From Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon Ending in Puno

The "From Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon Ending in Puno" promises a captivating full-day adventure that showcases Peru’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Departing early from Arequipa, travelers embark on a scenic 4-hour bus ride to the breathtaking Colca Canyon, where they’ll have the opportunity to witness the majestic Andean condors soaring overhead. But the journey doesn’t end there – the itinerary also includes visits to charming villages, rejuvenating thermal baths, and panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, leaving you with an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Key Points

• Full-day excursion from Arequipa to Puno, with a starting price of $72.00 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Includes pickup, drop-off, bus transportation, bilingual guide, continental breakfast, lunch, and entry fees to Colca Canyon and Chacapi Hot Springs.
• Itinerary features a 4-hour bus ride to Colca Canyon, a 1-hour guided tour, and stops at scenic viewpoints and charming villages.
• Highlights include witnessing the Colca Canyon, Andean condors, thermal baths, and panoramic vistas of volcanoes and natural landscapes.
• Recommended items to bring include passport, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes, and the tour is not suitable for individuals with heart problems or wheelchair users.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

This Colca Canyon excursion offers a full-day adventure from Arequipa to Puno, with a price range starting from $72.00 per person.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes pickup from Arequipa, drop-off in Puno, transportation by bus, a bilingual guide, continental breakfast, lunch, and entry fees to key sites like Colca Canyon and Chacapi Hot Springs.

This excursion isn’t suitable for those with heart problems or wheelchair users, and participants should bring necessary items like passports, sun protection, and swimwear.

Itinerary Details

The excursion from Arequipa to Colca Canyon and onward to Puno lasts for 1 day.

Pickup is at 3:15 a.m. from the Plaza de Armas Arequipa or Historical Centre of Arequipa, followed by a 4-hour bus/coach ride to Colca Canyon.

Visitors will enjoy a 1-hour guided tour of the canyon before stopping at:

1. Chivay for a 1-hour photo opportunity.
2. The thermal baths of Chacapi for 1 hour.
3. The Patapampa viewpoint.

The final destination is Plaza Mayor de Puno, arriving around 7:30 p.m.

Highlights and Experiences

The excursion to Colca Canyon promises visitors a chance to witness one of the world’s deepest canyons and witness the majestic Andean condors in flight.

Along the way, travelers will visit charming villages and viewpoints like Wayrapunko and Antahuillque, offering panoramic vistas of the stunning Ampato and Sabancaya volcanoes, the Salinas Reserve, and the serene Lagunillas.

One of the highlights is the opportunity to enjoy the soothing thermal baths at Chacapi, providing a rejuvenating break during the journey.

The excursion seamlessly combines breathtaking natural scenery, culture, and unique wildlife encounters, creating an unforgettable experience for all participants.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The excursion to Colca Canyon includes pickup in Arequipa, drop-off in Puno, transportation by bus, a bilingual guide, continental breakfast, lunch, and entry fees to Colca Canyon and Chacapi Hot Springs.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for people with heart problems or wheelchair users.

Travelers should remember to bring:

1. Passport or ID
2. Sunglasses, sun hat, and swimwear
3. Snacks and water

Plus, pets and plastic bags aren’t allowed on the tour.

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Transportation and Logistics

Travelers embark on their Colca Canyon adventure with an early morning pickup at either Plaza de Armas Arequipa or the Historical Centre of Arequipa. The 4-hour bus ride transports them to the stunning Colca Canyon, where they enjoy a guided tour for an hour. Along the way, they make stops at Chivay for a photo opportunity, the thermal baths of Chacapi for relaxation, and the Patapampa viewpoint for breathtaking vistas. The day culminates with arrival at Plaza Mayor de Puno around 7:30 p.m.

Key Logistics	Details
Duration	1 day
Pickup	3:15 a.m.
Drop-off	Plaza Mayor de Puno, ~7:30 p.m.

Recommendations for Travelers

Generally, travellers should pack appropriate clothing and equipment for the excursion. This includes:

1. Warm layers, as the temperatures can be chilly, especially at the high-altitude viewpoints.

2. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and challenging.

3. Sun protection, such as sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, to shield against the intense Andean sun.

Plus, it’s recommended to bring snacks and plenty of water, as the day can be long and the activities physically demanding.

While the tour includes a continental breakfast and lunch, having extra provisions can make the experience more enjoyable.

Travellers should also ensure they’ve their passport or ID on hand for the duration of the trip.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Based on 65 reviews, travelers have given the Colca Canyon excursion an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The transportation was rated 3.4/5, while the value for money received a 3.8/5 score. Positive experiences highlighted clean and comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, beautiful sights, and wildlife sightings. Suggestions for improvement include limited vegetarian options for lunch and difficulty finding taxis in Puno.

Metric	Rating (out of 5)
Overall	4.0
Transportation	3.4
Value for Money	3.8
Guides	N/A
Excursion Experiences	N/A

Booking and Reservation Information

The Colca Canyon excursion offers flexible booking options for travelers.

Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to receive a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Plus, the "reserve now & pay later" option provides the convenience of securing a spot without an immediate payment.

Here’s a quick overview of the booking process:

1. Check availability and select your preferred travel date.
2. Opt for the free cancellation or reserve now & pay later option.
3. Complete the booking and receive your confirmation details.

With these flexible arrangements, planning a Colca Canyon adventure has never been easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit Other Attractions During the Tour?

According to the itinerary, the tour includes several stops at notable attractions along the way, such as Chivay, the thermal baths of Chacapi, and the Patapampa viewpoint. Passengers will have the opportunity to explore these sites during the excursion.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Colca Canyon?

The best time to visit Colca Canyon is generally between April and November when the weather is dry and sunny. Peak condor viewing season is between June and August, making this a popular time for visitors.

How Much Time Is Recommended to Fully Explore Colca Canyon?

Generally, it’s recommended to allocate a full day to fully explore Colca Canyon. This allows visitors to enjoy the canyon’s viewpoints, spot condors, and experience the local villages and thermal baths without feeling rushed.

Are There Any Discounts or Deals Available for This Excursion?

The excursion currently offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, but there don’t appear to be any specific discounts or deals mentioned. Customers can check for any promotional offers when booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Additional Activities?

Customizations and additional activities may be available, but they’ll depend on the tour provider. It’s best to check with them directly to see if they can accommodate any special requests or modifications to the standard itinerary.

Recap

The "From Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon Ending in Puno" offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Peru’s natural splendor. With its captivating itinerary, stunning vistas, and cultural experiences, this excursion provides an enriching exploration of the Andes. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with the land, this tour is a must-consider for travelers seeking an unforgettable journey through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: