The department of Arequipa is synonymous with volcanoes and snow-capped peaks, clear blue skies and endless plains . The region lies on the western slopes of the Andes, and is the jumping-off point for a series of climbs of varying difficulty, which stand out for their rare combination of beautiful landscapes, easy access and their ancient cultural heritage.

The Misti volcano (5,825 meters) is the symbol of the city of Arequipa. The route up to the top is more of a hike than a climb, and takes two days up steep scree slopes.

The most popular of the ascents starts out from the city and continues up to Tambo Inca and the base camp of Nido de Aguilas. Hikers will reach the summit on the second day. Chachani (6,075 meters), the other volcano overlooking the city, can be climbed taking a spectacular trail that climbs up from Pampa de Arrieros.

The Colca Valley also features several imposing mountains which are popular amongst climbers: The Ampato (6,288 meters) and Sabancaya (5,976 meters) volcanoes and Mount Hualca Hualca (6,025 meters) are some of the highest.The Cotahuasi Valley features Mount Coropuna (6,425 meters), its most beautiful peak, giving climbers superb views of the region. The valley is reached from Lake Pallarcocha, just a two-day drive from Arequipa.