The Coropuna volcano is one of the natural attractions that is located in the province of Condesuyos, within the department of Arequipa. The one with its 6,425 meters above sea level, It is considered the third highest peak in the country.
The name of this snow-capped mountain comes from two words of Quechua origin that, translated into Spanish, give the meaning of “golden mountain” to this natural attraction of Arequipa and Peru that, in addition to being a snow-capped mountain, is a volcano that is crowned by five peaks and It is part of what is known as the Volcanic Mountain Range.
This Nevado is considered by the inhabitants an important Apu, therefore an Andean deity protector of the community. This sacred quality of Coropuna that comes from the Inca times, makes that, even in our days, the inhabitants of Cotahuasi, continue to offer offerings, to request their care and protection; as well as the blessing of its lands.
The Nevado Coropuna is also an attractive circuit for those who are attracted to mountaineering; It is known that the first recorded climb of the Nevado occurred in 1911, and that it was none other than the famous researcher Hiram Bingham who carried it out.
The climb to this volcano is within the “moderate” difficulty, so in order to make the ascent, it is recommended to go in the company of specialized guides; For this, there are different tourist companies that offer the service of ascent to the snow-capped mountain, which generally comprises 3 to 4 days, depending on the weather conditions of the moment and the conditions of the participants; previous acclimatization is recommended for those interested in the ascent; Likewise, it is recommended that the route be carried out between the months of January to August, when the weather is mildest, and that the route begins early in the morning to gain a greater distance traveled and a better area to set up the camps.