2-Day Group Tour to Colca Canyon From Arequipa to Puno

Embarking on a 2-day group tour from Arequipa to Puno promises an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking Andes. This affordable excursion takes travelers on a journey to explore the stunning Colca Canyon, where they’ll have the chance to spot unique wildlife and witness the majestic Andean condors soaring overhead. With round-trip hotel transportation, meals, and accommodations included, the tour offers a hassle-free experience for nature enthusiasts. However, the true allure of this tour lies in the opportunity to take in the region’s captivating landscapes and uncover the rich cultural heritage that permeates the Andes.

Key Points

• Offers a 2-day group tour from Arequipa to Puno, exploring the highlights of Colca Canyon at an affordable rate.
• Includes round-trip hotel transport, meals, and accommodation, providing an immersive Andean experience.
• Provides opportunities to spot unique Andean wildlife such as vicuñas, alpacas, and Andean condors.
• Features scenic alpine landscapes, including volcanoes, glaciers, and the breathtaking views of Colca Canyon.
• Reaches high elevations, emphasizing the importance of proper acclimatization and guide support for altitude-related considerations.

Tour Overview

The 2-Day Group Tour to Colca Canyon from Arequipa to Puno offers a comprehensive exploration of Peru’s stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Rated 4.0/5 from 9 reviews, this tour provides an affordable opportunity to experience the highlights of the Colca Canyon, including wildlife spotting, scenic vistas of lakes, glaciers, and volcanoes, and the chance to reach altitudes of up to 15,000 feet.

With round-trip hotel transport, professional English-speaking guides, and inclusions like overnight accommodation and meals, the tour makes it easy for travelers to enjoy the region’s natural wonders.

Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, this group tour promises an unforgettable Andean experience.

Itinerary Details

The 2-day adventure begins with a 4-hour journey from Arequipa to the town of Yanque, where travelers will have the chance to spot a variety of Andean wildlife, including vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, flamingos, and ibises, against a breathtaking backdrop of lakes, glaciers, and volcanoes.

After reaching the highest point at 4,800 meters (15,000 feet), the group will have leisure time to enjoy the hot springs, go trekking, or simply relax.

On the second day, an early morning pickup leads to the stunning Colca Canyon, where visitors can witness the soaring flight of the majestic Andean condors at the Mirador Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

The journey continues to Chivay and then on to Lake Titicaca, providing scenic views of the Andes, lakes, and lagoons along the way.

Wildlife Spotting

Travelers on this tour can expect to spot a variety of unique Andean wildlife, including the graceful vicuñas, woolly alpacas, and shaggy llamas roaming the rugged landscapes.

Along the journey, you may catch glimpses of:

1. Vibrant flamingos wading in the serene alpine lakes and lagoons.

2. The majestic Andean condor, one of the world’s largest flying birds, soaring high above the breathtaking Colca Canyon.

3. Ibises, with their distinctive long, curved beaks, foraging in the wetlands.

4. A range of other bird species, such as ducks, geese, and various waterfowl, thriving in the diverse ecosystems.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, this tour offers ample opportunities to witness the captivating Andean fauna in its natural habitat.

Scenic Landscapes

Across the journey, travelers will invariably marvel at the stunning alpine landscapes that unfold before them – from the majestic volcanoes and glaciers to the serene lakes and dramatic Colca Canyon.

The tour ventures through the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve, offering breathtaking vistas of the Andes’ snow-capped peaks, including the imposing Ampato, Sabancaya, Huallca, and Misti volcanoes.

As the group reaches the highest point at 4800 meters, they’ll be treated to panoramic views of the region’s alpine lakes and glaciers.

The true highlight, however, is the awe-inspiring Colca Canyon, which plunges over 1200 meters deep and provides an unparalleled backdrop for the tour’s condor sightings.

Pickup and Transportation

Guests can select from designated pickup points across Arequipa, with the tour departing promptly at 7:00 am.

For the journey to Lake Titicaca, travelers will be transported in a comfortable tourist coach. The tour reaches altitudes of up to 4800m (15,000ft) and 4850m (12,000ft), offering stunning vistas of the Andes along the way.

The tour includes:

1. Scenic views of volcanoes, alpine lakes, and glaciers.

2. Spotting of unique Andean wildlife such as llamas, alpacas, flamingos, and ibises.

3. Visiting the dramatic Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.

4. Arriving in Puno with a private transfer to your hotel.

Altitude Considerations

The tour reaches altitudes of up to 4800m (15,000ft) and 4850m (12,000ft), requiring participants to be mindful of the potential effects of high elevation.

Travelers may experience symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and headaches due to the thinner air at these heights. It’s important to stay hydrated, take it slow, and listen to your body.

The tour guides are experienced in dealing with altitude sickness and can provide guidance and support if needed. Acclimatization is crucial, so the itinerary allows for gradual ascent to help your body adjust.

Booking Requirements

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required for this tour, with confirmation received within 48 hours and subject to availability.

Specific dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 44 days in advance.

The booking process for this Colca Canyon tour includes:

1. Selecting from the designated pickup points with a start time of 7:00 AM.

2. Comfortable tourist coaches for the journey to Lake Titicaca, reaching altitudes up to 4,850 meters (15,000 feet).

3. Opportunities to spot unique Andean animals like llamas, alpacas, flamingos, and ibises along the way.

4. Stunning landscapes including volcanoes, alpine lakes, glaciers, and the dramatic Colca Canyon.

Dietary Needs and Cancellation

Travelers can communicate any specific dietary requirements when booking the Colca Canyon tour, which the provider will aim to accommodate.

Whether you have allergies, intolerances, or personal preferences, the team will work to ensure your culinary needs are met during this immersive Andean adventure.

Plus, the tour offers a free cancellation policy up to 44 days in advance, providing flexibility for those who need to change their plans.

This allows guests to reserve their spot with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their circumstances change.

The provider understands that dietary needs and travel plans can be unpredictable, so they strive to offer a hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is a minimum of 2 people per booking. The tour requires a minimum of 2 participants, as indicated in the booking requirements, to confirm and proceed with the scheduled trip.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t require any specialized equipment, but travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, warm layers, sun protection, and any needed medication. The high-altitude locations recommend packing items to help with potential altitude sickness.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage?

The tour operator doesn’t mention any specific luggage restrictions. However, it’s advisable to pack light as the transportation is in a tourist coach with limited space. Travelers should avoid bringing large, bulky bags that could be difficult to manage during the journey.

Can I Extend My Stay in Puno After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Puno after the tour. The tour package provides transportation to your hotel in Puno, but does not include accommodation beyond the end of the tour. You’ll need to book additional nights separately.

Are There Any Medical Facilities Along the Route?

The tour route passes through remote mountain regions, but there are medical facilities in the larger towns along the way. Travelers should check with the tour operator for information on the nearest medical services in case of an emergency.

Recap

This 2-day group tour from Arequipa to Puno offers an immersive adventure through the stunning Colca Canyon.

Travelers will witness breathtaking Andean landscapes, spot unique wildlife, and experience the region’s rich culture.

With round-trip transportation, meals, and accommodations included, it’s an affordable and hassle-free way to explore the Andes.

Flexible booking and dietary options make this tour accessible for nature enthusiasts of all kinds.