Arequipa: Colca Valley and Condor Viewpoint 2 Days/1 Night

The Colca Valley, a captivating region near Arequipa, offers travellers a chance to enjoy the breathtaking Andean landscape and witness the majestic Andean condors soaring above. This 2-day/1-night tour promises an unforgettable experience, from exploring the stunning vistas to relaxing at the La Calera thermal baths. With flexible booking options and a comprehensive itinerary, the tour provides an easy and hassle-free way to discover the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of this remarkable destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a moment of tranquility, this Arequipa tour has something to captivate every traveler’s senses.

Key Points

• Explore the stunning Colca Valley in a 2-day/1-night experience, including visits to the Patapampa viewpoint, La Calera thermal baths, and the Cruz del Condor viewpoint for Andean condor sightings.
• The tour package starts at $99 per person and includes hotel pick-up, transportation, accommodation, breakfast, a bilingual guide, and lunch.
• Flexible booking and cancellation options are available, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and essential items include a passport, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing.
• The tour operates only under favorable weather conditions, and rescheduling or cancellation may occur if the weather is unsuitable for safe travel and viewing.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Colca Valley and Condor Viewpoint tour provides a 2-day/1-night experience exploring the stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage around Arequipa.

Priced from $99 per person, the tour includes pick-up from Arequipa hotels, transportation, one night’s accommodation with breakfast, a bilingual guide, and lunch.

Visitors can take in the breathtaking Patapampa viewpoint, relax at the La Calera thermal baths, and witness the majestic Andean condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

Flexible booking allows for reserving now and paying later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and visitors should bring their passport, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing.

Itinerary Details

This tour begins with a pickup from the visitor’s hotel in Arequipa.

The journey then takes them through the Salinas National Reserve and Aguada Blanca, stopping at the Patapampa viewpoint for stunning vistas.

Upon arrival in Chivay, the group visits the La Calera thermal baths and enjoys local cuisine and traditional dances.

The next day starts with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a trip to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint to observe the magnificent Andean condors.

Afterward, the Colca Canyon crater is explored, and the towns of Maca and Yanque are visited for cultural insights.

The tour then returns to Chivay for lunch before heading back to Arequipa.

Day 1: Arequipa to Chivay

Beginning the tour, visitors are picked up from their hotels in Arequipa and embark on a scenic journey through the Salinas National Reserve and Aguada Blanca.

Along the way, they make a stop at the Patapampa viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.

Upon arrival in Chivay, the group visits the renowned La Calera thermal baths, where they can relax and unwind.

The day concludes with a delightful experience of sampling local cuisine and witnessing traditional dances in the town of Chivay, immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Day 2: Chivay to Arequipa

On the second day, travelers kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at their hotel in Chivay.

The group then heads to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint to observe the magnificent Andean condors in their natural habitat.

After this, they explore the Colca Canyon crater, marveling at its impressive geological formations.

Along the way, the tour makes stops at the towns of Maca and Yanque, providing cultural insights into the local way of life.

Following this, the group returns to Chivay for a final lunch before beginning the journey back to Arequipa, completing this captivating Colca Valley and Condor Viewpoint adventure.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package includes a pick-up from Arequipa hotels, all necessary transportation, a 1-night stay with breakfast at a standard hotel, and a bilingual Spanish/English-speaking guide.

Lunch is also included. Optional activities like dinner with a traditional dance show can be added for an additional €7 (approximately $7.40) per person.

Entrance fees to the La Calera Hot Springs (€4.50, around $4.80) and Colca Canyon (€21, around $22.20) are required.

Guests should bring their passport or ID, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing, as the tour doesn’t accommodate wheelchair users and prohibits alcohol and drugs.

Important Information

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Participants should bring their passport or ID, as well as sun protection and comfortable clothing. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on this tour.

The Colca Valley and Condor Viewpoint experience is weather-dependent, so the tour will only operate in sunny conditions or when conditions permit.

Travelers can expect to witness the majestic Andean condors soaring above the dramatic Colca Canyon.

Weather Considerations

The tour operates only when weather conditions are favorable, as the experience is weather-dependent.

The Colca Valley and Condor Viewpoint tour is conducted in sunny weather or when conditions permit safe travel and viewing. Rain, snow, or strong winds can disrupt the itinerary and affect the ability to see the majestic condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

Guests are advised to check the weather forecast before their scheduled trip and pack appropriate clothing and gear.

The tour may be rescheduled or canceled if the weather is deemed unsuitable, ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants.

Flexible Booking and Cancellation

Aside from the weather considerations, the tour offers flexible booking and cancellation options.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, which provides convenience and flexibility. Plus, they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing them to adjust their plans if needed.

This policy caters to the unpredictable nature of travel, ensuring customers have peace of mind when booking their Colca Valley and Condor Viewpoint experience.

The flexible booking and cancellation terms demonstrate the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction and create a hassle-free booking process for interested travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transport From the Arequipa Airport Included in the Tour?

No, transport from the Arequipa airport is not included in the tour. The tour package only provides pick-up from Arequipa hotels to start the itinerary. Travelers would need to arrange their own transportation from the airport to their hotel in Arequipa.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional activities, though this may incur extra costs. Customers should inquire with the tour provider about personalizing the itinerary to meet their specific interests and needs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour does not have any age restrictions, and it’s suitable for participants of all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour may not be suitable for very young children or the elderly.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, it’s an intimate experience, so the group size is likely small, allowing for a more personalized and interactive tour. The exact group size may depend on demand and availability.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Requirements to Consider?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions or requirements. However, guests should inform the operator of any dietary needs or allergies in advance so they can be accommodated during the included meals.

Recap

The Arequipa: Colca Valley and Condor Viewpoint 2 Days/1 Night tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the breathtaking Peruvian landscape. Travelers can marvel at the Andean condors, relax in thermal baths, and explore the local culture, all while enjoying hassle-free booking and convenient transportation. With flexible options and a comprehensive package, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Arequipa’s natural wonders.