From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Full Day + Thermal Waters

Witness the majestic Andean condors, explore ancient Inca terraces, and indulge in the therapeutic Chacapi hot springs on this full-day tour from Arequipa.

Discover the awe-inspiring Colca Canyon, just a few hours from Arequipa. This full-day tour offers a chance to witness the majestic Andean condors, explore ancient Inca terraces, and indulge in the therapeutic Chacapi hot springs. With a knowledgeable guide and stunning vistas, it’s an opportunity to take in the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of this remarkable region. Priced at just €27.73 per person, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the depths of Colca Canyon.

Key Points

  • This full-day tour from Arequipa takes visitors to the Colca Canyon and includes a stop at the Chacapi hot springs.
  • The tour features highlights like the Cruz del Condor viewpoint for condor watching and pre-Inca/Inca terraces at scenic viewpoints.
  • Pickup and transportation from Arequipa’s historical center or Plaza de Armas are included, with an optional breakfast stop along the way.
  • Additional activities like zip-lining and kayaking can be added to the tour for an extra cost.
  • Entrance fees to the Colca Canyon and hot springs are not included in the tour price and must be paid separately.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa offers an immersive experience, priced from €27.73 per person.

An immersive Colca Canyon day tour from Arequipa, priced from €27.73 per person.

This 1-day adventure includes a live English and Spanish guide, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup options are the Historical Centre of Arequipa or Plaza de Armas.

The itinerary covers highlights like the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, Chacapi hot springs, and Mirador de los Volcanes.

Optional activities like zip-lining and kayaking are available.

The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, continental breakfast, and a guide, though entrance fees and lunch are additional costs.

Itinerary and Highlights

This full-day tour begins with a 3-hour bus ride from Arequipa to the town of Chivay, where travelers enjoy a 1-hour breakfast.

They then journey 1 hour to the Colca Canyon, stopping at the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint to witness the majestic condors soaring overhead.

Next, they explore the Wayrapunko and Antahuilque viewpoints, admiring the pre-Inca and Inca terraces.

Finally, they unwind for 45 minutes in the therapeutic Chacapi hot springs before returning to Arequipa.

Along the way, they may opt for exhilarating activities like zip-lining or kayaking.

  • Gaze upon the world’s deepest canyon

  • Spot the legendary Andean condors

  • Relax in the soothing thermal waters

Attractions and Activities

One of the main attractions of this tour is the opportunity to admire the breathtaking views from the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, located within the Colca Canyon – one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Visitors will also spot majestic condors, the national bird of Peru, soaring above the canyon.

The tour includes stops at other scenic viewpoints like Wayrapunko and Antahuilque, where guests can explore hanging tombs and pre-Inca/Inca terraces.

After taking in the sights, travelers can relax in the therapeutic Chacapi hot springs.

The tour also provides a chance to view the Misti and Chachani volcanoes in the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The tour package includes hotel pickup in Arequipa, tourist transportation, a continental breakfast, and an English/Spanish speaking guide.

Additional fees apply for the following:

  • Entrance to Colca Canyon: 70 S/ (18.60 US$) per person

  • Entrance to hot springs: 15 S/ (4 US$) per person

  • Lunch isn’t included in the package

While the tour covers the essentials, visitors should budget for these supplementary costs to make the most of their Colca Canyon adventure.

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Important Information and Recommendations

Not all visitors may be suitable for this full-day Colca Canyon tour. Pregnant women and individuals with back or heart problems should avoid this activity.

It involves a fair amount of walking and exposure to the elements. Participants should wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, and bring sunscreen and water. Smoking isn’t allowed.

Travelers are responsible for the entrance fees to the Colca Canyon (70 S/ or $18.60 USD) and the hot springs (15 S/ or $4 USD).

This tour may not be appropriate for those with certain health conditions or mobility limitations.

Exploring the Depths of Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon beckons adventurers with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Plunging over 3,400 meters deep, it’s one of the world’s deepest canyons, offering a humbling glimpse into the power of nature.

Visitors can marvel at the majestic condors soaring overhead, explore pre-Inca terraces, and lose themselves in the serene beauty of the surroundings.

Visitors can marvel at the majestic condors, explore ancient terraces, and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings.

The experience evokes a sense of:

  • Awe at the raw, untamed grandeur of the canyon

  • Wonder at the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations

  • Tranquility in the rejuvenating thermal springs

Immersing oneself in Colca Canyon is a truly unforgettable adventure.

Marveling at the Majestic Condors

Although the Colca Canyon is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, the true highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to witness the majestic condors.

These massive birds, with wingspans reaching up to 10 feet, are the focus of the excursion to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Visitors eagerly await the sight of the condors soaring effortlessly on the thermal currents, gliding mere feet from the canyon’s edge.

The sheer size and grace of these magnificent creatures, an iconic symbol of the Andes, leave a lasting impression on all who behold them in their natural habitat.

Rejuvenating in the Chacapi Hot Springs

After marveling at the majestic condors, the Colca Canyon tour offers a chance to rejuvenate at the Chacapi hot springs.

Visitors can soak in the therapeutic waters for 45 minutes, relieving any built-up stress or soreness from the day’s activities.

The hot springs are:

  • Revitalizing

  • Serene

  • Restorative

Surrounded by the stunning Andes, the hot springs provide a tranquil escape, preparing travelers for the next leg of the journey back to Arequipa.

This natural respite is a highlight for many who seek both adventure and relaxation on their Colca Canyon excursion.

Things To Know

Are There Any Restrictions on the Age of Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back or heart problems due to the physical nature of the activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes a continental breakfast, but lunch is not provided. You’ll need to purchase lunch at a stop along the way or bring cash to buy it.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour package doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. It’s a set 1-day itinerary from Arequipa to Colca Canyon. However, travelers can book additional activities like zip-lining or kayaking for an extra fee.

Can I Purchase Additional Activities On-Site?

Visitors can purchase additional activities like zip-lining and kayaking on-site during the Colca Canyon tour. These optional activities aren’t included in the base package but can be booked separately for an extra fee.

Is the Tour Available Year-Round, or Are There Seasonal Closures?

The Colca Canyon tour operates year-round, with no seasonal closures. Travelers can enjoy the stunning canyon views, spot condors, and relax in the Chacapi hot springs no matter when they visit.

Sum Up

Colca Canyon’s breathtaking beauty, majestic condors, and revitalizing hot springs make this full-day tour from Arequipa an exceptional value at just €27.73 per person. With convenient hotel pickup, a knowledgeable guide, and opportunities for thrilling activities, this adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking to experience the natural wonders of Peru’s stunning Colca Canyon.

You can check availability for your dates here: