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Colca Canyon Trek Tour

5 reviews

72 hrs

From

111.123 ARS

Experience the Colca Canyon hike with this amazing outdoor adventure, where you'll be surrounded by magnificent mountains and breathtaking landscapes, through our 3-day Colca Canyon Trek Tour Adventure.

Join us as we explore one of the deepest canyons in the world on a challenging trek that promises to reveal an awe-inspiring natural wonder.

This tour is ideal for trekking enthusiasts who love being immersed in nature.

Tour Description

DAY 1

In the early hours, we embark on a 3-hour journey from Arequipa city to the charming town of Chivay. Upon reaching our destination, a delightful breakfast awaits us.

Our adventure proceeds to the Condor viewpoints, situated at 3,800 meters above sea level, famously known as Condors’ Cross. Here, we’ll witness the majestic Condor flying above. Next, we’ll head to Cabanaconde to begin our trek to Colca Canyon.

Upon arrival at the Pampas de San Miguel viewpoints (3,300 m), we’ll descend into the canyon's depths over a span of 4.6 miles (3 hours), reaching San Juan de Chuccho (2,400 m.a.s.l.), a town adorned with lush vegetation.

We’ll enjoy lunch here and explore local fruit trees and medicinal plants. Dinner follows, and we will stay overnight.

DAY 2

Post-breakfast, we commence a 2.5-mile trek, navigating uphill and downhill paths, visiting enchanting traditional villages like Cosñirhua, with a chance to see pre-Incan ruins.

We’ll also pass through Malata, notable for its historic Spanish church. Lunch will be provided.

Exploring the Colca Canyon is a remarkable adventure. Relish in the breathtaking canyon vistas and diverse local flora and fauna.

We will then descend to the Oasis of Sangalle, located at 2,225 meters above sea level, for an overnight stay. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool and have lunch. Optional short tours around the oasis are available.

In the evening, savor a delicious dinner and unwind for a restful night.

DAY 3

The Colca Canyon day tour kicks off early with an exhilarating 3-hour trek (2.5 miles), ascending the canyon's slope to the town of Cabanaconde. After breakfast in this picturesque locale, we proceed to the village of Chivay.

Along the way, we’ll visit the Antahuilque viewpoint, offering stunning landscapes and views of Inca terraces. We’ll also stop in Maca, known for its magnificent colonial church. The town of Yanque presents an opportunity to enjoy hot springs (optional).

Exploring the Colca Canyon is integral to southern Peru's tourist circuit. This vast valley boasts panoramic views of volcanoes and verdant fields along the Colca River. The Colca Valley is recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Later, we’ll arrive in Chivay for lunch (optional). En route back to Arequipa, we’ll traverse the National Reserve of Pampa Cañahuas, home to alpacas, vicuñas, and llamas.

Upon arrival in Arequipa, you will be dropped off two blocks from Plaza de Armas.

* Optionally, you can choose the transfer to Puno at the tour's conclusion on day 3. Depart from Chivay at 1:00 p.m. and arrive at the main square of Puno by 7:00 p.m.

What’s included?

What’s included:

* Pick up from the hotel located in Arequipa * Transportation back to the city of Arequipa or Puno (depending on your choice) * Professional travel guide in Spanish and English * 02 nights of basic accommodation (Optional) * Food and drinks: 03 breakfasts, 02 lunches and 02 dinners (Optional)

What’s NOT included:

* Entrance ticket to the Colca Valley (foreigner s/. 70.00, foreigner Latin s/. 40.00, local currency) * Entrance ticket to the hot springs (s/. 15.00, local currency) * Last lunch in Chivay (s/ 45.00, per person) * Gratuities * Optional activities * Hotel drop-off

Frequently Asked Questions

The Colca Valley trekking excursion typically departs from Arequipa in the early morning, heading towards Chivay and Cabanaconde. After stops at high Andean viewpoints, the group visits the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint to try and spot the Andean condors in flight. The trek then begins through the Colca Canyon, descending to the Sangalle oasis for an overnight stay in rustic accommodations. The following day, the group ascends early and can relax in hot springs before returning to Arequipa. Two-day/one-night and three-day/two-night options are available, depending on pace and availability. The exact itinerary may vary due to weather and logistical reasons.

The trek in the Colca Canyon is moderate to challenging due to the significant elevation changes: you'll descend and ascend between 1,000 and 1,200 meters. The altitude along the route ranges from approximately 3,300 meters (Cabanaconde) to approximately 2,100 meters (canyon floor), and the Patapampa Pass near Arequipa reaches approximately 4,900 meters, so it's advisable to acclimatize for 1–2 days. Good physical condition, basic hiking experience, trekking boots, and a light backpack are required. People with heart problems, knee problems, or altitude sickness should consult their doctor. The tour guide adjusts the pace of the trek and makes stops for hydration and photos.

Generally, the tour includes round-trip tourist transportation from Arequipa, an official tour guide (Spanish/English), one night in rustic accommodation in the oasis, and some meals (depending on the itinerary). The Colca Tourist Ticket, entrance fees to hot springs, trekking poles, snacks, and drinks are not always included, so it's advisable to bring cash in soles. Tips and travel insurance are not included. Ask about group size, hotel pickup, and whether there's an option to end the tour in Puno. Verify exactly what's included and what's not in your booking to avoid surprises and optimize your travel budget.

For this excursion to the Colca Valley, bring trekking boots with good traction, layered clothing (thermal layer, fleece, and windproof/waterproof jacket), a hat, gloves, a buff, sunscreen, UV sunglasses, insect repellent, a personal first-aid kit, and a headlamp. A 20–30 L backpack, 2–3 liters of water, rehydration salts, and energy snacks are recommended. Trekking poles are helpful on steep sections. Bring a swimsuit and towel if you plan to visit hot springs. The best season is the dry season (April–November), with sunny days and cool nights; during the rainy season (December–March), there may be mud and occasional road closures. Always check the forecast and the tour operator's recommendations.

You can book your Colca Canyon trek online or through an agency in Arequipa. Prices vary depending on the season, tour type (group or private), duration (2 days/1 night or 3 days/2 nights), and inclusions. During peak season, it's advisable to book in advance and confirm 24–48 hours prior to departure. Review the cancellation and change policies for weather or force majeure; many companies offer flexible cancellations with prior notice. Inquire about payment methods, credit card surcharges, and whether passport information is required for the Colca Tourist Ticket. Travel insurance that covers altitude sickness and hiking activities is recommended.

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Date

Number of people

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Traveler Class

Single Couple With friends Family

Cancellation Policy

Free until 24Hs before

Cost Level

Average

Type of Activity

Hiking & Trekking Wildlife watching Birding

Difficulty Level

High

Type of interest

Culture and history Nature and Wildlife Mountains