From Arequipa: Full Day Colca Canyon Tour

Explore the stunning Colca Canyon on a full-day tour from Arequipa. This 14-hour adventure takes visitors through breathtaking landscapes, offering the chance to witness the majestic flight of the Andean Condor at the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint. With a shared guided experience, transportation, and essential amenities included, it’s an opportunity to take in the rich culture and natural wonders of this remarkable region. Additional activities and experiences can be added, making it a well-rounded exploration of the Colca Canyon.

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Key Points

A full-day excursion from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon, priced at $48.33 per person, with a duration of 14 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour highlights include the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca, Cruz del Condor viewpoints, and exploration of Andean villages like Chivay, Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque.
The tour includes transportation, a shared guide, breakfast, and a first aid kit, while entrance fees and lunch are additional costs.
The tour is not suitable for individuals with altitude sickness, heart problems, or wheelchair users, and a good physical condition is recommended.
The average altitude of the region is 3,400 meters above sea level, and cash is needed for entrance tickets and optional activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa is a full-day excursion priced from $48.33 per person.

The 14-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Highlights include visiting the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca, reaching the Andean village of Chivay, and exploring viewpoints like Cruz del Condor to see the Andean Condor.

The tour also offers the opportunity to visit hot springs and enjoy a local lunch.

Transportation, a shared guide, breakfast, and a first aid kit are included, while entrance fees and lunch cost extra.

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Itinerary Highlights

Early morning pickup from hotel in Arequipa kicks off the Colca Canyon Tour.

The tour first visits the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca, where visitors can spot vicuñas at 4,000 meters above sea level.

Next, it reaches Chivay, an Andean village at 3,635 meters.

The main highlight is the Cruz del Condor viewpoints at 4,700 meters for Andean Condor sightings.

Along the way, the tour explores the towns of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque.

At the Antahuilque viewpoint (3,700 m.a.s.l.), colorful lagoons and platforms can be admired.

Activities and Experiences

Throughout the tour, visitors can admire the stunning landscapes of volcanoes and the Colca River.

The highlight is the opportunity to see the flight of the Andean Condor, a South American heritage. Guests can also choose to have lunch at a local restaurant in Chivay or visit the nearby hot springs with healing properties.

The highlight is the chance to see the Andean Condor, a South American icon. Visitors can also enjoy lunch in Chivay or soak in nearby healing hot springs.

These optional activities allow travelers to enjoy the local culture and experience the natural wonders of the region.

The tour provides a well-rounded exploration of the Colca Canyon, offering a chance to witness the majestic Andean Condor in its natural habitat.

Transportation and Inclusions

The Colca Canyon tour includes round-trip transfers from hotels in Arequipa, providing convenient transportation to and from the destination.

The tour is a shared guided experience with commentary in both Spanish and English. Breakfast and a first aid kit are also included.

Entrance fees to the Colca Canyon (S/ 40.00 for Latins, S/ 70.00 for foreigners) and optional hot springs (S/ 15.00 per person) are required.

Lunch at a local restaurant in Chivay is available for an additional cost of S/ 25.00 to S/ 35.00 per person.

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Important Information

The Colca Canyon tour may not be suitable for individuals with altitude sickness, heart problems, or wheelchair users, as the average altitude of the region is 3,400 meters above sea level.

Visitors are advised to bring the following:

Passport, camera, and binoculars to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife
Comfortable clothing and a jacket to prepare for the changing weather conditions
Cash to cover expenses such as the entrance ticket and optional activities like visiting the hot springs

A good physical condition is recommended, as the tour involves walking on unpaved or uneven terrain.

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Exploring the National Reserve of Salinas Y Aguada Blanca

As the tour begins, visitors are taken to the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca, an arid and high-altitude region located at 4,000 meters above sea level.

This protected area is home to the majestic vicuña, a small camelid species revered by the Incas. Visitors have the opportunity to observe these graceful creatures in their natural habitat, surrounded by the stark beauty of the Andean landscape.

The reserve’s diverse flora and fauna, including rare plant species, provide a glimpse into the unique ecosystem of this high-altitude region.

Exploring the National Reserve is a captivating start to the Colca Canyon adventure.

Discovering the Charms of Chivay

After exploring the majestic vicuñas in the National Reserve, the tour continues its journey to the Andean village of Chivay.

Nestled at an altitude of 3,635 m.a.s.l., Chivay offers a glimpse into the traditional Andean way of life:

Wander through the charming plazas and admire the colonial architecture that reflects the region’s rich heritage.
Indulge in the local cuisine, savoring the flavors of the Andes at one of the cozy restaurants.
Discover the healing properties of the nearby hot springs, a popular destination for visitors seeking to rejuvenate.

Witnessing the Majestic Andean Condors at Cruz Del Condor

What awaits visitors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoints, perched at an impressive altitude of 4,700 m.a.s.l.? The opportunity to witness the majestic Andean Condor, the largest flying bird in the Western Hemisphere, soaring effortlessly on the air currents. These massive birds, with wingspans reaching over 3 meters, glide gracefully, offering breathtaking displays of their prowess. Visitors can marvel at this incredible natural sight, a true highlight of the Colca Canyon tour.

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Since You Asked

What Is the Group Size for the Tour?

The tour is a shared group experience, but the specific group size is not provided in the details. Details mention the tour is guided, but the maximum number of participants is not specified.

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

The tour is open to travelers of all ages, including children. However, it’s not recommended for those with altitude sickness, heart problems, or who use wheelchairs, as the high elevation and uneven terrain may be challenging.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though lunch at a local restaurant is an optional add-on. Bringing snacks and water is recommended, especially given the high altitude of the Colca Canyon.

Is the Tour Guided in Other Languages Besides Spanish and English?

The tour is guided in Spanish and English. While the tour description doesn’t mention other languages, guests should check with the tour provider if they require service in a different language.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Mentioned in the Pricing?

The pricing provided doesn’t mention any additional fees or taxes. However, it’s possible there may be other costs not listed, such as tips or personal expenses. Travelers should check with the tour provider for a full breakdown of all charges.

The Sum Up

The Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Andes and the majestic Andean Condors. Priced at just $48.33 per person, this full-day adventure provides a shared guided experience with transportation, breakfast, and first aid kit included, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s natural wonders and rich local culture.