Santa Cruz Trek — Hotel in Independencia

I did not stay at the hostel, but I booked the Santa Cruz trek through the hostel website. Overall, I was disappointed and would not recommend anyone to stay at the hostel or to use their services. Edgar was kind but disorganized. Because I did not receive any confirmation that the trip was set, I took the initiative to go to the hostel to search for Edgar and ask for information. He seemed to arrange the guide and donkeys on the spot. However, on the day of the trek, there were still loose ends, for example, who would carry our supplies, given that one of the girls on the trek had a severe allergy to horses/donkeys (which she had let Edgar know weeks in advance)? In the end, the trek was amazing and I was thankful for the experience, but I would have done things differently. It would have been substantially cheaper and likely more organized to book my trek at one of the good travel agencies once I arrived in Huaraz. I sent my feedback to Edgar afterwards, and hopefully, he continues to improve his business, but for now, I would find alternatives or approach with caution.

FYI, the hostel is far from the Huaraz city center, unmarked, and at the time of my visit, there was no one staying there. It is not a backpacker's hub, but if you like a quiet setting in a more rural part of Huaraz, it could...

We had been approx 75% of the hiking time soaked because of rain and most of the views were covered in clouds. DON'T go in rainy season... Even though it is suppose to be the end of it now, this year is apparently late as it started in September instead of December. But even over the rain it's pretty good trail and I'm not letting bad weather cloud my judgement.

There is COW SHIT everywhere!!! Especially campgrounds are full of it. You'll have hard time to find a spot for your tent and I can't imagine how they do it in busy season.. Why they don't build some fence around campground? I don't know.. But you pay at the entrance for something and it doesn't really look maintained very well.

If you spent couple days in Cusco and than go to Huaraz, you should have good acclimatization. I had no problem, my partner had a headache after Punta Union, but overall no problems. Except Punta Union it's definitely moderate hike, not hard. Experienced acclimatized hiker will find Punta Union as a...

When you travel, it is important to feel comfortable and safe in the place and meet other people. In the this hostel you have everything. You can meet not only other travelers but real Peruvian and just talk with them about country, city or other things. You feel safe having key to your room in your pocket. Staff is very helpful and friendly. They will help you not only in booking trips, buying tickets or book another hostel but also when you have medical problems or just need an advise. Hostel is in the center so it is easy to go to the city whenever you want. Hostel and rooms are very clean with big and comfortable beds. There are two bathrooms and kitchen, when you can prepare your favorite food. There is always hot water at the shower what is important after long trekking. Breakfast, tea and coffee are always waiting for you. B&B Santa Cruz Trek Hostel is perfect place to feel real Peruvian soul. I had...