Exploring the breathtaking Colca Canyon in a single day from Arequipa is an enticing opportunity. This 16-hour journey offers a chance to marvel at the stunning views along the way, including the famous Cruz del Cóndor. While the tour provides a convenient and cost-effective way to experience this natural wonder, travelers should consider the potential challenges posed by lengthy bus rides and additional fees. With the right preparation and mindset, this one-day adventure can be a truly memorable experience.
Good To Know
- A one-day trip from Arequipa to Colca Canyon, ending in Puno, priced at $65.99 per person with a 16-hour duration including hotel pickup, guide, breakfast, and lunch.
- The itinerary includes visiting Cruz del Cóndor for canyon and condor views, several towns, viewpoints, and Chacapi Hot Springs, with lunch in Chivay.
- Additional fees apply for entrance tickets to Colca Canyon and optional thermal baths, while other activities provide opportunities to explore the region’s natural wonders.
- The trip has an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, with praise for knowledgeable guides and impressive natural attractions, but concerns about lengthy bus rides and overall comfort.
- Suggestions for upgrading transportation, optimizing the travel schedule, and providing snacks and beverages during the journey to enhance the overall experience.
Trip Overview and Pricing
This one-day trip from Arequipa to Colca Canyon ending in Puno is priced from $65.99 per person.
The 16-hour duration includes hotel pickup, an official guide, breakfast and lunch. Entrance fees to Colca Canyon and optional thermal baths are extra.
The 16-hour duration includes hotel pickup, an official guide, breakfast and lunch. Entrance fees to Colca Canyon and optional thermal baths are extra.
There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option.
Reviews mention positive experiences with guides and attractions, but concerns about long bus rides and comfort.
Travelers should ensure caution during adverse weather and expect potential itinerary changes, while considering the mixed feedback on transportation and value for money.
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Itinerary Highlights
The one-day trip from Arequipa to Colca Canyon and onward to Puno begins with an early start, with pickups at hotels between 02:30 and 03:00 AM.
The first stop is for breakfast, followed by a visit to the Cruz del Cóndor, a prime spot to view one of the world’s deepest canyons and the majestic Andean condors.
The tour then visits several towns, viewpoints, and the Chacapi Hot Springs.
Lunch is in Chivay, and the journey continues, stopping at a volcano viewpoint and observing wildlife in wetlands before arriving in Puno around 7 PM.
Inclusions and Fees
Although the one-day trip from Arequipa to Colca Canyon and Puno includes several inclusions, there are also additional fees for certain activities.
The tour includes:
The tour includes tourist mobility, hotel pickup, official tourism guide, and breakfast and lunch.
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Tourist mobility
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Hotel pickup
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Official tourism guide (English, Spanish)
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Breakfast and lunch
However, travelers must pay additional fees for:
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Entrance tickets to Colca Canyon: Foreigners S/. 70.00, National S/. 20.00, Latin S/. 40.00
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Entrance to thermal baths: S/. 15.00 (optional)
These optional activities provide opportunities to explore the region’s natural wonders for an additional cost.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have provided a [NUMERIC_DETERMINER] mixed set of reviews for the one-day Colca Canyon trip, with an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars based on 11 reviews.
Reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides and impressive natural attractions, but expressed concerns about the lengthy bus rides and overall comfort level.
The transportation received a 2/5 rating, with suggestions for improved bus conditions.
Despite the mixed feedback, the value for money was rated 3/5.
The reviews indicate a need to focus on enhancing the transportation and comfort aspects of the tour to improve the overall customer experience.
More Great Tours NearbyTransportation Considerations
Transportation appears to be a key consideration based on the reviews.
Travelers have expressed concerns about the long bus rides and overall comfort. To address these issues, the tour operator may consider the following:
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Upgrading to more comfortable vehicles, such as modern buses with reclining seats and ample legroom.
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Optimizing the travel schedule to minimize long stretches of driving and incorporate more frequent rest stops.
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Providing snacks and beverages to enhance the overall travel experience.
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Ensuring that the tour guide is attentive to passengers’ needs and able to provide updates on the itinerary.
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Activity and Attraction Details
The Colca Canyon tour offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that showcase the region’s natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy stunning vistas from viewpoints like Cruz del Cóndor, Antahuilque, and Choquetico. They’ll also have the opportunity to explore pre-Inca tombs and marvel at the wildlife in the Tocrapampa wetlands and Pampa Cañahuas. For an added experience, travelers can opt to visit the Chacapi Hot Springs and enjoy a leisurely lunch in Chivay. The tour’s itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the Colca Canyon’s natural and cultural highlights.
| Attraction | Duration | Additional Cost |
| — | — | — |
| Cruz del Cóndor | 30 mins | Included |
| Antahuilque Viewpoint | 30 mins | Included |
| Chacapi Hot Springs | 1 hour | S/. 15.00 |
| Lunch in Chivay | 1 hour | Extra fee |
| Volcano Viewpoint | 30 mins | Included |
Preparing for the Trip
Before embarking on the one-day trip to Colca Canyon, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, be prepared for an early start, as pickup times begin as early as 2:30 AM.
Secondly, dress in layers to accommodate the varying temperatures encountered throughout the day.
Thirdly, bring a small snack and water to sustain you during the long bus rides.
Lastly, ensure you have the necessary funds for optional activities, such as the Chacapi Hot Springs and lunch in Chivay.
Flexibility and Booking Options
One of the key benefits of this one-day Colca Canyon tour is its flexibility.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, giving them the freedom to book the trip on their own schedule. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, they can adjust their plans if needed.
The itinerary also allows for flexibility, with optional activities like visiting the Chacapi Hot Springs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Bring for the Colca Canyon Hike?
For the Colca Canyon hike, you’ll need sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, sun protection, plenty of water, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning views. Don’t forget to pack any necessary medications and personal items you may need.
Is There an Option to Extend the Trip to Multiple Days?
Yes, there’s an option to extend the Colca Canyon trip to multiple days. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing travelers to customize their itinerary and stay longer in the canyon or surrounding areas.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for This Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though the long bus rides may not be suitable for very young kids. Travelers should consider their own fitness and comfort levels when booking.
Can I Book This Tour in My Native Language?
Travelers can book this tour in their native language, as the tour includes an official tourism guide who provides commentary in both English and Spanish. This accommodates a wide range of language preferences for an enjoyable experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?
The trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now & pay later option, providing flexibility to adjust travel plans as needed.
The Sum Up
This one-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa to Puno offers an affordable way to witness the stunning natural beauty of the Andes. While it includes essential amenities, travelers should be prepared for lengthy bus rides and potential comfort challenges. With flexible booking options, this adventure is a practical choice for those seeking an immersive exploration of southern Peru’s iconic landmarks.
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