Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon + Transfer to Cusco

Arequipa’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination in Peru. This 1.5-day excursion to the Colca Canyon and transfer to Cusco provide travelers with an unforgettable adventure. From witnessing majestic condors soaring above one of the world’s deepest canyons to immersing in colonial towns and savoring local delicacies, this tour offers an enriching experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a culture seeker, this itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories. Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage that make this region of Peru so captivating.

Key Points

• 1.5-day excursion from Arequipa to Colca Canyon and Cusco, priced at €332.42 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Tour includes tourist transport, professional guides, one night’s hotel stay in Chivay, and two breakfasts.
• Itinerary highlights include visits to Cruz del Cóndor, colonial towns, and optional activities like hot springs, canopy, and kayaking.
• Overnight stay in Chivay allows for culture, with opportunities to explore local amenities and sample Colca Sour.
• Second-day journey includes scenic stops at Callalli rock formations, Condoroma Dam, and Langui lagoon, before concluding in Cusco around 4:00-4:30 PM.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This excursion from Arequipa to Colca Canyon and on to Cusco offers a comprehensive 1.5-day itinerary priced from €332.42 per person.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides convenience and flexibility.

Lasting 1.5 days, the experience showcases the majestic Colca Canyon, a condor sanctuary, and colonial towns before transferring to the iconic city of Cusco.

Included are tourist transport, professional guides, one night’s hotel stay in Chivay, and two breakfasts per person, making this a well-rounded and value-packed experience.

Itinerary Details

The excursion begins with an early morning pickup from hotels in Arequipa, between 2:30 and 3:00 AM.

The route takes travelers directly to the Cruz del Cóndor, with a breakfast stop along the way. Highlights include views of one of the deepest canyons and a condor sanctuary.

The tour also visits colonial towns like Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque, where participants can observe pre-Incan tombs and Colca terraces. Travelers have the opportunity to engage with locals, learn about their traditions, and sample the Colca Sour.

In the afternoon, there’s free time in Chivay to relax at the hot springs or participate in adventure activities.

The second day involves more scenic stops before arriving in Cusco around 4:00 – 4:30 PM.

Day 1 Highlights

On the first day, travelers embark on a direct journey from Arequipa to the Cruz del Cóndor, a renowned condor sanctuary. Along the way, they stop for breakfast before reaching the stunning viewpoint of one of the deepest canyons in the world.

The tour also visits the colonial towns of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque, where travelers can observe pre-Incan tombs and Colca terraces. Engaging with the local culture, visitors meet residents, learn about their traditions, and sample the Colca Sour.

Optional activities include relaxing at Chacapi hot springs or participating in adventure experiences like canopy, ATV, or kayaking. In the afternoon, travelers have free time to explore Chivay and its amenities before an overnight stay in the town.

Optional Experiences

Alongside the core Colca Canyon excursion, the tour offers several optional experiences for visitors to enhance their adventure.

Guests can relax at the nearby Chacapi hot springs, a rejuvenating way to soothe tired muscles after a day of exploration.

For the more adventurous, the tour provides opportunities to participate in thrilling activities like canopy ziplines, ATV rides, and kayaking.

These optional pursuits allow travelers to enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of the Colca Valley.

Regardless of their chosen extras, visitors are sure to create lasting memories during this comprehensive Colca Canyon adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Overnight in Chivay

Spending the night in Chivay, the main town in the Colca Valley, provides travelers with a chance to enjoy the local culture and traditions.

The hotel stay includes breakfast, allowing guests to fuel up before a full day exploring the region.

In the afternoon, visitors can opt to relax at the Chacapi hot springs or partake in adventure activities like canopy, ATV, or kayaking.

The evening offers opportunities to mingle with locals, learn about their customs, and sample the regional Colca Sour drink.

This overnight stay sets the stage for the following day’s journey through the stunning Colca Valley en route to Cusco.

Day 2 Highlights

The second day of the excursion begins with a 7:00 AM departure from Chivay, as travelers embark on the journey through the Colca Valley.

Along the way, they’ll stop to admire the Callalli rock formations, the Condoroma Dam situated at an impressive 4,737 meters above sea level, and the stone forest in Yauri.

The highlight of the day is the breathtaking Langui lagoon, a 25-kilometer natural mirror.

After a lunch stop in Sicuani, the tour continues its scenic drive, arriving in Cusco around 4:00-4:30 PM, where the excursion concludes.

Inclusions

The tour package includes tourist transport, a professional guide fluent in English and Spanish, one night of hotel accommodation in Chivay, and two breakfasts per person.

Personalized transportation from Chivay to Cusco with tourist stops is also included. Hotel pick-up in Arequipa is provided.

Mandatory entrance fees are required, ranging from 20 to 70 soles depending on the visitor’s origin. An optional 15 soles can be paid for hot springs access.

Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are excluded from the package.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can expect an immersive experience exploring Colca Canyon and the historic city of Cusco. This tour offers the opportunity to witness the majestic flight of the Condor, a sacred bird in Andean culture.

Travelers will discover Inca Trail villages like Tuti, Sibayo, Callalli, and Sicuani, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The highlight of the tour is the exploration of the Callalli rock castles, fascinating geological formations that showcase the area’s natural beauty.

Plus, visitors can enjoy the relaxing experience of the Chacapi hot springs, a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure. This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience of both natural wonders and cultural insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Recommended Clothing for This Excursion?

Comfortable, layered clothing is recommended, as the weather can vary throughout the day. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential for navigating the uneven terrain. Sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, is also important.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for Participants?

The tour does not have any strict age or fitness requirements, but participants should be able to walk moderately and handle high altitudes. Children and seniors are welcome, but those with mobility issues may find certain activities challenging.

Is There an Opportunity to Buy Souvenirs During the Tour?

The tour provides opportunities to purchase souvenirs at various stops, including traditional towns and marketplaces. Participants can explore local handicrafts, textiles, and other unique items to bring home as mementos of their Colca Canyon and Cusco adventure.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

Tour group sizes typically range from 10 to 20 participants, though they can vary. The exact number may depend on factors like popularity, transportation capacity, and customer demand. The tour operator give you a personalized and comfortable experience for all guests.

Is It Possible to Extend the Stay in Cusco at the End of the Tour?

Yes, travelers can often extend their stay in Cusco at the end of the tour. Many tour operators offer flexible arrangements to accommodate additional nights, allowing guests to explore Cusco further at their own pace.

Recap

This Arequipa excursion to the Colca Canyon and transfer to Cusco offers an exhilarating exploration of Peru’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage. Witness the majestic Andean condors, learn about charming colonial towns, relax in hot springs, and savor local cuisine, all while making unforgettable memories on this comprehensive and practical adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: