Colca Canyon, a natural wonder nestled in the Andes, beckons intrepid travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure. This full-day trip from Arequipa to Puno promises to immerse visitors in the region’s rich cultural tapestry and awe-inspiring landscapes. Priced at £64.22 per person, the journey offers a comprehensive itinerary, including stops at breathtaking viewpoints and charming towns. With expert guidance and flexible pickup options, this expedition promises to leave an indelible mark on the minds of those who embark on it. What secrets and surprises might this captivating canyon hold?
Key Points
- This full-day tour takes travelers from Arequipa to Colca Canyon and then to Puno, covering approximately 16 hours in total.
- The tour includes pickup from central Arequipa, a 3-hour bus ride to Chivay for breakfast, and visits to key viewpoints and towns.
- The tour price is £64.22 per person, with optional activities like hot spring visits and lunch available for an additional fee.
- Inclusions cover tourist transport, a professional guide, continental breakfast, hotel pickup, and transfer to Puno, but exclude lunch and hot spring fees.
- The tour is not recommended for certain groups, such as children under 6, pregnant women, and those with heart problems, due to the high-altitude terrain.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This full-day trip to Colca Canyon from Arequipa ends in Puno, with a price of £64.22 per person.
The 16-hour tour includes pickup from central Arequipa, a 3-hour bus ride to Chivay for breakfast, a visit to Cruz del Cóndor, and exploration of local towns.
An optional hot spring visit and lunch in Chivay are available for an extra fee.
The tour is conducted in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
A reserve now & pay later option is also available.
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Itinerary and Highlights
The tour begins with pickup from central Arequipa between 02:30h and 03:05h, followed by a 3-hour bus ride to the town of Chivay, where travelers enjoy a continental breakfast.
Next, the group visits the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint to see the majestic Andean condors. They then explore the typical towns of Yanque and Maca, with their colonial churches and pre-Inca terraces.
An optional hot spring visit provides a chance to relax. After lunch in Chivay, the scenic drive continues, with stops at the Patapampa viewpoint and the Pampa Cañahuas national reserve for wildlife viewing, before arriving in Puno around 19:00h.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes tourist transport via shared minibus or minivan, a professional tour guide, continental breakfast, hotel pickup, and transfer to Puno.
The mandatory tourist entrance fee ticket, valued at $19 USD, is also covered. However, lunch and hot spring fees are excluded and incur additional costs.
This day trip isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those over 95 due to the challenging high-altitude terrain and activities.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own luggage without restrictions and to contact the tour provider via WhatsApp for pickup details prior to departure.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
How does the Colca Canyon day trip from Arequipa fare based on customer feedback and ratings?
The tour boasts an overall rating of 4 out of 5 from 3 reviews. Customers praise the good communication and excellent guide, though some complain about an uncomfortable bus, language barriers, and lack of altitude sickness assistance.
With a mix of positive and negative feedback, the tour seems to offer a generally satisfactory experience, but with room for improvement, particularly in terms of transportation comfort and responsiveness to travelers’ needs.
More Great Tours NearbyAdditional Information
Pickup options for the Colca Canyon day trip include the Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport and the Historical Centre of Arequipa.
Travelers can bring luggage without restrictions, providing flexibility during the tour.
The itinerary is subject to change, so participants should contact the tour operator via WhatsApp for pickup details prior to departure. This ensures smooth coordination and timely communication.
The full-day excursion isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those over 95 due to the high altitude and strenuous activities involved.
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Pickup and Flexibility
Where can travelers be picked up for the Colca Canyon day trip?
Travelers have two options for pickup – the Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport or the Historical Centre of Arequipa.
The tour provides hotel pickup, so travelers don’t need to worry about transportation to the starting point.
The itinerary also offers flexibility, as travelers can bring their luggage without restrictions. This means they don’t have to worry about leaving bags behind at their accommodation.
However, the itinerary is subject to change, so travelers should stay in touch with the tour company via WhatsApp for any pickup details prior to departure.
Itinerary Changes
The itinerary for the Colca Canyon day trip is subject to change.
While the tour generally follows the outlined schedule, unexpected factors like weather, traffic, or logistics may require adjustments. The tour provider will make every effort to maintain the core experiences, but the order and timing of activities could vary.
Guests should remain flexible and prepared for potential alterations. The guide will communicate any significant changes prior to or during the tour.
Ultimately, the safety and enjoyment of participants is the top priority, even if the itinerary differs slightly from the original plan.
Contact for Pickup Details
Guests are advised to contact the tour provider via WhatsApp prior to their departure for pickup details. This will help ensure a smooth start to the day trip. The table below outlines the pickup options and details:
| Pickup Location | Pickup Time | Additional Information |
|—————–|————-|————————|
| Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport | 02:30 – 03:05 | Hotel pickup available |
| Historical Centre of Arequipa | 02:30 – 03:05 | Hotel pickup available |
Providing this information in advance allows the tour operator to coordinate the pickup process efficiently. Guests are encouraged to communicate directly with the provider to confirm all arrangements before embarking on their Colca Canyon adventure.
Since You Asked
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour information doesn’t mention any restrictions on outside food and beverages, so you’re free to pack your own snacks and drinks for the day.
Is There a Restroom on the Bus During the Journey?
The tour bus does have a restroom on board for passengers to use during the journey. Passengers can access the restroom as needed throughout the 16-hour trip. However, it’s recommended to use restrooms at the scheduled stops when possible.
Can I Extend My Stay in Puno After the Tour Ends?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Puno after the tour ends. The tour package includes transportation to Puno, so you’re free to continue your journey from there as you see fit. Just check with the tour operator about any additional costs.
What Should I Bring to Prepare for the Cold Weather?
To prepare for the cold weather, it’s best to bring warm layers like thermal underwear, thick sweaters, gloves, hats, and weatherproof jackets. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as well. Bringing extra snacks and water is also recommended.
The tour offers a private option, but it’s not mentioned in the description. Customers can inquire with the tour provider about booking a private tour instead of the shared minibus/minivan if they prefer a more personalized experience.
The Sum Up
This full-day trip from Arequipa to Colca Canyon and Puno offers an unforgettable adventure. Priced at £64.22 per person, the 16-hour journey includes a scenic bus ride, breakfast, and visits to breathtaking viewpoints like Cruz del Cóndor. With flexible pickup options and professional guidance, it promises an enriching cultural experience amidst stunning Andean landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here:More 1-Day Tours in Chivay
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