Chachani

Chachani is a dormant volcano with a complex structure of multiple lava domes and volcanic cones located northwest of Arequipa city. The mountain is characterized by white sillar rocks that have been quarried from the surrounding area and shaped the region's appearance.

During colonial times, miners extracted sulfur from the volcano, a resource important to the economy of that period. At the same time, white sillar stones from the surrounding slopes were quarried and used to construct many buildings in Arequipa.

The mountain plays an important role in local worldviews, with Andean communities seeing it as a father figure to the neighboring volcano El Misti. This belief shapes how people today perceive and relate to the region.

The climb requires acclimatization to higher altitude, so hikers should spend time in the valley before attempting to ascend. The route is manageable for people in good physical condition, but requires preparation and proper gear for cold weather.

Many visitors do not realize the mountain has a long history of sulfur mining that continues in small amounts today. This industrial past remains visible in the landscapes and infrastructure around the volcano.

Location: Arequipa Department

Elevation above the sea: 6,057 m

Part of: Volcanic arc of Peru

GPS coordinates: -16.19396,-71.53164

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:46