Exploring the breathtaking Colca Canyon from Arequipa is a must-do for nature enthusiasts. This full-day tour offers an immersive experience, showcasing the dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife of this natural wonder. Travelers can witness the majestic condors soaring above the canyon’s rim, indulge in a delightful lunch, and even opt for a rejuvenating soak in the thermal hot springs. With convenient transportation and an experienced guide, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, unique cultural encounters, or a deeper connection with the Peruvian wilderness, the Colca Canyon experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Lunch Experiences In Arequipa.
Key Points
- A full-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa with breakfast and lunch provided, offering opportunities to see condors at La Cruz del Condor and visit Pampa Canahuas.
- Optional visits to hot springs at La Calera for relaxation and bird-watching, with a maximum group size of 15 for a more personalized experience.
- Comprehensive tour covering the natural beauty of the Colca Canyon region, with a professional guide available for commentary in English or Spanish.
- Tour costs range from $60 to $90 per person, with discounts available for larger groups and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Preparation tips include bringing a small backpack, comfortable clothing, and a valid passport, with a baggage allowance of 5 kg/11 pounds.
Overview
This full-day trip to Colca Canyon from Arequipa is ideal for nature lovers and first-time visitors, offering the opportunity to observe condors and enjoy panoramic views from the La Cruz del Condor lookout point.
The tour also includes an optional visit to the hot springs at La Calera, where travelers can relax in the soothing waters.
Plus, the itinerary features bird watching in Pampa Cańahuas, a habitat for flamingoes and Andean geese.
This comprehensive excursion provides a well-rounded experience, allowing participants to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Colca Canyon region while also enjoying a chance to unwind in the thermal baths.
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Itinerary
The full-day Colca Canyon tour begins with a 03:00 AM pickup from accommodations in Arequipa, whisking travelers away for an early start to the day. The journey then continues to the town of Chivay, where a hearty breakfast awaits. From there, the tour proceeds to the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor, a prime viewing spot for observing the majestic Andean condors soaring above the canyon’s depths. After taking in the breathtaking panoramic vistas, the group returns to Chivay for lunch and leisure time.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 03:00 AM | Pickup from Arequipa accommodation |
| Breakfast | Chivay |
| Mid-Morning | Condor viewing at Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor |
| Lunch & Leisure | Chivay |
Inclusions
The Colca Canyon tour typically includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Arequipa, along with a professional guide who can provide commentary in English or Spanish.
Plus, the tour package covers breakfast and lunch in Chivay, as well as entrance fees for the hot springs and Colca Canyon itself.
Travelers are also allotted a baggage allowance of 5 kg/11 pounds, with the option to store any excess luggage at their hotel in Arequipa.
The inclusions ensure a seamless and comfortable experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Colca Canyon without having to worry about logistical details.
Pricing
Costs for the full-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa vary depending on the size of the group and any optional add-ons, with prices typically ranging from $60 to $90 per person.
The base price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, breakfast and lunch in Chivay, and entrance fees to the Colca Canyon and hot springs.
An optional thermal bath experience at La Calera adds around $5 to the cost. Larger groups enjoy discounted per-person rates, while solo travelers may pay slightly more.
The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving customers the flexibility to adjust their plans as needed.
Reviews
According to reviews, participants generally praised the knowledgeable guide, the awe-inspiring condor sightings, and the relaxing hot springs experience as highlights of the full-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa.
The tour’s overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 suggests a positive but mixed response. Travelers enjoyed the high-quality meals and the opportunity to witness the majestic condors soaring over the canyon.
However, some noted issues with the tour’s timing and limited bird-watching chances. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Colca Canyon tour seems to provide a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to take in the region’s stunning landscapes and indigenous culture.
Tour Details
The full-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa provides a comprehensive itinerary for nature enthusiasts and first-time visitors to explore the stunning natural wonder.
The tour begins with an early 3 AM pickup from your accommodation in Arequipa, followed by a comfortable journey to the town of Chivay for breakfast.
Afterward, you’ll head to the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor, a prime viewpoint to witness the majestic Andean condors soaring above the canyon.
Later, you’ll return to Chivay for a delicious lunch and some leisure time.
In the afternoon, you can opt to indulge in the relaxing thermal baths at La Calera, where the soothing waters range from 35°C to 38°C.
Preparation
Travelers should ensure they’ve a valid passport on hand for the Colca Canyon tour, as it’s required on the travel day.
They’ll want to wear comfortable, layered clothing that can adapt to the changeable weather conditions in the canyon.
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also recommended to protect against the intense Andean sun.
It’s advisable to bring a small backpack or daypack to carry any personal items, snacks, and water.
The tour operator allows up to 5 kg (11 pounds) of luggage per person, with additional bags stored at the hotel.
Following these simple preparation tips will help travelers make the most of their full-day Colca Canyon adventure from Arequipa.
Booking Information
To book the Fullday Colca Canyon Tour, travelers need to confirm their reservation in advance. The tour operator requires confirmation at the time of booking, and a valid passport is necessary on the travel day. Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties.
The tour has a few key booking details:
-
Maximum of 15 travelers per group.
-
Baggage allowance of 5 kg/11 pounds, with additional bags stored at the hotel.
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Confirmation is required, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
Travelers can look forward to a memorable day exploring the stunning Colca Canyon and observing the majestic condors from the Cruz del Condor lookout point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option to Visit Condor Cross Earlier?
Yes, there is an option to visit the Condor Cross earlier. The itinerary allows travelers to go to the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint to see the condors in the morning before returning to Chivay for breakfast and lunch.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
The tour doesn’t explicitly allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. The package includes breakfast and lunch, so it’s best to consult the tour operator about any special dietary needs or preferences.
How Often Do the Condors Appear at the Viewpoint?
Condor sightings at the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint are frequent, though not guaranteed. Visitors often catch glimpses of these majestic birds soaring over the Colca Canyon, though their appearances can be unpredictable and depend on environmental factors.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Hot Springs?
Guests can extend their time at the La Calera hot springs if they’d like. The tour includes about 1 hour at the springs, but visitors can choose to stay longer at their own expense. This provides more time to relax in the thermal waters.
Is There Any Wildlife Other Than Condors to See?
Yes, the Colca Canyon tour offers opportunities to spot other wildlife besides condors. The itinerary includes birdwatching at Pampa Cañahuas, where visitors can observe flamingos and Andean geese in their natural habitat.
Recap
The Colca Canyon full-day tour from Arequipa offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the majestic condors, explore the stunning natural landscapes, and enjoy a relaxing experience at the La Calera hot springs.
With convenient transportation, delectable meals, and the chance to take in the region’s diverse wildlife, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts seeking to discover the breathtaking beauty of the Colca Canyon.
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