Colca Canyon Tour 2D/1N | Nature, Culture and Condors

Explore one of the deepest canyons in the world and experience the essence of the Andean highlands in just two days. This tour takes you from Arequipa to the heart of the Colca Valley, combining high-altitude landscapes, biodiversity, hot springs, and vibrant culture in towns like Chivay, Yanque, and Maca.

During the journey, you’ll cross the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you can spot vicuñas and alpacas in their natural habitat, and ascend to Patapampa (4,910 m.a.s.l.), one of the highest points on the high plateau.

The experience culminates at Cruz del Cóndor, a privileged viewpoint for observing the majestic flight of the Andean Condor, the largest flying bird on the planet. Ideal for lovers of nature, photography and the traditional culture of southern Peru.

Itinerary – Colca Canyon Tour

📍Day 1: Arequipa – Hot Springs

Pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa (7:30 – 8:00 a.m.)

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa, the White City. Our professional guide will welcome you and give you a brief introduction to the itinerary.

Andean Breakfast in Patahuasi

We will stop in the picturesque village of Patahuasi, where you will enjoy a typical Andean breakfast. Try local coca or muña infusions, ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude.

Photo Stop at Pampa Cañahuas

We will arrive at Pampa Cañahuas, a vast high plateau surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Here you can walk and breathe fresh air while observing vicuñas up close, known for their fine and valuable wool.

Toccra Viewpoint and the High Andean Wetlands

We ascend to the Toccra viewpoint, an area of ​​wetlands where you can observe wildlife such as viscachas, Andean ducks, ibises, and, occasionally, flamingos. This section showcases the transition from the green valleys of Arequipa to the drier and colder landscapes of the Altiplano.

Patapampa, the Viewpoint of the Andes

We arrive at Patapampa, the highest point of the route, known as the Viewpoint of the Andes. From here, you will have spectacular views of volcanoes such as Ampato, Sabancaya, Hualca Hualca, and Misti, which dominate the Southern Volcanic Mountain Range.

Lunch at a local restaurant (Optional)

You’ll have free time to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with typical dishes such as fried trout, quinoa soup, or grilled alpaca.

Afternoon of relaxation and optional visit to the La Calera Hot Springs

In the afternoon, you can choose to relax in the La Calera Hot Springs, just 15 minutes from Chivay. These natural pools have temperatures of up to 38°C (100°F).

Traditional dinner with Andean music

We end the day with a traditional dinner in Chivay, accompanied by music and traditional dances from the Colca Valley.

Overnight in Chivay

Spend the night at a selected hotel in Chivay, where you’ll enjoy the tranquility of the valley and the cool Andean night air.

📍Day 2: Yanque – Arequipa

Andean breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a delicious Andean breakfast served at the hotel. Artisan bread, butter, homemade jams, and a cup of coca tea or local coffee will help you recharge for the day.

Departure for the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint

Aboard the tourist bus, we depart for the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, one of the most famous spots in the Colca Canyon, located about 40 minutes from Chivay. Here you will have the opportunity to observe the flight of the Andean condor, a symbol of the Andes.

Stops at the Viewpoints

On the way back, we will stop at the Wayra Punku and Antahuilque viewpoints. These viewpoints offer spectacular views of the Colca Canyon.

Visit to the town of Yanque

We continue to the picturesque town of Yanque, where you can see the locals dressed in traditional costumes, performing traditional dances in the main square.

Return to Chivay

We return to Chivay for some last-minute shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs of the valley.

Lunch in Chivay

Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring typical regional dishes (not included). Accompanied by traditional Colca Valley music.

Return to Arequipa

We begin our return journey to Arequipa, making a final stop in Patapampa or Patahuasi to enjoy the last views of the volcanoes.

Arrival in Arequipa (4:30 – 5:00 p.m.)

The tour concludes with your return to Arequipa, leaving you with an unforgettable experience.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

This tour has been designed for you to fully enjoy the beauty of the Colca Valley in comfort, safety, and with a specialized guide. Here’s a detailed look at what’s included:

🧭 Transportation and Mobility

• Pick-up from your hotel in the historic center of Arequipa in a tourist vehicle.
• Shared tourist transportation for both days of the tour (Arequipa – Colca – Arequipa).

🧑‍🏫 Professional Guide

• Official bilingual guide (Spanish/English) throughout the experience.

🏨 Accommodation

• 1 night in a tourist hotel in Chivay (standard category: private room with bathroom, hot water, and breakfast).
• Upgrade option available (superior hotel or accommodation with more amenities upon request).

♨️ Activities and Entrance Fees

• Visit to the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve.
• Scenic hike to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint.
• Entrance to the Yanque hot springs (mineral waters at 38°C).
• Entrance to the Antahuilque viewpoint and stops in Maca and Yanque.

🍽️ Meals

• 1 breakfast at the accommodation in Chivay (Day 2).
• 1 traditional lunch at a local restaurant in Chivay (Day 1).
• Hot beverages at the accommodation.

🩺 Safety and support

• Basic first aid kit throughout the tour.
• Continuous assistance from the guide and logistics team.
• Communication with the base in Arequipa in case of any eventuality.

❌ What’s not included?

The following services and items are not included in the base package and should be considered by the traveler:

🧳 Personal and Optional Expenses

• Lunch on the second day in Chivay (before the return trip).
• Bottled drinks, additional snacks, or food consumed outside of the set menu.
• Tips for the guide or driver (optional but recommended).

🩱 Additional Services

• Towel, swimsuit, or sandals for the hot springs (each traveler must bring their own).
• Laundry service, phone calls, or additional hotel expenses.

🛫 External Transportation

• Domestic or international flights to/from Arequipa.
• Transfers outside the itinerary or from accommodations located far from the historic center (additional charge applies).

💼 Travel Insurance

• Personal health or travel insurance (recommended, but not required).
• Medical coverage for altitude sickness or emergencies beyond the basics included in the first aid kit.

🌟 Recommendations

To fully enjoy this experience in one of the deepest canyons in the world, we recommend the following:

🧥 Bring clothing for varied weather: The weather can change drastically between day and night. Dress in layers: light clothing for the day and warm clothing (thermal jacket, gloves, hat) for the evening in Chivay, where temperatures drop significantly.

👟 Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes: The tour includes hikes on rocky and cobblestone trails. We recommend wearing hiking boots or shoes with non-slip soles.

🩱 Bring your swimsuit and towel: To enjoy the Yanque Hot Springs, bring a swimsuit, towel, sandals, and a plastic bag for wet clothes.

💧 Stay hydrated: Bring your reusable water bottle. Drinking water frequently helps prevent altitude sickness.

🧴 Sun protection: Use high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap. Solar radiation is very intense in the highlands.

🎒 Small daypack: Bring a light backpack with water, snacks, a jacket, documents, a camera, and toilet paper.

💊 Acclimatization and prevention: If you are coming from sea level, we recommend spending at least one night in Arequipa before the tour. You can also bring coca leaflets or tea for altitude sickness.

🎁 Bring some cash (soles): Some towns offer handicrafts, local products, or souvenirs. Not all accept cards.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum altitude reached on the tour?

The highest point is Patapampa (4,910 meters above sea level), also known as the “Volcano Viewpoint.” The average altitude in Chivay is 3,600 meters above sea level.

Is it necessary to acclimatize before the tour?

Yes, it is highly recommended. Spending at least one night in Arequipa (2,300 meters above sea level) will help your body adjust to the altitude. It is also helpful to drink coca tea and avoid strenuous physical activity before the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, but it is recommended for children over 6 years old. Seniors should be in good health and consult their doctor if they have respiratory, heart, or blood pressure problems.

Can I access the hot springs during the tour?

Yes. A visit to the Yanque Hot Springs is included. You only need to bring your swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes. The waters are safe and have medicinal properties.

Is it possible to see condors during the tour?

Yes. Cruz del Cóndor is one of the best spots in Peru to observe the Andean condor in its natural habitat. They are most frequently seen in the morning.