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

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.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (18 to 60 years) · Child (8 to 17 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 26

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, French and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

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.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (8 to 17 years). Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How far is the Chili River from Arequipa, and do I need to arrange my own transport?

The Chili River put-in is just minutes from Arequipa. Round-trip transportation from your central Arequipa hotel is included, so you don't arrange a separate transfer.

What rapids will I paddle, and how difficult are they?

You'll navigate a 6 km stretch of class II–III rapids, including "La Recta del Diablo" and "El Fun Run." Class II–III water is suitable for all skill levels: first-time paddlers and experienced rafters both go on the same trips, and the certified guide adjusts the pace to the group.

What's included in the half-day rafting tour?

The tour includes round-trip hotel pickup, full safety equipment (helmet, life jacket, wetsuit, paddle), a certified rafting guide, snacks and water. Photos and videos are available at extra cost.

What should I know about fitness or health before booking?

Moderate physical fitness helps. You'll be paddling steadily for three hours. The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or anyone with poor cardiovascular health. The guide will discuss any concerns at the safety briefing.