2-Day Colca Canyon Trek

For adventurous travelers seeking an immersive experience in Peru’s renowned Colca Canyon, the 2-day trek offers an exceptional opportunity. Descending over 1,100 meters, trekkers can expect to marvel at the canyon’s breathtaking landscapes, rejuvenate in natural hot springs, and potentially spot Andean wildlife. Priced at $105 per person, this guided tour includes essential provisions, though participants should prepare for the challenges of high altitudes. With a limit of 11 travelers, those interested in this exclusive adventure won’t want to miss out on the chance to discover the wonders of Colca Canyon.

Key Points

• 2-day Colca Canyon trek priced from $105 per person, including meals, transportation, and entry fees.
• Intimate group size of up to 11 travelers with opportunities to spot Andean wildlife.
• Highlights include descending into the canyon, visiting hot springs, and ascending 1,200 meters on the second day.
• Good physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitude are recommended due to the strenuous nature of the trek.
• Mixed reviews with positive comments on the beautiful scenery and negative feedback on certain logistical issues.

Overview and Details

The 2-Day Colca Canyon Trek offers an exhilarating adventure in Arequipa, Peru. Priced from $105 per person, this tour provides an intimate experience for up to 11 travelers.

Highlights include a descent into the Colca Canyon, a visit to natural hot springs, and the chance to spot iconic Andean wildlife.

While meals, transportation, and entry fees are included, personal expenses and optional activities are not.

The trek requires good physical fitness and isn’t suitable for certain medical conditions.

With a 3.5-star rating from 2 reviews, this trek promises stunning scenery and an immersive cultural experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes several key inclusions, such as meals, transportation, and entry fees. Specifically:

The tour includes key inclusions such as meals, transportation, and entry fees, with specifics outlined in the paragraph.

• Dinner, lunch, and 2 breakfasts are provided

• Pick-up and drop-off from centrally located Arequipa hotels

• Entrance tickets to Colca Valley and hot springs

However, the tour doesn’t cover optional activities, gratuities, snacks and drinks during the trek, personal expenses, or entrance fees that must be paid in local currency.

Travelers should budget accordingly and be prepared to pay for any additional costs not included in the tour price.

Itinerary and Activities

The 2-day Colca Canyon trek begins early at 2:00 AM.

The first day involves a descent into the canyon, reaching 1,100 meters. Travelers then visit the rejuvenating hot springs.

On the second day, an early morning ascent of 1,200 meters is required. Visitors have the opportunity to observe majestic condors and Inca terraces at viewpoints.

Along the way, they may spot wildlife like vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas. Depending on schedule, the trek may conclude with a transfer to Puno.

The trek demands good physical fitness due to the strenuous nature and high altitude. Proper preparation and equipment are essential.

Preparation and Recommendations

Good physical fitness is required for the Colca Canyon trek due to its strenuous nature and high altitude. The trek isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers, those with heart problems, or children under 15.

The Colca Canyon trek demands good physical fitness due to its strenuous nature and high altitude, making it unsuitable for certain travelers.

Proper preparation is essential:

• Acclimatize to the altitude before the trek to avoid altitude sickness.

• Wear comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy trekking shoes.

• Bring essential supplies like a water canteen, walking stick, flashlight, and personal hygiene items.

With the right preparation, the Colca Canyon trek offers a rewarding experience exploring Peru’s stunning natural landscape.

Traveler Feedback

How do traveler reviews describe the Colca Canyon trek experience?

The reviews are mixed, with both positive and negative comments. On the positive side, travelers praise the trek’s beautiful canyon views, nice hot springs, and knowledgeable guides.

However, some note issues like late bus pickups and inadequate breakfasts given the high activity level. Travelers also mention the need for extra cash to cover entrance fees and other expenses not included in the tour price.

Getting to Colca Canyon

To reach Colca Canyon, travelers typically begin their journey in the city of Arequipa, located about 4-5 hours northwest.

The journey to Colca Canyon involves:

• A scenic drive through the Andes mountains, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and rural Andean villages.

• Passing through the town of Chivay, the main hub for Colca Canyon trekking, where travelers can stock up on supplies and gear.

• Reaching the trailhead, where the canyon’s magnificent depths come into view, signaling the start of the challenging but rewarding trek.

What to Expect on the Trek

Although the Colca Canyon trek presents a strenuous challenge, the spectacular natural scenery and opportunities for wildlife viewing make it a rewarding experience.

Trekkers descend 1,100 meters into the canyon on the first day, visiting hot springs along the way. The following day brings an early morning ascent of 1,200 meters, with stops at viewpoints to observe the majestic Andean condors.

Along the way, travelers may spot vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas. The trek requires good physical fitness and acclimatization to the high altitude. Proper preparation and packing are essential for this unforgettable two-day adventure.

Sum Up

The 2-Day Colca Canyon Trek offers an unforgettable adventure for adventurous travelers. With stunning views, rejuvenating hot springs, and the chance to spot Andean wildlife, this trek is a must-do for those seeking an immersive experience in Peru’s natural wonders. Proper preparation and physical fitness are essential, but the breathtaking descent into the canyon and the inclusive package make this trek a fantastic value.