From Arequipa: Tour to the Colca Canyon + Transfer to Cusco

Exploring the stunning Colca Canyon and seamlessly transitioning to the iconic Cusco – it’s an unforgettable 2-day adventure from Arequipa. With an unbeatable price tag of just $359 per person, this tour promises an enriching Peruvian experience. Discover breathtaking viewpoints, colonial towns, and ancient pre-Incan tombs, all while enjoying personalized attention in small groups. The convenience of hassle-free transfers and included meals make this a must-do for any traveler. But what truly sets this tour apart is the chance to uncover a lesser-known side of Peru’s natural wonders.

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Key Points

Comprehensive 2-day Colca Canyon tour with daily departures from Arequipa, including transfers to Cusco.
Tour priced from $359 per person with free cancellation and no upfront payment required.
Visits to scenic viewpoints, pre-Incan sites, and colonial towns, with opportunities for cultural experiences.
Includes one night’s hotel stay in Chivay, two breakfasts, and personalized transportation to Cusco.
Optional activities and customizable experiences available to enhance the Colca Canyon exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the captivating Colca Canyon, culminating in a seamless transfer to the historic city of Cusco.

Priced from $359 per person, the 2-day adventure promises an immersive experience. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and reserve their spot without paying upfront.

Priced from $359 per person, the 2-day adventure promises an immersive experience with free cancellation and no upfront payment.

Daily departures from Arequipa make this tour convenient. The itinerary includes stunning viewpoints, cultural encounters, and optional activities.

With small group sizes and bilingual guides, travelers can look forward to personalized attention throughout their journey.

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Itinerary – Day 1

The day begins with an early pick-up, anywhere from 2:30 to 3:00 AM, as guests embark on their journey from Arequipa to the stunning Colca Canyon. Upon arrival at the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint around 8:30 AM, they’ll witness one of the deepest canyons in the world and a haven for majestic condors. The tour then visits the colonial towns of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque, followed by the pre-Incan tombs and landscapes of Miradores de Antahuilque and Choquetico. After a stop in Maca to learn about local traditions, guests can indulge in optional thermal baths or adventure activities before enjoying lunch in Chivay and free time in the afternoon.

| Stop | Arrival Time | Key Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Cruz del Cóndor | 8:30 AM | Deepest canyon, condor sanctuary |

| Pinchollo, Maca, Yanque | – | Colonial churches |

| Miradores de Antahuilque, Choquetico | – | Pre-Incan tombs, landscapes |

| Maca | 10:30 AM | Local traditions and drinks |

| Chivay | 12:30 PM | Lunch, hotel check-in |

Itinerary – Day 2

On the second day, guests depart early at 7:00 AM for the upper Colca Valley, passing through the towns of Tuti and Sibayo.

Along the way, they’ll make stops at:

Callalli, to admire the stunning rock formations
Condoroma Dam, located 4,737 meters above sea level
The stone forest in the Yauri area
Langui lagoon, a 25-kilometer-long body of water

After a 50-minute stop in Sicuani for a buffet lunch, the journey continues through Andahuaylillas and Urcos, arriving in Cusco around 4:00 – 4:30 PM.

Inclusions

The tour includes tourist transportation, a professional guide available in both Spanish and English, and one night’s hotel stay in Chivay.

Two breakfasts per person are provided, and the company offers permanent assistance throughout the trip.

Travelers will receive personalized transportation from Chivay to Cusco, with stops along the way.

An entrance ticket is mandatory, with varying prices for Peruvian, South American, and other travelers.

Optional hot springs access is available for 15 soles.

Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary are the responsibility of the participants.

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Group Size and Language

Small groups are limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. This allows the tour guide to provide attentive, customized attention to each guest.

The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, catering to a diverse audience:

Spanish-speaking participants can enjoy the tour in their native tongue, immersing themselves in the local culture and history.
English-speaking guests have the opportunity to learn about the Colca Canyon and Cusco region from a knowledgeable guide, without language barriers.
The multilingual approach ensures all travelers can fully appreciate the highlights and insights of the tour.
With small group sizes and language options, this tour provides an inclusive and enriching experience for everyone.

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Pick-up and Transportation

Travelers are picked up between 02:30 and 03:00 AM from the designated meeting point in Arequipa.

The tour van then departs for the Colca Canyon, a drive that takes approximately 5 hours. Along the way, the guide points out notable landmarks and landscapes.

The group arrives at the iconic Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint around 8:30 AM, offering a chance to spot the majestic Andean condor.

After exploring the canyon and surrounding towns, the group heads back to Chivay for lunch and accommodations.

On day two, they depart for Cusco, with stops at sites like the Condoroma Dam and Langui Lagoon before arriving in the ancient Inca capital around 4:30 PM.

Accommodations and Meals

During the tour, participants spend one night at a hotel in Chivay. The accommodations include:

Comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms and basic amenities
Two breakfasts per person to start the day right
Opportunities to sample local Peruvian cuisine for lunch and dinner
Permanent assistance from the tour staff to ensure a smooth experience

Meals during the tour are a mix of local fare and buffet-style options.

Travelers can enjoy the culinary culture of the Colca Canyon region while enjoying the convenience of having meals arranged.

Additional Activities and Experiences

Though the itinerary includes several pre-planned stops and activities, the tour also offers participants various optional experiences to further enjoy the region’s culture and adventure.

At Maca, travelers can learn about local traditions and sample traditional beverages.

In Chacapi, they can relax in thermal baths or choose from adventurous activities like canopy, ATV, or kayaking.

The tour also provides the opportunity to explore the charming colonial towns and discover pre-Incan tombs and landscapes at Miradores de Antahuilque and Choquetico.

These add-ons allow guests to customize their Colca Canyon experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Recommended Packing List for the Tour?

The recommended packing list includes warm layers, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, camera, snacks, water bottle, and any necessary medications. Bringing layers and sun protection is crucial for the varying temperatures and high altitude conditions on the tour.

Can Travelers Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the itinerary includes stops for meals and opportunities to purchase food and beverages locally. It’s recommended to bring snacks and water to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Are There Any Fitness Requirements to Participate?

The tour doesn’t have any specific fitness requirements, but participants should be able to handle moderate hiking and walking. The itinerary includes stops at high elevations, so those with altitude concerns should consult a doctor before booking.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to accommodate individual preferences. Participants can choose optional activities like thermal baths, canopy, ATV, or kayaking. The itinerary allows free time for personal exploration and relaxation.

What Are the Options for Travel Insurance?

The tour operator doesn’t include travel insurance, but you can purchase it separately through a third-party provider. This coverage typically protects against trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen belongings during the tour.

The Sum Up

This tour from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon offers an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and seamless travel to Cusco. With personalised attention, comfortable accommodations, and all meals included, it’s an enriching Peruvian experience that’s hard to pass up. The free cancellation policy and daily departures make it easy to plan, ensuring you’ll have an unforgettable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: