Plizio Visual Lab

Coropuna

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Coropuna is the highest volcano in Peru and the country's third-highest peak, reaching a summit elevation of 6,377 meters. Located in the Arequipa region, this massive volcanic complex features several distinct peaks and is covered by the world's most extensive tropical ice cap. This ice cap serves as a critical reservoir for the arid coastal valleys, providing water for agriculture and domestic use in the Majes and Ocoña basins. Historically, Coropuna was one of the most sacred mountains (Apu) in the Inca Empire, functioning as a major religious sanctuary where ceremonies were held to ensure water and fertility. Archaeological remains, including high-altitude shrines, indicate its spiritual significance. While currently dormant, the volcano shows evidence of eruptions during the Holocene epoch. Today, the rapid melting of its glaciers due to climate change is a significant environmental concern for the region's future water security.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	8	8	8	8	7	6	6	7	7	8	9	8
Rain mm	53	62	38	10	3	1	4	3	6	14	15	34

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access typically involves a multi-day expedition starting from Arequipa, followed by a long drive to the remote base camp areas near Lake Pallacocha. The approach requires specialized logistical planning.

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Best season

The most stable weather for high-altitude climbing in the Andes generally occurs during the dry season from May to September. Avoid the rainy months when deep snow and storms make the ascent extremely perilous.

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Terrain & paths

The route encompasses arid volcanic scree slopes in the lower sections and transitions into a massive, heavily crevassed ice cap. Expect strenuous high-altitude conditions demanding solid mountaineering skills.

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What to bring

Full technical high-altitude mountaineering equipment is strictly necessary, including crampons, ice axes, ropes, and crevasse rescue gear. Exceptional cold-weather clothing and altitude sickness prevention supplies are mandatory.

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Parking

There is no formal infrastructure; vehicles are typically left at designated rough base camp spots like Laguna Pallacocha. You must arrange secure transport with drivers who wait or return on a scheduled date.

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Safety

Extreme altitude poses a severe risk of acute mountain sickness; thorough acclimatization is absolutely critical before attempting the summit. The extensive glacial cap conceals treacherous hidden crevasses requiring roped travel.

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Time needed

A complete expedition to climb this massive volcano usually requires at least five to seven days from the nearest major city. This timeframe crucially includes necessary acclimatization days and travel on difficult roads.