Ascent to Mount Mismi 5,597 m – 2-Day Tour

Ascent to Mount Mismi 5,597 m – 2-Day Tour

Mount Mismi, standing at an altitude of 5,597 meters, rises majestically in the heart of the Chila Mountain Range, in the Carhuasanta valley, near the picturesque towns of Chivay, Coporaque, and Tuti in the Colca Valley. This mountain is not only notable for its natural beauty and its easy access from Arequipa, but also for its geographical significance: at its base, the Amazon River is born. Water filters from the Vilafro Lagoon into the Carhuasanta River, beginning a journey of more than 7,000 kilometers to the Atlantic.

The ascent to Mount Mismi is ideal for those looking for a high-mountain adventure in just a few days, with a 2- to 3-day trek along the northern face of the glacier-capped peak, crossing moon-like terrain and enjoying spectacular views of the Colca Canyon and the Andean landscape. The climb does not require advanced technical experience, but good acclimatization and physical preparation are necessary. Reaching the summit of Mismi is a unique experience, not only because of the wilderness around it, but also due to the excitement of standing at the true source of the Amazon River.

Top 5 Highlights of the Mount Mismi Route

  • Origin of the Amazon: Visit the point recognized by scientific studies as the birthplace of the longest river on Earth.
  • Accessible Climb: Ideal for intermediate hikers; no advanced technical mountaineering skills required.
  • Unique Landscapes: Moon-like terrain, Andean lakes, and views of the Colca Canyon.
  • Living Culture: Connect with traditional Andean communities such as Tuti and Coporaque.
  • Close to Arequipa: A 2- or 3-day expedition easily accessible from the White City.
  • Detailed Itinerary
  • Included & Not Included
  • Prices & Availability
  • Packing List
  • Reservation Policy

Itinerary – Mount Mismi Ascent (5,597 m) – 2 Days / 1 Night

Day 1: Arequipa – Colca Valley – Carhuasanta – Base Camp (5,160 m)

The day begins with passenger pickup from their hotels in Arequipa, followed by the drive towards the Colca Valley, one of the most scenic routes in southern Peru. On the way, we visit Ran-Ran, an ancient traditional village, and later Aquenta (4,700 m), already near the Chila Mountain Range.

After a short stop, we continue by vehicle to the Carhuasanta River springs, where the Vilafro Lagoon is located — considered by various studies as the true source of the Amazon River. This spot, of great geographical and symbolic importance, marks the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.

We set up camp at 5,160 m, and in the afternoon we visit the tourist source of the Amazon River, located in the Carhuasanta ravine at the foot of Mount Mismi.

  • Departure time: 07:00 a.m.
  • Starting altitude: Arequipa (2,335 m)
  • Final altitude: Base Camp (5,160 m)
  • Transport: Private 4×4
  • Total duration: Approx. 7 hours

Day 2: Base Camp – Summit of Mount Mismi (5,597 m) – Return to Arequipa

On this day we ascend to Mount Mismi via its eastern face, considered the most direct route to the summit. While no advanced technical gear is required, depending on the season you may need crampons, helmet, and trekking poles. Proper acclimatization is key to success on this expedition.

The summit views are truly spectacular: from its 5,597 meters, you can see the deep ravines of the Colca Valley, as well as the Misti, Ampato, and Sabancaya volcanoes, along with other snow-capped peaks of the southern Andes. After a short break at the summit and photo time, we begin the descent back to camp and then return by vehicle to Arequipa, concluding the expedition.

  • Departure time: Very early (approx. 3:30 a.m.)
  • Maximum altitude: 5,597 m
  • Ascent duration: Approx. 3 hours
  • Descent to vehicle: Approx. 2 hours
  • Return to Arequipa: 7 hours

Included – Mount Mismi (5,597 m) Tour

This ascent program to Mount Mismi, designed for a safe and complete high-mountain experience, includes:

  • Specialized high-mountain guide, with extensive experience in the Chila Mountain Range.
  • Private 4×4 transportation, from and back to Arequipa.
  • Full camping equipment, including mountain tents and thermal sleeping pads.
  • Expedition cooking equipment, ideal for high-altitude conditions.
  • Technical climbing gear: crampons, ice axe, and safety ropes (only if there is snow on the summit).
  • All meals included: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner + an extra early-morning breakfast at 4:00 a.m. before the ascent.
  • Oxygen tank available in the support vehicle.
  • First-aid kit, equipped for emergencies.

Not Included

For a complete trekking experience in Arequipa, please note that the following items are not included:

  • Sleeping bag (we recommend bringing one rated for -10 °C, or renting one in Arequipa).
  • Colca Valley Tourist Ticket: S/. 70.00 (reference price).
  • Trekking poles (highly recommended, but optional).

Price – Mount Mismi Tour

USD 410.00 per person
(minimum of 2 participants required)

This price includes everything needed for a safe and complete high-mountain experience: specialized guide, private 4×4 transportation, meals, technical climbing gear (if there is snow), camping equipment, and permanent assistance.

Book in advance! The ascent to Mount Mismi is a little-visited route, ideal for those seeking pure nature, far from the traditional tourist circuits.

Packing List – Mount Mismi (5,597 m)

Documents and Money

  • Original passport or ID
  • Entrance tickets or permits
  • Cash for personal expenses

Clothing and Mountain Gear

  • 40–50 L backpack
  • Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
  • Thermal or down jacket
  • Trekking pants
  • Fleece or second thermal layer
  • Thermal gloves
  • Warm hat and sun hat
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Thick mountain socks
  • Buff or neck gaiter
  • Waterproof trekking boots

Camping and Sleeping

  • Sleeping bag (recommended for -10 °C)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sleeping pad or personal mat (optional)

Recommended Gear

  • Trekking poles
  • Gaiters (optional, depending on the season)
  • Personal crampons (optional if you have them)

Hygiene and Health

  • Water bottle or hydration system (at least 2 liters)
  • Toilet paper and wet wipes
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Personal hygiene kit: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap
  • Personal first-aid kit and medications

Food and Extras

  • Energy snacks: nuts, bars, chocolate
  • Fruit or cookies
  • Electrolytes or hydration salts

Technology and Photography

  • Phone or camera
  • Power bank
  • Chargers

Optional Items

  • Swimsuit (for hot springs in the Colca Valley)
  • Earplugs
  • Notebook or journal

Policies – Mount Mismi (5,597 m) Tour

Reservations and Payments

  • The reservation is confirmed with a 50% deposit of the total tour cost.
  • The remaining balance must be paid before the start of the trip.
  • The reservation is valid only once the availability of the guide and transportation is confirmed.
  • Payments can be made in cash, bank transfer, or electronic platforms.

Cancellations and Changes

  • Cancellations made up to 5 days before the tour receive a partial refund.
  • Cancellations made less than 5 days before the tour are non-refundable.
  • Date changes are subject to availability and may incur additional fees.
  • In case of no-show on the day of the tour, no refund applies.

Tour Conditions

  • The ascent to Mount Mismi requires good physical condition and proper acclimatization.
  • The agency reserves the right to modify the itinerary due to weather conditions, safety, or force majeure.
  • Tourist tickets and personal equipment are not included, unless specified in the program.
  • Participants must follow the guide’s instructions throughout the expedition.

Safety

  • All technical and camping equipment is checked before each departure.
  • A first-aid kit and oxygen supply are available in the support vehicle.
  • The route takes place at high altitude; participants must inform the staff of any medical condition in advance.

Passenger Responsibilities

  • An original personal identification document is required.
  • Passengers are responsible for their personal equipment and belongings.
  • Travel or medical insurance is strongly recommended.
  • Passengers must inform the guide in case of altitude sickness symptoms, pain, dizziness, or any physical discomfort during the trek.

Exclusions

  • The agency is not responsible for loss of personal belongings, accidents resulting from failure to follow safety instructions, or extreme weather conditions.
  • Personal expenses, additional drinks, and services not explicitly mentioned in the program are not included.

Additional Recommendation

  • We recommend booking in advance, as this is a less-frequented route and requires special logistics to ensure a safe experience.

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