2-Day Tour Colca Canyon in Arequipa with end in Puno
Puno Region, Peru
A charming and comfortable experience that does not require physical effort to calmly visit the main viewpoints of the Colca Canyon, thermal baths and the main town of Colca where we spent the night
Colca Canyon and Puno Tour from Arequipa
This 2-day tour from Arequipa explores Colca Canyon, Chivay town, hot springs, Salinas National Reserve, and ends in Puno. Ideal for travelers seeking nature, culture, and scenic landscapes.
Highlights
- Comfortable visit to Colca Canyon
- Overnight stay in Chivay with comfortable accommodations
- Visit and optional bath in the thermal springs of Chacapi
- Explore Salinas National Reserve to see native camelids
- Tour ends in Puno, the gateway to Lake Titicaca
Description
Day 1:
Pickup from Arequipa city hotels between 7:30am and 8:00am. The trip to the town of Chivay takes approximately 4 hours including stops. Along the way, stop at Pampa Cañahuas within Salinas National Reserve to see vicuñas. Visit Patahuasi for traditional coca tea, which helps prevent altitude sickness. Continue to Toccra Bofedales to observe grazing alpacas. At the Mirador de los Volcanes viewpoint (4,800 meters above sea level), enjoy views of the western mountain range before arriving in Chivay around 12:30pm.
Lunch is available in Chivay. After lunch, check into your hotel and optionally visit the nearby hot springs (additional entrance fee). The pools range between 35ºC and 38ºC. In the evening, local folklore shows with traditional dances are available at extra cost (Peña restaurant).
Day 2:
After breakfast, depart at 6:30am for the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor (mandatory extra fee) to observe the flight of the Andean condor. Spend about 45 minutes at the viewpoint. Return route includes stops at scenic viewpoints showing the valley’s terraces and the town of Maca, where you can see its church and optionally try local drinks such as the Colca Sour.
Lunch in Chivay is optional and paid separately. Afterward, transfer from Colca Canyon to Puno with a professional guide, enjoying stops at protected natural areas along the route. Arrival in Puno is around 7:30pm with drop-offs near the Plaza de Armas.
Important: Book accommodation in Chivay town itself. Hotels outside town require additional transfer fees to meet the itinerary.
Includes
- Tourist transportation during Arequipa and Colca Canyon tour
- Professional bilingual guide (English and Spanish)
- Guided transfer from Colca Canyon to Puno
- Permanent tour assistance
Excludes
- Meals
- Entrance to hot springs ($5 USD per person)
- Accommodation in Chivay
- Mandatory ticket for Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint ($20 USD per person)
Important Information
- Chivay is approximately 3 hours from Arequipa. Arrival a day before is recommended to acclimate to altitude and avoid sickness.
- Light meals are advised to aid acclimatization.
- Luggage can be brought along without restriction.
- Day 1 tour start: 7:30am from Arequipa.
- Day 2 tour start: 6:30am; tour ends in Puno by 7:30pm near Plaza de Armas.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
Booking Tips
Book accommodation in Chivay town to avoid extra transfer fees. Bring warm clothing for high altitudes and swimwear for the hot springs. The best period to visit is during dry season from May to October to maximize visibility and comfort.
