Arequipa | Ascent to Chachani Volcano 2 days / 1 night

Arequipa | Ascent to Chachani Volcano 2 Days / 1 Night: An Authentic Peruvian Mountain Adventure

In the heart of the Arequipa region, this two-day, one-night tour offers a chance to climb the famous Chachani Volcano, a revered site for locals and travelers alike. For $150 per person, you’ll be transported from your hotel into a landscape of volcanic grandeur, starting with a scenic 4×4 ride and culminating in an overnight camp and early morning summit attempt.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances adventure with support—you’re not just thrown into the mountain, but guided through the process by knowledgeable guides who understand the terrain and safety. The second highlight? The view from the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic spectacle of nearby peaks like Coropuna, Ampato, Hualca Hualca, Sabancaya, Misti, and Ubinas.

One potential consideration is the physical challenge; this isn’t a walk in the park. The ascent starts at an altitude of 5200 meters, and reaching the summit involves a vigorous hike in cold, thin air. That’s why this tour is best suited for travelers who are reasonably fit and prepared for altitude. If you’re craving a genuine, less touristy mountain experience with authentic support, this tour suits active travelers eager for a challenge and memorable views.

Key Points

• Authentic Climbing Experience: Climb Chachani, considered a mountain like a hike, not just a tourist attraction.
• Small Group Support: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized guidance and attention.
• Authentic Cultural Touches: Learn about Sillar, the volcanic stone used in Arequipa’s iconic white architecture.
• Comfortable Logistics: Includes hotel pickup, transportation, tents, and meals for a smooth experience.
• Stunning Views: Summit offers spectacular vistas of neighboring volcanoes and snow-capped peaks.
• Value for Price: At $150, this includes guides, gear support, lodging, and meals, making it a good deal for a multi-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chachani Ascent Experience

Starting Point: From Arequipa to the Volcano

The adventure kicks off early, with a pickup from your hotel in Arequipa around 7:30 a.m.. Traveling in a 4×4 vehicle, we leave the city behind, heading to Pampa Cañahuas, situated behind Chachani. The ride itself offers a taste of the high-altitude terrain and volcanic landscape that defines this region. This initial drive is not just transportation but the beginning of your immersion into the rugged beauty of the Andes.

Day 1: The Ascent Begins

Once at Pampa Cañahuas, the guide will give a quick briefing—important for understanding what to expect physically and how to approach the climb safely. The ascent on foot lasts around two hours and is designed to be manageable, with gradual, low-intensity climbs. This part is crucial because it helps you acclimatize and build confidence before the more strenuous summit push.

As you hike, you’ll notice the landscape shifts, with volcanic stone and sparse vegetation giving way to higher, more barren terrain. Reaching the base camp at 5200 meters, you’ll set up tents, which serve as your home for the night. The included lunch of soup and pasta or canned food is simple but satisfying after the climb. This meal, along with the tea at night, provides necessary warmth and energy, helping you rest for the early start the next morning.

Day 2: The Summit Push

The alarm rings at 2:00 a.m.—a true test of your early morning dedication. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your final ascent to the summit of Chachani. The climb is intense but rewarding, typically reaching the top around 5:00 a.m. if the weather is clear.

From the summit, the views are breathtaking. You can see active volcano Sabancaya, along with Misti and other snow-capped giants. It’s a surreal moment—standing at nearly 6,000 meters, taking in a landscape that looks more like a moonscape than Earth. This panoramic vista is a highlight for many, offering a sense of scale and achievement that’s hard to match.

After soaking in the views and taking photos, you’ll descend back to the base camp, making several rest stops along the way. The return journey in the 4×4 brings you back to Arequipa, completing a whirlwind adventure that combines physical challenge, natural beauty, and cultural insight.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $150, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, guide in two languages, tents, and meals—a reasonable package given the remote and demanding nature of the experience. However, you’ll need to bring your own trekking gear, such as sturdy shoes, poles, and backpacks. Snacks aren’t included, so packing some energy bars is smart.

Authenticity and Support: What Travelers Say

The most praised aspect, according to reviews, is the personalized support from guides who are familiar with the mountain. One traveler mentioned, “Quechua Explorers was exactly the guide I was looking for: supportive, knowledgeable, and no frills.” This emphasis on small-group, attentive guiding ensures a safer, more enjoyable ascent.

Most reviewers appreciated the delicious food during the trip, highlighting the simple yet satisfying lunch and the comfort of supportive guides and gear. The effort to balance adventure with safety appears genuine, making it suitable for those who want to push themselves without feeling abandoned.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

The main challenge is the altitude—at nearly 6,000 meters, some travelers may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, especially if unacclimated. The early morning start and strenuous hike demand a reasonable level of fitness. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or those over 60 years old.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want more than a sightseeing tour—they crave authentic mountain climbing with support. It’s well-suited for those comfortable in a small group, eager for a physical challenge, and interested in learning about local volcanic geology and architecture.

If you’re after a trip that combines adventure, cultural insight, and stunning scenery, and don’t mind the early mornings or altitude, this tour will deliver.

Final Thoughts: The Balance of Challenge and Authenticity

Climbing Chachani with NalaTrips offers a chance to test your limits while enjoying the support of experienced guides. The combination of spectacular views, authentic mountain hiking, and small group support makes this a memorable and worthwhile adventure. You’ll leave with a sense of achievement and a new appreciation for the volcanic landscape that shapes Arequipa.

The value here isn’t just in the physical feat but in the connection to local geology and architecture—not to mention the delicious food and the chance to sleep under the stars in the Andes. If you’re prepared for the altitude and want a genuine climbing experience, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the ascent is designed to be manageable, climbing nearly 6,000 meters requires a good level of fitness and some hiking experience. It’s best for travelers comfortable with physical activity at altitude.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, a change of clothes, a jacket, and personal medication. Trekking gear like shoes, poles, and backpacks is not included, so plan to bring or rent your own.

How physically demanding is the climb?
The hike involves gradual ascents on foot, but given the high altitude, it can be physically taxing—especially if you’re not acclimated.

Are meals provided?
Yes, lunch on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2 are included. Snacks are not, so pack some energy bars.

How does the group size affect the experience?
Limited to 10 participants, the small group size ensures personalized guidance and support, making the climb safer and more enjoyable.

Is there assistance if I experience altitude sickness?
While guides are experienced, travelers should be aware of their own health and acclimate properly. The tour provides basic support, but serious symptoms should be addressed immediately.

Can I do this tour if I have health issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, or those with back, heart, or respiratory problems, or over 60. Check with your doctor if unsure.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour offers a genuine chance to challenge yourself while enjoying the beauty of the Peruvian Andes. It’s a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery, ideal for active travelers eager for an authentic mountain experience. Preparedness is key, but with proper planning, you’ll find this to be a memorable highlight of your trip to Arequipa.

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