From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour With Meals

Exploring the grandeur of Colca Canyon is a must-do for any visitor to Arequipa. This full-day guided tour promises an unforgettable adventure, with breathtaking vistas, culture, and delectable Andean cuisine. From early morning pickups to a buffet lunch, the tour offers a comprehensive experience that captures the essence of this remarkable natural wonder. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, travelers can enjoy the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of the region. The stage is set for an adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon, priced at $42 per person and lasting approximately 13-14 hours.
• Highlights include breakfast in Chivay, Andean condor viewing, and a buffet lunch of traditional Andean dishes.
• The tour includes transportation, a live guide, and national park entrance fees, with optional access to hot springs for an additional fee.
• Recommended items to bring include warm clothing, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning vistas.
• The tour is rated 4.6/5 based on 348 reviews, with positive feedback on the guide’s hospitality and punctuality, as well as the scenic views and wildlife sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Colca Canyon Tour is a full-day guided tour from Arequipa that explores the Colca Canyon, one of Peru’s premier natural wonders.

Explore the Colca Canyon, one of Peru’s premier natural wonders, on a full-day guided tour from Arequipa.

Priced from $42 per person, the tour lasts approximately 13-14 hours and is offered in English and Spanish. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup is from the Plaza de Armas or select hotels. Highlights include breakfast in Chivay, viewing Andean condors at Condors Cross, and a buffet lunch featuring traditional Andean dishes.

The tour also includes transportation, park fees, and optional activities like swimming and hot springs.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with an early morning pickup at 2:50 a.m. from either the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa or selected hotels. Guests enjoy breakfast in Chivay, along with a traditional dance show. Then, it’s off to the Colca Canyon for a guided tour and wildlife viewing. At Condors Cross, travelers walk along the canyon and spot the majestic Andean condors. After visiting a local mill in Hospedaje el Molino de Maca, the group heads to Yanque for a refreshing swim. Lunch features a buffet of traditional Andean dishes before returning to Arequipa.

| Stops | Duration |

| — | — |

| Chivay | 1 hour |

| Colca Canyon | 1 hour |

| Condors Cross | 1 hour |

| Hospedaje el Molino de Maca | 15 minutes |

| Yanque | 1 hour |

| Lunch | 1 hour |

Tour Inclusions

This full-day guided tour from Arequipa includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a live guide, and breakfast featuring bread, scrambled eggs, jam, butter, tea, coffee, and juice.

Lunch is a buffet of traditional Andean dishes. The national park entrance fee is included, and visitors can opt to pay an additional fee to access the hot springs.

The tour provides all the essentials – from getting to and from the canyon to meals and knowledgeable guidance. Guests should come prepared with warm clothing, sun protection, and cash for any extra expenses.

What to Bring

Visitors should come prepared with warm clothing, as the tour includes stops at high altitudes that can be chilly.

Other essentials include:

• Sunglasses and a sun hat to protect from the strong Andean sun

• A towel and extra layers for potential swimming at Yanque

• A camera to capture the stunning vistas of Colca Canyon

• Cash for optional expenses like hot springs entry

• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day

Having these items on hand will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Colca Canyon experience.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Colca Canyon tour, with an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 348 reviews. Guests highlighted the hospitality and punctuality of the guides, as well as the scenic vistas and wildlife sightings.

However, some taller individuals complained about the size of the bus seats. The tour isn’t suitable for those prone to altitude sickness, as it includes stops at high elevations up to 16,000 feet.

Pickup and Departure

The tour begins with an early morning pickup, either from the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa or directly from the guest’s hotel if it’s on the list.

The group departs at 2:50 AM for the long journey to Colca Canyon. The early start ensures ample time to explore the canyon and witness the majestic Andean condors.

Along the way, the group will:

• Enjoy breakfast in Chivay

• Take a guided tour of Colca Canyon

• Observe wildlife at Condors Cross

• Visit a local town for snacks and shopping

• Swim in the natural hot springs of Yanque

Chivay: Breakfast and Cultural Experience

After the early morning departure, the tour’s first stop is Chivay, a small town in the Colca Valley.

Here, travelers enjoy a breakfast of bread, scrambled eggs, jam, butter, tea, coffee, and juice. While eating, they’re entertained by a traditional Andean dance performance.

Travelers savor a hearty Andean breakfast as they witness a captivating traditional dance performance.

This 1-hour stop provides a chance to acclimate to the high altitude and experience local culture before continuing deeper into the canyon.

The guide shares information about the region’s history and people, preparing participants for the scenic wonders and wildlife sightings to come in the Colca Canyon.

Exploring Colca Canyon and Beyond

From Chivay, the tour continues deeper into the Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons.

Travelers will:

• Set out on a guided tour, exploring the dramatic landscapes and searching for wildlife like Andean condors.

• Stop at scenic viewpoints to capture photos of the breathtaking canyon vistas.

• Visit the Condors Cross, a prime spot to observe the majestic Andean condors soaring above the canyon.

• Explore the Hospedaje el Molino de Maca, a local village, for a self-guided tour, shopping, and traditional snacks.

• Conclude the day with a relaxing swim in the hot springs of Yanque before returning to Arequipa.

Since You Asked

Can I Book This Tour Just for Myself?

Yes, the Colca Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour can be booked individually. The tour operates on a group basis, so solo travelers are welcome to join the scheduled departures.

How Often Does the Tour Run on a Weekly Basis?

The tour runs daily, with multiple departures per week. The exact schedule may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the most up-to-date information on departure times and frequency.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, they may provide discounted pricing for group bookings. Interested travelers should check with the tour operator directly to inquire about any available discounts.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

The tour operator may allow some customization, but options are limited. Additional activities or stops would likely incur extra fees. It’s best to discuss any desired changes directly with the tour provider prior to booking to determine feasibility and pricing.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 people. The size allows for a more personalized experience while maintaining efficiency. Larger groups may be accommodated with advance notice, but the standard maximum is 15 participants.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of Peru’s natural landscapes. With early morning pickup, delectable meals, and knowledgeable guides, travelers can enjoy the rich cultural and wildlife experiences of this magnificent region. Whether admiring the majestic Andean condors or exploring the diverse ecosystems, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure that’s well worth the affordable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: