All mountain work, whether permanent or temporary is subject to an official and professional classification. All mountain personnel must have an ID card issued by the Ministry of Tourism, the respective national park (as in the Huascarán National Park) or the Huaraz Guides’ Association.

Mountain guides: either working in teams or freelancing, all mountain guides have received certified training. Experienced and trained to climb the main snow-capped mountains, they charge approximately US$60 a day, food and transport not included.

Trekking Guides: Not necessarily trained as mountain climbers, they are nevertheless familiar with the walking routes and circuits. They usually travel with large expeditions organized by tour operators. They charge approximately US$30 a day, food and transport not included.

Mountain Guide Trainees: After completing their training, mountain guides go through a year’s trial period during which they are officially not allowed to guide certain difficult ascents. They charge approximately US$40 a day, food and transportation not included.

First class porters: They assist mountain climbers wherever beasts of burden cannot reach. Not allowed to climb above 6,000 meters. Usually they are fully equipped, and are capable of overcoming extremely adverse obstacles and conditions. However, climbers must provide them with the required high mountain gear. Fees are usually in the neighborhood of US$20 a day, food and transport not included.

Second class porters: They assist mountain climbers and trekkers in areas not accessible to pack animals but will not go into snow areas. Fees are around US$15 a day plus meals.

Mule drivers: In heavy demand among climbers, they own the beasts and usually live near the most popular mountains or routes. Fees are settled on the spot although in parks like Huascarán rates are fixed (approximately US$5-8 a day plus US$4 for each beast). Mule drivers must be licensed. A community-enforced rule allows them to work only near their towns. Drivers must be paid for the time spent returning to their towns and for their food.

Cooks: Certified cooks are valuable members of any expedition. Cooking is no simple task above 4,000 meters of altitude. Generally they assist in buying groceries and many also have the necessary cooking ware and utensils. Cooks are also responsible for guarding the camp while travelers are away. They charge between US$5-8 plus food.

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