If you’re visiting Arequipa and craving something a bit more adventurous, the Chili River White Water Rafting tour offers a fantastic way to get your adrenaline fix while enjoying the region’s natural beauty. For just $23 per person, you’ll spend around three hours immersed in the excitement of navigating intermediate rapids along a scenic 6-kilometer stretch in the Chilina Valley. The trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and well-organized outing.

Two things we love about this experience are the friendly, knowledgeable guides — who manage to keep everyone safe while making the trip genuinely fun — and the stunning views of lush landscapes that surround the river. It’s a great mix of adventure and scenery that leaves you with lasting memories.

A potential consideration is that you’ll get wet and muddy—so a change of clothes is essential. Also, the tour is best suited for those in good physical condition and non-swimmers should feel comfortable with the safety equipment. This rafting trip appeals most to adventure seekers, families with children over 8, and anyone wanting a lively taste of what Peru’s outdoors can offer.

Key Points

Affordability: At just $23, it offers excellent value for an active outdoor experience in Arequipa.
Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the hassle of transportation.
Duration: A well-paced 3-hour experience, with about 45 minutes on the river.
Safety & Guides: English and Spanish-speaking guides are experienced, attentive, and good at making everyone feel safe.
Scenic Route: The 6 km stretch along the Chili River showcases lush natural scenery.
Family Friendly: Suitable for children 8 and older, with the right safety precautions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chili River White Water Rafting Experience

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Getting Started: Easy Pickups and Briefings

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup in Arequipa, a major plus for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of finding transportation. Once picked up, it’s about a 45-minute van ride to the Chilina Valley, where the river adventure begins. During this ride, guides often share insights about the region, setting the tone for an informative and friendly experience.

Before jumping into the water, you’ll stop at Gruta de la Virgen de Chapí de Charcani—a local spot where guides provide a short safety briefing and outfit everyone with life jackets, helmets, and paddles. These safety measures are taken seriously, which reassures those new to rafting or nervous about getting wet.

What to Expect on the Water

The core of the tour is a 45-minute raft ride along a 6-kilometer route on the Chili River. The rapids are classified as intermediate level, making it a thrilling ride that’s accessible to most people in good health. The guides expertly navigate the twists and drops, ensuring participants are both challenged and safe.

From reviews, it’s clear the guides do more than just steer—they build a lively, supportive atmosphere. One reviewer praised a guide named Elmer, who was “warm, charming, funny and attentive,” making everyone feel secure amid the splashes and drops. The splashing, curves, and small drops keep the ride exciting without being overwhelming.

Post-Rafting Rest and Refreshments

After navigating the rapids, you’ll have a chance to rest and enjoy a snack in the Chilina Valley. This is a perfect moment to relax, chat about the ride, and savor some local treats. The beauty of this tour is the combination of adventure and downtime, giving you a well-rounded experience.

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Returning to Arequipa

Following your break, the group heads back in a 45-minute van ride. The trip concludes at the Templo de San Agustín, where many travelers find it convenient to continue their sightseeing or head back to their hotel.

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The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Included in the Tour

45-minute rafting experience on the Chili River
Necessary safety equipment
A snack after the activity
Hotel pickup and drop-off

What to Bring

Participants are advised to come prepared with swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, snacks, water, and comfortable clothing. Expect to get wet and muddy, so a change of clothes is almost mandatory.

Important Considerations

Minimum age for participation is 8 years old
Not suitable for people with back problems or non-swimmers
Participants should be in good physical condition
No smoking, alcohol, or glass objects are allowed during the activity

Flexibility & Cancellation

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later, helpful for planning a trip with adaptable schedules.

Why Choose This Tour?

The value for money is undeniable, especially considering all logistics are handled for you. The expert guides and stunning scenery elevate the experience beyond a typical outdoor activity. Many travelers have raved about their guides’ professionalism and friendliness, making the trip feel personalized and safe.

It’s also perfect for those looking for family-friendly adventure. As long as your children are at least 8 years old and comfortable in water, this experience can be a thrilling yet safe outing for a family or a group of friends.

If you’re after a memorable outdoor adventure that showcases the natural beauty of Peru, this rafting trip offers a fantastic mix of fun, scenery, and local flavor—all at a very reasonable price.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

This white water rafting experience on the Chili River is best suited for adventure lovers, families with older children, and travelers who want to combine physical activity with scenic beauty. The guides’ professionalism, combined with the affordability, makes it a standout choice in Arequipa’s outdoor activities. You’ll love the friendly guides and stunning vistas, which turn what might seem a simple river trip into a memorable highlight of your Peru trip.

The tour’s organized logistics and safe environment make it accessible, even if you’re new to rafting. Just remember to pack a change of clothes and be ready to get a little wet! For those looking for a fun, active, and scenic way to spend a few hours outside the city, this rafting adventure hits the spot.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and older who are comfortable in water and in good health can participate.

How long is the rafting experience?
The actual rafting lasts about 45 minutes, covering roughly 6 kilometers down the Chili River.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, snacks, water, and comfortable clothes that can get wet.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Elmer, who are attentive, funny, and highly experienced in managing safety while making the trip enjoyable.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s suitable for families with children over 8, as long as they are comfortable with water activities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes safety equipment, a 45-minute rafting experience, a snack, and hotel pickup/drop-off.

Will I get wet?
Yes, expect to get wet and muddy—bring a change of clothes.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to plan your day.

Is this adventure suitable for non-swimmers?
While non-swimmers can participate, they should feel comfortable with the safety gear and instructions provided by guides.

Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, scenic views, or a fun family outing, this rafting trip on the Chili River offers a reliable, enjoyable experience that adds an active adventure to your Arequipa visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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