Tragic news has shaken the mountain sports community in Ancash. Swedish tourist Eric Holtz was found dead at the Taullipampa campsite, a key point on the famous Huaripampa-Santa Cruz trekking circuit, in the heart of Huascarán National Park.

According to Edson Ramírez, a rescue specialist in the protected natural area, Holtz had entered the route two days prior with a group of fellow Peruvians. Everything indicates that the visitor suffered severe health complications during the crossing.

A search for help that came too late.

The tragic outcome became known when two of the victim’s travel companions managed to get down and alert the authorities. “We were informed that their companion had died at the Taullipampa campsite. The day before, they descended in search of help and rented horses to return for him, but unfortunately, upon arrival, he had already passed away,” Ramírez stated.

Although the exact causes of death are still under investigation and an autopsy is required, specialists presume it could have been an acute problem related to altitude, such as pulmonary edema, or some undetected pre-existing medical condition.

It should be noted that the group was not engaged in technical mountaineering, but rather a multi-day trekking route. It included entry through Huaripampa and exit through the Santa Cruz ravine.

Protocols in place and a call for prevention

Members of the High Mountain Rescue Department (DEVSAM) Rescue Police have already been notified to proceed with the difficult rescue and removal of the body, under the corresponding authorization of the on-duty prosecutor.

In light of this tragic event, we at Global Mountain echo the strong recommendation of the National Park authorities: it is essential to carry out a

Proper prior acclimatization, knowing our actual physical condition, and assessing our health status before undertaking routes that exceed 4,000 meters in altitude.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Eric Holtz. May he rest in peace.