From Arequipa: 2-Day Colca Canyon Trekking Tour

This is a 2-day hiking tour of Colca Canyon near Arequipa, suitable for physically fit travelers interested in nature and local culture.

Highlights

• Two-day hike through one of the world's deepest canyons
• Guided introduction to local flora and fauna
• Scenic landscapes of the Colca Valley
• Opportunity to observe condors in flight
• Overnight stay at a canyon oasis with relaxation time

Description

Begin with early pickup from your accommodation in Arequipa and travel three hours to the Colca Valley, stopping for breakfast in Chivay. Continue to Condor’s Cross (3,800 m) to watch condors in flight and then descend to Pampas of San Miguel (3,300 m).

Hike along the canyon floor for 4.6 miles (approximately 3 hours) to reach San Juan de Chuccho, where you will rest and have lunch. Continue trekking through Cosñirhua and Malata villages covering 2.5 miles (about 2.5 hours) until you arrive at Sangalle (2,225 m), an oasis where you will spend the night. Enjoy a swim in the pool before dinner.

The next morning, start early with a 2.5-mile ascent (around 3 hours) to Cabanaconde (3,230 m) to see the sunrise and canyon views. From there, travel to Chivay with stops at Antahuilque viewpoint to see Andean terraces and the Colca Valley. Visit Maca’s colonial church.

Optionally, relax at the Yanque hot springs known for their healing properties, followed by an optional lunch in Chivay.

For onward travel, you may choose a regular bus transfer from Chivay to Puno (departing 1:00 p.m., arriving 7:00 p.m.) or return to Arequipa passing near the Pampa Cañahuas National Reserve, home to llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos. The drop-off in Arequipa is two blocks from Plaza de Armas.

Includes

• Pickup from your Arequipa hotel
• Transport back to Arequipa or optional transfer to Puno
• Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
• One night basic accommodation at Sangalle (optional)
• Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner (optional)

Excludes

• Colca Valley entrance fee
• Hot springs admission fee
• Last lunch at Chivay
• Hotel drop-off
• Gratuities
• Toilet paper at Sangalle accommodation

Important Information

• This tour requires good physical condition.
• If selecting the transfer to Puno, choose this option when booking. The regular bus leaves Chivay at 1:00 p.m., arriving in Puno at 7:00 p.m. You must arrange hotel transport upon arrival in Puno.
• You may leave large luggage in a secure location in Cabanaconde (start of trek) for an additional local fee paid onsite, and retrieve it in Chivay on the last day.
• If booking the basic tour with transport and guide only, bring S/250 in cash to cover lodging in shared rooms, meals, entrance fees, and final lunch. Private rooms require an additional S/20.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For best experience, wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring sun protection, water, and layered clothing. The ideal time to visit is during the dry season from May to October.