From Arequipa: Full Day Colca Canyon Tour

Exploring the majestic Colca Canyon from Arequipa is a must-do adventure for any traveler seeking to enjoy Peru’s breathtaking natural splendor. This full-day tour promises an unforgettable journey through UNESCO-recognized landscapes, where the elusive Andean Condor soars overhead and traditional Peruvian charm permeates quaint mountain towns. With expert guides leading the way, visitors can expect a seamless experience, complete with round-trip transfers and an authentic local lunch. But the true allure of this tour lies in the opportunity to witness the canyon’s awe-inspiring scale and the chance to connect with the region’s rich cultural heritage.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Arequipa.

Key Points

1. A full-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa takes approximately 14 hours and offers the opportunity to observe Andean Condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

2. The tour includes visits to UNESCO-recognized Geopark, traditional Peruvian towns, and the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca at an elevation of 4,000 meters.

3. Travelers can enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in Chivay and have the option to visit the hot springs in the area.

4. The tour requires good physical condition and preparation for high elevation and unpaved terrain, as it may not be suitable for individuals with altitude sickness or heart problems.

5. The tour is priced at S/ 1,104 per person and includes round-trip transfers, breakfast, first aid kit, gratuities, and entrance tickets, with additional costs for optional activities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The full-day Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa provides travelers with a captivating adventure into one of the world’s deepest canyons. Priced from S/ 1,104 per person, this 14-hour tour offers tours in Spanish and English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include visiting a UNESCO-recognized Geopark, witnessing Andean Condors in their natural habitat, and exploring the charming towns of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque. Travelers can also enjoy a traditional lunch in Chivay.

The itinerary includes sightseeing at the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca, the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, and the volcanoes viewpoint, among other stunning locations. Pickup from Arequipa hotels is included, making the tour a convenient and immersive Colca Canyon experience.

Experience Highlights

Visiting one of the deepest canyons in the world, the Colca Canyon Tour offers travelers a chance to witness Andean Condors soaring in their natural habitat.

The tour also explores a UNESCO-recognized Geopark, showcasing the stunning landscapes of volcanoes and the Colca River.

Key highlights include:

• Opportunity to see Andean Condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint
• Admire the breathtaking views from the Antahuilque viewpoint (3,700 m.a.s.l.)
• Immerse in the local culture by visiting the towns of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque
• Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in the town of Chivay
• Explore the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca (4,000 m.a.s.l.)

Itinerary Details

Early in the morning, guests are picked up from their hotels in Arequipa to embark on the Colca Canyon tour.

The journey begins with a sightseeing stop at the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca, situated at an elevation of 4,000 meters above sea level.

Next, the group travels to Chivay, a town located at 3,635 meters.

The highlight of the day is the visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, perched at 4,700 meters, where guests have the chance to observe the majestic Andean condors in their natural habitat.

Along the way, the tour also includes a stop at the Antahuilque viewpoint and an optional visit to the hot springs in Chivay.

Inclusions and Costs

The Colca Canyon tour includes round-trip transfers between the guest’s hotel in Arequipa and the canyon, as well as a shared guided tour.

The tour’s inclusions cover:

• Breakfast
• First Aid Kit
• Gratuities
• Entrance tickets to the Colca Canyon (S/ 40.00 for Latins, S/ 70.00 for foreigners) and hot springs (S/ 15.00)
• Lunch in Chivay, ranging from S/ 25.00 to S/ 35.00

It’s important to note that additional costs, such as the optional visit to hot springs, aren’t included in the tour price.

Guests should also come prepared with their passport, camera, binoculars, comfortable clothes, cash, and a jacket.

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Important Information

The Colca Canyon tour may not be suitable for everyone.

It’s not recommended for people suffering from altitude sickness or heart problems, as the tour reaches high elevations of over 4,700 meters above sea level. Plus, the tour involves walking on unpaved terrain, so it’s essential for participants to be in good physical condition.

Travelers should bring their passport, camera, binoculars, comfortable clothes, cash, and a jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable in the canyon.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users. Participants should be prepared for the challenges of the high-altitude environment and the uneven terrain to fully enjoy the breathtaking views and the opportunity to witness the Andean condors.

Customer Reviews

Travelers’ feedback on the Colca Canyon tour is mixed, with an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews.

Key points based on the customer reviews include:

• Issues with bus capacity and seating arrangements noted by travelers
• Some concerns about the organization and efficiency of the tour
• Positive comments on the stunning scenery and opportunity to see the Andean Condors
• A few mentions of the high altitude and strenuous nature of the hike
• Recommendations to bring proper gear and be in good physical condition for the tour.

Accessibility and Recommendations

This Colca Canyon tour may not be suitable for all travelers. The tour operator notes that it isn’t recommended for people with altitude sickness, heart problems, or wheelchair users.

Good physical condition and the ability to walk on unpaved terrain are essential. Travelers should bring their passport, camera, binoculars, comfortable clothes, cash, and a jacket.

The high elevation and varied terrain of the Colca Canyon require preparation and caution.

Nonetheless, for those able to manage the challenges, the tour offers remarkable opportunities to see the Andean Condor and experience the natural wonders of this UNESCO-recognized Geopark.

Getting to Colca Canyon

Getting to Colca Canyon typically starts with a journey from Arequipa, the nearest major city.

The tour includes:

• Early morning pickup from your hotel in Arequipa
• Sightseeing at the National Reserve of Salinas y Aguada Blanca, located at 4,000 meters above sea level
• Travel to the town of Chivay, situated at 3,635 meters above sea level
• Visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, offering a prime spot to observe the Andean condors
• Panoramic views from the Antahuilque viewpoint, situated at 3,700 meters above sea level

The tour provides a comprehensive experience, taking visitors through the stunning landscapes and highlights of the Colca Canyon region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Safety Protocols in Place for the Tour?

The tour includes a first aid kit, and it’s not recommended for those with altitude sickness, heart problems, or wheelchair users. Travelers should have good physical condition and the ability to walk on unpaved terrain.

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

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the Colca Canyon tour. The tour itinerary doesn’t include providing meals, so bringing snacks and beverages is recommended, especially for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour?

There’s no option to extend or customize the full-day Colca Canyon tour. It’s a set itinerary and package. Travelers can’t bring their own food or drinks, but they’ll enjoy a traditional lunch in Chivay included in the tour price.

How Often Do the Tours Depart From Arequipa?

The tours depart from Arequipa daily, with multiple departure times available. Customers have the flexibility to choose a schedule that works best for their needs and preferences.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts or package deals for the Colca Canyon tour. However, the price includes hotel pickup, shared guided tour, breakfast, and entrance fees, providing a value-packed experience.

Recap

The Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the majestic Andean Condor and explore the UNESCO-recognized Geopark. With stunning landscapes, picturesque towns, and a traditional Peruvian lunch, this full-day adventure is a must-do for nature enthusiasts. Round-trip hotel transfers and knowledgeable guides ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: