Colca Canyon Tour Taquile Connection 3D/2N

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the volcanic landscapes of the Colca Canyon to the vibrant islands of Lake Titicaca. This 3-day, 2-night tour takes you through the Peruvian Andes, combining the majesty of the Colca Canyon, home to the Andean condor, with the unique cultural experience of the Uros and Taquile Islands in Puno.

You’ll begin in Arequipa, ascending to the high plateau through sacred mountains and high-altitude lagoons until you reach Chivay, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath and a traditional cultural evening. The following day, you’ll observe the condor soaring overhead and explore the deepest part of the Colca Canyon before traveling to Puno by land. Finally, you’ll sail across the legendary Lake Titicaca, meeting the Quechua and Aymara communities that have preserved their ancient traditions to this day. This tour is ideal for those seeking breathtaking landscapes, authentic encounters, and a deep connection with Andean culture in just three days.

Itinerary

📅 Day 1: Arequipa – National Reserve – Chivay – La Calera Hot Springs

Pick-up at your hotel in Arequipa (7:30 a.m.)

Our tourist transport will pick you up from your hotel in the historic center of Arequipa to begin this incredible tour to the Colca Valley. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes, which define the Andean landscape.

Departure for the Colca Valley

We will travel along the Altiplano Highway, passing through unique landscapes with breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape and Andean mountains, on our way to the Colca Valley.

Stop at Pampa Cañahuas

The first stop will be at the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a natural habitat for species such as vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas. Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy a coca tea.

Andes Viewpoint

We continue our journey to the Andes Viewpoint, the highest point on the route, where you can appreciate a breathtaking panoramic view of the Andes mountain range, with more than eight volcanoes surrounding the Arequipa plateau.

Arrival in Chivay

We arrive in the town of Chivay, the most important town in the Colca Valley.

Lunch in Chivay

Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with Andean specialties such as quinoa, fresh trout from the valley, and typical regional meats.

Visit to the villages of the Colca Valley

In the afternoon, we will tour nearby villages such as Coporaque and Yanque, known for their colonial architecture, ancient churches, and the traditional life of the Andean communities.

Relaxation in the La Calera Hot Springs

After a day of exploration, you can relax in the La Calera Hot Springs, where the pools reach temperatures of up to 38°C (100°F), surrounded by a mountainous landscape that provides the perfect setting for relaxation.

Dinner at a local restaurant

Return to the town of Chivay to enjoy a typical dinner at a local tourist restaurant.

Overnight in Chivay

Overnight stay at a selected hotel in Chivay, ideal for resting and acclimatizing.

📅 Day 2: Chivay – Cruz del Cóndor – Colca Canyon – Puno

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a hot breakfast at your accommodation in Chivay, perfect for fueling up before your excursion.

Departure for Cruz del Cóndor

We head to the famous Colca Canyon, stopping in picturesque towns like Maca and Yanque on the way to Cruz del Cóndor, one of the most well-known viewpoints.

Arrival at Cruz del Cóndor

At the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, you’ll have the unique opportunity to observe the flight of the majestic Andean condor, a symbol of the Andes.

Tour of the natural viewpoints

On the way back, we’ll visit other natural viewpoints such as Antahuilque and Choquetico.

Traditional towns of Maca and Yanque

We’ll stop in the colonial towns of Maca and Yanque, where you can explore their viceregal churches, buy local crafts, and sample traditional drinks like the Colca Sour.

Lunch in Chivay

Back in Chivay, we’ll enjoy a buffet lunch with typical regional dishes.

Departure for Puno

After lunch, we begin our journey across the Andean highlands to Puno, an approximately 6-hour trip. During the journey, we will make strategic stops to admire the landscapes and learn about points of cultural and natural interest.

Stop in Lagunillas

Visit to Lagunillas Lagoon, famous for being an excellent place for Andean birdwatching, including flamingos and Andean gulls.

Patahuasi Pass and High-Altitude Villages

Along the way, we will cross the Patahuasi Pass and visit some high-altitude villages, where we can see herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely.

Arrival in Puno (7:00 p.m.)

We arrive in Puno, the city located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Transfer to your selected hotel for check-in and free time to rest or explore the city.

📅 Day 3: Uros Islands – Taquile Island – Lake Titicaca

Departure for the Titicaca Islands

After breakfast, we’ll pick you up from your hotel in Puno and transfer you to the Lake Port, where we’ll begin our boat trip to the Floating Islands of the Uros. These islands are constructed entirely of totora reeds and inhabited by Aymara families who maintain their ancestral way of life.

Visit to the Uros and boat trip to Taquile

After a guided tour and a hands-on demonstration, we’ll continue sailing for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes until we reach Taquile, a Quechua island recognized by UNESCO for its traditional textile art.

Typical lunch and cultural tour in Taquile

We’ll have lunch at a local restaurant with a stunning view of the lake. The main course is usually fresh trout accompanied by Andean side dishes. Next, you’ll learn more about community life, customs, and the meaning of their textiles, rich in symbolism.

Return to Puno

We conclude the day with the return trip by boat to the Port of Puno, arriving around 5:00 p.m. End of services.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

🚐 Transportation and Transfers

• Pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa.
• Shared tourist transportation Arequipa – Chivay – Cruz del Cóndor – Chivay.
• Shared motorboat for the tour on Lake Titicaca (Uros and Taquile Islands).

🧑‍🏫 Professional Guide

• Official tour guide throughout the Colca Valley tour.
• Cultural, natural, and historical explanations at each stage of the tour.

🏨 Accommodation

• 1 night in a selected hotel in Chivay (2- or 3-star category depending on the package).
• 1 night in Puno

🍽️ Meals

• Day 1: Lunch in Chivay.
• Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel + Lunch in Chivay.
• Day 3: Breakfast at the hotel + Typical lunch on Taquile Island.
• Hot beverages at accommodations (tea or coffee).

🩺 Safety and Assistance

• Ongoing assistance throughout the tour.
• Basic first aid kit on board.
• Continuous communication with our base in Arequipa and Puno.

❌ What’s not included?

Below are the items not included in the package, but which you should consider when planning your trip:

🚫 Transportation not included

• Domestic or international flights to or from Arequipa or Puno.
• Additional or private transfers outside the regular itinerary.

🧳 Personal and Optional Services

• Luggage handling, laundry, or room service at hotels.
• Private guide service (optional, at an additional cost).
• Bottled beverages, additional snacks, or items not on the menu.
• Tips for the guide, driver, or island staff (optional).

💼 Other expenses not covered

• Personal travel insurance (optional but recommended).
• Rental of traditional costumes or extra boats on the islands.
• Personal expenses, souvenirs, or local purchases.

🌟 Recommendations

This tour involves travel through high mountain areas and lake navigation, so it’s important to be well prepared. Here are some key recommendations to help you enjoy the experience to the fullest:

🧳 Pack a small backpack to carry with you during the day: Include sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, a reusable water bottle, a camera, snacks, and a light jacket.

🧥 Bring warm, layered clothing: During the day it’s sunny, but mornings and evenings in Chivay and Puno can be very cold. Be sure to bring gloves, a scarf, thermal underwear, and a waterproof jacket.

👟 Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes: The tour includes hikes on rural trails and rocky areas on the islands. Lightweight sneakers or hiking boots are recommended.

💧 Stay hydrated and acclimatized: You’ll be between 3,600 and 4,900 meters above sea level, so it’s important to drink water frequently and avoid heavy meals or alcohol in the days leading up to your trip.

🧴 Don’t forget sunscreen and lip balm: UV radiation is intense at high altitudes. Use high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm.

📸 Bring your camera or cell phone with sufficient battery and memory: The flight of the condor, the Colca Canyon landscape, and the living culture of Taquile Island deserve to be captured.

🎁 Bring cash in small bills (soles): Some communities sell textiles, handicrafts, or local foods. They don’t accept cards, and ATMs are scarce in rural areas.

🛶 Follow the guide’s instructions at all times: Especially during boat trips and cultural visits, to ensure respect for local customs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum altitude during the tour?

The highest altitude is reached in Patapampa (4,910 m.a.s.l.), on the way to Chivay. In the Colca Canyon, we are at 3,600 m.a.s.l. and in Puno, around 3,800 m.a.s.l.

Is it necessary to acclimatize before the tour?

Yes, it is recommended. If you are coming directly from Lima or another city at sea level, we suggest spending at least one day in Arequipa before starting the tour to avoid altitude sickness.

What type of accommodation is included?

The package includes 2- or 3-star tourist hotels, in private rooms with bathroom, hot water, and breakfast. You can request an upgrade to superior accommodations for an additional cost.

Do I need to bring a swimsuit?

Yes. The La Calera Hot Springs are a stop on the first day, and many travelers take advantage of the opportunity to soak. Bring a swimsuit, towel, and sandals.

What type of boat is used on the lake?

Shared tourist boats are used, with covered seating, life jackets, and a guide on board. The trip is safe and stable.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, provided they are in good health. It is recommended for children over 6 years old. Seniors should consult their doctor if they have respiratory or heart problems.

Are there vegetarian options for meals?

Yes. Vegetarian or gluten-free menus can be requested in advance. Just let us know when booking the tour.

Can I leave my luggage in Puno?

Yes. The tour includes one night in Puno. If you wish to continue to Cusco, Bolivia, or another destination the following day, you can leave your main luggage at the hotel or at a partner travel agency (with prior arrangement).