Conquer Chachani: 2-Day Climb to 6,075m Volcano Near Arequipa

Arequipa•challenging

Difficulty

challenging

Duration

2 days

Fitness Level

Good aerobic fitness with prior high-altitude trekking experience; able to handle sustained uphill hiking carrying a 6–10 kg pack.

Overview

This two-day expedition turns the remote slopes of Chachani into a doable, high-altitude objective: long 4x4 approaches, a cold night at 5,163 m, then a focused 900 m summit push. Expect thin air, big views of Arequipa and Andean wildlife along the way.

Conquer Chachani: 2-Day Climb to 6,075m Volcano Near Arequipa

Jeep

Other

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

At 2 a.m. the air in base camp tastes like thin metal and boiled coca leaves. Headlamps bob like slow fireflies as the group straps on packs and breathes into wool gloves. Behind you the lights of Arequipa hang in the valley; ahead, the volcano’s flank rises into the black, its slopes a mix of pumice, scree and wind-polished rock that will test lungs more than legs.

Adventure Photos

Conquer Chachani: 2-Day Climb to 6,075m Volcano Near Arequipa photo 1

Adventure Tips

Acclimatize in Arequipa first

Spend 24–48 hours in the city to adapt—light activity, sleep, and steady hydration will improve your odds of summiting.

Hydrate and eat salty snacks

Dry mountain air accelerates dehydration; carry a 1–2L hydration system and electrolyte tablets for summit day.

Bring crampon-capable boots

The outfit supplies ropes only if there's snow—stiff, insulated mountaineering boots and gaiters are essential in shoulder seasons.

Pace conservatively on the summit push

The final 900 m is steep and loose; use short steps and poles to conserve oxygen and energy.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Vicuña
Andean fox

History

Chachani’s flanks have been used for pastoralism for centuries and contain archaeological traces of pre-Inca and Inca occupation tied to high-altitude travel routes.

Conservation

Much of the approach crosses the Aguada Blanca and Salinas Reserve—stick to trails, pack out waste, and avoid disturbing wildlife to protect fragile highland ecosystems.