Highlights
- See the majestic flight of the Andean condor at the Cruz del Condor vantage point
- Descend into the heart of the Colca Canyon
- Relax in natural thermal baths with medicinal waters after the hike
Description
DAY 1: AREQUIPA - CHIVAY - CRUZ DEL CÓNDOR VANTAGE POINT - DESCENT INTO THE CANYON
The adventure starts very early at 3 AM with pickup from your hotel. We will embark on a fascinating journey through the Andean landscapes until we reach the picturesque village of Chivay, where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast to recharge our batteries.
We will continue to the iconic Mirador Cruz del Condor, one of the most spectacular vantage points on the route. Here you'll have the unique opportunity to observe the majestic flight of the Andean Condor. The best season to see the largest flying bird in the world is June, July, and August, as it glides over the depths of the canyon on the morning thermals.
Then we'll begin our trek, descending into the heart of the canyon. During approximately seven hours of trekking on the first day, we will descend along zigzagging trails surrounded by pre-Inca terraces, native vegetation, and breathtaking panoramic views. We will arrive at our accommodation at the bottom of the canyon, where we will spend the night surrounded by nature and tranquility.
DAY 2: ASCENT OF THE CANYON - THERMAL BATHS - RETURN TO AREQUIPA
We'll wake up early to take advantage of the cool morning and continue exploring the canyon. We will take a three-hour hike, climbing an average of 1,100 meters from Oasis to Cabanaconde to have breakfast after ascending the canyon.
Afterwards, we will return again to Chivay, where you will have free time to relax in the soothing thermal baths with medicinal waters, perfect for regaining strength after the trek.
The drop-off in Arequipa will be equally spectacular. We'll make strategic stops at the Volcanes Vantage Point, where you can see an impressive chain of snow-capped volcanoes, and we'll pass through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Nature Reserve, home to vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas in their natural habitat.
Finally, we will arrive in Arequipa in the afternoon, with a drop-off near Plaza de Armas, taking with you unforgettable memories of this adventure in one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Includes
Pick-up from centrally-located hotels in Arequipa
Tourist transportation to and from the tour
Bilingual expert guide (Spanish and English)
Rustic accommodation (1 night)
Meals included: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner
Excludes
National Park admission ticket: foreigners 70 soles, Latin Americans 40 soles, Peruvians 20 soles
Admission ticket to the Thermal Baths 15 soles
Lunch on day 2, approx. 45 soles, buffet
Important Information
- This sightseeing tour involves 23 kilometers of hiking inside the canyon and requires good physical condition.
Day 1: 15 kilometers (80% descent)
Day 2: 8 kilometers (5 miles) (90% ascent)
Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging
Know before you go about fitness level:
This sightseeing tour includes a challenging trek of 23 kilometers in total inside the Colca Canyon. Good physical condition and previous experience in mountain hikes are required.
Day 1: 15 kilometers with 80% continuous descent (approximately 7 hours). The prolonged descent can be demanding on the knees.
Second day: 8 kilometers with 90% steep ascent (approximately 3 hours). The ascent to high altitude requires cardiovascular endurance.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
