Arequipa: Excursion to Chivay and the Colca Canyon

Arequipa’s excursion to Chivay and the Colca Canyon offers travelers an unforgettable opportunity to explore one of the world’s deepest canyons. With an early morning departure, this tour provides a continental breakfast before taking visitors to the awe-inspiring Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where Andean condors soar overhead. But the adventure doesn’t end there – the journey also includes historical sites, scenic stops, and a chance to unwind in thermal baths. What awaits those who embark on this excursion?

Contents show

Good To Know

A day-long excursion from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, with a starting price of $60 per person.
Early morning pickup at 3:20 a.m. from hotels near Arequipa’s Main Square, with arrival in Chivay around 6:00 a.m. for breakfast.
Visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint for stunning views and condor watching, along with additional scenic stops at Wayrapunko and Antahuilque.
Relaxation in hot springs at Chacapi, with optional activities like zip-lining or kayaking.
Comprehensive tour that includes hotel pickup, transportation, continental breakfast, lunch, and entrance fees to the Colca Canyon and hot springs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

This excursion offers an opportunity to explore the stunning Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.

The day-long trip departs from Arequipa, with a price starting at $60 per person. A live tour guide provides commentary in both Spanish and English.

This day-long excursion from Arequipa starts at $60 per person, with a live guide providing commentary in Spanish and English.

Travelers can take advantage of flexible booking with no initial payment required. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary includes stops at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, thermal baths, and lunch in Chivay, with transportation and some meals included in the cost.

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

Itinerary Highlights

The excursion begins with an early morning pickup at 3:20 a.m. from hotels within 1 km of Arequipa’s Main Square.

After arriving in Chivay around 6:00 a.m., guests enjoy a breakfast featuring regional specialties.

The highlight is the visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where they spend an hour admiring the stunning views and watching for the majestic Andean condors.

The tour also stops at Wayrapunko and Antahuilque for more scenic vistas.

In Chacapi, guests have 45 minutes to relax in the hot springs, with optional activities like zip-lining or kayaking available.

Lunch is served in Chivay before continuing to other sites.

Scenic Features

The Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons globally, is the excursion’s main scenic attraction. The Cruz del Condor viewpoint offers an ideal spot to witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors.

One of the deepest canyons globally, the Colca Canyon is a prime spot to witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors.

Plus, the tour showcases:

Historical sites, including hanging tombs, lithomachines, and pre-Inca and Inca terraces, providing glimpses into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Breathtaking natural landscapes, with views of the Chila mountain range and the Ampato, Hualca Hualca, Sabancaya, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.
The opportunity to explore the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, known for its diverse flora and fauna.
The Chacapi hot springs, offering a chance to relax and rejuvenate amidst the stunning natural surroundings.

Inclusions

The excursion includes hotel pickup and tourist transportation, as well as a continental breakfast and lunch.

Entrance fees to the Colca Canyon natural area (70 S/ or $19) and the hot springs (15 S/ or $4.10) are also covered.

Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and historical sites of the region, including the Chila mountain range, Ampato, Hualca Hualca, Sabancaya, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.

With flexible booking options and a free cancellation policy, this excursion provides a convenient and comprehensive way to explore the stunning Colca Canyon and its surrounding landscapes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Meeting Point and Additional Information

For hotels located outside the pickup area, visitors need to arrive at 2:40 a.m. at the Plaza de Armas meeting point. This ensures a timely start to the day’s excursion.

Travelers can check availability for specific dates and select the number of participants. A Google Maps link is provided for easy directions.

Travelers can check availability and participant count, with a Google Maps link for easy directions.

The tour offers:

Flexible booking with no initial payment required.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Live tour guides in both Spanish and English.
Comprehensive inclusions such as hotel pickup, transportation, meals, and entrance fees.

There's plenty more to explore in Chivay

Early Morning Pickup and Chivay Visit

Early on the day of the excursion, travelers are picked up from their hotels in Arequipa, within 1 km of the Main Square, around 3:20 a.m. After an early morning drive, the group arrives in Chivay around 6:00 a.m. and is served a regional breakfast. The first stop is the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where visitors can spend an hour enjoying the scenery and looking for the majestic Andean condors. Additional viewpoints at Wayrapunko and Antahuilque offer more opportunities to take in the breathtaking Colca Canyon.

| ————— | ———– | —————– | ——— |

Cruz Del Condor Viewpoint and Additional Viewpoints

After an early breakfast, visitors are ushered to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, a prime location for spotting the magnificent Andean condors.

This revered natural wonder offers:

Breathtaking views of the immense Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Opportunities to witness the effortless flight of the condors, the largest flying birds on the planet, as they soar on the morning thermals.
Insights into the cultural significance of the condor, a revered symbol in Andean mythology.
Ample time to soak in the serene ambiance and snap photos of this awe-inspiring landscape.

Following the condor viewing, the tour continues to additional scenic vantage points.

Thermal Baths and Lunch in Chivay

Next, the tour group spends around 45 minutes enjoying the soothing Chacapi hot springs.

The thermal pools offer a chance to unwind and soak up the stunning mountain scenery.

The soothing thermal pools provide a serene opportunity to take in the captivating mountain landscape.

After the relaxing soak, the group convenes for a lunch of regional Peruvian specialties in Chivay.

The meal features fresh local ingredients and traditional flavors.

Following lunch, the tour makes stops at the Mirador de los Volcanes and the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve to admire more of the area’s natural wonders before beginning the journey back to Arequipa, arriving around 5:30 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I Dress for the Excursion?

Dress in warm, layered clothing as the weather can be cool, especially at higher elevations. Pack comfortable walking shoes, a light rain jacket, and sun protection like a hat and sunglasses for the outdoor activities.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Colca Canyon?

The best time to visit the Colca Canyon is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is mild and optimal for hiking and enjoying the stunning views. Crowds are smaller, and wildlife spotting is more likely.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

Visitors should take precautions when hiking the Colca Canyon, such as wearing proper footwear, staying hydrated, and being mindful of the high altitude. It’s also advisable to heed guide instructions and stay on designated trails for safety.

Can I Book This Excursion for a Group Larger Than 4 People?

Yes, you can book this excursion for a group larger than 4 people. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing you to reserve the excursion for your desired group size without any initial payment required.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Excursion?

Yes, the excursion can be extended for an additional fee. Customers can request a longer tour that includes more sightseeing or activities like hiking, camping, or exploring remote areas of the Colca Canyon.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable excursion from Arequipa to Chivay and the Colca Canyon offers stunning natural beauty, cultural highlights, and a chance to witness the majestic Andean condors. With a knowledgeable guide, convenient booking, and flexible options, it’s an ideal way to explore Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and learn about the region’s history and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: