Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tour in 3 Days

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Peru’s southern Andes. This 3-day tour showcases the captivating city of Arequipa and the breathtaking Colca Canyon, a natural wonder teeming with cultural richness. Discover architectural gems, witness the majestic Andean condors soaring above, and learn about the vibrant local traditions. With thoughtfully curated experiences and comfortable accommodations, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression. Prepare to be enchanted by the region’s diverse landscapes and uncover the secrets that make Arequipa and Colca Canyon so alluring.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best 3 Day Tours In Chivay.

Key Points

1. 3-day tour exploring Arequipa, the "White City," and the stunning Colca Canyon, known for its breathtaking Andean vistas.

2. Tour package includes 2 nights’ accommodation, transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees to landmarks like the Santa Catalina Monastery and Colca Canyon’s Cruz del Condor.

3. Itinerary highlights include a city tour of Arequipa, a visit to the thermal baths in Chivay, and an early-morning trek to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint for Andean condor sightings.

4. Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making the tour suitable for a range of travelers.

5. The tour emphasizes Andean culture, pre-Inca history, and the natural beauty of the Arequipa and Colca Canyon region.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

What does the Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tour entail?

It’s a 3-day exploration of Arequipa and the stunning Colca Canyon, priced from $273 per person. The tour offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You’ll enjoy a city tour of Arequipa, visit the Colca Canyon, and take in spectacular scenery along the way.

The package includes 2 nights’ hotel accommodation, 2 breakfasts, transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees.

Whether you’re seeking Andean culture, pre-Inca history, or breathtaking vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in southern Peru.

Itinerary

Embarking on the Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tour, travelers will enjoy a captivating 3-day exploration.

On the first day, they’ll discover the highlights of Arequipa, including the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, the city’s beautiful main square, and the imposing cathedral.

The second day takes them on a scenic journey through stunning landscapes, culminating in the thermal baths of Chivay and a folkloric dinner show.

The final day begins early with a visit to the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where they’ll have the chance to spot the majestic Andean condor.

Along the way, they’ll explore charming colonial towns and take in the breathtaking vistas of the Colca Canyon before returning to Arequipa.

Day 1: Arequipa

The Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tour begins with travelers’ pickup from the airport in Arequipa, the "White City" nestled between towering volcanoes.

The city tour showcases the city’s architectural gems, including the Santa Catalina Monastery, a sprawling 16th-century complex with vibrant facades.

Visitors also explore the Main Square, home to the grand Cathedral and the Jesus Company, a Jesuit church renowned for its intricate carvings.

The tour culminates at the Yanahuara Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the city and the surrounding Andes mountains.

After a day of immersing in Arequipa’s history and culture, travelers settle into their accommodations for the night.

Day 2: Arequipa to Chivay

Departing between 7:30 and 8:00 am, the tour journeys through the Yura highway, Pampa Cańahuas, Aguada Blanca and Salinas National Reserve, offering travelers a chance to admire the stunning vistas at a viewpoint situated 4,800 meters above sea level.

Upon arriving in Chivay, the group enjoys a lunch (not included) before heading to the nearby thermal baths of La Calera, where they can soak in the 35-38 degree Celsius waters.

The day concludes with a dinner featuring a folklore show (also not included).

The highlights of this day include:

1. Traversing the scenic Yura highway and protected natural areas.
2. Admiring the viewpoint at an impressive elevation of 4,800 meters.
3. Relaxing in the soothing thermal baths of La Calera.

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Day 3: Chivay to Arequipa

On the final day, guests awake at 6:00 am to enjoy a continental breakfast before setting out to witness the majestic Andean condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

This iconic spot offers a breathtaking panorama of the Colca Canyon, providing the perfect opportunity to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.

The tour then continues with stops at the picturesque towns of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque, each showcasing their unique colonial churches.

Included Services

As part of the Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tour, travelers can expect a comprehensive package of included services.

The tour includes:

1. 2 nights of hotel accommodation and 2 breakfasts, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free stay.
2. The Colca Canyon Tour, which covers transportation, a professional guide (English/Spanish), a folkloric show, and a tourist ticket, providing a rich cultural experience.
3. The Arequipa City Tour, which includes transportation, a guide, and entrance fees to key landmarks, such as the stunning St. Catherine’s Monastery.

Plus, the tour includes all necessary transfers to hotels, airports, and tour destinations, making the logistics seamless for the traveler.

Highlights and Attractions

The Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tour offers travelers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Explore the stunning St. Catherine’s Monastery, a 16th-century convent renowned for its vibrant architecture and fascinating history. Gaze upon the awe-inspiring Antahuilque and Chocotico viewpoints, where the rugged beauty of the Andes mountains unfolds. Discover the enigmatic pre-Inca tombs, a testament to the region’s ancient civilizations. Delight in the colonial charm of the churches in Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque, each with its own unique architectural style. Throughout the journey, savor the breathtaking scenic views of the majestic Colca Canyon.

Highlights	Attractions
St. Catherine’s Monastery	Antahuilque Viewpoint
Pre-Inca Tombs	Chocotico Viewpoint
Colonial Churches	Colca Canyon Scenery

Additional Information

This Arequipa and Colca Canyon Tour lasts 3 days and is flexible, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later.

The tour also offers free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Plus, a live tour guide is available in both English and Spanish, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants.

The key features of this tour include:

1. Duration: 3 days
2. Flexible booking and free cancellation
3. Live tour guides in English and Spanish

Travelers can enjoy the stunning scenery of Arequipa and the Colca Canyon, as well as the cultural highlights such as the St. Catherine’s Monastery and the colonial churches in the nearby towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. Tour details indicate it’s a flexible booking with personalized transportation and professional guides available in English and Spanish, suggesting small group sizes to accommodate individual needs.

Are Meals Included Besides the Two Breakfasts?

The tour doesn’t include any other meals besides the two breakfasts. Lunches and dinners throughout the trip are not covered in the package price and must be paid for separately by the travelers.

Can I Extend or Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Customers can inquire about extending or customizing the tour itinerary. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their preferences within the 3-day timeframe.

What Should I Bring for the Thermal Baths?

For the thermal baths, visitors should bring a swimsuit, towel, and sandals. It’s also recommended to bring extra clothing to stay warm before and after the relaxing soak in the natural hot springs.

Is There an Option to Visit Colca Canyon on a Day Trip?

The tour operator doesn’t offer a day trip option to Colca Canyon. The itinerary is a 3-day package that includes transportation, accommodation, and guided visits to key attractions in the Arequipa and Colca Canyon region.

Recap

This 3-day tour offers travelers the chance to experience the stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and natural wonders of Arequipa and Colca Canyon. From the breathtaking Santa Catalina Monastery to the majestic Andean condors, this guided journey provides an immersive exploration of the region’s highlights, complete with comfortable accommodations and delightful local cuisine. Discover the beauty and charm of this remarkable part of Peru on this comprehensive tour.

You can check if your dates are available here: