Highlights
- A tour designed for you to relax and get in touch with nature.
- Short but stunning hikes, perfect for enjoying the scenery without getting exhausted.
- Soak in hot springs and recharge your batteries in a unique setting
- Colca at your own pace: culture, landscapes, and relaxation in perfect harmony.
- More than a trip, this is an authentic experience of the local culture.
Description
DAY 1: AREQUIPA/COLCA.
We will pick you up from your hotel between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM, and then begin our excursion to the spectacular Colca Valley. We will travel along the slopes of the Chachani, Misti, and Pichupichu volcanoes, arriving at the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve, which is part of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where we will be able to observe vicuñas in their natural habitat. At this point, we will be at an altitude of 4,000 meters above sea level.
We will arrive at Alto Sumbay, an Andean community located on the opposite side of the reserve. Here, it is interesting to observe the rock formations and enjoy a view of the rear faces of the Misti and Chachani volcanoes. To help us acclimatize to the altitude, we will enjoy an authentic “Mate de Coca” or a coffee at a small roadside establishment offering food and beverages (restroom facilities available).
We will continue our journey, passing through the Tocra area at an elevation of over 4,400 meters (14,400 feet) above sea level, where we will observe some wild birds and enjoy a view of the high plateau with llamas and alpacas. Our highest point is “Pata Pampa” (Pata = high, Pampa = land), located at 4,910 meters above sea level, where we can see the Ampato, Sabancaya, Huallca, and Misti volcanoes, as well as the Cordillera de Chila.
We will arrive in the town of Chivay (elevation 12,011 feet), the capital of the Colca Valley, where we can enjoy lunch (not included), after which you will be checked into your selected hotel. In the afternoon, we will explore the relaxing hot springs of Chacapi. On our return to Chivay, we will enjoy a folk show, followed by dinner (not included).
After the visits and at the end of this exciting day, transportation will take you to your respective accommodations.
DAY TWO: COLCA / CRUZ DEL CONDOR
After an early breakfast, we will head towards the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Our first stop will be the town of Yanque, where we will witness traditional dances and admire an imposing colonial church.
We will arrive at the lookout point at a convenient time, where you will have plenty of time to appreciate the depth of the canyon and, weather permitting, to take spectacular photos of the condors, which can glide effortlessly on the air currents. After a prearranged time, our guide will lead you on a short hike (approximately 30 to 40 minutes) along the edge of the canyon.
On the way back, we will make stops at the Antahuilque and Huayrapunko viewpoints, where we will enjoy a panoramic view of the Colca Valley and its 1,500-year-old pre-Inca terraces. We will make a brief visit to the town of Maca and then continue to the town of Chivay, where we will have lunch (not included).
After lunch, we will return to the city of Arequipa. Arrival in Arequipa around 4:00–4:30 PM.
Once in Arequipa, we will transfer you to your hotel if it is located in the historic center.
Includes
Tourist transportation.
Tour guide (Spanish and English).
Permanent assistance.
Oxygen balloon.
Excludes
Items of a personal nature
Admission to the hot springs (optional)
Lunch buffet (optional)
Dinner with folk group (optional)
Accommodation (only if you choose the option without hotel)
Entrance to the Colca Valley
Important Information
- Dry season (May to September):
- Day: Temperatures are usually pleasant, generally ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F), with clear skies and bright sunshine.
- Night: Temperatures can drop significantly, ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F), so it is recommended to bring warm clothing for the night.
Rainy season (November to March):
- Day: During this period, daytime temperatures typically range from 64°F (18°C) to 75°F (24°C). Although there may be sunny days, humidity is higher, and temperatures may feel a bit cooler.
- Night: Nights tend to be cooler, with temperatures that can drop to between 41°F (5°C) and 54°F (12°C). The combination of humidity and reduced solar radiation lowers the wind-chill temperature, so it is advisable to wear warm, windproof clothing.
Transition seasons (spring and fall):
It is advisable to be prepared for sudden changes in weather by bringing both light clothing for the day and coats or sweaters for the evening.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
