From Arequipa || 2-day excursion to the Chachani volcano ||

From Arequipa || 2-day excursion to the Chachani volcano ||

Arequipa is famous for its stunning architecture and nearby volcanoes, but if you’re craving a true adventure, the 2-day Chachani climb offered by Experience Travel is hard to beat. For $143 per person, you get to trek through high-altitude terrain, sleep overnight in tents at over 5,200 meters, and stand atop a volcano that rises to 6,075 meters. It’s a demanding experience, but one packed with jaw-dropping views and a sense of achievement that’s hard to match.

What we particularly liked about this tour is how well it balances physical challenge with cultural connection. Reaching the summit rewards you with spectacular vistas of nearby volcanoes like Coropuna, Ampato, Sabancaya, Misti, and Ubinas—all snow-capped and awe-inspiring. Plus, the included well-organized logistics and delicious food make the journey feel safer and more enjoyable than you might expect for such a strenuous climb.

That said, the high altitude and overnight camping require a good level of fitness and preparation. If you’re not used to trekking at over 5,000 meters, this might be a tough push. Plus, you’ll need to bring your own trekking gear (poles, shoes, backpacks), as these aren’t supplied. The tour is best suited for active travelers eager to challenge themselves and those who appreciate striking volcanic landscapes.

If you’re looking for an authentic, physically rewarding experience and don’t mind the altitude, this tour is a perfect choice. It’s especially appealing if you want a mix of adventure, stunning natural beauty, and the camaraderie of a guided group.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• High-altitude adventure: Climb from 5,200 meters base camp to 6,075 meters summit, with great views of surrounding volcanoes.
• Camping experience: Spend a night in tents at a high-altitude base camp, with included breakfast and dinner.
• Expert guides: Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring safety and clear communication.
• Preparedness needed: Participants must bring their own trekking equipment; no gear is provided.
• Delicious food: Lunch on the first day, breakfast on the second, and a simple but hearty dinner at base camp.
• Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind in case your plans change.

In-Depth Review

Setting Out on a Guided Adventure

The tour begins early, with hotel pickups around 7:30 a.m., starting your day with a comfortable ride in a 4×4 vehicle. This transportation is reliable and allows you to leave the busy city behind as you head towards the Pampa Cañahuas, backdrops for your adventure. The drive itself offers scenic views and prepares you mentally for the high-altitude trek ahead.

The Ascent to Base Camp

At around 10:00 a.m., you’ll arrive at the trailhead near the Chachani volcano, where your guide provides crucial safety tips and gear recommendations. The walk to base camp takes approximately two hours, with a gradual ascent that’s manageable with proper acclimatization. We loved the way this section eases you into the altitude, giving your body a chance to adjust.

The landscape here is characterized by volcanic rock and sparse vegetation, with views of the surrounding peaks. Once at 5,200 meters, you’ll set up camp, ready for the night. The provided meal of soup and pasta, or canned food, is simple but satisfying after the effort. The evenings are cool, so a warm herbal tea and a good sleeping bag are highly recommended.

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Preparing for the Summit Night

Sleep is a key part of the plan; resting well at high altitude is essential for the next day’s climb. Many reviewers comment on the challenge of sleeping in tents at 5,200 meters, where the air is thin. Still, the experience of waking up at 2:00 a.m. for the summit push is exhilarating.

The Summit Push

The climb to the very top begins around 2:00 a.m., once you’ve had a light breakfast and your gear checked. The ascent is demanding—it’s about 2 to 3 hours of steady, guided hiking in the dark, with the stars overhead and the anticipation building. If the weather cooperates, you’ll reach the summit of Chachani at approximately 5:00 a.m. and be treated to panoramic views of nearby volcanoes.

Participants describe the summit as “breathtaking,” with one noting, “It’s a real sense of achievement to stand on top of such a massive volcanic stratum.” From this vantage point, you’ll spot snow-capped peaks like Coropuna and active volcanoes like Sabancaya, which make the climb even more special.

Descent and Return

After a restful stop at the summit, you’ll begin your descent back to base camp, stopping along the way to rest and recover. Descending can be just as tiring as climbing, but it’s a relief to see the tents and the 4×4 waiting for you at the trail’s end. The journey back to Arequipa is relaxing and offers a chance to reflect on the accomplishment.

Accommodations and Included Meals

Staying overnight in tents at high altitude is a highlight for many. The tour includes one night’s stay with breakfast, allowing you to experience camping in a way that’s both adventurous and comfortable. The included meals—lunch on day one, breakfast on day two—are simple but well-prepared, with many reviews mentioning the satisfying nature of the hot soups and pasta after a day of hiking.

Logistics, Value, and Practical Tips

For $143, this tour offers excellent value considering the effort involved and the breathtaking scenery. The guiding team is bilingual, making it easier for non-Spanish speakers to navigate and understand safety instructions. The transportation in a reliable 4×4 adds comfort to what could otherwise be a bumpy ride.

However, it’s crucial to note that trek-specific gear isn’t included. Participants should come prepared with proper hiking shoes, poles, backpacks, and warm clothing suited for cold nights and high altitudes. Also, this adventure is physically demanding, so it’s best suited for those with a good level of fitness and some trekking experience.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviews praise the delicious food and warm drinks, which offer comfort after the climb. One reviewer mentioned, “the soup and pasta were surprisingly good, given the remote location.” Others appreciated the professional guidance and safety measures, noting the guides’ experience and helpfulness.

Some travelers highlight the stunning views from the summit as the tour’s highlight, describing the experience as “truly humbling” and “a once-in-a-lifetime view of volcanic giants.” Others warn about the cold nights and altitude sickness, advising travelers to acclimate beforehand and pack accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour best suits adventurous travelers with a good fitness level who are eager to challenge themselves at high altitude. It’s ideal if you’re looking for an authentic experience that pushes you physically and rewards you visually. Those who enjoy camping and outdoor gear will appreciate the night spent at the base camp.

However, it’s not suited for casual travelers or anyone with significant health issues related to high-altitude environments. Proper preparation, including bringing your own gear and acclimatizing beforehand, will make your experience safer and more enjoyable.

The Sum Up

The 2-day Chachani climb offers a rare blend of adventure, extraordinary views, and personal achievement. For just over a hundred dollars, you get a well-organized trip that includes camping, guided climbs, and the chance to stand atop one of the most impressive volcanic formations in Peru. It’s a demanding journey but deeply rewarding for those who love a challenge and want to see Arequipa’s volcanic landscape from a truly unique perspective.

If you’re an active traveler craving an authentic high-altitude experience and are prepared physically and gear-wise, this tour will leave you with memories to cherish—and perhaps a few sore muscles to show for it.

FAQ

Do I need special trekking equipment?
Yes, you should bring your own trekking gear including poles, shoes, and backpacks, as these are not provided.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s best for those with good fitness and some trekking experience because of the high altitude and physical demands.

How cold does it get at night?
Sleeping at over 5,200 meters can be quite cold, especially in tents. Bring warm clothing, sleeping bags, and prepare for chilly temperatures.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation in a 4×4, guides speaking Spanish and English, 1 night camping with breakfast, lunch on day one, and breakfast on day two.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

When do we start the climb?
The summit push begins around 2:00 a.m. to catch the sunrise and avoid afternoon weather changes.

Is there any vegetarian or special meal option?
The tour provides simple meals like soup and pasta, but specific dietary requests aren’t detailed, so it’s best to inquire beforehand.

How long does the entire tour last?
It’s a 2-day experience, with pickup early in the morning on the first day and return to Arequipa around 7:00 p.m. on the second day.

Do I need to be physically fit to participate?
Yes, a good level of fitness is required, as hiking at high altitude is challenging and requires stamina.

This Chachani climb is a fantastic option for those seeking an authentic adventure, stunning views, and the thrill of summiting a formidable volcano. Prepare well, and you’ll find yourself rewarded with memories—and perhaps a new sense of personal achievement—that last a lifetime.

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