Chili River Rafting from Arequipa: 6 km of Class II–IV Rapids Under Misti and Chachani
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours (including transfer)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to paddle for short bursts, climb in/out of raft, and handle cold splashes.
Overview
Just 20 minutes from Arequipa's Plaza de Armas, the Chili River runs 6 km of class II–IV rapids beneath Misti and Chachani. This half-day rafting trip pairs volcanic scenery with accessible whitewater for beginners and adrenaline seekers.
Chili River Rafting from Arequipa: 6 km of Class II–IV Rapids Under Misti and Chachani
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A morning in Arequipa begins with stone and steam: the plaza's cathedral bakes in high sun while the volcanic shoulders of Misti and Chachani sit watchful beyond the city. Twenty minutes from that square a different sound arrives — the river's low rumble growing into a nervous chatter as guides unload dry bags and inflate rafts. You step into a wetsuit that smells faintly of neoprene and diesel, and the Chili River, which has been carving its path since the ice retreated from these slopes, dares you to lean in.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Wear closed-toe water shoes
River shoes or old running shoes with good grip protect your feet on rocky entry points and in wet rafts.
Acclimatize first
Arequipa sits ~2,300 m; rest and hydrate for a day before rafting to reduce altitude fatigue.
Secure electronics
Bring a small dry bag or use the operator’s waterproof cases for cameras and phones—expect splashes on class IV sections.
Listen to your guide
Follow paddling commands and brace instructions closely; guides are trained for swift river maneuvers and rescues.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean condor
- Vizcacha (rock rabbit)
History
The Chili River has supported agriculture and settlements for centuries; sillar, the volcanic stone quarried nearby, built much of Arequipa’s colonial core.
Conservation
Operators encourage leave-no-trace practices and use local guides to support community economies; avoid single-use plastics and follow guide instructions to reduce riverbank erosion.
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Adventure Hotspots in Arequipa
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe water shoes
Protects feet on rocky shores and provides traction in wet conditions.
Quick-dry layers
Wicking base layers and a light fleece for post-raft chills at higher elevation.
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Small dry bag
Keeps phone, documents and camera dry during the trip.
High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
Strong high-altitude sun requires reliable UV protection even on cool days.
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