From Arequipa: Colca Valley & Thermal Baths Small-Group Trip

Behold the breathtaking landscapes and majestic Andean condors of Peru's Colca Valley on this immersive small-group day trip from Arequipa, complete with a rejuvenating soak in thermal baths.

Explore the breathtaking Colca Valley on a small-group day trip from Arequipa. This immersive tour promises stunning landscapes, charming towns, and a chance to see majestic Andean condors. For just $30, you’ll enjoy transportation, meals, and live guidance in English and Spanish. But the real highlight? The serene Chacapi Thermal Baths, where you can unwind after a day of adventure. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover one of Peru’s natural wonders.

Key Points

  • A full-day tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon, including transportation, breakfast, and lunch, for $30.00 per person.
  • Highlights include visiting the colonial town of Maca, scenic views in Colca Valley, and relaxation at Chacapi Thermal Baths.
  • Restrictions apply for children under 3, pregnant women, and individuals with back or heart problems.
  • The tour includes live tour guides in English and Spanish, and a maximum elevation of 4910 meters may affect participants.
  • Cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The full-day tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon costs $30.00 per person and lasts for 1 day. A live tour guide is available in English and Spanish.

A full-day tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon costs $30.00 per person and lasts for 1 day, with live tour guides in English and Spanish.

Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now & pay later option.

The tour includes transportation by bus, breakfast, and lunch. Highlights include stops at the Mirador de los Volcanes, the colonial town of Maca, the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, and the Chacapi Thermal Baths.

Restrictions include no children under 3, pregnant women, or those with back/heart problems.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from hotels in Arequipa, followed by a journey to the town of Chivay.

Along the way, guests will stop at the Mirador de los Volcanes viewpoint to admire the Ampato, Sabancaya, and Hualca Hualca volcanoes.

Next, they’ll visit the colonial town of Maca and the Church of Santa Ana.

The Colca Valley’s stunning vistas await, with stops at Wayra Punku, Antahuilque, and the renowned Cruz del Condor, where they may spot Andean condors in flight.

The day also includes a visit to local artisans and a stop at the relaxing Chacapi Thermal Baths in Yanque.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes transportation by bus, breakfast, a live tour guide available in English and Spanish, and a lunch in a local restaurant in Chivay.

However, dinner and personal expenses aren’t included. Entrance fees to any sites during the tour also need to be paid separately.

The tour doesn’t allow smoking or alcoholic drinks on the vehicle.

No smoking or alcoholic drinks permitted on the vehicle during the tour.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, and wheelchair users due to the high altitude and physical demands of the trip.

Important Information

What’s important to note is that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, and wheelchair users.

The tour reaches a maximum elevation of 4910 meters above sea level, which may affect those susceptible to altitude sickness. Participants should bring cash for personal expenses, as not all places accept credit cards.

Layered clothing is recommended, as temperatures vary throughout the day. Smoking and alcoholic drinks aren’t permitted in the vehicle.

The return to Arequipa is expected between 5:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

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What to Bring and Restrictions

Comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water are recommended for the Colca Valley & Thermal Baths trip.

Visitors should wear comfortable, layered clothing as temperatures vary throughout the day. Smoking and alcoholic drinks aren’t allowed in the vehicle. Cash is needed for personal expenses, as not all places accept credit cards.

Wear comfortable, layered clothing as temperatures fluctuate. Smoking and alcohol aren’t permitted on the vehicle. Carry cash for personal costs.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, and wheelchair users due to the high altitude and terrain.

Expect to return to Arequipa between 5:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Colca Valley’s Stunning Landscapes

The Colca Valley is a breathtaking natural wonder, carved by the Colca River and surrounded by towering Andean peaks.

The diverse landscapes include lush terraced fields, rugged canyons, and quaint Andean villages. One of the main highlights is the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where visitors can witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor, the world’s largest flying bird.

The valley’s vibrant culture is evident in the traditional architecture, handcrafted textiles, and ancient Inca terraces.

Exploring this natural and cultural gem is a truly immersive experience, providing a glimpse into the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

Exploring the Charming Town of Maca

As the tour heads deeper into the Colca Valley, one of the highlights is the charming town of Maca. Nestled along the banks of the Colca River, Maca boasts a well-preserved colonial architecture, including the stunning Church of Santa Ana. Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets, browse the artisan markets, and enjoy the local culture. To better understand the town’s history and traditions, consider this informative table:

| Highlight | Description |

| — | — |

| Church of Santa Ana | 17th-century colonial church with ornate interiors |

| Artisan Markets | Handmade textiles, ceramics, and other crafts |

| Local Cuisine | Traditional Andean dishes and Pisco Sour |

| Cultural Festivals | Vibrant celebrations throughout the year |

Maca offers a glimpse into the heart of the Colca Valley, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.

Relaxing at the Chacapi Thermal Baths

After exploring the charming town of Maca, the tour takes visitors to the serene Chacapi Thermal Baths in the town of Yanque.

Visitors can relax in the natural hot springs, which maintain a comfortable temperature of 38°C.

The thermal baths offer:

A chance to soothe aching muscles, beautiful mountain views, a peaceful ambiance, and an immersion in local bathing culture.

  1. A chance to soothe aching muscles after a day of sightseeing

  2. Beautiful views of the surrounding Andes mountains

  3. A peaceful ambiance to unwind and rejuvenate

  4. An opportunity to experience the local bathing culture

Theres some good this tranquil respite before heading back to Arequipa, feeling refreshed and ready for the journey home.

Things To Know

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is a small-group trip, though the exact group size is not specified. It’s suitable for individual travelers and small groups who want a more personalized experience exploring Colca Canyon from Arequipa.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, it has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, which could provide some flexibility for travelers.

Can We Stop for Photos Along the Way?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops throughout the day. Travelers can capture stunning views of the Colca Valley and surrounding volcanoes at designated viewpoints along the route. The guide will ensure ample time for photographs.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to meet your preferences. The tour operator is flexible and willing to accommodate requests, such as additional stops or adjustments to the schedule, as long as they’re feasible within the tour duration.

Can We Leave Our Luggage on the Bus During the Tour?

Yes, you can leave your luggage on the bus during the tour. The tour includes transportation by bus, so your belongings will be safe and secure while you explore the Colca Canyon and its attractions.

Sum Up

Explore the breathtaking Colca Valley on this small-group tour from Arequipa. Marvel at the stunning vistas, visit the charming town of Maca, and unwind at the Chacapi Thermal Baths. With transportation, meals, and live guidance included, it’s an exceptional value at just $30. Don’t miss the chance to see the majestic Andean condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: