Chili River rafting near Arequipa: class II–III rapids with pickup

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Free cancellationExcellent quality

1/10

Duration3h

GroupUp to 26

LanguagesEN · PT +2

PickupAt your hotel

Navigate 6 km of river rapids without arranging transport or gear yourself

Chili River rafting near Arequipa is a half-day activity on class II–III rapids with a certified local guide, full safety equipment, and round-trip pickup from central Arequipa. The river sits minutes from the city yet runs through volcanic landscapes and deep canyon walls, with photo stops and swimming built into the route. Children from age 8 are welcome; guides speak English, Spanish, Portuguese and French.

Step-by-step itinerary

Half-day rafting adventure on Chili River

Pick up from Arequipa
Safety briefing and gear setup
Raft 6 km on Chili River
Navigate class II–III rapids
Enjoy photo stops and swimming
Return to starting point

The Experience

How do you get from Arequipa to whitewater without spending half the day on logistics? The Chili River starts just minutes away, and the operator handles pickup from your hotel and the return trip, so you walk out of your accommodation and into the raft. After a safety briefing and gear setup at the put-in, you paddle a 6 km stretch that includes named rapids like "La Recta del Diablo" and "El Fun Run"—class II–III water that moves fast enough to feel it but stays manageable for first-time paddlers and experienced rafters alike.

The river corridor is what makes this run different from other Peruvian rafting. You're paddling under El Misti volcano, with dramatic canyon walls rising on both sides and agricultural terraces carved into the slopes above. The guide stops for photos and swimming opportunities, so you're not just moving downriver—you're standing in the landscape. Certified guides lead the trip in English, Spanish, Portuguese or French, and they watch the group closely, offering personalized attention throughout.

Full safety gear is provided: helmet, life jacket, wetsuit and paddle. The operator includes snacks and water to keep you fueled during the three-hour outing. Photos and videos are available at extra cost if you want images beyond what you capture yourself. Moderate fitness helps—the rapids demand steady paddling and balance—but the guide scales the experience to the group's ability.

What’s included

Round-trip transportation from your central Arequipa hotel.
full safety equipment including helmet, life jacket, wetsuit and paddle.
certified local guide.
snacks and water throughout the three-hour paddle.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Arequipa Rafting

Is this one for you?Most Arequipa rafting requires a long drive to the put-in and back. This one starts minutes from the city, so you spend three hours on the river instead of half the day in a van, and the pickup means you don't negotiate transport or timing yourself.