Embark on an unforgettable journey to the breathtaking Colca Canyon from Arequipa. This small-group tour offers personalized attention as you marvel at the majestic Andean condors, indulge in regional cuisine, and soak in the natural hot springs. With hotel pickup, breakfast, and entrance fees included, it’s a seamless way to experience the natural wonders of this iconic destination. However, the real highlight might just surprise you…
Key Points
- A full-day excursion from Arequipa into the Andes mountains, with a small-group tour and hotel pickup/drop-off included.
- Highlights include the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor for condor viewing and a visit to the Colca Canyon.
- The tour includes breakfast in Chivay, entrance to the Colca Canyon, and access to hot springs.
- The tour is led by an expert guide available in English or Spanish and has a maximum group size of 15.
- The tour offers a "reserve now, pay later" option and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
Tour Overview
The Colca Canyon tour is a full-day excursion from Arequipa that takes visitors deep into the impressive Andes mountains.
Starting early, the small-group tour drives into the highlands, arriving in Chivay for breakfast before continuing to the canyon.
The highlight is the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor, where travelers can witness the majestic Andean condors soaring above the dramatic landscape.
The return journey passes through Patapampa, the regional high point.
Included are hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, an English/Spanish guide, breakfast, the canyon entrance fee, and access to hot springs.
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Tour Inclusions
The Colca Canyon tour includes several key components to provide a comprehensive experience.
Travelers receive hotel pickup and drop-off in Arequipa, with transportation provided throughout the day. An expert guide leads the small-group tour, offering insights in either English or Spanish.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an expert guide for the small-group experience in English or Spanish.
Breakfast in Chivay and entrance to the Colca Canyon and hot springs are included. Lunch in Chivay isn’t specified in the itinerary but may be available.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour offers a personalized adventure. Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Pickup from accommodation in Arequipa city center is provided for this Colca Canyon tour.
Alternatively, travelers can meet the group at the Plaza de Armas in Paucarpata, about 4km from the city center. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.
Participants should be ready to depart at 3:00 am sharp, as the early start allows for optimal viewing of the Colca Canyon and Andean condors.
With a maximum group size of 15, this small-group experience ensures a more personalized and immersive exploration of the canyon.
Condor Viewing at Mirador De La Cruz Del Cóndor
What makes the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor such a renowned spot on the Colca Canyon tour? The viewpoint offers unparalleled vistas of the sweeping canyon and the opportunity to witness the majestic Andean condor.
Visitors can observe these massive birds, with wingspans reaching up to 10 feet, soaring effortlessly on the thermal updrafts. It’s a truly breathtaking sight, as the condors glide mere feet above the onlookers.
The drive to the viewpoint itself is also a highlight, winding through the mountainous terrain and offering panoramic views. This stop is undoubtedly a central focus of the Colca Canyon experience.
Visiting Chivay and the Regional High Point
After departing Arequipa early in the morning, the tour makes a stop in Chivay, a small town nestled in the Colca Valley. Visitors enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast before continuing their journey deeper into the canyon. The tour then traverses the Patapampa pass, the regional high point at over 16,000 feet above sea level. Travelers take in the stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains and rolling hills before descending back into the valley. This scenic route provides a glimpse into the diverse landscapes and elevations that characterize the remarkable Colca Canyon region.
| Elevation | Scenery |
| — | — |
| 16,000+ ft | Snow-capped mountains |
| Colca Valley | Rolling hills |
| Chivay | Traditional Peruvian town |
Cancellation Policy and Booking Options
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts. This gives them flexibility to adjust their plans if needed.
The tour also offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, allowing customers to secure their spot without immediate payment.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides a small-group experience.
Pickup and drop-off at centrally located accommodations or the Plaza de Armas are included.
The tour covers hotel pickup, transportation, a professional guide, breakfast, entrance fees, and access to hot springs, providing a comprehensive Colca Canyon experience.
Review Summary and Pricing
The Colca Canyon tour has received a 5.0 rating based on 1 review, indicating a positive customer experience.
Priced from $35.00 per person, the tour offers excellent value for the included services. Customers will appreciate the hotel pickup, transportation, professional guide, breakfast, entrance fees, and access to hot springs.
With a maximum group size of 15, it’s a small-group experience perfect for those seeking an intimate adventure. Reviewers haven’t left any 1-star ratings, suggesting consistent quality.
Booking is flexible, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior and a reserve now, pay later option available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of the Tour?
The tour is a full-day experience, departing early in the morning and returning to the meeting point. It includes transportation, a professional guide, breakfast, and entrance fees to the Colca Canyon and hot springs.
Is Food Included Besides Breakfast?
The tour includes breakfast in Chivay, but lunch is not specified in the itinerary. Travelers can purchase lunch in Chivay during the tour.
Can Children Participate in the Tour?
Children can participate in the tour, but the maximum group size is 15 travelers. Confirmation of the child’s participation should be made at the time of booking.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Bring sun protection and warm layers as the canyon can be cool, especially at the viewpoints.
Are There Any Additional Costs During the Tour?
The tour includes breakfast in Chivay and entrance fees to Colca Canyon and hot springs. However, lunch in Chivay is not specified in the itinerary, so that would be an additional cost during the tour.
The Sum Up
Set out on a captivating Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa, where you’ll witness the majestic Andean condors and learn about the breathtaking Andes landscape. With personalized attention, hotel pickup, breakfast, and access to natural hot springs, this small-group adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this natural wonder.
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