Congress Honors Founders of the PNP High Mountain Rescue Unit
Historic recognition for the pioneers of rescue in the Peruvian Andes
Date: September 26, 2025
By: Milagros Vargas Giraldo
Section: News / Current Events
The Asociación Socorro Andino Peruano S.A.P. proudly informs the mountaineering community, mountain guides, tour operators, and the general public of an event of great significance for rescue operations in Peru: the Congress of the Republic paid a well-deserved tribute to the creators of the High Mountain Rescue Unit (USAM) of the Peruvian National Police, a pioneering institution in emergency response within difficult-access areas of the Andes Mountains.
This important recognition was awarded to Retired Colonel Luis Garate Otero, Major (deceased) Wanfre Roquez Landauro, and Ms. Maricela Cafferata Díaz. With vision, commitment, and a deep love for the mountains, they spearheaded the creation of this specialized unit in 1998, leading to its official launch in June 1999.
⛑️ Pioneers of High Mountain Rescue
Since its inception, the High Mountain Rescue Unit’s primary mission has been to aid and rescue hikers, mountaineers, tourists, and local residents who suffer accidents or go missing in the extreme environments of the Peruvian highlands. These areas are characterized by glaciers, deep ravines, avalanches, sudden weather changes, and altitudes exceeding 6,000 meters above sea level.
Thanks to this initiative, the first specialized rescue units were established in strategic regions such as Yungay (Ancash), Arequipa, and Cusco—areas with high numbers of national and international mountaineers. These brigades quickly became a national benchmark for high-altitude emergency aid, saving countless lives over more than two decades of service.
🏔️ Ancash: The Cradle of Mountaineering and Rescue in Peru
The Ancash region, with its capital in Huaraz, is recognized as the mountaineering and adventure capital of Peru. It is home to the majestic Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range in the world, featuring iconic peaks such as Huascarán, Alpamayo, Chopicalqui, and Artesonraju. Additionally, the nearby Huayhuash circuit, considered one of the most beautiful trekking routes on the planet, attracts thousands of adventurers every year.
In this context, the presence of specialized rescue units is vital to ensuring safety during trekking, climbing, high-altitude camping, and expeditions. The headquarters in Caraz and Huaraz play a strategic role in responding to emergencies throughout the Callejón de Huaylas and surrounding areas.
🌟 A Tribute with Deep Regional Significance
This national recognition holds special value for Ancash, as two of the honorees have roots in the region:
Maricela Cafferata Díaz, a native of Chacas, Asunción province.
Wanfre Roquez Landauro, a proud Huaracino, remembered for his dedication and vocation for service.
Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of rescuers and mountaineers committed to safety in the Andes.
🤝 Socorro Andino Peruano S.A.P.: Commitment to Life in the Mountains
The Asociación Socorro Andino Peruano S.A.P. expresses its deepest respect and recognition to the founders of the PNP High Mountain Rescue Unit, fundamental pillars of the country’s rescue system. Their example strengthens our mission to train, prevent, and act during high-altitude emergencies, working in coordination with public and private institutions, certified guides, and local communities.
We reaffirm our commitment to continue promoting a culture of safety, prevention, and rapid response for the benefit of all who love and travel through our mountains.
📌 #IMPORTANT
The distinction was awarded to Colonel (Ret.) Luis Garate Otero, the late Major Wanfre Roquez Landauro, and Ms. Maricela Cafferata Díaz, the driving forces behind the 1998 creation of the High Mountain Rescue Unit, dedicated to rescues in the extreme zones of the Peruvian Andes.
