, about 90 minutes from Huaraz. Best season: May to September.
13. Artesonraju (6,025 m)
Artesonraju is world-famous for its perfectly symmetrical pyramid shape, which inspired the iconic Paramount Pictures logo, officially adopted in 1953. The mountain sits at the head of the Parón Valley, above the turquoise waters of Laguna Parón. It was first climbed on August 19, 1932 by H. Hein and E. Schneider via the north ridge.
The two main routes are the North Ridge (from the Santa Cruz Valley) and the Southeast Face (from Laguna Parón), with slopes of 45°–55° and sections exceeding 60°, along with avalanche risk. Artesonraju is strictly for experienced climbers. A full expedition takes 5 to 6 days from Huaraz.
14. Nevado Pisco (5,752 m)
Nevado Pisco is known as the “Balcony of the Cordillera Blanca” for its sweeping summit views of Huascarán, Huandoy, Chopicalqui, Artesonraju, and Alpamayo, among others. First climbed in 1951 by a French expedition, it is the most frequently ascended snow peak in Peru and requires no prior technical climbing experience, making it ideal for beginners at high altitude.
The approach passes through the Llanganuco Valley and its famous turquoise lakes. Summit day starts at 3:00 a.m., with a demanding 50° section near the top. It is widely used as an acclimatization climb before tackling more technical peaks. Best season: May to September.
15. Sara Sara (5,505 m)
Sara Sara is a glaciated stratovolcano rising to 5,505 m in the Ayacucho region of southern Peru. It is the westernmost and northernmost active volcano in Peru’s segment of the Central Volcanic Zone, with its last eruption dating back roughly 14,000 years. Its most remarkable discovery is an Inca mummy of a 15-year-old girl found on the summit, evidence of the deep ceremonial significance this mountain held for pre-Columbian Andean cultures.
The ascent is non-technical, but the area’s remoteness and altitude demand solid acclimatization. The surrounding landscape of high Andean grasslands, glacial moraines, and traditional Quechua communities makes it one of the most authentic and off-the-beaten-path mountain experiences in Peru.
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Mountaineering routes in the famouns mountains in Peru
In this section, I will show you the most famous mountain hikes in Peru, where you can venture from the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca in the north to the sacred routes surrounding Cusco and the heart of the ancient Inca Empire.
1. Santa Cruz Trek
The Santa Cruz is probably the most sought-after trek in Huascarán National Park, and for good reason, especially for travelers looking to explore some of the famous mountains in Peru. It’s about 50 kilometers that you normally do in four days, starting from Cashapampa at 2,900 meters (you can get there from the town of Caraz) and crossing the spectacular Punta Unión at 4,750 meters. When you reach that pass and see the panoramic view of snow-capped peaks like Alpamayo, Taulliraju, and Quitaraju, you understand why so many people come all the way here. The trail is well-marked, so it’s almost impossible to get lost, although during high season (June-August) you’ll find quite a few people.
Practical tips
You need to pay the entrance fee to Huascarán National Park: 160 soles (about $45 dollars), and bring a copy of your passport to the trailhead. If you come in late May, you’ll have the trail practically to yourself, although nights can be freezing with temperatures from -5°C to -10°C.
2. Huayhuash Circuit
This is one of the toughest and most spectacular treks in the world, period. It’s approximately 130 kilometers that take you between 10 and 14 days, circling this compact mountain range that has 30 peaks, six of them over 6,000 meters. The route crosses 8 passes between 4,600 and 5,000 meters altitude, and most of the time you’re walking above 4,000 meters.
The legend of “Touching the Void”: If you read the book or saw the movie “Touching the Void” by Joe Simpson, you’ll recognize Siula Grande. In 1985, Simpson had that brutal survival experience when he fell and broke his leg descending from the summit. His partner had to cut his rope, giving him up for dead, but Simpson managed to crawl for three days back to base camp. This epic survival story put Huayhuash on the map for adventurers worldwide.
3. Salkantay Trek
Salkantay is the most popular alternative to the Inca Trail to reach Machu Picchu. It’s about 66 kilometers that you normally do in five days starting from the hamlet of Soraypampa to Aguas Calientes. The Salkantay Pass reaches 4,600 meters, quite a bit higher than the famous Dead Woman’s Pass on the Inca Trail which reaches 4,215 meters.
About the weather: In March 2026, heavy rains and the risk of landslides closed the trails for about two weeks. Weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so always have a plan B. The best time is still May to September, when conditions are more stable.
Responsible tourism: There’s increasing emphasis on sustainable tourism because the number of visitors to Salkantay is growing tremendously. Some operators like Evolution Treks are leading initiatives to improve porters’ welfare and bring more female porters to the trails, pioneering ethical tourism.
4. Ausangate Trek
Ausangate isn’t just another pretty mountain, it’s the sacred Apu protector of the entire Vilcanota mountain range and Peru’s fifth highest peak at 6,384 meters. The classic circuit is about 70 kilometers that agencies complete in 4 to 6 days, crossing passes over 5,100 meters like Palomani Pass.
The real experience: What’s surprising about Ausangate is how few people you encounter, despite how beautiful it is. The landscape changes completely every day – travelers who’ve done treks in the Himalayas and Patagonia say this one’s on the same level. By day three you feel like you’re really in the middle of nowhere, deep in the Peruvian mountains, disconnected from phones and electricity. It’s an incredible feeling of solitude, in a good way.
If you extend the circuit to include Rainbow Mountain, you arrive during quiet moments before the tourist buses show up. This is something you rarely experience on a typical rainbow mountain day tour. Some hikers have even found themselves completely alone at sunrise. And even if the mountain is covered in snow, which makes it even more magical, you still have a couple of hours to enjoy its beauty before the daily tourist crowds begin to arrive.
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What to bring for mountaineering in Peru
Climbing in the Peruvian Andes is as rewarding as it is demanding, especially when exploring some of the famous mountains in Peru, so every item you pack matters. The weather can shift from warm sunshine to biting cold in just a few hours, and the terrain tests even the most prepared hikers. Here’s what you really need to bring to stay safe and comfortable during your climb.
Trekking poles
If there’s one piece of gear you’ll be thankful for, it’s your trekking poles. They keep you steady on rocky paths, help with balance during steep ascents, and protect your knees when coming down long slopes. Choose adjustable poles with solid tips and grips that feel comfortable in your hands.
Boots
Good boots are essential. Look for a waterproof pair that supports your ankles and can handle both dry trails and snowy stretches. If you plan to summit high peaks like Ausangate or Huascarán, make sure your boots are compatible with crampons. And never wear new boots for the first time on the mountain, break them in before your trip.
Clothing layers
The key to dressing for the Andes is layering. Start with a breathable base that keeps sweat away, add a warm fleece or jacket for insulation, and finish with a windproof, waterproof shell. This way you can adjust as the temperature changes throughout the day.
Gloves and head protection
Cold mornings at high altitude can be harsh. A pair of insulated gloves will keep your hands warm, while a hat or balaclava protects against wind and frost. When the sun is out, switch to a cap or a wide-brimmed hat, and don’t forget your sunglasses, they’re essential at altitude.
Backpack and hydration
A medium-sized backpack is enough for day climbs. Make sure it’s comfortable and fits well. Carry enough water or a hydration system since dehydration happens faster at high elevations. Energy snacks such as nuts, chocolate, or coca candy help keep your energy steady.
Navigation and safety
Even on popular routes, weather and visibility can change quickly. Bring a headlamp, a small first-aid kit, and if you’re going off the beaten path, a map or GPS device. In remote areas, a whistle or a small emergency beacon can make a real difference.
Sun protection
The mountain sun is strong, even when it feels cold. Always carry sunscreen, lip balm with UV protection, and lightweight gloves to avoid sunburn on your hands.
Sacred mountains in Peru: The Apus
In the Andean worldview, mountains were not simply geographical features but powerful spiritual beings known as Apus, sacred guardians believed to protect communities, control weather, and ensure agricultural fertility. For the Inca civilization, these mountains formed part of a sacred landscape connected to the three realms of existence: Hanan Pacha (the upper world of the gods), Kay Pacha (the world of the living), and Uku Pacha (the inner or underworld). Each important region of the Andes had its own revered mountains, where ceremonies and offerings were performed to maintain harmony between people and nature.
What are the 12 sacred mountains of Peru?
- Apu Salkantay
- Apu Ausangate
- Apu Huascarán
- Apu Huayna Picchu
- Apu Veronica
- Apu Coropuna
- Apu Ampato
- Apu Chachani
- Apu Huaytapallana
- Apu Pitusiray
- Apu Sawasiray
- Apu Illimani
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Common questions about famous mountains in Peru
1. What is the highest mountain in Peru?
The highest mountain in Peru is Huascarán, at 6,768 meters above sea level. It is a popular destination for experienced mountaineers seeking challenges in the Cordillera Blanca.
2. Can you climb Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, you can climb Machu Picchu Mountain, and the trek is quite popular with travelers. It offers panoramic views of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, although it is a moderate physical challenge.
3. What is the best time of year for hiking in the Peruvian mountains?
The dry season, which runs roughly from May to October, is considered the best time for trekking in the Andes Mountains, as it reduces rainfall and improves visibility.
3. What are the best mountains for trekking in Peru?
The best mountains for trekking in Peru include the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), and the Lares Trek. These routes offer incredible experiences with panoramic views and unique landscapes, in addition to being relatively accessible for backpackers and tourists.
4. What equipment or clothing is necessary for mountain treks in Peru?
Layered clothing for cold and altitude, sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, trekking poles, and proper day-pack are recommended for most treks.
Is altitude sickness a risk on trekking routes in Peru?
Yes, many mountain routes exceed 4,000m above sea level, which increases the risk of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization and hydration are essential
