Join us on a full-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa, a scenic journey through the high Andes that reveals one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This experience combines panoramic landscapes, Andean wildlife, and authentic highland culture — all in a single unforgettable day.
Our adventure begins around 3:00–3:30 AM with hotel pickup in Arequipa. As we drive through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, you’ll spot vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas roaming freely across the vast puna grasslands. The route gradually climbs toward the Andes, passing by the snow-capped volcanoes Misti, Chachani, and Ampato.
By 6:30 AM, we’ll reach Patapampa Pass, the highest point of the route at nearly 4,900 m (16,000 ft), where you’ll enjoy panoramic mountain views and crisp high-altitude air. Descending into the Colca Valley, we’ll arrive in Chivay around 7:00–7:30 AM for a warm breakfast and a short rest before continuing our journey deeper into the canyon.
Following the valley road, we’ll pass by Yanque and Maca, two picturesque Andean villages surrounded by ancient pre-Inca and Inca terraces still cultivated today. Around 9:00 AM, we’ll arrive at the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, the highlight of the tour. From here, the canyon plunges to depths exceeding 3,400 m (11,150 ft), offering a spectacular setting to observe the Andean condor soaring gracefully on the morning thermals.
Afterward, we’ll return toward Chivay, arriving around 12:00 PM for a traditional Andean buffet lunch, featuring local specialties prepared with regional ingredients. Those who wish can then visit the La Calera hot springs (around 1:00 PM) and relax in naturally heated pools surrounded by Andean scenery — a perfect way to unwind after a morning of exploration.
In the early afternoon, around 2:30 PM, we’ll begin the return drive to Arequipa, making short stops at scenic viewpoints and small highland settlements along the way. Expect to arrive back in the city between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM, concluding a memorable day filled with the landscapes, wildlife, and traditions of the Colca Canyon and the Peruvian Andes.
