FAQ
Here’s a list to most common questions and answers related to the services Andes Heritage Expeditions offers our clientele. Feel free to contact us for any additional doubts you may have or to further clarify any of them.
Our Terms And Conditions
Booking a tour with Andes Heritage Expeditions (AHE) is simple.
A. Visit our services page for summaries of all available treks.
B1. Choose the single or bundled circuit(s) you prefer, then contact us via the Contact Form. Please include your preferred travel dates, the circuits you’re interested in, number of participants, and any special requests. We will reply with a personalized quote, the tour conditions, and a secure link to complete the initial reservation payment (50% of the quoted amount).
B2. Alternatively, use our automated assistant on WhatsApp . Send your personal details and choice of trek circuits there and we will follow up promptly to confirm availability and provide the payment link.
Recommendation: Our trekking circuits operate at elevations above 3,600 m (11, 800 ft). We strongly recommend arriving in La Paz at least two (2) days before your scheduled trek to acclimatize.
A suggested two‑day pre‑trek program is:
- Day 1: City tour and visits to local cultural and archaeological museums.
- Day 2: Easy day‑hike to expose your body to mild hiking conditions in preparation for the main activities.
We can provide a quote for recommended accommodation, transportation from/to the airport and the Day‑1/Day‑2 activities upon request.
AHE cancellation by us
- AHE may cancel or suspend a tour if conditions could jeopardize participants’ safety (e.g., civil unrest, road blockades, extreme weather).
- If AHE cancels, you will receive a full refund of all payments received from you. Note: any non‑refundable third‑party bank or card processing fees may be withheld if they cannot be recovered.
Customer cancellations and refunds
- Free cancellation window: Cancellations made within four (4) days of booking — 100% refund.
- Standard cancellation window: Cancellations made more than four (4) days after booking but at least four (4) full days before the tour start date — 50% refund of the initial reservation payment.
- Last‑minute cancellations: Cancellations less than four (4) full days before the tour start date — no refund.
Fees and processing
- Refunds will be issued to the original payment method. Where applicable, non‑recoverable credit card or payment‑processing fees (typically about 5%) may be deducted from the refunded amount.
Illness & emergencies
- If you must cancel for medical or family emergencies, AHE can provide a supporting letter on request to assist with insurance claims. Please contact us promptly and provide relevant documentation.
Rescheduling (general)
- Minimum booking lead time: all bookings must be made at least 14 days before the tour start date.
- First reschedule: one date change allowed; administrative fee USD 50 (per person) if requested at least 10 days before the original tour date. Any price difference for the new date is payable by the client.
- Subsequent reschedules: if requested at least 10 days before the original date, a fee of 15% of the booking total plus any price difference applies.
- Last‑minute reschedules: reschedule requests made within 7 days of the original tour date incur a fee equal to 30% of the prepaid reservation amount (plus any price difference).
- All reschedule requests must be submitted in writing (email or WhatsApp). Changes are confirmed only after AHE issues written acceptance and any outstanding amounts are paid.
Group booking exceptions
- Deposit & final payment: group and/or personal bookings require a 50% deposit at booking; the remaining 50% is due on arrival in La Paz and must be paid prior to the start of the trekking services.
- Name substitutions: permitted up to 4 days before the start date at no extra charge; Substitutions within 4 days are subject to AHE approval and may incur fees.
- Reduced group size: if group size decreases prior to 7 days before the start date, AHE will reprice the itinerary accordingly; payments already deposited will be applied toward the revised final amount and any balance must be settled before the tour begins.
- Full‑group cancellations by organizer: refunds follow the standard sliding scale (as published in our cancellation policy).
- Flexible group options: where possible we will offer group rescheduling, conversion of payments to credit for future group bookings, or partial refunds if replacement participants are found.
Booking Confirmation Checklist — What AHE Provides (and What You May Need)
Included (covered in your tour price)
- All meals specified in the itinerary (from trek start to end) and treated/boiled/bottled drinking water
- Camping equipment OR lodge accommodation as stated (tents, communal shelter, inflatable/foam sleeping mats)
- Expert English/Spanish-speaking guide(s), local support staff and porters for group gear
- Transfers between La Paz hotels (meeting point) and trailheads as listed in the itinerary
- Entrance/access fees to archaeological, cultural or protected sites included in the itinerary
- Transport and handling of communal camping gear and equipment
- Specified technical equipment included when listed for a given route (otherwise rentable on request)
Please bring / not included (your responsibility)
- Personal sleeping bag (recommended rating: at least –10°C) — rentals available on request
- Personal clothing, extra trekking shoes, personal toiletries and prescription medicines
- Personal trekking poles unless specified as included or rented
- Personal snacks, alcoholic drinks, and items of a personal nature
- International flights, visas, airport taxes, and mandatory vaccinations
- Travel insurance (including emergency medical evacuation) — required and not included
- Rescue/evacuation costs unless separately agreed
Optional services / extras (available on request or for an additional fee)
- Airport transfers and recommended hotel bookings in La Paz (we can arrange and quote)
- Rental of sleeping bags, technical gear, trekking poles, and warm clothing where available
- Additional domestic travel, guided climbs, private departures, or bespoke itineraries
- Additional nights in hotels outside the itinerary, optional activities, and special requests
Important reminders
- Inform us of dietary restrictions, allergies, medical conditions, or mobility needs at least 14 days before departure.
- AHE staff have final authority to adjust pace, routes or evacuate participants for safety.
- For any optional services or special arrangements, contact us to receive a written quote and confirmation.
Need any additions or want this customized for a specific itinerary? Contact us and we’ll include the details in your confirmation (contact@andesheritagexpeditions.com).
What’s included:
- Meals & water: All meals specified in your itinerary (from the first day of the trek through the last) and treated or boiled drinking water are included. We plan menus to meet the energy and protein needs of trekking and accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.
- Accommodation: Camping equipment (tents, communal shelter, inflatable/foam sleeping mats) or lodge accommodation as stated in the itinerary is provided and included in the tour price. Guests should bring their own sleeping bag (rated to at least −10°C); rental sleeping bags can be arranged on request where available.
- Guides & support staff: Expert English/Spanish-speaking guides, local support staff and porters to carry communal gear are included. Guide authority for safety and itinerary decisions is part of the service.
- Transfers & entrance fees: Round-trip transfers between La Paz city hotels (meeting point) and trailheads are included, as well as entrance/access fees to archaeological, cultural or protected sites listed in the itinerary. We can arrange airport transfers and hotel recommendations in La Paz at booking (additional cost where applicable).
- Equipment & logistics: Transport and handling of group camping gear and equipment are included; necessary communal camping equipment is provided per the itinerary. For routes requiring technical gear (crampons, ice axe, ropes), AHE will include the equipment where specified.
What is not included (typical exclusions)
- International flights, airport taxes, visas, passport fees, and mandatory vaccinations.
- Personal travel insurance, emergency medical evacuation, and any medical costs— adequate travel/evacuation insurance is required.
- Personal items and toiletries, personal sleeping bags, footwear, trekking poles (unless rented), and personal snacks or drinks not listed in the itinerary.
- Optional activities, hotel nights outside the stated itinerary, alcoholic drinks, gratuities, and personal expenses.
- Rescue or evacuation costs unless otherwise agreed and paid for by the traveler or insurer.
Optional services and referrals
- AHE can book recommended hotels, additional domestic travel, airport transfers, equipment rentals, or guided climbs of Bolivian mountains through trusted local partners; these services can be added to your booking for an extra fee or we can provide referrals.
- If you require special arrangements (private departures, bespoke itineraries, medical support, or large-group logistics), please contact us at booking so we can prepare a tailored quote.
Trekking in the Bolivian Andes requires versatile, high‑quality clothing and gear to handle strong sun, high UV, wide daily temperature swings (≈+25°C to −10°C), wind, rain, fog, and occasional snow or ice.
- Use a three‑layer system: moisture‑wicking thermal base layers (synthetic or merino) to keep skin dry; an insulating mid‑layer (fleece or lightweight down) for warmth; and a windproof/waterproof outer shell (Gore‑Tex or similar) for rain, snow and wind protection.
- Bring at least one warm insulated jacket (down or synthetic) for cold evenings and higher passes.
- Quick‑dry trekking pants plus a lightweight pair of breathable shorts or sun pants are useful for changing conditions.
Footwear and technical gear: sturdy, waterproof, broken‑in hiking boots with good ankle support are essential; pair with warm, breathable trekking socks (bring 2–3 pairs) and liner socks if preferred.
Gaiters are recommended for muddy trails and snow. For glacier or snowy passes, AHE provides crampons, an ice axe and helmet only if required by the itinerary and under guide supervision (AHE will advise and can provide or arrange rental). Trekking poles strongly recommended to reduce strain and aid balance at altitude.
Accessories, personal items and safety:
- High‑SPF sunscreen (50+), broad‑brim hat and a warm beanie,
- UV‑blocking sunglasses or glacier goggles, lip balm, and high‑factor sun protection for ears/neck.
- Waterproof pack cover or dry bags, a 1–2L water bottle or hydration bladder, headlamp with spare batteries, small repair kit, and quick‑dry towel.
- Carry a sleeping bag rated to at least −10°C if camping; AHE can rent a sleeping bag upon request.
- Pack a basic personal first‑aid kit, any prescription meds, altitude medication if prescribed (acetazolamide), and motion/altitude sickness remedies.
- Bring identification, travel insurance details (including evacuation cover), photocopies of passport/permits, some Bolivian currency, and an emergency contact list.
Packing tips: keep gear lightweight and layered (avoid cotton), organize clothing in dry bags, and carry a comfortable daypack (20–30L) for daily essentials while leaving heavier items with support transport if available.
For multiple day trekkings it is necessary you bring a 60L capacity back pack to carry your sleeping bag and personal items.
AHE can advise specific equipment or rental options based on your chosen circuit and current conditions—ask us when booking.
Meal Arrangements: All meals specified in your chosen itinerary are included from the first day of the trek. At booking we will ask about dietary restrictions, allergies, vegetarian/vegan preferences, religious requirements, and any food intolerances.
Our menus are designed to provide adequate calories and protein for sustained trekking at high altitude; we can accommodate most special diets with advance notice.
We provide safe food handling, boiled or treated drinking water (or water purification options), hot beverages, and daily snacks; please notify us of any severe allergies or medical dietary needs at least 14 days before departure.
Accommodation: Accommodation is included in the tour price and will be provided as described in the itinerary — either camping (tents, inflatable or foam sleeping mats) or local lodges/hostels where available.
AHE supplies tents, communal dining shelter, and porter support to transport group camping gear so clients do not need to carry heavy equipment. We recommend guests bring their own sleeping bag (rated to at least −10°C) and personal sleeping liner for hygiene and comfort; rental sleeping bags may be arranged on request where available.
Practical notes: Expect basic to comfortable lodge facilities on some routes; in remote areas amenities (hot showers, private bathrooms, electricity) may be limited. We assign accommodation according to group composition (shared rooms/tents) — single-room requests may incur an extra fee and should be requested at booking. Please inform us of any mobility issues, children travelling, or other special needs so we can arrange suitable meal plans and lodging.
Fitness & Experience Requirements
Our treks in the Bolivian Andes traverse elevations from about 3,000 m to 5,200 m and involve long days, steep ascents/descents, and variable terrain (rock, scree, muddy paths, snow).
Guests should be in good general health and have a reasonable level of cardiovascular fitness: able to walk 4–6 hours a day on uneven ground, including sustained uphill sections, while carrying a 8–12 kg daypack.
Prior experience with multi‑day hikes is recommended for higher‑difficulty circuits, though some moderate routes are suitable for fit beginners who follow pre‑trip training and acclimatization guidance.
Training recommendations
- Start 6–8 weeks before travel: regular aerobic exercise (hiking, running, cycling) 3–5 times/week, include one longer hike or stair session per week with loaded backpack.
- Add strength and balance work (legs, core) and practice hiking with similar boots and pack.
- If possible, do at least one multi‑day hike beforehand to test gear, footwear, and sleeping arrangements.
Health, age & medical considerations
- Disclose any pre‑existing medical conditions (cardiac, respiratory, severe asthma, pregnancy, recent surgeries) at booking. Some conditions may require physician approval or make participation unsafe.
- Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult; age limits vary by route—ask at booking. Pregnant travelers are generally not advised to join high‑altitude treks.
- All participants must follow guide instructions; leaders may alter pace or remove a client from a route if safety or health concerns arise.
Pace, luggage & support
- Treks are run at a steady, conservative pace to aid acclimatization. Expect rest breaks and altitude‑aware progress.
- Many circuits offer luggage transfer/vehicle support—confirm weight limits in advance. If you are carrying your own overnight pack, ensure you can manage the specified load.
- Purchase travel insurance that covers high‑altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
General Questions
Before you go:
- See your doctor: review medical history (heart/lung conditions, pregnancy) and discuss altitude travel. Ask whether acetazolamide (Diamox) or other meds are appropriate.
- Get fit-ish: good baseline fitness helps but does NOT prevent altitude illness.
- Pack: layered warm clothing, hat/gloves, strong sunscreen (high UV), sunglasses, lip balm, reusable water bottle, basic first-aid kit, electrolyte mixes, throat lozenges, blister care, spare warm sleeping layers. Consider a portable pulse oximeter and a travel oxygen canister only if recommended by your clinician.
How to prepare for altitude
- Ascend slowly. If possible, sleep lower than your highest daytime elevation (“climb high, sleep low”).
Plan rest days upon arrival.
Hydrate and eat: drink more water than usual, sip frequently; favor carbohydrate-rich meals. - Avoid heavy meals the first days.
Avoid alcohol, sedatives, and excessive smoking for at least 48 hours after arrival—these worsen breathing during sleep. - Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours at altitude. Increase activity slowly.
Consider prophylactic acetazolamide only after medical advice (common dose: 125–250 mg twice daily starting a day before ascent and for 48 hours after reaching high altitude). It has side effects and contraindications. - Know the itinerary: allow time for gradual ascent and have contingency plans (extra nights, alternative routes).
Recognize symptoms (and severity)
- Mild Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): headache, nausea, poor appetite, dizziness, fatigue, trouble sleeping.
- Moderate AMS: worsening headache, vomiting, increasing weakness, decreased coordination.
- Severe AMS / life-threatening conditions:
High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE): severe headache, confusion, ataxia (clumsiness), drowsiness, behavior change. - High-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE): shortness of breath at rest, cough (sometimes producing pink frothy sputum), rapid breathing/heart rate, chest tightness.
Pack and dress in layers: breathable base layers, a warm mid‑layer (fleece), and a windproof/waterproof outer shell. Bring a sun hat, high‑SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm for strong UV at altitude. In the rainy season pack a lightweight waterproof, quick‑dry clothing, and waterproof footwear; in the Amazon bring insect repellent, long sleeves/pants, and a rain cover for bags. Sturdy shoes are essential year‑round for uneven terrain.
Plan flexibly and monitor forecasts locally—heavy rains can delay transport and tours. Stay hydrated and protect against sun and cold when switching elevations quickly. If heading to remote or high places, inform others of your route and allow extra travel time during the rainy season.
Stay informed and respect local conditions. Check travel advisories and avoid large protests or demonstrations; these can turn confrontational and disrupt transport. Use reputable tour operators and guides for adventurous activities (highlands, jungle, border areas), carry ID and emergency contacts, and follow local laws and cultural norms—especially in rural and indigenous communities.
Finally, safeguard your health: drink bottled water if unsure, protect against strong sun and altitude, and have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Age limits & policies for minors
Minimum ages
- General rule: participants must be at least 12 years old for our easier, low‑impact day hikes and family‑friendly routes.
- Standard high‑altitude circuits (above ~3,000 m with multi‑day camping and sustained climbs): minimum age 16.
- Technical or glacier routes, and any itinerary with ropes/ice equipment: minimum age 18 (or by exception with prior written approval and appropriate experience).
Booking, consent & documentation
- Minors (under 18) must travel with a parent or legal guardian, or present a notarized parental consent letter if accompanied by another adult.
- Provide a copy of the child’s passport/birth certificate, a completed medical disclosure and consent form, and proof of travel insurance that explicitly covers minors and emergency evacuation.
Fitness, supervision & behavior
- All minor participants must meet the same fitness and medical requirements as adults. Guides may require a pre‑trip fitness check or additional acclimatization.
- Guardians/PIs remain responsible for their child’s supervision, behavior, and compliance with guides’ instructions throughout the trip. Guides may adjust pace or activities for safety.
Safety & liability
- AHE reserves the right to refuse participation or remove a minor from the route if fitness, behavior, medical concerns, or safety risks are identified. No refunds will be issued for removals due to non‑compliance or unsafe conditions.
- Parents/guardians must disclose any medical conditions, medications, or special needs at booking.
Exceptions & private trips
- Exceptions to age limits can be considered for private or customized departures with additional staffing, tailored itinerary, and written agreement—contact us to discuss.
We recommend families consult with their pediatrician before booking and purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers childhood medical care and evacuation. Contact us for route‑specific age guidance or to arrange family‑friendly departures.
Travel Insurance and Medical Evacuation Recommendations
For all AHE treks you must have valid travel insurance that includes comprehensive medical coverage and emergency medical evacuation (medevac) - whenever possible.
Our routes operate at high altitude (3,000–5,200 m) and in remote terrain where local medical facilities are limited; evacuation can be complex and costly. We recommend policies that include: emergency medical treatment, hospital expenses, and repatriation. Make sure your policy explicitly covers high‑altitude trekking (specify activity limits or maximum altitude) and any technical activities you plan (glacier travel, etc.). Verify coverage for pre‑existing medical conditions, pregnancy, and COVID‑related care if relevant.
Policies that exclude high‑altitude activities are common—don’t assume standard travel insurance will suffice.
Purchase insurance before travel (ideally at time of booking) and carry proof (policy number and emergency contact) with you. Provide a copy to AHE if requested.
In an emergency follow your guide’s instructions first; AHE will assist with local logistics and communications, but the traveler or their insurer is responsible for evacuation and medical costs unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Permits, Park Fees & Cultural Site Access
Many of our treks traverse protected areas, archaeological sites, and community lands that require entrance fees or permits. AHE includes all standard park entrance fees and site access charges listed in your itinerary; special permits (research, commercial filming, or permits outside normal visitor access) may incur additional costs and processing time and will be quoted separately.
Respect local rules and communities: some routes cross indigenous or private lands with specific codes of conduct (dress, photography, gifting, or prohibitions). Guides will brief you on site‑specific restrictions and rangers’ instructions; failure to comply may result in denied access or fines.
Logistics & refunds: AHE manages permit applications and payments on your behalf where required; please provide passport details and any required documentation at booking. If access is denied for reasons beyond AHE’s control (permit refusal, seasonal closures, or regulation changes), we will offer alternatives, rescheduling, or refunds per our cancellation policy. Contact us if you need permits for special activities—we can advise timelines, costs, and legal requirements.
Don’t Hesitate To Contact Us If You Have Any Questions
The FAQs cover the essential information you’ll need before your trip. Please contact us if you have additional questions or would like further clarification on any of the points mentioned.