Arequipa’s stunning "Valley of the Volcanoes" offers an unparalleled adventure for travelers seeking to enjoy breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This 3-day, 2-night tour promises an unforgettable experience, from exploring the Jurassic Park-like Querulpa region to uncovering ancient petroglyphs. With accommodations in a local family’s home, visitors can expect an authentically Peruvian experience complemented by delectable meals and activities designed for moderate fitness levels. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a cultural explorer, this tour provides a unique opportunity to discover Arequipa’s captivating treasures.
Key Points
- This 3-day, 2-night tour explores the stunning Valley of the Volcanoes near Arequipa, featuring visits to Jurassic Park, Mamacocha lagoon, Antaymarca ruins, and Shankillay waterfall.
- The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, a local guide, accommodation, and select meals, with an early morning departure each day.
- Highlights include seeing life-size dinosaur figures and ancient footprints, the largest spring in South America, and ancient rock art at Toromuerto petroglyphs.
- The itinerary involves moderate hikes and activities in high-altitude areas, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users.
- The tour is available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a starting price of $350 per person.
Tour Overview and Details
This tour, titled "Arequipa: Tour through the Valley of the Volcanoes 3D/2N," offers an immersive experience exploring the stunning volcanic landscape near Arequipa, Peru.
Priced from $350 per person, the 3-day tour is available in English and Spanish. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot now with no payment required.
The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, a local guide, 2 nights’ accommodation, and select meals.
Highlights include visiting Jurassic Park of Querulpa, Mamacocha lagoon, Antaymarca archaeological site, and the Toromuerto petroglyphs.
Suitable for most travelers, except wheelchair users, the tour provides an opportunity to take in the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Arequipa.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off with an early 5:00 a.m. pickup from guests’ hotels in Arequipa. After a breakfast stop in Corire, the group visits the Jurassic Park of Querulpa to see dinosaur footprints and life-size figures. Lunch follows, then the group arrives in Ayo by 2:00 p.m. for dinner.
| Day 1 | Day 2 |
|---|---|
| Jurassic Park of Querulpa | Mamacocha lagoon |
| Lunch | Antaymarca archaeological remains |
| Dinner in Ayo | Shankillay waterfall hike |
The second day starts early with a 5:00 a.m. departure to see the Mamacocha lagoon and Antaymarca ruins. After free time for lunch, the group hikes to Shankillay waterfall and a volcano. The final day includes stops in historic towns and a visit to the Toromuerto petroglyphs before returning to Arequipa.
Day 1 Experiences
The tour kicks off with an early 5:00 a.m. pickup from guests’ hotels in Arequipa.
After a breakfast stop in Corire, the group sets out to explore the Jurassic Park of Querulpa. They’ll take a one-hour walk to see dinosaur footprints and life-size figures.
Lunch follows, featuring meat, pasta, and soup.
By 2:00 p.m., the group arrives in Ayo, where they’ll have dinner – soup, rice with vegetables, and a hot drink.
This first day sets the tone for the adventure ahead, immersing travelers in the region’s prehistoric wonders and local cuisine.
Day 2 Experiences
At 5:00 a.m., the group departs from Ayo for the day’s adventures. After a breakfast in Maucallacta, the tour visits the Mamacocha lagoon, the largest spring in South America. Participants then have free time for lunch in Andagua before exploring the Antaymarca archaeological remains and viewing over 80 small volcanoes. The day culminates with a hike to the Shankillay waterfall and one of the volcanoes. The group spends the night in Ayo once more.
| Destination | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mamacocha Lagoon | Visit largest spring in South America | – |
| Antaymarca | Explore archaeological remains; view 80+ volcanoes | – |
| Shankillay Waterfall | Hike to waterfall and volcano | – |
| Ayo | Overnight stay | – |
Day 3 Experiences
On the final day, the group starts their morning with breakfast before departing Ayo.
The tour makes several interesting stops along the way:
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Visiting the old farming towns of Machahuay and Viraco to learn about local agricultural practices
-
Enjoying a delicious lunch in Majes, a picturesque town in the Majes River valley
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Exploring the famous petroglyphs of Toromuerto, a fascinating archaeological site featuring ancient rock art
-
Arriving back in Arequipa around 6:00 p.m., bringing an end to this immersive journey through the Valley of the Volcanoes.
Inclusions
This tour includes pickup and drop-off at the hotel, transportation by bus or minibus depending on group size, a Spanish-speaking guide, two nights of accommodation with a local Ayo family, and meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the first day.
Travelers will need to bring their passport or ID card, camera, and cash, as this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.
The tour give you a comprehensive experience exploring the Valley of the Volcanoes, including visiting Jurassic Park of Querulpa, Mamacocha lagoon, Antaymarca archaeological remains, and the petroglyphs of Toromuerto.
Important Information
Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, camera, and cash for this tour, as it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Important rules to keep in mind include:
- No pets, alcohol, or drugs are allowed on the tour
- The itinerary may be subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances
- Participants should be prepared for moderate hikes and activities in remote, high-altitude areas
- Travelers are responsible for their own travel insurance and any medical expenses incurred during the tour.
Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the stunning Valley of the Volcanoes around Arequipa.
Unique Highlights
Exploration of the Jurassic Park of Querulpa captivates visitors, who wander through the one-hour trail to view life-size dinosaur figures and discover the ancient footprints etched into the earth.
The Mamacocha lagoon, the largest spring in South America, delights with its serene beauty.
Trekkers marvel at the Antaymarca archaeological remains and the breathtaking viewpoint overlooking more than 80 small volcanoes.
Hiking to the Shankillay waterfall and one of the nearby volcanoes provides an exhilarating adventure.
The tour culminates with a visit to the renowned petroglyphs of Toromuerto, where ancient rock art tells stories of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Travelers can customize the tour itinerary to their preferences, though some activities may be fixed. Flexibility varies, so it’s best to inquire with the tour provider about customization options before booking.
Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?
Though the tour includes some strenuous hiking, families with young children could enjoy it with proper planning. The itinerary can be customized, and guides can recommend child-friendly activities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Do I Need to Purchase Any Additional Equipment or Gear?
According to the tour details, the only essential items needed are a passport or ID card, a camera, and cash. No special equipment or gear is required for this tour. Travelers should dress comfortably for outdoor activities.
Can I Extend My Stay in Arequipa Before or After the Tour?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Arequipa before or after the tour. The tour company allows flexibility, and you can easily arrange additional nights in the city to explore more of the region.
What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
The tour group size varies based on demand but typically ranges from 4 to 12 participants. The exact group size isn’t specified, so it’s best to inquire with the tour operator for the latest details.
Recap
The "Arequipa: Tour Through the Valley of the Volcanoes 3D/2N" offers an immersive adventure into Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. At just $350 per person, this tour provides an excellent value with hotel pickups, local guides, and two nights’ accommodation with a local family. Highlights include exploring the Jurassic Park of Querulpa, hiking to breathtaking waterfalls, and discovering ancient petroglyphs, making it an unforgettable experience for travelers of moderate fitness levels.
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