Rafting on the Chili River

The Chili River is the main waterway that flows through the city of Arequipa , extending along the valley that forms the urban and rural heart of the region. Originating high in the Andes Mountains from the confluence of the Sumbay and Blanco Rivers, the Chili River descends through mountains and valleys to irrigate agricultural fields, supply water for consumption, irrigation, and industry to a large part of the metropolitan area, and sustain communities along its course, according to the Peruvian government .

Importance to the city and the region

• The Chili River is the main water source for the city of Arequipa, supplying water for human consumption, irrigation, agriculture, industry, and power generation. Thousands of hectares of crops are irrigated through its basin: the river supplies water to important agricultural areas, supporting the local production of potatoes, vegetables, and other crops. Furthermore, the valley formed by its course gave rise to the founding of Arequipa when the city was established in 1540. Due to its location and landscape, the Chili River has also served as a setting for recreational and adventure activities (such as rafting, tourism, and nature immersion).

What is rafting?

• Rafting involves descending a river with strong currents (whitewater) using an inflatable raft,  usually with several people paddling at the same time, under the guidance of a driver or guide. It is an adventure and nature activity that combines excitement, teamwork, and contact with natural environments.

Rafting on the Chili River

• The Chili River is one of the most popular rivers near the city of Arequipa for rafting. The experience involves navigating a section of the river in a raft, traversing rapids of medium to high difficulty (Class II, III, sometimes even IV)—which provides excitement, but is generally suitable even for beginners. turismoenarequipa.com +2 incaworldperu +2 The typical section lasts about 6 km , with between 45 minutes and about 1 hour 30 minutes of paddling, depending on the section and conditions.

Location and access

• Rafting usually starts near the area known as the Chilina Valley / Charcani (Chapí Virgin Grotto sector), just 20–25 minutes from the center of Arequipa.

• Daily departures are offered — typically at times such as 8:00, 11:00 or 14:00 hrs .

What does the rafting tour include?

Chili River rafting packages typically include:

• Round trip transportation from Arequipa to the starting point.

• Complete safety equipment: raft, oars, helmets, life jackets, wetsuit or suitable clothing, river footwear, etc.

• Professional guide + safety kayaker.

• Snack at the end of the tour.

• On some tours, the possibility of taking photos/videos is available (optional).

What you can expect: scenery and excitement

• The journey is not all adrenaline: you will pass through the Chilina Valley, with views of the Andean landscape, volcanic rock formations and, on clear days, views of nearby volcanoes such as Misti Volcano or Chachani Volcano.

• The mix of intermediate rapids with a calmer section makes it ideal for those seeking moderate adventure without requiring prior rafting experience.

Who it’s for: Recommended profile

Rafting on the Chili River is good for:

• Beginners and people with no prior experience in river sports. turismoenarequipa.com +2 Arequipa.com +2

• Groups of friends, families with teenagers, tourists in general looking for a dose of adventure near Arequipa.

• People with a taste for adventure, nature, and a bit of adrenaline due to the presence of Class III/IV rapids, but under supervision and guidance.

What to pack and useful tips

• Bathing suit, towel, change of clothes.

• Sunscreen, hat/sunglasses, appropriate footwear if you don’t bring the ones from the tour.

• If you get seasick easily in cold water or when moving around, take precautions: the water is usually cold, and the temperature changes with altitude. Several tours offer wetsuits.

• Checking schedules and river conditions during the rainy season or flooding may change availability.