Private Full Day Tour to Colca Canyon With Breakfast

Exploring the breathtaking Colca Canyon is a must-do for any traveler to Peru. This private full-day tour from Arequipa promises an unforgettable experience, complete with a delicious breakfast and the opportunity to witness the majestic Andean condors soaring above the stunning landscapes. Engaging with local communities, learning about traditional medicinal plants, and savoring authentic Peruvian cuisine are just a few of the highlights that make this tour a truly immersive cultural adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable day in the Andes, this tour has something to captivate every visitor.

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

Key Points

• Private full-day tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon, including a 3-hour drive, breakfast, and a professional tourist guide.
• Visit the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint to observe the majestic Andean condors.
• Interact with local communities and learn about traditional medicinal plants.
• Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring authentic Peruvian cuisine in the scenic Colca Valley.
• Tour includes access to thermal baths, with an additional cost of 15.00 soles per person.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour to Colca Canyon typically departs from Arequipa, Peru, and provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

For $199 per person, guests can expect a 5-star rated experience, with a private air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, and a professional tourist guide.

The tour includes visits to the iconic Cruz del Cóndor, opportunities to interact with local communities, and a chance to learn about the area’s medicinal plants.

Along the way, travelers will enjoy scenic vistas of the Colca Valley and a buffet lunch featuring local Peruvian dishes.

This tour is ideal for those seeking an immersive and personalized adventure in the heart of the Andes.

Itinerary Details

The tour departs Arequipa at 3:00 am, with an approximately 3-hour drive to reach the town of Chivay (3,600 meters above sea level), where guests enjoy breakfast and take in the scenic views of the Colca Valley. After breakfast, the tour continues to Cruz del Cóndor, the best spot to observe the majestic Andean condors in their natural habitat. Along the way, guests will have the opportunity to interact with the local population, learn about medicinal plants, and savor a delicious buffet lunch featuring regional dishes. The day is capped off with a visit to the thermal baths, providing a relaxing end to an unforgettable cultural experience.

Activity	Location	Time
Depart Arequipa	Arequipa	3:00 AM
Arrive Chivay	Chivay (3,600 masl)	6:00 AM
Breakfast and Scenic Views	Chivay	6:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Visit Cruz del Cóndor	Cruz del Cóndor	8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Activity Highlights

After exploring the detailed itinerary, the tour’s activity highlights come into focus.

Visitors can expect to witness the majestic Andean condors up close at the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where these magnificent birds soar above the stunning Colca Canyon.

The tour also provides opportunities to engage with the local population, learning about their traditional way of life and the medicinal plants they use.

Guests will enjoy a delectable buffet lunch featuring authentic Peruvian dishes, giving them a taste of the region’s flavorful cuisine.

Throughout the day, the tour showcases the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Colca Valley, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience for all participants.

Included Experiences

Visitors on the Private Full Day Tour to Colca Canyon can look forward to an array of included experiences that showcase the region’s natural splendor and cultural heritage. The tour includes:

1. A 3-hour drive from Arequipa to the charming town of Chivay, where guests can enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast while taking in the stunning views of the Colca Valley.

2. A visit to the famous Cruz del Cóndor, a prime spot for spotting the majestic Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world.

3. Engaging with the local population and learning about the medicinal plants and traditional practices that have sustained life in this remote region.

4. A delectable buffet lunch featuring the best of Colca’s local cuisine.

Additional Costs

While the Private Full Day Tour to Colca Canyon includes a range of experiences, there may be additional costs for optional activities that visitors can choose to participate in during the tour.

For instance, the tour package doesn’t cover the cost of thermal baths, which is 15.00 soles per person. Travelers who want to indulge in this rejuvenating activity will need to pay the additional fee.

Similarly, any other optional excursions or experiences beyond the core itinerary may incur extra charges. It’s important for participants to review the tour inclusions carefully and budget accordingly for any add-ons they’re interested in.

The tour operator can provide more details on potential supplementary costs during the booking process.

Accessibility Considerations

The Private Full Day Tour to Colca Canyon may not be accessible for all travelers, as it’s not wheelchair-friendly and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical issues. Here are a few key accessibility considerations:

1. Not Wheelchair Accessible: The tour involves hiking and navigating uneven terrain, which makes it unsuitable for wheelchair users.

2. Medical Concerns: Travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues should exercise caution, as the tour can be physically demanding.

3. Moderate Fitness Level: A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended to fully participate in the activities and handle the high-altitude environment.

4. Private Tour Structure: This is a private tour, so only your group will be participating, which can be an advantage for those with specific accessibility needs.

Traveler Recommendations

For those embarking on the Private Full Day Tour to Colca Canyon, a few key recommendations should be considered.

Proper preparation and awareness of the tour’s physical demands can help ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions, as it requires a moderate level of fitness.

Travelers are advised to bring layers of clothing, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes. Staying hydrated and pacing oneself during the hike and activities is crucial.

While the tour offers an immersive cultural experience, it’s important to be respectful of the local community and environment.

Customer Testimonials

Travelers who’ve experienced the Private Full Day Tour to Colca Canyon rave about the exceptional experiences, with many describing the tour as a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity that ‘exceeded expectations.’

The tour’s top-rated 5-star reviews highlight several reasons for the overwhelmingly positive feedback:

1. Exceptional guide expertise and professionalism, with the ability to connect travelers to the local environment and culture.

2. Authentic interactions with the indigenous population and in-depth learning about medicinal plants.

3. Delightful culinary experiences featuring a buffet lunch of local Peruvian dishes.

4. Overall attention to detail and seamless execution that make for an unforgettable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Will We Return to Arequipa From the Tour?

The tour will return to Arequipa around 6:00 PM, as the journey from Chivay back to Arequipa takes approximately 3 hours. The exact return time may vary slightly depending on the tour’s activities and any unforeseen delays along the way.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though the tour typically includes a buffet lunch. Check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions regarding outside provisions.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour operator typically offers some flexibility to customize the itinerary. Guests can discuss their preferences with the guide and adjust the schedule to suit their interests within the overall tour framework.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?

No special equipment is typically needed, but comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, and layered clothing are recommended for the activities in Colca Canyon. The tour provider can advise on any specific gear needed.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy is flexible, allowing customers to cancel or modify their reservations up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure with a full refund. Last-minute cancellations may incur fees.

Recap

This private full-day tour to Colca Canyon offers a breathtaking adventure.

Travelers can witness the majestic Andean condors, enjoy local communities, and savor authentic Peruvian cuisine.

With comfortable transportation, a delicious breakfast, and a buffet lunch included, this tour promises an unforgettable experience of Colca Canyon’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.