Arequipa: 2-Day Colca Canyon Trekking Tour
Andes Mountains, Peru, Peru
Embark on a 2-day trek to the Colca Canyon with a professional guide. Enjoy the stunning views of the canyon, observe the majestic flight of the condors, and learn about the local culture.
This is a 2-day guided trek through Colca Canyon near Arequipa, suitable for experienced hikers interested in nature, culture, and local traditions.
Highlights
- Experience the natural landscape of Colca Canyon
- Observe condors in flight at the Cross of the Condor
- Learn about indigenous culture and traditions
- Relax in the natural pools of the Sangalle oasis
- Stay overnight in a small village with local hospitality
Description
Day 1: The tour starts with hotel pickup at 3:00 or 3:30 am, or at Plaza de Armas at 2:50 am. After three hours of travel, breakfast is served in Chivay. The journey continues to the Cross of the Condor, where you will spend 30 minutes watching condors fly (best seen May to September). Then you begin a three-hour descent to San Juan de Chuccho for lunch. Afterward, you hike for three hours to the Sangalle oasis, where you can relax in pools at 20°C. Dinner and overnight stay are at a basic lodge in Sangalle.
Day 2: Following coordination with your guide, an early start around 4:30 am begins the approximately three-hour hike uphill to Cabanaconde. Breakfast is served in Cabanaconde, then the tour continues to the pre-Inca terraces of Antahuilque. Next is a visit to the Yanque thermal baths for a relaxing soak. Afterward, you return to Chivay for lunch at a pre-arranged time. On the return trip to Arequipa, stops include the Mirador de los Andes (4,910 m) and the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Arrival in Arequipa is around 5:30 pm, concluding the trek.
Includes
- 2-day guided trek
- Transport
- English/Spanish guide
- Lunch and dinner on Day 1
- Breakfast on both mornings
- One night accommodation in a hostel lodge at Sangalle
Excludes
- Colca Canyon park entry: 70 PEN per person
- Lunch on Day 2: 45 PEN per person
- Hot springs entry: 15 PEN per person
- Snacks and water
Important Information
- Participants should have prior trekking experience. The hike involves about 7 hours of walking over two days, covering 23 kilometers. Day 1 is 15 km with 80% downhill, Day 2 is 8 km with 90% uphill.
- A briefing meeting is held one day before the activity at the office to clarify all details.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
Book in advance and bring sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, water, and sun protection. The best months to visit are May through September for condor sightings and favorable weather conditions.
