Colca Canyon Trek

DAY 1

Your adventure through the Colca Canyon begins bright and early. We'll pick you up from your lodging in Arequipa and set off towards the Colca Valley, a journey that takes roughly 3 hours. We'll pause in Chivay for a brief breakfast.

Continuing on, we'll visit the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, perched at 3,800 meters above sea level. Here, you'll witness the breathtaking flight of condors and marvel at the stunning landscape of volcanoes, snow-covered peaks, and the canyon's depth as these majestic birds glide through the sky.

Our journey advances to the Pampas de San Miguel (3,300 m.a.s.l.), where we'll commence a 7.5-kilometer descent into the canyon, a trek that takes about 3 hours.

Upon reaching the village of San Juan de Chuccho, we'll take a well-deserved break for lunch. We then continue our trek for another 4 kilometers, approximately a two-and-a-half-hour walk, through the villages of Cosñirhua and Malata, arriving at Sangalle (1,900 m.a.s.l.), a beautiful oasis where we'll spend the night.

Here, you can unwind with a refreshing swim in the pool, followed by a delightful dinner in the evening.

DAY 2

At 5:00 am, we'll embark on a 4-kilometer hike, climbing for 3 hours up the canyon's slope, enjoying the sunrise and breathtaking landscapes until we reach the town of Cabanaconde, located at 3,230 meters above sea level.

Cabanaconde, in the province of Caylloma, lies 224 kilometers from Arequipa. The locals are known for their warm hospitality, and you'll be captivated by their traditional garments, adorned with spectacular handmade embroideries, recognized as Cultural Heritage of the Nation.

We'll savor a hearty Andean breakfast, then proceed to the town of Chivay via our transport, with stops at the Antahuilque Viewpoint to admire the terraced fields and the expansive Colca Valley. We'll also visit the Andean village of Maca to appreciate its stunning colonial church.

As we continue, we'll pass through Yanque, where you may choose to visit the thermal baths (optional). These hot springs offer therapeutic benefits and a soothing experience. Following the thermal baths, we have the option of enjoying a satisfying lunch in Chivay.

We'll then commence our return journey to Arequipa, passing through the Pampa Cañahuas National Reserve at an elevation of 4,000 meters. Nestled behind the Misti and Chachani volcanoes, this area is known for its cool climate due to the high altitude.

The reserve is rich in wildlife, home to birds, foxes, and vizcachas, as well as various camelids like llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos. Its diverse flora includes ichu grass, cacti, and plants utilized for dyeing fabrics, such as wool.

Upon reaching Arequipa, we'll drop you off just two blocks from the Plaza de Armas.

*There is an option for a transfer to Puno at the conclusion of the tour on day 2. If you select this option, you'll depart from Chivay at 1:00 p.m. and arrive at Puno's main square by 7:00 p.m.