W Peru travelAuthentic journeys through Peru
info@wperu-travel.com WhatsApp
Plan your trip

Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon
AvailabilityDaily departures, subject to availability
TransportTourist transport
GuideProfessional guide included
Available languagesSpanish and English, subject to availability
Service typeGroup service
Cancellation policyAsk about the booking conditions
Maximum altitude4,900 m a.s.l.
DifficultyModerate
Duration2 days

Travel to the Colca Valley through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you will see vicuñas, Andean birds and volcanic landscapes. You will stop at the Volcanoes Viewpoint (4,910 m a.s.l.) before reaching Chivay. In the afternoon you can relax in its famous hot springs. Visit the Cruz del Cóndor, the best viewpoint to watch the majestic flight of the condor and take in the vastness of the Colca Canyon. On the way back you will pass through the villages of Pinchollo, Maca and Yanque and the Choquetico and Antahuilque viewpoints, with impressive terraces and pre-Inca remains. Return to Arequipa in the afternoon.

Read moreShow less

Throughout the itinerary you will discover the destination’s most representative places accompanied by our local team. Each day combines guided visits, scenery, culture and time to rest, with assistance from the beginning to the end of the journey.

Customise your trip

Itinerary

07:30 AM – 08:15 AM: Departure from Arequipa. The agency minibus picks you up at your hotel to start the journey north.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Pampa Cañahuas Reserve. You will drive around the Chachani volcano, with stops along the road to see vicuñas, alpacas and llamas in the wild. You will also stop at a roadside stall for a coca or muña tea to help with the altitude.
11:45 AM: Andes Viewpoint (Patapampa). You will reach the highest point of the road, at 4,910 metres. From here you can see the snow-capped peaks of several volcanoes, such as Sabancaya and Ampato.
01:00 PM – 02:30 PM: Arrival in Chivay and lunch. You will descend to the main town of the valley (3,600 metres), where you will enjoy a buffet lunch of typical regional food.
02:30 PM – 03:00 PM: Hotel check-in. The transport drops you at your chosen hotel in Chivay (or a nearby village) so you can leave your luggage and rest.
04:00 PM – 06:00 PM: La Calera hot springs. The bus picks you up to go to the medicinal hot spring pools — the perfect way to relax after a day on the road.
07:30 PM: Dinner with folk show. You can enjoy dinner in Chivay with a show of traditional dances from the province of Caylloma (such as the Wititi).

Important note: Times are approximate and may change depending on the operating conditions of the day.

Included

What is included

  • Hotel pickup
  • Tourist transport
  • Professional guide

What is not included

  • Meals not mentioned
  • Tips
  • Tourist ticket: Peruvians S/20 and foreigners S/70

Recommendations

Before booking

  • Book as far in advance as possible.
  • Minimum of 2 participants.
  • Bilingual service in Spanish and English.
  • Check the difficulty level and required physical condition.
  • Check the cancellation policy before booking.

Before travelling

  • Bring the original document used for booking.
  • Bring a light backpack for essential items.
  • Wear comfortable footwear suitable for the activity.
  • Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat and clothing for changing weather.
  • Carry cash for personal expenses.

Legal and safety requirements before travelling

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I book the tour?

We recommend booking as early as possible; ideally 24 to 48 hours before.

Can I do the tour without a travel agency?

No. Some services require entrance tickets or permits bought in advance, or hiring authorised operators. We recommend checking the specific conditions of the programme before visiting on your own.

What is the best time of year to travel?

The dry season usually offers more stable weather, better suited to outdoor activities. However, our programmes run for most of the year, always subject to weather conditions, availability and the rules of the relevant authorities.

How difficult is the tour?

The difficulty level is moderate. The tour combines vehicle transfers with walks of different lengths and intensity. Please consider your physical condition before taking part.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. We recommend valid travel insurance that covers medical assistance, emergencies, cancellations and, if needed, adventure activities. Each traveller should choose insurance that fits their own needs and circumstances.

How many people are in the group?

Group size can vary from 15 to 20 people, depending on the travel date, availability and the programme booked. If you would like a more personalised experience, we also offer private service, subject to availability and service conditions.

What happens if the tour is cancelled due to the weather?

The safety of our travellers is our top priority. If weather conditions put the tour at risk, our team will assess the situation and, following the authorities' instructions and each service's policies, will offer the available alternatives, which may include rescheduling, changing the itinerary or another solution according to the booking conditions.

Keep exploring

View all: Tours in Arequipa

Ready for your next adventure in Peru?

Let’s design an unforgettable journey through the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and the most spectacular destinations in the Andes.

Enquire now Chat on WhatsApp