Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa (Full Day)

The Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa is a complete experience that combines natural wonders, vibrant culture, and unforgettable panoramic views. This tour is designed for travelers with limited time who want to explore one of the deepest canyons in the world, home to the majestic Andean condor.

Early in the morning, you’ll embark on a scenic journey through the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you can observe vicuñas roaming freely, volcanic landscapes, and high-Andean flora. The drive to the valley is an experience in itself, with wetlands, lagoons, snow-capped peaks, and Andean villages that connect you with the essence of southern Peru.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where you’ll have the chance to see the condor soaring just a few meters above your head. But the adventure doesn’t end there: you’ll also explore traditional villages in the valley, such as Yanque and Maca, hike among ancient agricultural terraces, relax in natural hot springs, and enjoy a typical lunch in Chivay, the capital of the Colca Valley.

A perfect tour for nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in Peru’s living history.

Detailed Itinerary: Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa

Full Day – Nature, Culture, and Sacred Mountains

Pick-up at your hotel in Arequipa (3:00 – 3:30 a.m.)

We start very early to take advantage of the best hours in the valley. Our tourist transport will pick you up from your hotel in the historic center, and we will begin our journey to the province of Caylloma. As we travel, the colors of dawn illuminate the Andean mountain range, revealing guardian volcanoes such as Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu, which provide a unique backdrop to the first hours of the day.

Breakfast in Chivay

After crossing the high plateau, we arrive in Chivay, the main gateway to the Colca Valley. Here we will enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast, accompanied by coca or muña infusions to aid acclimatization. Chivay is an ideal place to observe local daily life, from its markets to its adobe streets.

Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint

We continue to the most emblematic point of the Colca Canyon: the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint. From this natural balcony, you can contemplate the immensity of the canyon, considered one of the deepest in the world. With patience and a bit of luck, you will observe the flight of the Andean condor, a sacred bird in the pre-Hispanic worldview, soaring above the abyss, taking advantage of the thermal currents at dawn.

Antahuilque and Choquetico Viewpoints

On the return journey, we will stop at these natural viewpoints, from where you can appreciate pre-Inca and Inca agricultural terraces that are still in use today. The guide will explain how ancient cultures adapted the land for the cultivation of quinoa, corn, and potatoes, creating a unique and vibrant cultural landscape.

Visit to the Traditional Villages of the Valley

The tour continues through Maca and Yanque, villages with ancestral roots. You’ll see colonial churches, picturesque plazas, and markets where you can purchase handcrafted alpaca wool textiles. It’s an excellent opportunity to interact with local families and gain a deeper understanding of the Colca Valley’s cultural identity.

Chacapi Hot Springs (optional)

You’ll have free time to relax in the Chacapi Hot Springs, whose waters reach ideal temperatures and possess relaxing properties. A perfect moment to recharge surrounded by mountains and the fresh air of the valley.

Buffet Lunch in Chivay

We’ll return to Chivay to enjoy an Andean buffet lunch, with options such as fresh trout, quinoa, alpaca stew, homemade soups, and local desserts.

Volcano Viewpoint – Patapampa (4,900 m a.s.l.)

On the return journey, we will stop at Patapampa, where you can admire a mountain range that includes Misti, Chachani, Ampato, Hualca Hualca, and Sabancaya. The landscape conveys the grandeur of the Altiplano in all its splendor.

Return to Arequipa (5:00 – 6:00 p.m.)

The return route crosses the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you can see alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas grazing freely. We will arrive in the city at sunset, concluding this experience filled with nature, culture, and Andean tradition.

✅ What does the tour include?

✔️ Includes:

🚐 Authorized tourist transportation:

• Pick-up from your hotel in the historic center of Arequipa or an agreed-upon location.
• Transfer in a modern tourist minivan with air conditioning, seat belts, and SOAT insurance.
• Professional driver with experience on high-altitude routes.

🧭 Certified professional guide:

• Official bilingual tour guide (Spanish and English).
• Constant accompaniment throughout the tour.
• Explanations about the history, geography, culture, flora, and fauna of the Colca Canyon and its villages.

🥐 Breakfast in Chivay:

• Typical Andean breakfast with Andean bread, jam, coca tea, egg, and fruit (vegetarian option available).
• Stop at a local restaurant with restrooms and a cozy atmosphere.

🛟 Safety and Care:

• First aid kit on board.
• Oxygen tank in case of altitude sickness.
• Personalized attention and assistance from the guide throughout the day.

🎯 Other Services:

• Return to your accommodation or a central location in Arequipa.
• Compliance with all biosafety protocols and current tourism regulations.

❌ What’s not included?

🎟️ Entrance fees not included:

• Colca Tourist Ticket (BTC), mandatory for entry to the canyon:
• Foreigner: Approximately USD 20
• Peruvian National Tourist: Approximately USD 7
• Arequipa Resident: Special discount upon presentation of ID.

Yanque Hot Springs (optional):

• General admission: Approximately USD 5
• Towel or swimsuit rental (if needed): additional cost.

🍽️ Additional meals:

• Buffet lunch in Chivay:
• Not included.
• Lunch is served at a tourist restaurant with typical dishes, vegetarian options, salads, and desserts (approximately USD 10-12).

💸 Other personal expenses not included:

• Snacks, drinks, or bottled water during the tour.
• Voluntary tips for the guide and driver.
• Extra activities such as horseback riding, ziplining, or purchasing local handicrafts.
• Personal travel insurance (recommended to purchase before the trip).

🌟 Recommendations

🎒 What to bring:

• Warm clothing in layers: It gets quite cold in the early morning, and the sun can be intense during the day. Bring a waterproof jacket, fleece, long-sleeved shirt, hat, and gloves.
• Comfortable walking shoes, preferably with non-slip soles.
• Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.
• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Cash (Peruvian soles) for entrance fees, snacks, or purchases in rural communities (POS terminals are not always available).
• Swimsuit and small towel if you plan to visit the hot springs.
• Personal documents and a copy of your passport or national ID.
• Personal medications, especially if you are sensitive to altitude or take specific medications.

🧠 Important Considerations:

• Pre-tour acclimatization: It is recommended to spend at least one day in Arequipa before the tour to avoid altitude sickness.
• Maximum altitude: The highest point is Patapampa (4,910 m above sea level). Drink coca tea or take altitude sickness pills if needed.
• Not recommended for people with heart or respiratory problems without medical authorization.
• Respect the guide’s instructions and take care of the environment: do not litter or feed the animals.
• Arrive on time at the pick-up point. The tour starts very early, and we cannot wait.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is it always possible to see the condor at Cruz del Cóndor?

Andean condor sightings depend on the weather and wind, but the best time is early in the morning. On 90% of the days of the year, you can see at least one condor flying.

Is the tour difficult? Is there a lot of walking involved?

The tour is suitable for people of all ages. There are no strenuous hikes, but there are short stretches of easy walking at viewpoints and in villages.

Do I need to buy the Colca Tourist Ticket in advance?

No, the ticket can be purchased on the day of the tour. Your guide will tell you where to do so.

Can I go to the hot springs if I can’t swim?

Yes, the pools are shallow and designed for relaxation. There is always security personnel present.

Is there cell phone or internet service during the tour?

Most of the tour does not have cell service, especially in rural areas. We recommend notifying your contacts before you leave.

Can I do the tour with children?

Yes, it’s a family tour. It is recommended for children over 6 years old. Bring snacks, an extra layer of clothing, and toys if you’re traveling with children.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options at the lunch buffet?

Yes, most restaurants in Chivay offer vegetarian options. It’s recommended to let your guide know at the beginning of the tour so they can arrange it.

What’s the best time to tour the Colca Canyon?

Any time of year is ideal, but the dry season (April to November) offers clearer skies and a higher chance of seeing condors.