Exploring the majestic Colca Canyon in Peru is an unforgettable adventure that many travelers seek. This two-day trekking excursion immerses participants in the region’s stunning natural landscapes, from the picturesque town of Chivay to the breathtaking Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Hikers will embark on a challenging descent into the canyon, where they’ll find comfortable accommodations and the chance to relax before the ascent back to Cabanaconde. With a focus on providing an immersive experience, this tour offers an excellent opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of one of Peru’s most remarkable natural wonders. What awaits those who take on this trek?
This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Arequipa.
Key Points
- Two-day trekking adventure through Colca Canyon, a popular natural attraction in Peru.
- Excursion includes round-trip transportation from Arequipa, guided tours, and select meals.
- Itinerary features visits to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint and an overnight stay at the Oasis.
- Trekking involves a 3.5-hour descent into the canyon, with a return ascent the following day.
- Tour package offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option for travelers.
Activity Overview
Trekking through Colca Canyon is a popular 2-day excursion that provides visitors with an opportunity to explore one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
The trek is priced from £78.50 per person and offers free cancellation with a full refund if cancelled 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment through the Reserve now & pay later option.
Group sizes are limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. Tours are conducted in English, catering to international visitors.
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Itinerary Details
The Colca Canyon trekking excursion spans two captivating days.
On the first day, trekkers depart Arequipa at 3:00 a.m. and arrive in Chivay at 6:30 a.m. for breakfast. They then head to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint to observe the majestic Andean condors.
Afterwards, they embark on a 3.5-hour trek down the canyon, arriving at San Juan de Chuccho for lunch. The day concludes with reaching the Oasis, where trekkers can enjoy the swimming pool and an overnight stay in bungalows.
On the second day, the group ascends from the Oasis to Cabanaconde, stops in Chivay, and returns to Arequipa in the evening.
Day 1 Itinerary
Departing the city of Arequipa at 3:00 a.m., the excursion’s journey unfolds as trekkers are transported to the town of Chivay, arriving at 6:30 a.m. for a rejuvenating breakfast.
The group then departs for the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where they can observe the majestic Andean condors in their natural habitat around 9:00 a.m.
After this captivating experience, the 3.5-hour trek down into the canyon commences at 10:30 a.m.
Reaching the town of San Juan de Chuccho by 2:00 p.m., the group enjoys a well-deserved lunch before continuing their descent to the Oasis, where they check into bungalows and have the opportunity to relax in the swimming pool before dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2 Itinerary
Early the next morning at 5:00 a.m., trekkers ascend from the Oasis up to the town of Cabanaconde, arriving there by 8:30 a.m. for breakfast. From Cabanaconde, the group departs at 10:00 a.m. for the journey back to Chivay, making several stops along the way. Upon arrival in Chivay around noon, there is an optional visit to the La Calera hot springs before a buffet lunch. The tour then returns to Arequipa, arriving at the hotel around 6:30 p.m.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 5:00 a.m. | Ascent from Oasis to Cabanaconde |
| 8:30 a.m. | Arrival in Cabanaconde, breakfast |
| 10:00 a.m. | Depart for Chivay with stops |
| 12:00 p.m. | Arrive in Chivay, optional hot springs visit |
Included Services
The Colca Canyon Trekking tour includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.
This includes hotel pickup in Arequipa, tourist transport throughout the journey, and the services of a professional guide who can provide commentary in both Spanish and English.
Meals are also covered, with two breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner included.
Accommodation is provided in comfortable bungalows during the overnight stay.
These inclusions aim to make the trekking adventure as hassle-free as possible, allowing participants to focus on seeing the breathtaking natural surroundings of the Colca Canyon.
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Optional Costs
Aside from the included services, there are several optional costs that participants may encounter during the Colca Canyon Trekking tour.
Visitors will need to purchase the BTC (Colca Tourist Ticket), which costs an additional fee. Accessing the thermal baths in Chivay is optional and costs S/.15 per person.
Participants should also budget for personal expenses such as shopping, souvenirs, and snacks/drinks during the tours. Lunch on the last day in Chivay isn’t included and can range from around US $10.
Customer Feedback
Based on the two reviews provided, the overall rating for the Colca Canyon Trekking tour is 3 out of 5 stars.
While some customers noted the helpfulness of the service, others reported issues with pickup and communication leading to missed opportunities.
The negative feedback indicates that the tour operator needs to improve its coordination and customer support to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Despite the mixed reviews, the Colca Canyon Trekking tour remains a popular option for adventurous travelers seeking to explore the stunning natural beauty of this region of Peru.
Tour Details
The Colca Canyon Trekking tour offers a two-day adventure that takes participants on a captivating journey through the stunning natural landscape of Peru’s Colca Canyon. The tour begins with an early morning departure from Arequipa, followed by a scenic drive to the town of Chivay, where travelers can enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to the renowned Cruz del Condor viewpoint to witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors.
| Day 1 | Day 2 |
|---|---|
| – 3:00 a.m. Departure to Chivay – 6:30 a.m. Arrive in Chivay, breakfast – 7:00 a.m. Depart for Cruz del Condor |
– 5:00 a.m. Ascent from Oasis to Cabanaconde – 8:30 a.m. Arrival in Cabanaconde, breakfast – 10:00 a.m. Depart for Chivay with stops |
The trekking portion of the tour begins with a 3.5-hour descent into the canyon, leading to the charming village of San Juan de Chuccho, where participants can enjoy a well-deserved lunch. The day concludes with an arrival at the Oasis, where travelers can relax and unwind in the refreshing swimming pool before a delightful dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Trek?
The itinerary does not specify a minimum age requirement for the trek. The group size is limited to 15 participants, but the age range is not provided in the details given.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, customers can request a private tour instead of the group tour. Private tours are available for an additional fee and allow for a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and flexible schedule.
Are There Any Additional Health or Fitness Requirements for Participants?
The agency does not list any specific health or fitness requirements for the Colca Canyon trek. However, it’s recommended that participants be in good physical condition, as the trek involves several hours of hiking over uneven terrain at high altitudes.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and snacks on the trek. The tour provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but allows for additional personal snacks and drinks to be carried during the hike.
Is There an Option to Stay an Extra Night in the Canyon?
There is no mention of an option to stay an extra night in the canyon. The itinerary clearly outlines a 2-day trek, with the second day involving the ascent back up to Cabanaconde and return to Arequipa. Additional nights are not included in the package.
Recap
The Colca Canyon Trekking 2 Days excursion offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscape. Travelers can enjoy breathtaking views, a challenging trek, and comfortable accommodations with a swimming pool. This remarkable hiking experience is filled with natural beauty and an opportunity to take in the captivating Colca Canyon.
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