Rafting Rio Chili Arequipa: rapids II–IV, 3 hours

Three hours on rapids that cut through the city instead of a day trip that leaves it behind

Rafting on the Rio Chili in Arequipa is a half-day activity on rapids rated II–IV, starting with a 25-minute transfer from the city center to the launch point. You put on a wetsuit, helmet and life jacket, listen to a safety briefing from the instructor, then paddle through the river as it runs between volcanic walls. The route stays inside the city but feels remote—pure air, adrenaline and views of the Chili Valley and Arequipa's white buildings from the water. Pickup from your hotel is included; departures run at 8am, 11am or 2pm.

The Experience

The day starts with transport from central Arequipa to the put-in point, a 25-minute drive that gets you out of the city without eating the whole afternoon. Once there, the guide fits you with a wetsuit, helmet, life jacket and all the paddling gear—everything is provided. A safety talk covers what to expect on the water, then you're in the raft and moving into the Rio Chili.

The rapids run at level III and IV, which means they're technical enough to feel real but not so extreme that you need years of experience. The river cuts through volcanic walls as it flows, so you're paddling through a landscape that feels nothing like the city you left behind. The Chili Valley opens up around you, and from the water you see the white city from an angle most visitors never reach. Three hours on the river means you're not rushed—you move through the rapids, regroup, move again, and actually feel the current instead of just surviving it.

When you're done paddling, you change out of the wetsuit, load back into the transport and return to central Arequipa. The whole activity, including the drive both ways, takes about three hours. Children from age 6 can join; the guide speaks English and Spanish.

What’s included

• Complete rafting equipment including raft, life vest, helmet, wetsuit, paddle and waterproof bag.
• bottled water on the river.
• safety briefing and instruction from a live guide in English or Spanish.
• hotel pickup and return transport to central Arequipa.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by phaway viajes peru

Is this one for you?Book the morning or midday departure if you're staying in central Arequipa without a car—pickup from your hotel means you don't arrange the drive to the river, and you're back in the city by early afternoon with the rest of your day open.

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Top questions

What rapids will I paddle on the Rio Chili?

The Rio Chili runs rapids rated level III and IV, which are intermediate to moderately challenging. You don't need previous rafting experience—the guide will brief you on technique and safety before you launch.

How long is the drive from Arequipa to the starting point?

The transfer from the historic center to the put-in takes 25 minutes, and you're picked up from your hotel. The return drive is about the same, so the whole outing including paddling time is roughly three hours.

What equipment do I get, and do I need to bring anything?

The rafting package includes the raft, life vest, helmet, wetsuit, paddle and waterproof bag for your belongings. Bring a change of clothes and a towel; the guide provides bottled water on the river.

Can children do this rafting trip?

Children are welcome from age 6 and up. They wear the same safety gear as adults and paddle with the group under the guide's supervision.

What time slots are available for departure?

You can book the 8am, 11am or 2pm departure. All three follow the same route and duration; the choice is yours depending on when you want to be on the water.

Is this activity safe for someone with no rafting experience?

Yes. The rapids are level III–IV, which is designed for mixed ability groups. The guide gives a full safety talk before you launch and stays with the raft throughout, so you learn as you go.