Andes: Colca Canyon Day-Trip

The Andes: Colca Canyon Day-Trip is an exhilarating excursion that whisks travelers away from the bustling city of Arequipa. Embarking on this 14-hour journey, adventurers will be treated to a scenic drive through captivating landscapes, culminating in the breathtaking vistas of the Andean Condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. With a focus on comfort and exceptional service, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that extends beyond the typical sightseeing, enticing visitors to uncover the true essence of the Colca Canyon region.

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Key Points

The Colca Canyon Day-Trip offers a 14-hour excursion from Arequipa, showcasing the stunning Andean landscapes and providing a chance to see the Andean Condors.
The tour includes early morning pickup, a scenic drive, breakfast in Chivay, and exploration of sites like Cruz del Condor viewpoint, Maca Village, and La Calera Hot Springs.
The package includes hotel pickup, transportation, English-speaking guide, and complimentary breakfast, as well as access to the Colca Canyon National Park and La Calera Hot Springs.
Customer reviews highlight the excellent service, comfortable transportation, and good value for money, with the main highlight being the opportunity to see the Andean Condors.
Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and season, and be mindful of transportation challenges during the rainy season, while entrance fees and lunch are included in the tour price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Colca Canyon Day-Trip offers visitors an opportunity to explore one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Priced from $36.00 per person, this 14-hour excursion includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Highlights include an early morning pickup, a scenic drive, and the chance to observe the majestic Andean Condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Travelers can also enjoy a breakfast in Chivay, relax at the La Calera Hot Springs, and explore local villages and markets.

With overall positive reviews, this day-trip promises an unforgettable experience in the Andes.

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

Itinerary and Highlights

After an early pickup from Arequipa accommodations between 2:30-3:00 AM, the day begins with a 3-hour drive to Colca Canyon.

Breakfast is served in Chivay at 6:00 AM. The scenic journey passes through agricultural fields, Antahuilque, Choquetico Tombs, and Yanque village.

The scenic journey begins with breakfast in Chivay, passing through agricultural fields, Antahuilque, Choquetico Tombs, and Yanque village.

Visitors explore the Cruz del Condor viewpoint to observe Andean Condors. Next, they visit Maca Village and its 18th-century colonial church.

Relaxation awaits at the La Calera Hot Springs, with free time for lunch and the local marketplace.

The return trip includes stops at Patapampa viewpoint, Ampato Volcano, Toqrapampa lagoons, and Pampa Cañahuas National Park to see wildlife.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This day-trip includes an array of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The package covers hotel pickup, transportation, and an English-speaking guide. Travelers will enjoy a complimentary breakfast in Chivay and access to the Colca Canyon National Park and La Calera Hot Springs.

Lunch in Chivay is also included. Gratuities are covered, so there are no hidden costs.

Guests should bring essential items like sunglasses, swimwear, sunscreen, a small backpack, and a camera. Dressing appropriately for the weather and season is recommended to make the most of this breathtaking day-trip.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have generally praised the Colca Canyon day-trip, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 50 reviews.

The guide received a high rating of 4.6, indicating excellent service. The transportation score of 4.4 suggests a comfortable journey.

While the value for money rating of 4.1 is slightly lower, it still reflects a positive perception of the tour’s pricing.

Reviewers highlighted the opportunity to see the majestic Andean Condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint as a highlight.

Some had mixed feedback on the quality of the included lunch, but overall, the tour seems to provide a memorable experience for visitors.

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Important Information

Travelers should check availability for the desired starting times of the Colca Canyon day-trip. The tour operates with varying departure times, typically between 2:30-3:00 AM.

Travelers should check availability for the desired starting times of the Colca Canyon day-trip, which typically departs between 2:30-3:00 AM.

Visitors should dress appropriately for the season and weather conditions, which can be cool and windy, especially at higher elevations.

Transportation challenges, particularly during the rainy season, are something to be mindful of.

The tour includes entrance fees to the National Park and thermal springs, but lunch isn’t provided.

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

Early Pickup and Scenic Drive

The day begins with an early pickup from your Arequipa accommodation, typically between 2:30-3:00 AM.

After the pick-up, you’ll embark on a 3-hour drive to Chivay, where you’ll enjoy breakfast at around 6:00 AM.

Along the scenic journey, you’ll witness the agricultural fields, Antahuilque, Choquetico Tombs, and the charming Yanque village.

The drive offers breathtaking views of the Andes, preparing you for the stunning sights that await at Colca Canyon.

The early start ensures you arrive at the canyon before the crowds, maximizing your time to explore and observe the Andean Condors at the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

Exploring Colca Canyon Attractions

After the scenic drive, visitors explore the renowned attractions of Colca Canyon.

They venture to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, a prime spot to observe the majestic Andean Condors soaring overhead.

Next, they discover the quaint Maca Village, where an 18th-century colonial church stands tall.

Travelers then unwind at the soothing La Calera Hot Springs, indulging in a leisurely lunch and browsing the local marketplace.

The return journey includes breathtaking vistas, from the Patapampa viewpoint at 4,800 meters to the diverse wildlife of Pampa Cañahuas National Park, where llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas can be spotted.

Relaxation and Return Trip

After exploring the cultural and natural wonders of Colca Canyon, travelers can unwind at the soothing La Calera Hot Springs. Here, they can soak in the geothermal waters, relaxing their muscles after a long day of hiking and sightseeing.

The return trip also offers more stunning views, including the Patapampa viewpoint at 4,800 meters, the majestic Ampato Volcano, and the tranquil Toqrapampa lagoons.

As the tour winds its way back to Arequipa, travelers can spot llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas in the Pampa Cañahuas National Park, a fitting end to this immersive Andean adventure.

Things To Know

How Physically Demanding Is the Hike to the Viewpoint?

The hike to the viewpoint is moderately challenging, requiring a moderate level of fitness. It’s a 30-40 minute uphill trek with some steep sections, but the stunning vistas overlooking the canyon make the effort worthwhile.

Is There an Option to Visit the Canyon Floor?

The tour doesn’t include an option to visit the canyon floor, as the focus is on the Cruz del Condor viewpoint and other scenic overlooks. Reaching the canyon floor requires a more strenuous hike that’s not part of this day trip.

Do I Need Any Special Gear or Equipment for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t require any specialized gear, but travelers should bring a small backpack, sunglasses, sunscreen, and sun-protective clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for exploring the canyon rim and visiting Maca Village.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

This tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. You can book your spot and go on the day-trip by yourself or join a group. The tour is available with flexible departure times, so you can choose what works best for your schedule.

Can I Extend My Stay in Colca Canyon After the Tour?

The tour does not include an option to extend your stay in Colca Canyon after the day trip. Participants must return to Arequipa at the end of the tour, which lasts approximately 14 hours.

Sum Up

The Andes: Colca Canyon Day-Trip offers an unforgettable excursion that showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Andes. With an early morning pickup, a scenic drive, and the opportunity to witness the majestic Andean Condors, this tour provides an immersive and comfortable experience. The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and access to hot springs ensures a well-rounded and relaxing day trip, making it a highly recommended choice for visitors to the region.