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Coropuna has the largest and highest volcanic edifice construct in Peru. It rises from a base level at about 4500m to form an elongate ridge which consists of at least 6 cones. Its highest point (6377m) is located at the northwest extremity. No historic activity is known from Coropuna, because the summit craters are ice covered, it can be presumed that there are no thermal manifestations at present. But the youngest apparent activity is expressed by several pristine lava flows, extending out several kilometers from the north-eastern, south-eastern, and western flanks of the edifice, and their morphology and preservation suggests that they are young. Coropuna is one of a chain of volcanoes in south of Peru. The topographic relief adjacent to Coropuna is amongst the most greatest in the world, with elevation differences of up to 4000m vertically in 15 km horizontally. To climb the Coropuna needs acclimatization and good physical conditions, also minimum training using the climbing equipment (crampons and ice axe) to reach the top. All the itineraries run from 3 days up to 6 days, there are to common routes; the first one is to go by Laguna Pallarcocha and to attack the south face, the second one is by Maucallaqta village located on the northwest and from there to be accompanied by carried staff animals such as donkeys, this the easy way to the base camp located above 5300m. The mountains advice this option to get sure to reach the highest summit.

Day 1: Arequipa - Toro Muerto - Majes Valley - Chuiquibamba - Pucuncho
At 6 am we leave from Arequipa in our private 4WD going to the northwest of Arequipa, after 3 hours travelling we will arrive at the agricultural valley of Majes (600m) where we will visit the Petroglyphs of Toro Muerto, located in the desert walls of this canyon. We will have 2 hours to locate more than a hundred of carved masses of volcanic rock with human, animals and plant figures, that were work by the old civilizations of Peru over 1200 years ago. We will visit the pre-Inca cemetery, located in Cochate. Continue travelling and ascending to Chuquibamba, nice green valley (3000m) there we will able to have lunch and then drive up to Andes, the first view of the south face mount Coropuna. Driving surrounding this snow peak, after 8 hours drive we will arrive to Pucuncho village, place located 4400m with small group of farmer families. Set up the tents and overnight.

Day 2: Pucuncho To First Base Camp
5200M After breakfast at 7am we meet the donkey handlers and the donkeys, they will carry all the camping and climbing equipments to the second base camp. Hiking up on the sand slops of this extinct volcano, with good chance to see many Llamas, Alpacas, Huanacos and same time Vicuñas. After 5 to 6 hours we will get the second base camp above 5200m.

Day 3: Coropuna Summit Day
Early morning (2 - 3am) after warn an energetic breakfast we begin to attack the summit. This day will be hard climbing on the north face, very slow and give plenty of time to you, observing the magnificent of the Andes, the snow peak named Solimana (6310m) located in front of Coropuna. At the top you will feel the cold wind hitting your face at the same time you feel proud on your self, because you will do the thirst highest mount in Peru. Descend to the base camp, to have lunch and if is possible we can descend more to try to have a good night with less cold wind.

Day 4: Back To Arequipa
At 08:00 am 8 hours drive back to Arequipa by our 4WD and end of service. Optional: Stay overnight at the Majes valley and the next day to do white river rafting.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

Mountain English Speaking Guide
Porters to carry the meals and camping/climbing equipment
Private four wheel drive (4X4)
Camping Equipment (Tents and mattress)
Climbing gear (Crampons, ice axe and rope)
Meals on the Mountain
Oxygen bottle and first aid kit
Communication system.