If your travel itinerary is based on natural wonders and outdoor excursions, then Arequipa is one of those travel destinations that you can’t miss. The region holds one of the deepest canyons in the world, where a visually striking scenery awaits to be rediscovered.
The Colca Canyon is the most visited destination in Arequipa, gathering over 300,000 travelers per year. The natural wonder offers the perfect setting for those looking to travel off the beaten track but also for the most adventurous travelers who dare to cross its towering walls on a multi-day trek.
However, the Colca Canyon is easily accessible by car, which is why if you don’t have enough time but still want to uncover the beauty of this region, the 2-day tour is the right choice for you.
On this occasion, you’ll be surrounded by the lush nature of the canyon, but also be able to spot the majestic Andean Condor from up close.
Find yourself in the middle of a paradise landscape, where llamas and giant birds will welcome you over 4,000 meters above sea level, and explore the natural and cultural expression of the Colca Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world.
On the way to the Colca Canyon, we’ll make a few stops to appreciate the beautiful scenery of the region, from where we’ll cross the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve and Pampa Cañahuas, as well as rediscovering the rock art of Mollepunko and the famous rock formations of Callalli. Likewise, here are the main attractions in our tour that you surely have heard about:
1. Cruz del Condor Viewpoint
This natural viewpoint is located in the highest peak of the canyon, offering an outstanding view of the Colca Valley and, especially of the majestic Andean Condor, the third-largest bird in the world. The Andean Condor is 3 meters long and barely flaps its wings to fly since it uses the hot air currents to glide, a smooth flight worth watching.
Therefore, to experience this beautiful spectacle, you must visit the Cruz del Condor Viewpoint between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
2. Chivay
This small town is the starting point for all Colca Canyon visitors. It is located at 3,651 meters above sea level, situated on the banks of the Colca River. This beautiful town is recognized for its cultural expression where most of its inhabitants have maintained their ancient traditions nearly untouched.
From this location, you can glance at the outstanding scenery of the region, composed of the exuberant nature of the Colca valley, croplands, and ancient agricultural terraces.
3. Hot Springs
Whether you’re just spending the day in the Colca Valley or staying for a couple of days, a bath in these thermal springs can be as comforting as a mother’s hug. The nearest thermal springs are located 3 kilometers away from the town of Chivay.
Here you can choose indoor or outdoor pools with views of the authentic natural landscape of the region. The water temperature can reach up to 38°C and is believed to have curative properties.
It is worth mentioning that due to the high elevation of this location, some travelers may experience Altitude Sickness. This is very common in altitudes that surpass the 2,500 meters of altitude. However, here we have some recommendations to teach you how to prevent it:
- Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.
- Keep yourself hydrated.
- Take a few days to rest in Arequipa before committing to any physically demanding activities.
- Drink coca tea, it helps with acclimatization.
- Eat a light but high-calorie diet.
Some medicines help to ease the Altitude Sickness symptoms, you can find them as Diamox or Soroche Pills in any drugstore in Peru. However, we highly recommend to consult with your doctor before taking any of these.
Day 1 - Arequipa to Chivay
07:15h. - 07:45h. | Pick up from the hotel
Our team will pick you up at your accommodation. It will take between 45-60 minutes to get to the quarries from Huaraz.
07:45h. - 15:00h | On the way to Chivay
As we mentioned before, we’ll make a few stops on the way so you can experience the natural scenery on the way to the Chivay. Here we’ll visit several places such as Pampa Cañahuas, the Colca Canyon, Mollepunko (opcional), and Callalli.
15:00h. - Next Day | Free time to explore Chivay
Once we get to the beautiful town of Chivay, you’ll have the rest of the day off to explore the beautiful scenery of the region. Here we’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Day 2 - Colca Canyon
06:00h. - 06:15h. | Pick up from the hotel
On this occasion, we’ll have to depart early in the morning so we don’t miss the famous spectacle of the Colca Canyon, the Andean Condor flight. From this location, you’ll have an outstanding view of the canyon.
08:00h. - 10:00h. | Visit to the Villages
Here you’ll get immersed in the cultural expression of the region, where the picturesque towns of Yanque, Maca, and Pinchollo will leave you captivated by their beautiful scenery.
10:00h. - 11:00h | Optional walk to Cruz del Condor
If you’re still feeling energetic, you can walk all the way to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, which is only one hour away. From here you’ll be able to see the Colca Canyon from a high elevation, as well as the ancient pre-inca terraces and the croplands of the valley.
11:00h. - 12:00h. | Return to Chivay
Once we finish the excursion, we’ll head back to Chivay for lunch and later return to the city of Arequipa.
14:00h. - 17:00h | Return to Arequipa
Our adventure is nearly over, but first, we’ll pass by the Volcano viewpoint, from where we’ll be able to spot the mighty peaks that guard the White City from an altitude of 4,910 m.a.s.l. We’ll be arriving at Arequipa around 17:00h.
If you wish to experience this tour to its fullest, we have the perfect adventure for you. Keep in mind that you can organize your trip according to your interests, we are here to help you with any inquiry you may have, including assistance during your travel planning process.
To book the Colca Canyon 2-day Tour, you just need to contact our travel specialists. Our local expert team will make sure to optimize your time and adventure with a tailor-made travel itinerary for you.
Likewise, we care to provide the best experience to every one of our passengers, which is why we count on certified drivers, professional guides, and an all-time monitored car fleet with GPS tracking.
General Information:
- Duration: 2 days.
- Entrance: Already included in the travel package.
- Included: Transport, entrance ticket, English-speaking guide, pick up at the hotel, accommodation in Chivay, 1 breakfast, 2 lunch, 1 dinner.
Would you like to know more about Peru? Here you’ll find all the information you need for your trip. Our local expert team has prepared the most complete informative guides for you!
Also, if you’re eager to know Peru at its fullest, check out our travel packages and live an authentic experience with Viagens Machu Picchu.
