Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
US$35). You can also do relatively easy trips on the
Río Majes
, into which the Río Colca
flows. The most commonly run stretches pass Class II and III rapids.
The
Río Colca
is a dangerous, difficult trip, not to be undertaken lightly. A few outfit-
ters will do infrequent trips to the easier sections, which can be found upriver.
Many trips are unavailable during the rainy season (between December and March),
when water levels can be dangerously high.
Tour companies offering river running include the following:
200km out of Arequipa, this Río Majes base camp offers trips of all lengths and levels.
Majes River
(
83-0297, 9-59-797-731;
www.majesriver.com
)
A simple lodge has a variety of
rafting options.
Mountain Biking
bikes by the half-day for S35 including helmet, gloves and a map of the area. It also or-
ganizes downhill cycling blasts in the vicinity of El Misti for S68 (one day) with trans-
port.
Mountaineering
Looming 5822m above Arequipa, the city's guardian volcano El Misti is the most popular
climb in the area. It is technically one of the easiest ascents of any mountain of this size in
the world, but it's hard work nonetheless. The ascent generally takes two days (one day to
reach a base camp at 4500m; another day to reach the summit). While this is not a tech-
nical climb, it does require you to be in excellent physical condition with some acclimatiz-
ation to the altitude. You may also need an ice axe and crampons (supplied by area outfit-
ters).
The best months for climbing are between April and December, with the peak months
being between July and November. Even in the drier months, temperatures drop to -29ºC
at the highest camps, necessitating very warm clothing. In addition, the Association of
Mountain Guides of Peru warns that many guides offering journeys are uncertified and
untrained. Climbers should go well informed about medical and wilderness survival is-
sues.