Tour Details:
Colca Canyon Adventure – Experience the majestic beauty of one of the world’s deepest canyons on this two-day journey through the Colca Valley. Departing from Arequipa, this adventure takes you through breathtaking Andean landscapes, traditional highland villages, and culminates at the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint—where you can witness the unforgettable flight of the mighty Andean condor.
Highlights:
- Scenic drive through the Andes with views of volcanoes, pre-Inca terraces, and native wildlife
- Overnight stay in the picturesque Colca Valley, surrounded by traditional villages
- Visit to highland towns such as Chivay and Yanque, rich in culture and colonial charm
- Optional stop at the relaxing La Calera hot springs
- Early morning visit to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint to observe the majestic Andean condors in flight
- Stops at panoramic viewpoints including Patapampa Pass (4,910 m / 16,108 ft), with stunning views of snowcapped peaks
- Bilingual guide (English/Spanish) offering cultural and natural insights throughout the journey
Gallery
Itinerary
DAY 1: Arequipa | Chachani Volcano | Pampa de Toccra | Volcanoes Viewpoint | Chivay
We begin the journey with an early morning departure from Arequipa, heading north through breathtaking Andean landscapes. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Chachani Volcano and the vast Pampa de Toccra, where you may spot alpacas, llamas, and a variety of high-altitude bird species.
Continuing the ascent, we reach the Volcanoes Viewpoint (Mirador de los Volcanes) at Patapampa Pass (4,910 m / 16,108 ft), the highest point of the route, offering stunning views of snowcapped volcanoes such as Misti, Ampato, and Sabancaya.
In the afternoon, we descend into the Colca Valley, arriving in the town of Chivay, the heart of the region. After checking in at your hotel, you will have time to rest or take an optional visit to the La Calera hot springs for a relaxing soak surrounded by mountain scenery.
- Overnight in Chivay.
DAY 2: Chivay | Yanque Village | Cruz del Cóndor | Maca Village | Return to Arequipa
After an early breakfast, we depart from Chivay and make a brief stop in the charming village of Yanque, known for its colonial church and traditional morning dances in the main square.
We then continue to the Cruz del Cóndor, the most iconic viewpoint in the Colca Canyon. Here, you’ll have ample time to admire the immensity of the canyon and, with some luck, observe the majestic Andean condors soaring gracefully through the air.
On the return journey, we make a stop in the town of Maca, where you can explore its colonial church, interact with local artisans, and enjoy views of the terraced valley.
We then head back toward Arequipa, arriving in the late afternoon. Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes and a final look at the highland scenery before descending back to the White City.
End of services.
Included / Excluded
- Certified professional English/Spanish-speaking guide
- 24/7 customer service assistance
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in the town of Chivay
- 1 breakfast and 1 lunch
- Bottled water during the tour
- All transfers and transportation (guaranteed)
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Arequipa (hotels within the historic center)
- Entrance ticket to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint
- Entrance ticket to the Cruz del Cóndor (25 soles or approx. US$8, paid on site)
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips (optional)
- Additional services or upgrades not mentioned in the program
What to Bring:
- Original passport (and valid student ID if applicable)
- Sleeping bag (recommended for cold nights, rated to -8ºC / 17ºF)
- Sturdy hiking boots (preferably waterproof)
- Layers for variable temperatures, especially for cold nights
- Warm clothing: thermal base layers, fleece or down jacket, trekking pants (avoid jeans)
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Camera or phone with extra batteries/power bank
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses, and lip balm
- Wool socks, gloves, scarf, and warm hat (for high-altitude cold)
- Rain gear: rain jacket and/or poncho (especially during the wet season)
- Plastic bags to keep your gear dry (especially inside your backpack)
- Toiletries, including toilet paper and a small towel
- Swimsuit (for optional hot springs)
- Reusable water bottle (and optional water purification tablets)
- Personal medication and a basic first-aid kit
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
- Extra cash for snacks, tips, or optional activities
Additional Information
IMPORTANT:
To issue your Machu Picchu entry ticket, the Peruvian authorities require the following information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Please ensure all details are accurate when making your reservation.
Pre-Trip Briefing:
A representative from Sungate Peru Travel will contact you one day before your departure to arrange a pre-trip briefing. This meeting will take place in your hotel lobby or at our office, as agreed in advance, around 6:00 PM.
During the briefing, we will provide a detailed step-by-step itinerary map and deliver all relevant tickets and documents for your journey.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
