Colca Canyon 2 – Days From Puno To Arequipa

The Colca Canyon 2-Day Tour from Puno to Arequipa offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of the world’s deepest canyons. Travelers can expect a captivating journey through stunning landscapes, where they’ll witness the majestic Andean condor and explore the rich indigenous culture. With comfortable transportation, inclusive meals, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an enriching experience. However, potential participants should consider the health implications of the high-altitude environment and prepare accordingly. Discover the breath-taking beauty and cultural treasures that await in Colca Canyon.

Key Points

• This two-day tour takes visitors from Puno to Arequipa, offering the opportunity to explore the stunning Colca Canyon and its surrounding landscapes.

• Highlights include visiting the hot springs in Chivay, spotting the Andean condor, and experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• The tour includes a professional guide, hotel pickup/drop-off, and entrance fees, with optional activities such as visiting the hot springs.

• Vegetarian options are available, but the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or serious medical conditions due to the high altitude and strenuous hiking.

• Reviews indicate a mixed experience, with praise for knowledgeable guides but criticism about tour organization and logistics, such as late pickups and booking problems.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This two-day Colca Canyon tour from Puno to Arequipa offers travelers a chance to explore one of the world’s deepest canyons.

Highlights include visiting the town of Chivay for its hot springs and taking in the stunning scenery of green valleys and indigenous villages with ancient terraced agriculture.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to spot the giant Andean condor, one of the world’s largest flying birds.

The small-group tour includes a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees to the Colca Canyon and other sites.

Lunch and dinner can be purchased separately in Chivay, with options starting at around $12.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes a professional guide to lead the group, ensuring a small group size of no more than 15 people for a more personalized experience.

Hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Puno are provided, along with a one-way shared transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Breakfast is included, and you’ll stay in a hotel with a private bathroom.

Entrance fees to the hot springs, Colca Canyon, and Latinoamerica are also covered.

Additional meals are available in Chivay for around $12. Gratuities, however, aren’t included.

This two-day tour offers a comprehensive Colca Canyon experience from Puno to Arequipa.

Pickup and Schedule

The tour pickup from hotels in downtown Puno takes place at 6:10 a.m., with the tour starting at 6:00 a.m. sharp. A minimum of 2 people is required per booking, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The transportation for this tour is a shared, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey. Guests should be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s suitable for most travelers.

Vegetarian options are available upon request at the time of booking. Participants should keep in mind that the tour’s organization has received some negative feedback, so they should be prepared for potential minor issues during the experience.

Health and Accessibility Information

Accessibility and health restrictions are important considerations for this Colca Canyon tour. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues may struggle.

Plus, it’s not recommended for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions, as the high altitude and strenuous hiking could be risky.

On a positive note, the tour is stroller accessible, and vegetarian options are available upon request.

Most travelers can participate, but those with concerns should consult their healthcare provider before booking.

Reviews and Feedback

Based on the reviews and feedback provided, the Colca Canyon tour from Puno to Arequipa has received an overall rating of 3.0 out of 5 stars, based on 2 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, while negative feedback points to issues with tour organization, including late pickups and booking problems.

Travelers noted stress due to disorganization and lack of communication from the tour operator.

These mixed reviews suggest the tour experience can be inconsistent, and potential travelers should consider the feedback carefully before booking.

Exploring Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons, offers visitors a breathtaking natural wonder. With its verdant valleys, ancient terraced agriculture, and the chance to spot the majestic Andean condor, Colca Canyon provides an unforgettable experience.

Highlights	Duration	Difficulty	Best Season	Cost
Scenic Vistas	2 Days	Moderate	April to October	$150-$200
Indigenous Villages
Condor Viewing
Hot Springs
Hiking Trails

Traversing the canyon’s rugged terrain, visitors can enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage and marvel at the stunning geological formations that have been carved over millennia.

Visiting Chivay Hot Springs

One of the highlights of the Colca Canyon tour is a visit to the hot springs in Chivay.

Visitors can soak in the naturally heated mineral-rich waters, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. The hot springs offer a serene and relaxing experience amid the stunning Andean landscape.

After a day of exploring the depths of Colca Canyon, the hot springs provide a rejuvenating respite. Guests can choose to spend an hour or more enjoying the warm waters and taking in the picturesque surroundings.

The hot springs entrance fee is S/. 15.00 and is an optional activity during the tour.

Indigenous Cultures and Traditions

Amid the stunning natural landscapes of the Colca Canyon lie the vibrant indigenous communities that have inhabited this region for centuries.

These communities have preserved their rich cultural heritage, blending ancient traditions with modern life. Visitors can enjoy the local way of living by:

• Exploring the traditional terraced agricultural practices that have sustained these communities for generations
• Witnessing the intricate weaving techniques used to create vibrant textiles and tapestries
• Engaging with the local people and learning about their spiritual beliefs and mythologies

The Colca Canyon isn’t only a natural wonder but also a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the indigenous populations that call this region home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, lunch and dinner options are available for purchase in Chivay if desired, though not included in the tour price.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Stop?

The tour features stops at various points, with approximately 1-2 hours spent at each location. This allows travelers ample time to explore the hot springs, Colca Canyon viewpoints, and nearby indigenous villages along the route.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, and it’s suitable for most travelers. However, it’s not recommended for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions due to the high altitude and strenuous nature of the activities.

Can I Request a Specific Pickup Location?

Travelers can request a specific pickup location, though the tour operator typically provides pickup from hotels in downtown Puno. The operator aims to accommodate requests when possible, but pickup locations may be limited to central areas.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour duration. The two-day Colca Canyon tour from Puno to Arequipa has a fixed itinerary that can’t be customized. Travelers must book the standard package if they wish to visit the canyon.

Recap

The Colca Canyon 2-Day Tour from Puno to Arequipa offers an unforgettable adventure through one of the world’s deepest canyons. Featuring stunning landscapes, natural hot springs, and rich cultural experiences, the tour promises an immersive journey. While the high altitude and strenuous activities require consideration, the tour’s professional guidance and inclusive amenities ensure an enriching and memorable experience for travelers.