Ranrapalca, a captivating peak in the Peruvian Andes, beckons climbers with its challenging ascent through icy faces and dramatic ridges, promising an extraordinary adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca. What makes this climb truly enticing is the opportunity to summit a lesser-explored peak, immersing oneself in the untouched beauty and tranquility of the region while experiencing the unique blend of technical challenge and the sheer awe of unexplored terrain, creating an unforgettable journey for those seeking both solitude and the thrill of high-altitude exploration.

Ranrapalca

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.

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&rsquo;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&rsquo;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&rsquo;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.

End of the trail, 4x4 needed to reach. Otherwise you can camp at 4,800.

Base Camp

A place to make camp, flat and somewhat sheltered. No water.

High Camp

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.

Summit

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).

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.

Ampato

It's a 5-6 hour drive from Arequipa, the main staging point for climbing Coropuna.

Coropuna is a massive volcanic complex in southern Peru, notable for being the highest volcano in the country at 6,377 meters. It's relatively isolated, situated in the Arequipa region, and consists of several summits, with the northern one being the highest. The climb isn't technically demanding compared to other high Andean peaks, but it requires good acclimatization due to the altitude. The typical approach involves a high-altitude camp from where you can attempt the summit and return. The landscape is stark and the area is often windswept, with weather that can shift rapidly, so preparation is key. The remote nature of Coropuna offers a quieter climbing experience, ideal if you&rsquo;re looking to avoid the more crowded routes found on peaks like Huascar&aacute;n.

More or less at the end of the dirt road. The track splits in two and you can camp at the end of either fork.

High Camp is positioned to support the final summit attempt, located strategically to allow climbers to start their summit push during the early morning hours to capitalize on stable weather conditions.

The summit of Coropuna offers expansive views of the surrounding volcanic landscape and is the highest point on the mountain, providing a challenging but rewarding climax to the climb.

The Coropuna climbing itinerary involves progressing from Base Camp at 4800 meters to Camp 1 and High Camp before reaching the summit at 6425 meters. This route is designed for acclimatization and tactical rests, with the final push from High Camp to the summit typically starting pre-dawn to utilize the most stable weather conditions.

Coropuna

Climbing Misti is pretty epic because you get a straightforward route up with insane views of Arequipa once you're at the top. The cool part is the cone shape; it's picture-perfect and really stands out from other climbs.

El Misti

Misti

Vallunaraju is a 5,686-meter peak in Peru&rsquo;s Cordillera Blanca, offering a relatively straightforward climb. The ascent is primarily a glacier walk, with the final section being a bit steeper but still manageable for those with basic mountaineering skills. It&rsquo;s often climbed as an acclimatization peak, and the summit provides impressive views of the nearby city of Huaraz and the surrounding snow-capped giants. It's a great introduction to climbing in the Cordillera Blanca.

Vallunaraju

Pisco, at 5,752 meters, is one of the most popular climbs in the Cordillera Blanca due to its accessibility and breathtaking views. The climb is not overly technical, involving a mix of snow and ice, with some crevassed sections. The summit offers one of the best panoramic views in the range, with close-up views of iconic peaks like Huandoy, Chacraraju, and the mighty Huascar&aacute;n. It&rsquo;s an excellent peak for acclimatization or for those looking to experience high-altitude climbing in the Andes.

Pisco

Yanapaccha, standing at 5,460 meters, is a less-crowded peak in the Cordillera Blanca, known for its challenging crevassed glacier and steep summit headwall. The climb is more technical than others in the area, requiring solid ice-climbing skills and careful navigation through crevasses. It&rsquo;s a great peak for those looking to push their abilities and gain experience on steeper terrain. The views from the summit are rewarding, with close-ups of the dramatic peaks of Chacraraju and Pisco, as well as the broader Cordillera Blanca range.

Yanapaccha

Take transport from Huaraz to Yuangay, from there its a walk up to base camp. 
Many trekkers come to this trailhead too, so arranging a shared taxi is also a good idea.

Chopicalqui, a hidden gem in the Peruvian Andes, beckons climbers with its elegant pyramid shape and a captivating ascent that weaves through pristine glacial landscapes. What sets this climb apart is the harmonious blend of technical challenges and stunning panoramic views, offering an enriching adventure for those drawn to the beauty of high-altitude peaks and the thrill of conquering less-explored summits.

The starting point of the climb, offering a good area for acclimatization and preparation before the ascent begins. A one hour walk from the trail head. Good water.

A transitional camp set on a rocky moraine; serves as a key rest stop before tackling the glacier. Water is available 15 minutes away.

Moraine Camp

Located on the glacier, this camp is used for acclimatization and staging for the summit push. The terrain becomes significantly icier and requires the use of crampons and ice axes.

High camp

The summit of Chopicalqui offers panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca, including nearby peaks such as Huascaran and Pisco.

The ascent of Chopicalqui progresses through several camps, starting from Base Camp at 4350 meters up to the Summit at 6354 meters. Key stops include Moraine Camp for initial acclimatization, followed by High Camp for further acclimatization and preparation for the summit push. Climbers must navigate glaciers and steep ice with appropriate gear.

From the trail head it's 45 minute walk to base camp. Useful for acclimatisation, but otherwise you can go straight to Moraine camp the first day,

Website:	https://www.perumountainsclimbing.com
Email:	danieljmll@hotmail.com

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