Colca Canyon Day Trip from Arequipa

Colca Canyon Day Trip from Arequipa

Observe giant Andean condors and vicuñas, while enjoying colorful traditions and music. Get a taste for the unique flavors of this Peruvian region by enjoying Andean cuisine and opt to relax in the hot springs in Chivay before returning to Arequipa by way of the Patapampa scenic overlook.

Start your day off early with a pick-up from your hotel between 2:45am and 3:15am. Your guide will accompany you for the 3-hour drive into the Colca Canyon to reach the town of Chivay, located at 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) above sea level. Arrive at 6am and have breakfast here. Drive through the scenic landscape passing by agricultural fields, Antahuilque, the Choquetico Tombs and the tiny village of Yanque towards Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Watch quietly and patiently to see the giant Andean Condor flying silently overhead from this impressive overlook point.

Afterwards, you'll return to Chivay by way of Maca village where you can watch farmers plowing their fields and stop in the beautiful XVI century colonial church. Upon arrival to Chivay, we will stop at the La Calera Hot Springs so you can relax and soak in the therapeutic pools if you wish. Have lunch on your own in Chivay and enjoy free time to visit the local marketplace and main square.

At 2pm, you'll make your way back to Arequipa visiting the viewpoint of Patapampa at 4800 meters (15,750 feet), the highest point between the Colca Canyon and Arequipa, to view the Ampato volcano where the mummy Juanita was discovered. Afterwards, you'll continue to Toqrapampa, where you can see small lagoons filled with Andean birds. Our last stop will be Pampa Cañahuas National Park, where we will be able to see llamas, alpacas and vicuñas before arriving to Arequipa at approximately 5pm. You'll be dropped off in the Arequipa city center after a fun and busy day!