Choqolaqa Stone City | Full Day Tour Arequipa

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey to one of the most enigmatic landscapes of the Peruvian highlands: Choqolaqa, the legendary Stone Forest. This full-day tour will take you from the white city of Arequipa to the heights of the Tisco province, where nature has whimsically sculpted gigantic rock formations that evoke human figures, animals, and stone temples.

The trek is not only a gift for the senses but also an experience of connection with the Andes, its ancient geology, and its spiritual energy. Along the way, you will visit traditional villages like Imata and Condoroma, hike through surreal landscapes, and discover the mysteries of a little-explored land where legend and nature merge.

Ideal for lovers of trekking, photography and unique scenery, the tour to Choqolaqa is a hidden gem of southern Peru that you can’t miss if you’re looking for authentic adventure.

Detailed Itinerary: Choqolaqa | Stone Forest | Full Day

Pick-up and departure from Arequipa (4:00 a.m.)

The tour begins very early with pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa. We will board our tourist transport and begin our journey to the province of Caylloma. During the first few hours of the trip, you will see the city recede into the distance as the Andean highlands unfold, guarded by the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes, the natural guardians of Arequipa.

Typical breakfast in Chivay

After a few hours of travel, we arrive in Chivay, the town that marks the entrance to the famous Colca Valley. Here, we will enjoy an Andean breakfast prepared with local ingredients, accompanied by coca or muña infusions to aid acclimatization. Chivay is an excellent place to stretch your legs and prepare your body for the altitude.

Route to Tisco and Panoramic Viewpoints

We will continue towards the district of Tisco (4,800 m above sea level), crossing areas where the puna grasslands stretch out wide and imposing. Along the way, we will see vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas grazing freely, as well as rural communities that keep their textile and agricultural traditions alive. The landscape is vast, silent, and profoundly Andean.

Arrival at the Choqolaqa Stone Forest

Upon arriving at the Choqolaqa Stone Forest, we will begin a guided hike of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This site is known as the lost city of stone, as its formations resemble temples, walls, towers, castles, and human figures sculpted by volcanic activity and the passage of time. The feeling is that of walking among the remains of an ancient civilization frozen in time.

Picnic Lunch

After the hike, we will enjoy a picnic lunch in a unique setting. The silence and vastness of the high plateau create a perfect environment for resting, contemplating, and taking photographs. You’ll have free time to explore different angles and details of the stone forest.

Return to Chivay

We begin our return to Chivay, making photo stops at natural viewpoints and small villages where you can find alpaca handicrafts and handwoven textiles. As we descend, you’ll see the landscape transform once again, transitioning from the high Andean plateau to the fertile valleys.

Rest and hot drinks in Chivay

Back in Chivay, we’ll pause for a coca tea, local coffee, or hot chocolate. Time permitting, we can briefly visit the artisan market or a viewpoint overlooking the currently active Sabancaya volcano.

Arrival in Arequipa (5:00 – 6:00 p.m.)

After a day filled with hiking, nature, and Andean culture, we return to Arequipa, where transportation will drop you off near the historic center.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

🔸Transportation and Logistics:

• 🚐 Pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa (applies to accommodations within the Historic Center).
• 📍 Round-trip transfers from Arequipa to the starting point of the trek in Tisco.

🔸Professional Guidance:

• 🧭 Certified professional tour guide (bilingual Spanish-English), with extensive knowledge of geography, Andean culture, and geotourism.
• 🩺 First-aid kit and portable oxygen tank for high-altitude emergencies.
• 📣 Personalized assistance throughout the tour, from pick-up to return to your accommodation.

🔸Trekking Experience:

• 🥾 Guided trek to the Choqolaqa Stone Forest, with explanations about the geological formations, fauna, flora, and local legends.
• 📸 Free time to explore and take photos in the heart of the Stone Forest.

❌ What’s not included?

To avoid surprises, these are the services and expenses that are not included in the tour price:

🚫Food:

• 🍱 Breakfast and lunch: not included. We recommend bringing snacks or ordering a boxed lunch from your hotel.
• ☕ Additional beverages (coffee, coca tea, energy drinks).

🚫Tickets or additional services:

• 🎟️ Entrance to the Choqolaqa Stone Forest: payable directly in the local community (approximately S/10.00 per person – cash only).
• 🐎 Assistance horse rental (in case of fatigue or difficulty trekking): can be arranged with local residents in Tisco at an additional cost.
• 🧥 Personal trekking gear or warm clothing: travelers must bring appropriate clothing for cold weather, gloves, hat, rain gear, etc.

🚫Other:

• 🧳 Travel insurance or personal medical insurance.
• 💸 Tips for the guide and driver (optional, but greatly appreciated).
• 🧼 Personal expenses, souvenirs, or purchases outside the itinerary.

🌟 Recommendations

To fully enjoy this trek to the enigmatic Choqolaqa Stone Forest, it’s important to keep these key recommendations in mind:

👟 Clothing and Equipment:

• Wear comfortable, warm clothing in layers: the temperature can vary greatly throughout the day.
• Bring a waterproof or windproof jacket, as the weather at higher altitudes can be unpredictable.
• Trekking boots or non-slip footwear are recommended, as part of the route is rocky and steep.
• Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
• Bring a small backpack with your essentials and a bag for personal waste (let’s respect the natural environment).

💧 Food and Hydration:

• Have a light breakfast before setting off or bring a packed lunch from your hotel.
• Bring extra energy snacks such as dried fruit, nuts, chocolate, or granola bars.
• Drink water frequently during the hike. Hydration is key at high altitudes.

💊 Health Considerations:

• This tour reaches altitudes above 4,500 meters (14,500 feet) above sea level, so it is recommended to acclimatize for at least one day in Arequipa beforehand.
• Bring altitude sickness medication if you are sensitive to it, as well as any personal medication you may need.
• Inform the guide if you have any special medical conditions before the tour begins.

📷 Photography and Nature:

• Bring a camera or cell phone with a fully charged battery and available memory; the scenery is worth it!
• Respect the local flora and fauna, do not leave any trash, and avoid disturbing the rock formations.
• During the hike, always follow the path indicated by the guide.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How demanding is the hike to Choqolaqa?

The hike is of moderate difficulty. It includes an uphill climb of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes each way, so a reasonable level of fitness and acclimatization are recommended. Mountaineering experience is not necessary, but basic stamina is required.

Is it possible to do the tour with children or seniors?

It is not recommended for children under 12 years old or seniors with reduced mobility or respiratory problems, due to the altitude and terrain conditions. In these cases, it is recommended to consult with the operator beforehand to explore alternatives.

Is the entrance fee to the Stone Forest included in the price?

No. The entrance fee is paid directly in the community of Tisco (approximately S/10.00 per person, in cash). This payment contributes to the maintenance of the site and local development.

Is there cell phone service during the tour?

Most of the route has no cell phone signal. It is recommended to inform family or contacts before setting out and to keep your phone in airplane mode to save battery.

Can I rent a horse if I get tired?

Yes, it is possible to arrange to rent a support horse with the locals in the community, although this is not guaranteed and depends on local availability that day.

Can this tour be done year-round?

Yes, but the best months are from April to November, as the weather is drier and access is easier. During the rainy season (December to March), the trail can become more difficult, and it is recommended to check availability.