- Location: Arequipa, Peru
- The mountain range: the Andes
- Height above sea level: 5,822 m
- The last eruption: 1985.
Peru is a very popular destination for travelers. And this is not surprising, because there is everything for an excellent active rest: both the rocky peaks of the Andes, and the mysterious riddles of a bygone civilization, and the ruins of ancient cities and temples. What could be more interesting than walking along the ancient trails of the Incas, climbing the rocky spurs that have become the home of entire settlements, visiting local events with the participation of these Indians? However, among this variety there is a place which, with a proper level of imagination, can tickle nerves - it is the active volcano of Misty.
General information
In South America, among the mountain ranges of the Andes, 18 km from the city of Arequipa is located the volcano Misty. For a very long time he is a headache of scientists and specialists of the Geophysical Institute of Peru. This fact is explained quite simply - the above-mentioned volcano is current today. And although the last eruption was recorded in 1985, and even then rather weak, scientists have every reason to assume that in the near future residents of Arequipa are at risk. By the way, the most powerful eruption here was recorded about 2 thousand years ago, and the explosion qualifies with the VEI-4 index on the 8-point scale of explosion hazard. Arequipa is also known as the "white city", because it is built of pyroclastic flows of volcanic rock that have a white color. This is another factor that exacerbates the situation of citizens with regard to safety in case of a possible eruption, since buildings can suffer considerable damage even from weak and medium volcanic events.
The volcano has three craters, the largest of which has a diameter of 130 m and a depth of 140 m. The volcano itself rises above the plateau at 3,500 m, having about 10 km in circumference. The Misty volcano is a stratovolcano, which characterizes its constant activity and small eruptions. Nearby is the river Chile, and a little to the north is located the ancient volcanic complex of Chachani. In the south of Misti is the volcano Pichu-Pichu.
Misty's volcano for tourists
Despite the fact that fumarolic fumes are constantly released from the crater of the volcano, a trekking track for tourists is laid here. A lot of fans of sharp impressions annually conquer this peak. From May to September, at the top of the volcano is snow, so it is better to plan a trip outside this period. The trail starts at a level of 3200 m, at an altitude of 4600 m there is a base camp where you can settle for the night. By the way, preparing for the ascent to the volcano Misty, be sure to take into account that the trek takes, as a rule, two days and one night. You should also take into account the temperature difference and prepare appropriate clothing.
When climbing to the top of a considerable number of people, the state of health worsens. This is due to the rarefied air as it moves upward. However, in this case, coca leaves, which can be bought on the market in Arequipa, will be the best means of acclimatization. It should be noted that the export of coca leaves is forbidden for the territory of Peru , so you will not be able to stock up with this wonderful medicine for mountain sickness, alas.
How do I get to Misty Volcano?
First of all it is necessary to plan a trip to Arequipa. This is the second largest city and a popular resort in Peru , so there will be no problems with transport . Next you need to get to the stop Sendero a Base 1 by bus from the bus station in Arequipa. And then the footpath begins. If you travel on your own transport or rent a car, you can drive a little higher on a dirt road. The main path is along the 34C road.
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