Chili River, Arequipa
The Chili River runs right through the heart of urban Arequipa, on its way from the snow-capped Andes to the Pacific Ocean … and one does not have to go very far from the city for a great half-day's rafting.
Chilina Valley with Chachani in background.
A 20-minute drive north, up the picturesque Chilina Valley, brings one to the area of Charcani where one enters the river.
From here, it is a 7 km (4 mile) run down to Puente Chilina, which takes about an hour and a half.
Rapids are Class II and III, with one very exciting Class IV drop, which requires extra care.
The scenery is spectacular, with the skyline dominated by Chachani Mountain and Misti Volcano.