Colca Canyon Tour

Tours In Cusco

Spain
0 booked

Duration:2 Days
Language Ingles
Transport:Bus
Accommodation: Hotel
N. Pax: 20

The Colca Canyon Tour (2 days) is an excellent option for leisurely exploring one of the deepest and most impressive canyons in the world. During this experience, you'll have close contact with Andean nature, traversing unique landscapes, traditional villages, and observing South American camelids in their natural habitat. Accompanied by a professional guide, you'll discover the history, culture, and traditions of the Colca Valley while enjoying spectacular views of the Colca Canyon. One of the highlights will be the visit to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where you can witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor.

DAY 01: AREQUIPA – CHIVAY

07:30 – 08:00 a.m. | Pick-up from downtown Arequipa hotels We begin the tour by picking up passengers from hotels located in the central areas.

08:00 a.m. | Journey to the Colca Valley We depart for the Colca Canyon on an approximately 4-hour trip, making several sightseeing stops along the way:

Pampa Cañahuas: Located within the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where we can observe vicuñas in their natural habitat.
Patahuasi: A stop to enjoy traditional coca tea, recommended to prevent altitude sickness.
Toccra Wetlands: A natural area where a large number of alpacas can be seen grazing freely.
Volcanoes Lookout (Mirador de los Volcanes): The highest point of the route (approx. 4,800 m.a.s.l.), offering a panoramic view of the western mountain range.

12:30 p.m. | Arrival in Chivay Arrival at the town of Chivay and free time for lunch (not included). Afterward, transfer to the accommodation and time to rest.

Afternoon | Hot Springs Optional visit to the La Calera or Chacapi Hot Springs, whose thermal-medicinal waters reach temperatures between 35°C and 38°C (95°F – 100°F). Entrance fee not included.

Night | Dinner and Overnight stay Free time for dinner in Chivay (optional dinner with a folklore show). Overnight stay in Chivay.

DAY 02: CRUZ DEL CÓNDOR – AREQUIPA

6:00 a.m. | Breakfast at the hotel
6:30 a.m. | Departure to the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint
Transfer to the most famous viewpoint in the Colca Canyon, located approximately 1 hour from Chivay.

8:30 a.m. | Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint
Approximately 45 minutes to observe the flight of the Andean Condor and appreciate the depth of the canyon.
Return with cultural stops
On the way back, we will visit natural viewpoints and the traditional villages of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque, where you can appreciate their colonial architecture, churches, and local customs. In Maca, you can sample typical drinks such as the Colca Sour (optional).

12:00 – 1:00 p.m. | Lunch in Chivay
Lunch on your own at a local restaurant (not included).

2:30 p.m. | Return to Arequipa
Return trip with stops as needed, depending on the weather and the group.

6:00 – 6:30 p.m. | Arrival in Arequipa
End of the tour near the Plaza de Armas or transfer to hotels in the city center.

What’s Included

Pick-up from downtown hotels in Arequipa
Tourist transportation throughout the entire tour
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
01 night of accommodation in Chivay (private room)
Continental breakfast (Day 2)
Sightseeing stops according to the itinerary

Not Included

Colca Tourist Ticket (AUTOCOLCA)
Peruvians: S/20.00
Latin Americans: S/40.00
Foreigners: S/70.00
Entrance to thermal baths: S/15.00

What to Bring:

Original passport and ISIC card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
Waterproof jacket / rain poncho, a warm jacket, T-shirts, comfortable pants, and a sun hat
Sunscreen (factor 35 or higher) and insect repellent
Personal medication
Camera and extra battery
Basic first aid kit
Sandals and swimwear for the hot springs

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Colca Canyon tour?
It's a full-day tour that starts very early (around 3:00 a.m.) and ends in the afternoon in Arequipa.
What is the main attraction of the tour?
The highlight is the visit to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where you can observe the flight of the Andean condor.
Is it a tour with a lot of walking?
No, it's mostly a scenic tour with short stops at viewpoints, so it's accessible for most travelers.
Is it possible to experience altitude sickness during the tour?
Yes, the tour reaches high altitudes, so it is recommended to be acclimatized before taking the tour.
What should I bring for the tour?
We recommend bringing warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, snacks, and cash for entrance fees or other expenses.