From Arequipa: Day Trip to the Colca Canyon

Situated in southern Peru, the Colca Canyon is a natural wonder that captivates visitors from around the world. This day trip from Arequipa promises an unforgettable adventure, taking travelers on a scenic journey to witness the majestic Andean condors and explore the breathtaking landscapes. With an experienced guide, travelers can dive into the history and culture of this remarkable destination, discovering hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling outdoor experience or a chance to learn about the region’s natural beauty, this day trip offers a well-rounded itinerary that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Good To Know

Take a 15-hour day trip from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon, including a 3-hour drive, breakfast, and 1.5 hours observing condors at Mirador de la Cruz del Condor.
Enjoy optional activities like thermal baths, ziplining, and hiking, with a live tour guide providing insights in Spanish and English.
Expect hotel pickup, transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a professional guide to be included in the trip cost, which starts from $60.00 per person.
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and cash for additional expenses and activities.
Plan to return to Arequipa between 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This day trip to the Colca Canyon from Arequipa lasts approximately 15 hours.

The price starts from $60.00 per person, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later.

The early morning pickup from the hotel lobby allows for a 3-hour drive to Chivay, where breakfast is served.

The highlight is observing condors in flight at the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor for 1.5 hours. There are also stops for natural viewpoints and Sancayo ice cream.

Lunch is included, and the return trip includes more scenic stops.

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Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins with an early pickup at the hotel lobby, though guests are advised to wait up to 10 minutes for the vehicle’s arrival.

The travel time to Chivay is approximately 3 hours, where guests will enjoy breakfast.

Next, the group visits the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor to observe the majestic condors in flight for 1.5 hours.

Along the way, there are additional stops for natural viewpoints and a chance to try the famous Sancayo ice cream.

Optional activities include thermal baths in Chacapi, ziplining, and hiking, with a 1-hour stop.

Lunch is included before the return trip.

Guided Experience

Although the day trip is self-guided, a live tour guide is available throughout the experience to provide insights in both Spanish and English.

The guide’s expertise enhances the journey, offering:

Insightful commentary about the majestic Colca Canyon and the elusive Andean condors.
Opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the condors in flight and the breathtaking scenery.
Helpful recommendations on navigating the various stops and making the most of the day.

With the knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of the Colca Canyon.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The day trip to the Colca Canyon includes hotel pickup, transportation from Arequipa to Chivay, breakfast, lunch, and the services of a professional guide.

Entrance fees are also covered. However, the trip excludes meals not mentioned, snacks, drinks, gifts, and souvenirs.

Visitors are responsible for their own personal expenses and service tips, which are optional. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and cash for any additional expenses.

The return to Arequipa is typically between 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

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Preparation and Recommendations

While the day trip to the Colca Canyon may not be suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, travelers can prepare for an enjoyable experience by packing comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water.

To ensure a comfortable outing, it’s recommended to:

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
Bring cash for any additional activities or purchases.
Expect a return to Arequipa between 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

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Hotel Pickup and Transportation

As the day trip begins, hotel pickup is included to whisk travelers from their accommodations in Arequipa to the starting point of the Colca Canyon adventure.

The journey takes approximately 3 hours, with a brief 10-minute wait at the hotel lobby before departure. Along the way, the experienced guide provides insights about the region’s geography and wildlife.

Travelers can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive, passing by picturesque landscapes and small towns.

Upon arrival in Chivay, a breakfast stop is made to fuel up before continuing the day’s exploration of the stunning Colca Canyon.

Exploring Chivay and Condor Watching

What awaits travelers upon arrival in Chivay? A hearty breakfast at a local eatery, fueling up for the day’s adventures.

The first stop is the iconic Mirador de la Cruz del Condor, where visitors can witness the majestic Andean condors soaring effortlessly on the morning thermals for up to 1.5 hours.

After this incredible display, the tour continues with:

Stops at natural viewpoints to capture stunning panoramic shots of the Colca Canyon.
A chance to savor the local Sancayo ice cream, a refreshing treat.
Optional activities like thermal baths, ziplining, or hiking for those seeking additional thrills.

Additional Stops and Optional Activities

After the exhilarating condor watching, the tour continues with additional stops and optional activities. Visitors can indulge in Sancayo ice cream, a local specialty, or opt for a relaxing dip in the thermal baths of Chacapi. For the adventurous, ziplining and hiking are available. The tour also makes stops at the Patapampa viewpoint and the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca, where travelers can observe camelids like alpacas and vicuñas.

| Additional Stops | Optional Activities |

| — | — |

| Sancayo ice cream | Thermal baths in Chacapi |

| Patapampa viewpoint | Ziplining |

| National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca | 1-hour hiking |

| Camelid observation | |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Day Trip?

The typical group size for this day trip is small, with a maximum of around 8-12 travelers. This allows for a more personalized experience and easier maneuverability during the various stops and activities along the way.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary or Activities?

The itinerary and activities for this Colca Canyon day trip can’t be customized. However, travelers can choose optional extras like thermal baths, ziplining, or hiking during the tour. The standard itinerary is set to provide a comprehensive Colca Canyon experience.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Stop Along the Route?

The itinerary allocates about 1.5 hours for observing condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, plus additional stops for natural scenery, ice cream, and optional activities like thermal baths or hiking, each lasting around 1 hour.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Requests Accommodated?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions and special meal requests. Guests can notify the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking, and the provided lunch will be catered accordingly.

Is It Possible to Leave the Tour at Any Point and Rejoin Later?

The tour does not allow for participants to leave and rejoin the group during the day trip. It’s a structured itinerary without the option to split off and meet back up later.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon offers a chance to witness the impressive Andean condors, explore picturesque viewpoints, and experience the region’s stunning landscapes. With hotel pickup, transportation, a guided tour, and a delicious breakfast included, it’s an excellent value-for-money adventure that shouldn’t be missed. Prepare for breathtaking sights and lasting memories on this unforgettable journey to one of the world’s deepest canyons.

You can check availability for your dates here: