Nestled in the Andes of southern Peru, Ampato stands at an impressive 6,288 meters, offering a unique combination of mountaineering adventure and archaeological intrigue. This volcanic peak, located near Arequipa, is renowned for its role in history as the site where the famous Inca mummy, "Juanita," was discovered. Climbers and trekkers drawn to Ampato mountain are captivated by its remote location, stunning landscapes, and cultural significance.
A climb up Ampato is a moderate challenge, making it an excellent choice for those looking to acclimate to high altitudes or explore the Peruvian Andes. While the ascent doesn’t require technical climbing skills, its loose volcanic terrain and high altitude demand physical endurance and careful preparation. Along the way, adventurers pass through breathtaking valleys and campsites, with views of neighboring volcanic giants such as Sabancaya and Hualca Hualca adding to the experience.
For those seeking solitude and a connection to Peru’s rich history, Ampato trekking offers an unparalleled adventure. The mountain's remote trails see few visitors, providing a serene escape into nature. Whether you’re captivated by the ancient Inca sacrificial sites or the stunning vistas of volcanic peaks, a journey to Ampato promises an unforgettable combination of cultural exploration and high-altitude achievement.
Prepare for an adventure climbing Ampato. This overview provides essential details on routes, difficulty, costs, and the best times to go, helping you plan a successful expedition.
These are pictures taken while climbing Ampato. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of mountaineering Ampato, to help the community of climbers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (there own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.
These guides offer organised mountaineering expeditions for Ampato. From here you can check each guides profile, or browse directly to their website to see the trip. You can separately view the guides directory to browse all guides in one place.
Below is a curated list of independent mountain guides offering expeditions for Ampato. Each guide provides their own experience, allowing climbers to select the approach that best suits their style, budget, and experience level. You can explore each guide’s dedicated trip page to review what they offer, from logistics and support to pricing details, with no additional influence from us.
You can drive as high as 5,200m, but some stop earlier and make base camp between 4,800-5,000.
There are spaces for a high camp at 5,500 too, but this is less necessary if you start at the absolute end of the road (5,200).
Base Camp
End of the trail, 4x4 needed to reach. Otherwise you can camp at 4,800.
5,200 m
High Camp
A place to make camp, flat and somewhat sheltered. No water.
5,500 m
Summit
The summit of Ampato offers breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes and landscapes, including the nearby Sabancaya volcano. The summit push from high camp involves navigating glaciers and potential snowfields.
Explore the 3D route map for a realistic view of the ascent to Ampato. This interactive map provides a close-up look at key points like base camp and high-altitude camps along the way. For those planning their own expeditions, it offers a helpful overview of the mountain's terrain and surroundings.
From base camp you slowly move up decent but loose terrain to high-camp (optional). From there it's a few hundred more vertical meters to the glacier. You can either go up the glacier or to its left (when looking up the mountain), but the ground is pretty loose so most go up the glacier and down the scree. From where the glacier tops out you're still 200 meters from the summit. A route up to the left is typical, as straight ahead to the summit has a lot of loose scree. Otherwise you can go right to a false summit and follow the ridge to the summit - but that's a longer way.
Shortly before base camp, after you cross the last stream there is an abandoned house/farm of sorts. It used to be a place to stay, but now is a relic of the past.
Either you drive in (with a 4x4) with absolutely everything you'll need, or go on an organised expedition from Arequipa.
The base camp is a three hour off-road drive on a route that sees very little traffic.
Accommodation
Both base camp and high camp are simply locations for tents. There is no water at either. Bring water in from the stream you cross on the way to base camp beside the old house/farm.
Guides
To be found in Arequipa.
Transport
Private transport only. The route to base camp sees little traffic, but hitchhiking could be possible - if you're prepared to wait.
It's about a six hour drive from Arequipa.
The first half of the journey is on a great scenic road (that goes to Colpa canyon), and passes by Chachani and great landscapes - expect to see a lot of Vicunas.
Before the road reaches Colpa canyon, you turn left on a dirt track from where you might as well have gone back in time hundreds of years. It's a very scenic route then towards the valley where you'll find the base camp. A 4x4 is absolutely necessary - the route gets fairly water logged and you'll cross a couple of small streams.
Finally you'll be able to drive straight up to base camp at 5,200 meters.
Get inspired by these incredible videos capturing the experience of climbing Ampato. From route highlights to summitsummit views, these clips showcase the mountain’s beauty and the challenges it presents. Have your own Ampato video? We'd love for you to share it with the community to inspire future climbers.
Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.
Yes, while Ampato is not the most technically challenging peak, the presence of glaciers and snowfields near the summit necessitates the use of ice axes, crampons, and possibly ropes, especially during the colder months.
Ampato is an extinct volcano, but it is near the active Sabancaya volcano. Climbers should be aware of any volcanic activity reports from Sabancaya as ash emissions could impact climbing conditions. If you bivvy at base camp expect to wake up with a mouthful of ash.
Emergency assistance can be significantly delayed due to the remote location of Ampato. Climbers should have a robust emergency plan, carry a satellite phone or a GPS device, and consider climbing with a guide who knows the area well.
Peru
Base Camp
High Camp
Summit
