Arequipa: Colca Canyon Excursion, Option Ending in Puno

The Arequipa: Colca Canyon Excursion offers adventure-seekers a chance to witness the majestic Andean condors up close. Departing at the crack of dawn, this one-day tour takes you on a scenic journey through the rugged landscapes of southern Peru, culminating in the picturesque town of Puno. While past reviews indicate mixed experiences, the opportunity to explore Colca Canyon’s stunning vistas and natural hot springs makes this excursion a tempting option for those looking to enjoy the region’s breathtaking beauty. What’s more, the affordable price point of €36.98 per person adds to the appeal.

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Key Points

This one-day excursion from Arequipa explores the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, and ends in Puno.
The tour includes a 3-hour bus ride to Chivay, viewing the majestic Andean condors at Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, and relaxing at Chacapi hot springs.
The total cost starts at €36.98 per person and includes hotel pickup, bus transportation, guide, breakfast, and lunch, with an optional additional bus to Puno.
The tour has received mixed reviews, with some issues reported regarding reliability and punctuality, but promises stunning scenery and unique activities.
Customers should exercise caution and ensure clear communication with the provider, as the early departure time and difficulty reaching the organizer have been noted as challenges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

The Colca Canyon Excursion offers a one-day journey from Arequipa to Puno, exploring the grandeur of Colca Canyon – one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Discover the grandeur of Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons, on a one-day journey from Arequipa to Puno.

Priced from €36.98 per person, the excursion’s highlights include witnessing the majestic flight of Andean condors and visiting the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint.

Available in Spanish and English, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to departure.

Participants can reserve now and pay later, making it a convenient option.

The excursion’s duration is 1 day, with pickup in Arequipa and the final destination in Puno.

Looking for more options in Arequipa? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Details

Departing at 3:00 am from Arequipa, the excursion begins with a 3-hour bus ride to Chivay, situated over 3,000 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, guests enjoy a continental breakfast of bread, butter, jam, juice, and coffee/tea. The main highlight is a visit to the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint to admire the impressive Colca Canyon and witness the majestic flight of Andean condors. Afterwards, the tour explores picturesque towns and viewpoints, including Antahuillque, before relaxing for 1 hour at the Chacapi hot springs. The day concludes with a 6-hour bus journey to Puno, with stops at scenic lookouts along the way.

| Itinerary | Details |

| — | — |

| Departure | 3:00 am from Arequipa |

| Travel | 3-hour bus ride to Chivay (over 3,000 meters) |

| Breakfast | Bread, butter, jam, juice, coffee/tea |

| Highlights | Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, Andean condors, towns, Chacapi hot springs |

| Return | 6-hour bus ride to Puno with scenic stops |

Key Highlights

One of the key highlights of the Colca Canyon Excursion is the opportunity to admire the canyon’s splendor.

Visitors can witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors, which are among the largest flying birds in the world.

The excursion also includes exploring picturesque towns and viewpoints, such as Antahuillque, where travelers can enjoy scenic views of the Ampato and Sabancaya volcanoes.

Plus, the experience at the Chacapi hot springs allows participants to relax and rejuvenate in the natural thermal baths, complementing the overall adventure.

Inclusions and Costs

The Colca Canyon Excursion includes several key inclusions for the price, such as hotel pickup in Arequipa, bus transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a continental breakfast and lunch.

The entrance fees to the Colca Canyon (70 S/ per person) and the Chacapi hot springs (15 S/ per person) are also covered.

However, the optional bus from Arequipa to Puno will cost an additional $30 per person.

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Customer Feedback

While the Colca Canyon Excursion offers an enticing itinerary, customer reviews paint a mixed picture.

With an overall rating of 2 out of 5 based on 4 reviews, some travelers report issues with the tour’s reliability. Customers cite problems like buses not showing up and difficulty reaching the organizer, especially at the early 3:00 am departure time.

Although the experience promises stunning scenery and unique activities, the mixed feedback suggests travelers should approach this tour with some caution and ensure clear communication with the provider to avoid potential disappointments.

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

Early Morning Departure

A 3:00 am departure time may pose some challenges for travelers on the Colca Canyon Excursion.

Leaving Arequipa in the dead of night requires extra preparation and alertness. Travelers should ensure they’ve their luggage and any necessary items ready the night before. Arriving at the pickup location on time is crucial, as the bus won’t wait long.

While the early start allows for a full day of exploration, it can be tiring. Travelers may want to pack snacks and hydrating beverages to help them stay energized throughout the long journey.

Exploring Colca Canyon

After the early morning departure, the Colca Canyon excursion immerses visitors in the stunning natural landscape. Journeying over 3,000 meters above sea level, the bus arrives at the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, where the majestic Andean condors soar. Guests marvel at the sheer size and depth of the canyon, one of the deepest in the world.

| Destination | Activity |

|————-|———-|

| Colca Canyon | Admire the canyon’s grandeur |

| Antahuillque | Explore picturesque towns |

| Chacapi | Relax in natural thermal baths |

| Patapampa | Enjoy scenic volcano views |

From the viewpoints, the tour explores nearby towns, offering a glimpse into the local culture. The excursion culminates with a visit to the rejuvenating Chacapi hot springs before the journey continues to Puno.

Scenic Journey to Puno

The journey to Puno from Chivay provides travellers with a scenic and enriching experience.

The 6-hour bus ride features several highlights:

Patapampa Viewpoint: Offering stunning vistas of the Andes, including the majestic Ampato and Sabancaya volcanoes.
Salinas Reserve: A unique natural wonder, showcasing expansive salt flats and salt-encrusted landscapes.
Lagunillas: A picturesque highland lake surrounded by rolling hills and the Andes.
Comfortable Stops: The bus makes intermittent stops, allowing passengers to stretch their legs, take in the views, and have a light refreshment.

The scenic journey to Puno is a fitting end to the Colca Canyon excursion, leaving travellers with lasting memories of the Peruvian Andes.

Since You Asked

Is There an Option to Start From Puno Instead of Arequipa?

No, the excursion details provided do not mention an option to start from Puno. The itinerary clearly states the departure point is Arequipa, with a 3-hour bus ride to Chivay before visiting Colca Canyon.

Can I Book This Excursion in Advance From My Hotel?

Yes, you can book this excursion in advance from your hotel. The tour provider offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the trip, allowing you to reserve your spot without any upfront payment.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?

The excursion includes a continental breakfast and a free lunch, but there’s no information provided about dietary restrictions. You’ll likely need to notify the organizer in advance if you have any special dietary needs.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages on the Bus?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and beverages on the bus. The tour doesn’t provide any restrictions, so you’re free to pack your own food and drinks for the journey.

Is There an Option to Extend the Stay in Colca Canyon?

There’s no option to extend the stay in Colca Canyon on this excursion. The itinerary is fixed, with a 1-day visit to the canyon and nearby towns before continuing on to Puno. Extending the trip would require booking a separate, multi-day tour.

The Sum Up

The Arequipa: Colca Canyon Excursion offers a captivating one-day adventure, though past customer reviews suggest reliability and communication issues. Travelers should weigh the stunning natural landscapes and cultural highlights against the potential drawbacks. An early morning departure and immersive exploration of Colca Canyon make this an enticing option, but it’s crucial to consider the logistical concerns before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: