From Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon Ending in Puno

The "From Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon Ending in Puno" offers an exhilarating full-day adventure for travelers. Starting with an early morning pickup, the tour takes guests on a scenic bus ride to witness the breathtaking Andean condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. While the high-altitude conditions may pose challenges, the included visits to hot springs and meals provide a well-rounded experience. Ultimately, this excursion promises to immerse adventurers in the stunning natural wonders of the Colca Canyon before concluding in the vibrant city of Puno.

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Good To Know

Full-day adventure from Arequipa to Colca Canyon, ending in Puno, priced from $72.00 per person, including pickup and transportation.
Highlights include a visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint for Andean condor sightings, hot springs, and scenic stops along the way.
Tour is not recommended for individuals with heart problems or wheelchair users due to high altitudes and long bus rides.
Continental breakfast and lunch are included, but vegetarian options may be limited, and travelers should communicate any dietary restrictions.
Booking options include Book Now & Pay Later, Instant Booking, and Free Cancellation, with group discounts available for bookings of 4 or more.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The excursion from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon is a full-day adventure that culminates in an arrival at Puno.

The excursion from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon is a full-day adventure that culminates in an arrival at Puno.

Priced from $72.00 per person, the tour includes pickup from Arequipa, a 4-hour bus ride to Chivay, and a visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint to see the stunning Colca Canyon and spot condors.

After stops at hot springs and a lunch break, the journey continues with a 6-hour drive to Puno, making scenic stops along the way.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with heart problems or wheelchair users, but features a convenient reserve now, pay later option.

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

Itinerary Highlights

The excursion begins with a 3:15 a.m. pickup at the Historical Centre of Arequipa, followed by a 4-hour bus ride to Chivay.

Once there, guests enjoy:

A continental breakfast high in the Andes at over 3,000 meters above sea level.
A visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint to spot the majestic Andean condors.
Stops at Wayrapunko, Antahuillque, and the relaxing Chacapi Hot Springs.
A lunch break in Chivay before the 6-hour drive to Puno, with scenic viewpoints and the Salinas Reserve along the way.

The day concludes with arrival in Puno around 7:30 p.m.

Included and Excluded Services

The excursion includes pickup in Arequipa and drop-off in Puno, as well as transportation by bus throughout the day.

The excursion offers pickup in Arequipa and drop-off in Puno, with transportation by bus throughout the day.

A bilingual guide provides commentary in Spanish and English. Continental breakfast and lunch are provided. Entrance fees to the Colca Canyon and Chacapi Hot Springs are covered.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with heart problems or wheelchair users. Travelers should bring their passport/ID, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, snacks, and water.

Pets and plastic bags aren’t allowed. Availability should be checked for specific dates and group sizes.

Suitability and Warnings

Although the excursion to Colca Canyon is suitable for most travelers, there are a few important considerations. The tour isn’t recommended for people with heart problems or wheelchair users.

Here are some other key points:

The tour involves long bus rides and high altitudes, which may be challenging for some.
Guests are advised to bring appropriate clothing, sun protection, and snacks to stay comfortable.
Plastic bags aren’t allowed on the tour, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Vegetarian lunch options may be limited, so guests with dietary restrictions should inform the provider in advance.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

Tourists who’ve taken the Colca Canyon excursion have shared their experiences online, providing a useful overview of what to expect.

The overall rating stands at 3.8 out of 5 based on 86 reviews. Positive comments praise the knowledgeable and helpful guides, Andrea and Juan, as well as the incredible scenery and chance to see condors.

However, some travelers expressed concerns about limited vegetarian lunch options and difficulty finding taxis in Puno upon arrival.

Prospective customers should review these insights to set reasonable expectations and plan accordingly for a smooth and enjoyable day trip from Arequipa to Colca Canyon.

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What to Bring and Restrictions

For the Colca Canyon excursion, travelers are advised to bring a few key items. This includes:

Passport or ID for the entry fees.
Sunglasses and a sun hat to protect against the high-altitude sun.
Swimwear if planning to visit the Chacapi Hot Springs.
Snacks and water to stay hydrated throughout the long journey.

Pets and plastic bags aren’t allowed on the tour.

Travelers should also check availability for their desired dates and group size.

Travelers should check availability for their desired dates and group size to ensure a smooth Colca Canyon experience.

While the itinerary is subject to change, these packing tips and restrictions will help ensure a smooth and comfortable Colca Canyon experience.

Availability and Itinerary Changes

When planning a Colca Canyon excursion, travelers should check the availability for their desired dates and group size. This one-day tour departing from Arequipa has limited spaces, so it’s best to book in advance.

The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, road conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances. Though the tour generally follows the outlined schedule, stops and timing may vary. Travelers should remain flexible and follow their guide’s instructions.

It’s also a good idea to reconfirm pickup and drop-off details prior to the trip. By planning ahead, adventurers can ensure a smooth and memorable Colca Canyon experience.

Booking and Payment Options

Travelers can book this Colca Canyon excursion directly through the tour provider’s website or by contacting their sales team.

Colca Canyon excursions can be booked directly through the tour provider’s website or by contacting their sales team.

The available options include:

Book Now & Pay Later: Secure your spot with a deposit and pay the remaining balance at least 24 hours before the tour date.
Instant Booking: Pay in full at the time of booking to guarantee your reservation.
Free Cancellation: Modify or cancel your booking up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
Group Discounts: Save when booking for 4 or more participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. Customers can contact the tour provider to inquire about private group bookings and pricing options. The tour’s itinerary and inclusions remain the same for both private and shared group tours.

Is There an Option to Start the Tour From Puno?

The tour can be booked as a private group, but there’s no option to start the tour from Puno. The tour departs from Arequipa and ends in Puno, with no flexibility to change the starting point.

Do You Offer Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off in Arequipa and Puno?

The tour includes pickup in Arequipa and drop-off in Puno, but doesn’t offer hotel pickup or drop-off. Transportation is provided by bus throughout the excursion to the Colca Canyon and between the two cities.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to include additional stops. The tour provider offers flexibility to tailor the experience based on your interests, though this may incur an extra fee. Just let them know what you’d like to see.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. A reserve now, pay later option is available. The refund policy depends on the timing of the cancellation.

The Sum Up

The "From Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon Ending in Puno" offers an exhilarating full-day adventure, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Travelers should prepare for high-altitude conditions and be aware of the early start time and long bus rides. This tour provides a chance to witness stunning Andean landscapes and the majestic condors, making it a popular choice for those seeking an immersive Peruvian experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: