Overview
Tour Destinations: Colca Canyon – Arequipa, Peru
Tour Highlights :
- Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint
- Scenic Viewpoints and the Traditional Town of Maca
- Yanque Hot Springs (Optional)
- Lunch in Chivay
- Patapampa Pass – Viewpoint of the Volcanoes
- Toccra Wetlands
Daily Outline
Arequipa - Chivay - Colca Canyon - Chivay - Arequipa
Itinerary
Day 1 Arequipa - Chivay - Colca Canyon - Chivay - Arequipa
Early in the morning, between 3:00 and 3:30 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in downtown Arequipa and begin our journey toward the Colca Valley, enjoying the spectacular landscapes of the southern Andes along the way.
After approximately three hours of travel, we will arrive in the town of Chivay, where we will stop for breakfast. Afterward, we will continue toward the famous Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, approximately 30 minutes away.
Located at approximately 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) above sea level, Cruz del Cóndor is one of the best places to appreciate the impressive depth of Colca Canyon and observe the majestic Andean condors soaring on the thermal currents above the canyon.
We will spend approximately 45 minutes at the viewpoint, giving you time to admire the breathtaking scenery, watch for condors, and take memorable photographs.
On our return journey, we will stop at several scenic viewpoints overlooking the Colca Valley, where you can admire its impressive agricultural terraces dating back to pre-Inca and Inca times.
We will also visit the traditional town of Maca, known for its charming colonial church and picturesque surroundings, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
We will then continue to Yanque, where you will have the opportunity to relax in the local thermal baths. This stop is optional and takes approximately one hour. If you prefer, you can use this time to explore the surroundings or enjoy the local scenery.
Afterward, we will return to Chivay, located at approximately 3,635 meters (11,925 feet) above sea level, where you will have lunch at a local restaurant ( No included ).
After lunch, we will begin our journey back to Arequipa, making stops at some of the region’s most impressive natural attractions. One of the highlights will be Patapampa Pass, located at approximately 4,910 meters (16,109 feet) above sea level and also known as the Viewpoint of the Volcanoes. From here, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Andean highlands and the surrounding volcanoes.
We will also make a short stop at the Toccra Wetlands, an important high-altitude ecosystem where you may observe South American camelids, including vicuñas and alpacas, roaming in their natural environment.
Finally, we will continue our scenic journey through the Andes, arriving back in Arequipa at approximately 5:00 p.m. You will then be dropped off at your hotel.
What's Included
- Hotel pick up and Drop off in Arequipa Downtown
- Round-trip transportation
- English-Spanish Tour Guide
- Breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant
What's Not Included
- Travel Insurance
- Entrance fee to the hot springs (S/.15 Peruvian soles)
- Entrance fee to Colca Canyon (S/.70 Peruvian soles)
- Personal Expenses
- Gratuities (optional)
Price
GROUP TOUR
Minimum 1 Persona requiredPRIVATE TOUR
Minimum 2 people required* For groups of 4+ travelers, please contact us directly to unlock special volume discounts.
FAQs
What Is the Best Time to Visit Colca Canyon?
The best time to visit Colca Canyon is generally from May to October, during the dry season. These months typically offer sunny days, clearer skies, and excellent conditions for sightseeing, enjoying panoramic views, and exploring the Andean landscapes. However, temperatures can be very cold in the early morning and at night, especially at higher elevations.
The rainy season runs from November to April. During these months, the landscape becomes greener and more vibrant, although rainfall may occasionally affect road conditions and outdoor activities.
For the best chance of enjoying clear views and favorable weather, we recommend visiting Colca Canyon between May and October. Regardless of the season, bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at high altitudes.
$0/pp — This rate applies to every traveler, regardless of age.
Adults
18+ · $80/pp
Students
18-25 · $80/pp
Children
0-17 · $76/pp · 5% off
If Circuit 2 tickets are sold out for your travel date, we’ll secure the best available alternative: Circuit 3 or Circuit 1. To secure your preferred circuit and times, we highly recommend booking your Machu Picchu trip as early as possible; tickets are limited and sell out quickly.
