Arequipa: Rafting on the Chili River | Adventure and fun

Imagine floating down a river that runs through stunning landscapes just outside Arequipa, with the chance to feel the rush of rapids in a safe, guided setting. For around $29 per person, you can spend a lively 2.5 hours enjoying white-water rafting on the Chili River — an activity that combines adventure with incredible scenery. This tour is perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, offering a taste of Peru’s outdoor excitement without requiring prior experience.

What we really like about this tour is how accessible it is — equipment is provided, and guides are there to ensure your safety while still allowing you to enjoy some genuine adrenaline. Plus, passing by the Cave of the Virgin of Chapí at the foot of the Misti Volcano adds a scenic touch to the experience. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with respiratory issues, or anyone over 95 — safety is always a priority.

This rafting trip is ideal for travelers who crave a quick, fun escape into nature—especially those eager to experience Arequipa from a different perspective. Whether you’re traveling solo, as part of a group, or with family (age restrictions apply), this tour packs in excitement and memorable views in a compact package.

Key Points

• Accessible adventure: Gear, guides, and safety kayakers are included, making it beginner-friendly.
• Scenic route: Passing the Cave of the Virgin of Chapí and views of Misti Volcano adds unique visual appeal.
• Short but sweet: At 2.5 hours, it’s a manageable outing that fits into any schedule.
• Affordable value: At $29, it offers a memorable outdoor activity without breaking the bank.
• Safety first: Equipment and professional guides help ensure a fun and secure experience.
• Limited suitability: Not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with certain medical conditions.

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Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure kicks off at a pre-arranged meeting point in Arequipa, from where you’ll hop into transportation heading towards the Chilina Valley. We appreciated how seamless this part was — round-trip transport is included, so there’s no need to worry about finding your way. The journey itself offers a chance to take in some local scenery before the real fun begins.

The base camp, where you receive your wetsuit, footwear, vest, and windbreaker, is well-organized. Since the equipment is provided, you can focus on the experience rather than lugging gear around. The guides, who speak both English and Spanish, are friendly and professional, giving clear instructions on safety and paddling techniques. This prep is crucial because the Chili River offers a range of currents, and knowing what to expect is part of the fun.

The Route and Experience on the River

Once geared up, you’ll travel a short distance to the river’s edge in the Chilina Valley. The boat, designed for four people, is shared with a guide and a safety kayaker. From there, the river adventure begins.

The one-hour downstream swim is the core of the trip, where you’ll face rapids of varying difficulty. The guides emphasize safety — they’re vigilant, and the safety kayaker is right there to assist if needed. Several reviews praise the professionalism, with one traveler saying, “The guides made us feel safe without taking away the thrill.” Expect to face some lively currents that get your adrenaline pumping, but also moments of calmer stretches perfect for catching your breath and taking photos.

The scenery along the river is striking. Passing beneath the Cave of the Virgin of Chapí, with views of the Misti Volcano, adds a dramatic backdrop to your adventure. It’s a reminder that you’re experiencing Peru’s rugged natural beauty from an active, engaging perspective.

The Food and Refreshments

After the river ride, you’ll enjoy a snack — a simple but appreciated way to recharge. It’s a nice touch that the tour includes this in the price, making the overall value quite good. It also provides a moment to chat with fellow adventurers and reflect on the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s included essentials — transportation, complete river gear, guides, and snacks — ensure a smooth experience. The additional cost for photos and videos (10 soles per person) might be worth considering if you want to capture the thrill from above, as one reviewer noted a person taking photos from the highest point of the river.

What’s not included? You’ll need to bring your own sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and cash for extras. Notably, alcohol and drugs are prohibited, aligning with safety standards.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This rafting experience is best suited for adventurous spirits who want a quick yet memorable taste of Peru’s outdoor offerings. Because no previous rafting experience is necessary, beginners can feel confident. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy scenic landscapes, as the route offers impressive views of Misti and the surrounding valley.

However, it’s important to note the medical restrictions — pregnant women, wheelchair users, and people with respiratory issues or pre-existing conditions should consider other activities. The tour’s duration and group size make it manageable for most travelers looking for a fun, active outing.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

At just $29, this rafting trip delivers surprisingly good value. It combines adventure, safety, and scenic beauty, all in just over two hours. If you’re craving a fun, active way to see a different side of Arequipa’s natural environment, this experience will deliver.

The guides’ professionalism and safety measures give peace of mind, especially for first-timers. Plus, the scenic backdrop of the Misti Volcano and the Cave of the Virgin of Chapí make for memorable photos and stories.

While it’s not the longest or most intense rafting trip out there, it’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a taste of Peru’s adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities without a significant time commitment or high cost.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide instructions and safety gear, making it accessible even for those new to rafting.

How long does the rafting last?
The actual river experience is about one hour downstream. The total tour, including transportation and briefing, lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Are the equipment and safety gear provided?
Yes, all necessary gear, including wetsuits, vests, footwear, and windbreakers, are included.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and cash. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothes suitable for getting wet.

Can I take photos or videos?
Yes, but it costs 10 soles per person for photos and videos, usually taken from the highest point of the river.

Are there any medical restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people with respiratory issues or pre-existing medical conditions.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Spanish.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from Arequipa to the river is included in the price.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs $29 per person, offering great value for a scenic, active experience.

In the end, this Chili River rafting trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and safety. It’s a fantastic way to break from typical sightseeing and get your adrenaline flowing while enjoying the dramatic landscapes around Arequipa. If you’re looking for a fun, reasonably priced outdoor activity that’s suitable for most fitness levels, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby