Full Day Tour to the Colca Canyon

Exploring the grandeur of the Colca Canyon is an experience like no other. This full-day tour from Arequipa promises an exhilarating journey, treating visitors to awe-inspiring vistas, local cuisine, and the chance to unwind in thermal springs. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable day trip, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded introduction to one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. With an early start, a delectable breakfast, and a lineup of captivating highlights, the stage is set for an unforgettable adventure. What awaits travelers who embark on this journey through the Colca Valley?

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

Key Points

• A full-day excursion designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Colca Valley, including a visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint to observe Andean condors.
• Breakfast in the town of Chivay, followed by an optional stop at the Chacapi-Yanque Hot Springs for relaxation.
• Lunch served in Chivay, providing an opportunity to sample local Andean cuisine.
• Comfortable air-conditioned transportation and a bilingual guide included in the tour package.
• Tour not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour start.

Tour Overview

The Colca Canyon Tour is a full-day excursion designed for travelers with limited time to connect with nature and witness the majestic Andean condor.

This tour allows visitors to explore the small towns in the Colca Valley in less than a day. The duration of the tour is 12 hours, with a start time confirmed by the local provider and pickup from hotels near the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa between 3:00 and 4:00 am.

Highlights of the tour include breakfast in Chivay, a visit to the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint, and an optional stop at the Chacapi-Yanque hot springs, followed by a lunch stop in Chivay.

Itinerary Highlights

Touring the Colca Canyon begins with a breakfast stop in Chivay, arriving between 6:30 and 7:00 am.

The main highlight is visiting the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where visitors can observe the majestic Andean condor for about an hour.

Travelers also have the option to stop at the Chacapi-Yanque Hot Springs for a relaxing soak, spending up to an hour there.

Lunch is served in Chivay between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm.

The tour is designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Colca Valley while maximizing the time available for guests with limited schedules.

Breakfast in Chivay

After departing Arequipa in the early hours, the tour arrives in Chivay around 6:30 to 7:00 am for the first stop – breakfast.

This small town nestled in the Colca Valley provides an authentic Andean setting for travelers to fuel up before continuing their adventure. The breakfast typically consists of local Peruvian dishes, allowing guests to enjoy the regional cuisine.

This initial stop sets the tone for the day, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area and preparing the tour group for the breathtaking sights that lie ahead in the Colca Canyon.

Cruz Del Condor Viewpoint

From the breakfast stop in Chivay, the tour proceeds to the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint, one of the highlights of the Colca Canyon excursion.

This is where visitors have the best chance of seeing the majestic Andean condor in flight. The viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic vistas of the canyon. Guests spend about an hour at this location, patiently waiting and watching for the elusive condors to appear.

This is a must-see part of the tour, as the Andean condor is the world’s largest flying bird and a symbol of the Andes. Visitors are often in awe of the condor’s graceful soaring and wingspan.

Chacapi-Yanque Hot Springs

After visiting the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint, the tour makes an optional stop at the Chacapi-Yanque Hot Springs.

Located in the picturesque Colca Valley, these thermal baths offer a relaxing respite from the day’s adventures.

Travelers can soak in the soothing waters, which are rich in minerals and believed to have therapeutic properties.

The hot springs provide a chance to unwind and rejuvenate for about an hour before continuing the tour.

This optional stop is a popular addition, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the Andes region.

Lunch in Chivay

Midday, the tour stops for lunch in Chivay, a picturesque town nestled within the Colca Valley.

This is the opportune time for travelers to sample local Andean cuisine and recharge before continuing their exploration. The optional buffet lunch ($12.00) offers a diverse array of regional dishes, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the Colca region.

After a hearty meal, the group has ample time to wander through the town, admiring its colonial architecture and soaking in the serene atmosphere before heading back on the road.

This lunch break provides a welcomed respite, energizing participants for the remainder of the captivating Colca Canyon tour.

Tour Inclusions

The Colca Canyon tour package includes an air-conditioned vehicle to transport travelers comfortably throughout the day.

Plus, the tour provides:

• A complimentary breakfast upon arrival in Chivay, ensuring travelers start their day energized.
• An optional buffet lunch for $12.00, offering a chance to savor local Peruvian cuisine.
• A tourist ticket at $5.05 for Peruvian nationals, providing access to the scenic viewpoints and attractions.

The tour also includes entrance to the Chacapi-Yanque Hot Springs, where travelers can unwind for an hour, and a permanent bilingual guide to provide informative commentary throughout the day.

Additional Information

The Colca Canyon tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

This experience isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. However, the tour company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the tour, providing flexibility for travelers.

The tour’s duration is approximately 12 hours, with a start time between 3:00 and 4:00 AM, allowing visitors to explore the Colca Valley and witness the majestic Andean condors at the Cruz del Condor Viewpoint in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The best time to visit the Colca Canyon is typically between April and November when the weather is dry and sunny. Travelers can enjoy clear views of the canyon and spot the Andean condors during this prime visiting season.

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

Travelers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a breakfast stop and an optional buffet lunch, so full meals are provided. Bringing outside food is generally not allowed.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no information about extending the tour duration. The full-day tour is designed to cover the highlights of the Colca Canyon in a single day. Travelers can check with the local provider if longer tours are available.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour recommends dressing in comfortable, layered clothing suitable for hiking and varying temperatures. Warm jackets, sturdy shoes, and sun protection are advised to fully enjoy the Colca Canyon’s outdoor activities.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for the Tour Participants?

There are no strict age restrictions, but the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility issues.

Recap

The full-day tour to the Colca Canyon offers an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. With highlights like a delicious breakfast, breathtaking viewpoints, and relaxing hot springs, this tour provides a chance to take in the stunning landscapes of the Colca Valley. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, this comprehensive tour is the perfect way to experience the natural wonders of this remarkable destination.