Coropuna Climbing 3 Days

Coropuna Climbing Summary

The climbing expedition itinerary to the Coropuna volcano spans three days. On the first day, departure from Arequipa is by bus to Laguna Pallarcocha, where the camp is set up for an overnight stay. On the second day, a hike is undertaken to the base camp, located at 5583 m, allowing for rest and acclimatization to the altitude before the ascent to the summit. On the third day, the ascent begins early at 1 am, aiming to reach the summit of the Coropuna volcano at 6425 m. After enjoying the panoramic view, the descent to the base camp commences, followed by a return to Laguna Pallarcocha. The journey back to Arequipa takes place in the evening.

Route Features

Distance: 290 km by car + 8.22 km on foot
Climbing Time: 7 hours on foot
Route Level: Extreme
Maximum Altitude: 6425 m.a.s.l.
Accommodation: Tents

Coropuna Climbing Itinerary

Day 1: Arequipa, Pallarcocha Lake 4743 m

At 5 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in Arequipa to embark on a journey in a private jeep. Descending towards the desert and then northwest; after 3 hours of driving, we will reach the agricultural valley of Majes (600 m), our first stop. Here, you will explore the Petroglyphs of Toro Muerto, located in the middle of the desert, surrounded by imposing canyon walls. In Toro Muerto, you'll have enough time to discover over a hundred carvings on volcanic rocks depicting human figures, animals, and plants, created by ancient Peruvian civilizations over 1200 years ago.

Today's breakfast will be a bit later in the town of Corire (included). Our second stop is Qerulpa, known as the small Jurassic Park of the Arequipa region. From there, we'll walk about 10 minutes to the top of a rocky hill to find dinosaur footprints on the slopes of sandy hills. According to paleontological reports, dinosaurs inhabited this remote place between 100 and 150 million years ago.

Continuing through the arid region with its incredible landscapes, we will ascend to Chuquibamba (3000 m), a beautiful green valley where we'll make a late lunch stop. Around 3:00 p.m., we must continue driving uphill to the higher altitude area of the town to appreciate the first views of the south face of Coropuna peak.

Distance: 290 km by car
Walking time: 1 hour on foot
Route level: Moderate
Maximum altitude: 4743 m.a.s.l.
Accommodation: Tents
Camp: Pallarcocha Lake 4743 m.a.s.l.

Day 2: Pallarcocha Lake, Base Camp 5583 m

Today, breakfast is scheduled for 7 a.m., followed by the task of packing all our camping equipment. Subsequently, we will travel by vehicle for about 40 minutes to reach the final point of Coropuna (5307 m). Around 10 a.m., we will begin the uphill hike, lasting about 2 hours for 1.92 km, to reach the second base camp (5583 m) and approach Mount Coropuna. Today's ascent will be gradual, considered of moderate difficulty, and will be accompanied by beautiful landscapes, including a panoramic view of Solimana peak.

After setting up the tents, we will enjoy lunch, and you will have the afternoon free to explore the area, gaining more confidence and familiarity with the imposing Mount Coropuna.

Distance: 1.92 km
Walking time: 2 hours on foot
Route level: Moderate
Maximum altitude: 5583 m.a.s.l.
Accommodation: Tents
Camp: Coropuna Base Camp 5583 m.a.s.l.

Day 3: Base Camp, Coropuna Summit 6425 m, Pallarcocha Lake, Arequipa

At 1 a.m., we wake up to prepare and enjoy an energizing breakfast. Each person is responsible for organizing their climbing equipment, including crampons, ice axe, harness, and rope (with a 43° angle). During the first 4 hours, we will climb in the darkness, guided by the light of our headlamps, ascending the east-southeast face to reach one of the highest peaks of this imposing mountain. The ascent involves challenging sections of small and large crevasses, testing our climbing skills to avoid falls. Along the way, we will commonly encounter penitentes, forming an obstacle that we must overcome.

Around 5:45 a.m., the sun rises over another higher mountain near Coropuna, creating memorable moments of this climbing journey. After 6 or 7 hours of intense climbing, we reach the summit and indulge in precious minutes to contemplate the majestic Andes surrounding us.

Following the mountain guide's instructions, we initiate the most challenging phase of the journey: the descent, which can be physically demanding for each participant. We will need approximately 3 to 5 hours to descend to the base camp.

Around 2:00 p.m., after packing all the camping equipment, we begin the descent to find the jeep that will take us back to Arequipa, a journey that will take approximately 7 hours. Each participant will be dropped off at their respective hotels, marking the end of our services.

Distance: 3 km to the summit and 5 km to our transportation
Walking time: 14 hours on foot
Route level: Extreme
Maximum altitude: 6425 m.a.s.l. Summit Coropuna

Coropuna Climbing Includes:

• High Mountain Guide
• Porter
• Private Transportation (4x4)
• Camping Equipment (Sleeping Mats and Tents)
• Kitchen Equipment
• Climbing Gear such as Crampons, Ice Axes, and Safety Rope (only if there is snow at the summit)
• Full Catering
• Oxygen Bottle (inside the 4x4 transport)
• First Aid Kit
• Communication Equipment
• Tent and Meals for our Guide and Porter
• Sleeping Bag

The price of the Coropuna climbing experience

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Reservation Policies

Reservations are made in advance with a 30% payment of the total cost. The remaining balance is paid in cash in Cusco during the informational briefing.

Payment Methods

• Paypal (credit or debit card payments)
• Bank Transfer.

Transaction Fees

Travel packages and programs include transaction fees for the 30% reservation payments.

Changes and Cancellation Policies

Tour rescheduling is allowed with proper notice, except for Machu Picchu tours. Passenger no-shows will result in the total loss of the service. Cancellation or withdrawal from the service will not be eligible for a refund.

Frequently Asked Questions about Climbing Mount Coropuna

What are the prerequisites for participating in the climb to Coropuna?

• It is necessary to have good acclimatization, appropriate physical conditions, and high-quality winter clothing.

How is the pre-climb meeting organized?

• One day before the climb, all participants will meet with the mountain guide at our office or hotel. During this meeting, a briefing on the climb will be conducted, and the quality of the equipment to be used on the mountain will be checked.

What weather conditions can we expect during the climb?

• The ascent to Coropuna is challenging, even during both the wet and dry seasons. The path upward features conditions ranging from cold to hot, with dust and wind. Each step can be tough, but the reward is the breathtaking views around.

What is the terrain like during the ascent?

• The ascent route is mostly sandy and is described as a challenge with every step. It is important to be prepared for diverse conditions, including cold, heat, dust, and wind.

Is climbing Coropuna suitable for beginners?

• No, climbing Coropuna is considered one of the most difficult hikes/climbs. It is recommended that all participants be in good physical shape to face the challenges of the summit.

How are climbers rewarded during the ascent?

• Despite the challenging conditions, participants are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views. The beauty of the surrounding environment makes the experience unique and rewarding.

What happens if I am not in good physical shape?

• It is strongly recommended that all participants be in good physical shape to undertake the climb. The summit of Coropuna can be demanding, and proper physical preparation is key to ensuring a safe and successful experience.

How can I ensure I have the right equipment?

• During the pre-climb meeting, the mountain guide will provide detailed information about the necessary equipment and check the quality of each participant's gear, ensuring it is in optimal condition for the climb.