From Arequipa: Tour to Chivay & Colca Canyon

Embark on an exhilarating journey to Chivay and Colca Canyon with this tour departing from Arequipa. Priced at a reasonable S/1,142 per person, the experience offers early hotel pickup, a scenic drive, and visits to captivating sites like the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor. Travelers can indulge in a light breakfast, explore Chivay’s charming town, and unwind in the relaxing Chacapi thermal baths – all under the guidance of a knowledgeable Spanish-speaking expert. With flexible booking and cancellation policies, this tour provides an accessible gateway to discovering the natural wonders of Peru’s Colca region. What might this excursion reveal about the remarkable landscapes and vibrant culture of the area?

Key Points

• The tour offers a comprehensive experience, including hotel pickup/drop-off, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, meals, and entrance fees, starting from Arequipa.
• Highlights of the tour include visiting the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor, pre-Inca and Inca sites, and the Chacapi thermal baths in Chivay.
• The tour provides flexibility with a "Reserve now & pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour offers a light continental breakfast in Chivay and an opportunity to explore the local cuisine and culture.
• Customer reviews suggest the tour is generally well-received, with praise for the knowledgeable guide, but concerns about the short duration and value for the price.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Arequipa: Tour to Chivay & Colca Canyon," is offered at a price starting from S/1,142 per person.

This 1-day excursion is available in English and Spanish. Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour also offers a "Reserve now & pay later" booking option, providing flexibility in travel planning.

Highlights include visiting the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor for condor spotting, exploring pre-Inca and Inca sites, and relaxing in the Chacapi thermal baths.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a guide, breakfast, and entrance fees to the Colca Canyon and thermal baths.

Itinerary Highlights

Guests begin their excursion with an early pickup, around 3:30 a.m., from their hotel in Arequipa.

They’ll embark on a 3-hour journey to Chivay, arriving around 6:00 a.m. Upon arrival, they’ll enjoy a light breakfast featuring regional specialties.

The tour then proceeds to the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor for views of Colca Canyon and condor spotting.

Next, they’ll visit Antahuilque to see hanging tombs and terraces from pre-Inca and Inca times.

After, they’ll have 45 minutes at the Chacapi thermal baths.

Lunch is free time in Chivay.

The final stops include the Mirador de los Volcanes and the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as bus transportation.

You’ll have a Spanish-speaking guide accompanying you throughout the journey. A light continental breakfast is provided, along with lunch during your free time in Chivay.

Entrance fees to the Colca Canyon natural area (S/70 per person) and the thermal baths (S/15 per person) are also covered.

With these inclusions, you can focus on exploring the stunning landscapes and spotting the majestic condors without worrying about additional expenses.

This comprehensive package ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience as you discover the wonders of the Colca Canyon.

Customer Reviews

Reviewers have offered a range of perspectives on this tour. Based on 2 reviews, the overall rating is 3 out of 5 stars.

Positive feedback highlighted the guide Andrea’s knowledge and friendliness, as well as the ample time provided for activities.

However, some areas for improvement were also noted:

• Lack of consistency in tour quality across different guides
• Disappointment with the short duration of the tour
• Concerns about the value for the price paid
• Desire for more opportunities to explore the Colca Canyon independently

Potential travelers should weigh these factors carefully when deciding whether this tour aligns with their interests and expectations.

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Availability Check

Travelers planning their Arequipa tour to Chivay and Colca Canyon should ensure to check for availability and participant selection.

The tour’s departure time can vary, so it’s crucial to confirm the starting time when booking. Plus, the tour may have limited spots, so early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.

The "Reserve now & pay later" option provides flexibility in travel planning, allowing customers to book the tour without immediate payment.

Flexible Booking

The "Reserve now & pay later" option allows travelers to book the Chivay and Colca Canyon tour with flexibility. This enables travelers to secure their spot without having to make full payment upfront.

Some key benefits of this booking option include:

• The ability to plan the trip at their own pace without immediate financial commitment
• Flexibility to adjust travel dates or modify the itinerary if needed
• Convenient payment process that splits the total cost into a deposit and final balance
• Peace of mind knowing the tour is reserved while finalizing other trip details

This flexible booking approach caters to the varying needs and preferences of travelers, making the Chivay and Colca Canyon tour more accessible and convenient to arrange.

Chivay Breakfast

Upon arriving in Chivay, the tour group enjoys a light breakfast featuring regional specialties. The spread includes freshly baked bread, local cheeses, and cured meats.

Steaming cups of coca tea, a traditional Andean beverage, are also served. Participants have the opportunity to sample unique Peruvian dishes like papa a la Huancaína, a potato-based appetizer with a creamy, spiced sauce.

The breakfast provides a flavorful introduction to the culinary delights of the Colca Canyon region before the group continues on its day of exploration. Fueled by the hearty yet refreshing meal, the tour proceeds to its next destination with eager anticipation.

Thermal Baths Visit

After exploring the viewpoints and sights, the tour group makes its way to the Chacapi thermal baths. Visitors have 45 minutes to enjoy the soothing, natural hot springs.

The thermal baths offer:

• Relaxation in the warm, mineral-rich waters
• Stunning mountain views
• An opportunity to unwind after an eventful day
• Optional activities like zip-lining or kayaking nearby

Following the rejuvenating thermal bath experience, the group is free to explore Chivay further and enjoy lunch on their own.

The tour continues its journey, moving towards the Mirador de los Volcanes for breathtaking vistas of the Chila mountain range and surrounding volcanoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a strict dress code. However, it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes, as the tour involves outdoor activities and visits to various sites within Colca Canyon.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, the included continental breakfast and free time for lunch in Chivay provide ample opportunities to enjoy regional specialties during the day.

What Is the Level of Difficulty for the Activities?

The activities on the tour are generally easy to moderate, with a 1-hour stop for views of Colca Canyon and 45 minutes at thermal baths. Some optional activities like zip lining or kayaking may be more challenging.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions?

There are no strict age or fitness requirements, though the tour involves moderate physical activity. Travelers of most abilities can participate, but those with mobility concerns may find some aspects challenging. It’s best to inquire about specific needs.

Can I Customize or Modify the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but the "Reserve now & pay later" option provides flexibility. Travelers should check availability and participant requirements to ensure the tour meets their needs.

Recap

The "From Arequipa: Tour to Chivay & Colca Canyon" offers an exciting adventure, showcasing Peru’s stunning landscapes and cultural highlights. With a reasonable price, flexible booking, and ample inclusions, it’s an accessible experience for travelers seeking to explore Chivay and the breathtaking Colca Canyon, guided by knowledgeable local experts. The tour’s combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and relaxation makes it an appealing choice for those seeking an immersive Peruvian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: