Explore the Loncco Route: Full Day Excursion From Arequipa

Nestled in the heart of Peru’s stunning Andes mountains, the Loncco Route offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes. This full-day excursion from Arequipa promises an unforgettable adventure, taking visitors on a journey through charming villages, historic sites, and picturesque vistas. With activities ranging from guided tours to optional kayaking, the Loncco Route excursion caters to travelers seeking an immersive and diverse experience. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this captivating exploration?

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Key Points

A full-day adventure from Arequipa that explores seven charming villages, including Guayalopo and Curlaca, with scenic viewpoints and activities.
Flexible booking with the option to reserve now and pay later, and cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Includes hotel pickup, transportation by minibus, English/Spanish-speaking guide, snacks, and lunch, with optional activities at additional costs.
Highlights include canoeing, kayaking, or fishing at Uzuña lagoon, and exploration of the Quequeña church and Cerro Soncomarca viewpoint.
Returns to Arequipa by 5:00 p.m. near Plaza de Armas, ensuring a carefree day exploring the region’s natural wonders.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

The Loncco Route excursion from Arequipa is a full-day adventure that costs from $35.00 per person.

Booking is flexible – you can reserve now and pay later. Plus, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation by minibus, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, entrance fees, and provided snacks and lunch.

With the option to add kayaking, fishing, or a canopy tour at additional costs, this excursion provides a well-rounded exploration of the Arequipa countryside.

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Itinerary Highlights

This full-day excursion on the Loncco Route begins with pickup at your hotel in Arequipa at 6:30 a.m.

The tour takes you to seven charming villages, including:

Visiting the Museum of the Martyrs and ancient petroglyphs in Guayalopo and Curlaca.
Admiring the views from Cerro Soncomarca viewpoint and exploring the Quequeña church.
Canoeing, kayaking, or fishing at the Uzuña lagoon.
Discovering the historic center of Mollebaya and its communal fulling mill.
Marveling at the church of the Virgin of the Rosary and 17th-century mill in Sabandía.

You’ll return to Arequipa by 5:00 p.m. near the Plaza de Armas.

Inclusions

This full-day excursion includes several key amenities.

Travelers will enjoy hotel pickup and transportation by minibus, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure. An English and Spanish-speaking guide will provide insights throughout the day, enriching the experience.

Entrance fees to all sites on the itinerary are covered, allowing guests to explore freely. Convenient snacks and a delicious lunch are provided, keeping energy levels high.

With these inclusions, guests can enjoy the charming villages and historical sites without worrying about logistics, ensuring a well-rounded and carefree day on the Loncco Route.

Optional Activities and Costs

Along With the included activities, the excursion offers several optional experiences for an additional cost.

For those feeling adventurous, visitors can enjoy a 10 soles ($2.60) kayak or boat trip on the Uzuña lagoon.

Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at the lagoon for 20 soles ($5.20).

Thrill-seekers can also opt for the 25 soles ($6.50) canopy experience in Mollebaya.

These optional add-ons provide opportunities to customize the tour and explore the region’s natural wonders in more depth.

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Charming Villages Discovered

The excursion ventures beyond Arequipa’s city limits, revealing a world of charming villages nestled among the rugged landscapes.

Guests visit seven picturesque towns, including Sabandía, known for its 17th-century mill and Virgin of the Rosary church.

In Mollebaya, they explore the historic center and communal fulling mill.

At Quequeña, they take in views from the Cerro Soncomarca viewpoint and visit the local church.

The highlight is Uzuña, where travelers can kayak, canoe, or fish in the serene lagoon.

These quaint villages showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and offer a glimpse into traditional Andean life.

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Museum of the Martyrs and Ancient Petroglyphs

Along the Loncco Route, visitors explore the Museum of the Martyrs and uncover the ancient petroglyphs of Guayalopo and Curlaca, which date back over 1,500 years.

These captivating rock carvings offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Visitors can:

Admire the intricate designs depicting humans, animals, and geometric patterns etched into the rock.
Learn about the significance and symbolism of the petroglyphs from the knowledgeable guide.
Gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous peoples who created these remarkable works of art centuries ago.

Scenic Viewpoints and Exploration of Quequeña Church

As visitors ascend to the Cerro Soncomarca viewpoint, they’re rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Rolling hills, quaint villages, and the majestic Andes mountains come into view.

The tour then explores the charming church of Quequeña, dating back centuries. Intricate architectural details and religious iconography fill the interior, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Guides share the church’s history and significance, fostering a deeper appreciation for this historic site.

With stunning scenery and immersive cultural experiences, the Loncco Route excursion promises an unforgettable day for visitors to Arequipa.

Uzuña Lagoon Activities

One of the highlights of the Loncco Route excursion is the opportunity to explore the picturesque Uzuña lagoon.

Visitors can choose from a variety of activities to enjoy the serene setting:

Canoeing or kayaking on the calm waters provides a peaceful way to take in the surrounding natural beauty.
For the adventurous, fishing is a popular option, with the chance to catch a variety of freshwater species.
Those seeking a thrilling experience can opt for the canopy line, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the lagoon and the surrounding landscape.

Things To Know

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather is typically mild and sunny during the tour, with temperatures ranging from 65-75°F (18-24°C). Light layers are recommended as the weather can be cooler in the mornings and evenings.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the tour. However, the tour includes a provided lunch, so bringing your own is not necessary. Snacks and water are also provided throughout the day.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Route?

The tour includes restroom facilities at various stops along the route, such as the villages and the museum. Participants can use these facilities during the day-long excursion.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not fully wheelchair accessible, as some of the sites and activities may have limited accessibility. However, the staff is willing to accommodate wheelchair users to the extent possible with advance notice.

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The tour operator offers flexible booking options, allowing you to reserve the excursion for your own group and customize the itinerary as needed.

Sum Up

Set out on a full-day adventure through the Loncco Route, where you’ll discover charming villages, stunning viewpoints, and the chance to explore historic sites and natural wonders. With expert guides, hotel pickup, and meals included, this affordable excursion from Arequipa promises a delightful culture and memories that’ll last long after the trip ends.