Arequipa: Adventure in Chivay and the Colca Canyon Viewpoint

Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, is a stunning destination for adventurous travelers. The full-day excursion to Chivay and the Colca Canyon viewpoint promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors can witness the majestic condors soaring above the canyon’s dramatic cliffs and unwind in the therapeutic thermal baths of Chacapi. With early hotel pickup, transportation, and a bilingual guide included, this tour offers a chance to explore the region’s unique flora and fauna. The $60.00 per person price tag makes it an accessible and compelling option for those seeking to enjoy the heart of the Andes.

Good To Know

• This full-day excursion from Arequipa explores the stunning Colca Canyon, offering opportunities to see condors, visit scenic viewpoints, and relax in thermal baths.

• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and lunch, as well as entrance fees to the Colca Canyon natural area and hot springs.

• Highlights of the tour include an early morning visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint for condor sightings, and exploration of additional viewpoints like Wayrapunko and Antahuilque.

• Participants can enjoy the mineral-rich thermal baths of Chacapi and take in the breathtaking Andean scenery, with an optional visit to the Mirador de los Volcanes.

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, and essential items to bring include a passport, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers an adventure in Chivay and the Colca Canyon viewpoint. Priced from $60.00 per person, it’s a full-day excursion that includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and lunch.

The tour explores the stunning Colca Canyon, known for its impressive views and potential condor sightings. Visitors can relax in thermal baths, try zip lining or kayaking, and visit viewpoints like Cruz del Condor.

The package also includes entrance fees to the Colca Canyon natural area and hot springs. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a flexible and affordable way to experience the natural wonders of the region.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an early hotel pickup from Arequipa at 3:20 am, allowing participants to start their day with a hearty breakfast in Chivay.

The itinerary highlights include:

Visiting the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, exploring additional viewpoints, and relaxing in the thermal baths of Chacapi.

• Visiting the Cruz del Condor viewpoint for views of the Colca Canyon and potential condor sightings

• Exploring additional viewpoints at Wayrapunko and Antahuilque

• Relaxing in the thermal baths of Chacapi or opting for zip lining or kayaking

• Enjoying a lunch in Chivay

• Touring through Mirador de los Volcanes and the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca before returning to Arequipa around 17:30.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up near or within the historical center of Arequipa, tourist transportation, and a professional bilingual guide.

A basic breakfast and lunch are provided. Entrance fees to the Colca Canyon natural area (S/ 70.00 or $19.00 per person) and the Colca hot springs (S/ 15.00 or $4.10 per person) are also included.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

Guests should bring their passport, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and cash, as alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.

Important Information

Although not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, the adventure tour in Chivay and the Colca Canyon Viewpoint requires guests to bring essential items.

Visitors should pack:

• Passport

• Sunglasses

• Sun hat

• Sunscreen

• Cash

It’s important to note that alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.

Guests are advised to confirm their pick-up time the day before the excursion via WhatsApp, as the tour includes live guides available in both Spanish and English.

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Hotel Pick-up and Transportation

As the tour begins, guests will be picked up from their hotels near or within the historical center of Arequipa at 3:20 am.

Travelers will board air-conditioned tourist transportation for the journey to Chivay. The bilingual guide will provide commentary throughout the drive, which takes approximately 3 hours.

Along the way, guests will pass through the Mirador de los Volcanes and the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for participants.

Exploring Colca Canyon Viewpoints

After breakfast in Chivay, the tour makes its way to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, the primary highlight of the day. This lookout point offers stunning vistas of the Colca Canyon, providing an opportunity to witness the majestic Andean condors soaring above the depths.

The itinerary also includes visits to:

• Wayrapunko, a scenic overlook

• Antahuilque, another impressive viewpoint

• Mirador de los Volcanes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes

• The National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca, a protected natural area

These diverse viewpoints showcase the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders of the Colca Canyon region.

Relaxation at Thermal Baths

Following the tour through the stunning vistas of Colca Canyon, the day’s adventure takes a relaxing turn as participants have the opportunity to unwind in the thermal baths of Chacapi.

The warm, mineral-rich waters provide a soothing respite, allowing visitors to rejuvenate both body and mind. Surrounded by the majestic Andes, the thermal baths offer a tranquil escape from the day’s activities.

Guests can choose to simply soak in the relaxing waters or opt for additional activities like zip lining or kayaking, creating a well-rounded and memorable experience in the heart of Peru’s natural beauty.

Visiting the Mirador De Los Volcanes and National Reserve

The tour then takes visitors through the Mirador de los Volcanes, a scenic viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding volcanic peaks.

This portion of the excursion provides a chance to explore:

• The National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca, a protected area known for its unique flora and fauna

• Panoramic views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes

• An opportunity to learn about the region’s rich volcanic geology and its impact on the local landscape

• Spotting native wildlife, including vicuñas, guanacos, and various bird species

• Taking in the serene atmosphere and capturing stunning photographs of the impressive volcanic scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

The tour information doesn’t explicitly mention a private tour option. However, it’s likely that private tours can be arranged for an additional fee. Customers should contact the tour provider to inquire about private tour availability and pricing.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, customers can customize the itinerary to their preferences. The tour operator is flexible and open to adjusting the day’s activities based on the group’s interests and needs, subject to availability and feasibility.

Are There Any Restrictions for Children on the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions, but it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Children are welcome, but their safety and supervision are the responsibility of their parents or guardians.

What Is the Group Size for This Adventure?

The tour has a small group size, typically ranging from 2 to 12 participants. The maximum group size is not specified, allowing for flexibility based on demand. No specific restrictions are mentioned for children on this adventure.

Are Gratuities for the Guide and Driver Included?

Gratuities for the guide and driver are not included in the tour price. Participants are expected to tip the guide and driver at their own discretion based on the quality of service provided during the adventure.

The Sum Up

The Arequipa adventure in Chivay and the Colca Canyon viewpoint promises an unforgettable experience. Travelers can enjoy a delightful breakfast, witness the majestic condors at Cruz del Condor, and unwind in the therapeutic thermal baths of Chacapi. With all entrance fees covered and the opportunity to explore the region’s unique flora and fauna, this tour offers a memorable journey through the heart of the Andes.

You can check availability for your dates here: