Colca Canyon Classic Tour: 2 Days of Nature & Tradition

The Colca Canyon Classic Tour is a journey to the heart of one of the deepest canyons in the world. Reaching a maximum depth of 3,300 meters, this natural masterpiece offers some of the most breathtaking views in Peru. During these two days, you will not only witness the majesty of the Andean Condor gliding over thermal winds but also connect with rural communities that maintain their ancestral way of life. The Colca Canyon Classic Tour combines volcanic landscapes, relaxing hot springs, and rich pre-Inca history, making it an essential experience for every traveler.

ℹ️ General Information

• Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night.

• Departure Time: 07:30 am (From Arequipa).

• Highest Point: Patapampa (4,910 m / 16,108 ft).

• Frequency: Every day!

• Price: From $85.00 USD (Varies based on selected accommodation).

⭐ Tour Highlights

• Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve: Spot wild vicuñas in their natural habitat.

• Cruz del Condor Viewpoint: The world’s best spot to watch the majestic flight of the Condor.

• Volcanoes Lookout (Patapampa): Panoramic views of the volcanic range at nearly 5,000 meters.

• Hot Springs: A relaxing soak in natural pools surrounded by mountains.

• Traditional Villages: Visit Chivay, Coporaque, Yanque, and Maca to learn about their culture and colonial architecture.

🗺️ Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Altiplano Volcanoes and Colca Valley Terraces

• 07:30 AM – Departure from Arequipa: We begin our journey towards Chivay. Along the way, enjoy majestic views of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.

• Morning – Wildlife & Altiplano: Stop at the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve to observe wild vicuñas. Later, we visit Tocra to see high-altitude lakes with wild birds and herds of llamas and alpacas.

• Noon – Roof of the World: Reach Patapampa (4,910 m), the highest point of the tour, with stunning views of the Ampato and Sabancaya volcanoes.

• 01:00 PM – Lunch in Coporaque: Arrive at the village of Coporaque to enjoy a local lunch (not included) at a Lodge surrounded by pre-Inca terraces.

• Afternoon – Relax & Culture: Optional short hike around Coporaque (1 hour). Afterward, visit the natural hot springs for a relaxing bath before checking into your selected hotel.

Day 2: The Flight of the Condor and Hanging Tombs

• 06:30 AM – Heading to the Canyon: Early breakfast and departure to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

• Morning – Sightseeing: We will have plenty of time to observe the canyon’s depth and the majestic flight of the condors. Take a light 1-hour hike near the canyon’s edge.

• Return – Living History: On the way back to Chivay, visit the Antahuilque (1,500-year-old terraces) and Choquetico (hanging tombs) viewpoints. Stop at the villages of Maca and Yanque, famous for its beautiful baroque church.

• 01:00 PM – Lunch and Return: Lunch in Chivay (not included) before heading back to Arequipa, arriving at approximately 04:00 PM.

• Note: We offer an optional transfer from Chivay to Puno (Lake Titicaca) for an additional fee.

Colca Canyon tour Classic 2D Price in USD – Group Tours

• Only Services (no accommodation): $65.00 (Guiding services and Transportation)
• With Accommodation

Guiding service, transport, and Hotel according to the one you could request.

Note: We charge some extra fee for picking services from some hotels located away from the center of Arequipa if you plan to take just guiding and transportation service let us know so we can give you the specific information, e-mail us to info@coclatours.com 

✅ What is included

• Shared tourist transportation (Pick-up and drop-off at central hotels).

• Certified professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish).

• 01 night of accommodation in the selected hotel.

• 01 buffet breakfast at the hotel/lodge.

• Oxygen tank and first aid kit on board.

• Permanent assistance and money transfer fees.

❌ What is not included

• Colca Tourist Ticket: Mandatory (Foreigners: S/ 70 – approx. $22 USD).

• Entrance fees to the hot springs (approx. S/ 15) and towel rentals.

• Lunches and dinners during the tour.

• Tips and personal expenses.

🎒 What to bring

• Warm clothing: Colca gets very cold at night and at high-altitude points like Patapampa.

• Swimwear: Essential for the hot springs.

• Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap.

• Health: Personal altitude sickness medication (soroche pills) and a water bottle.

• Cash: In Peruvian Soles for entrance fees and local expenses.

💡 Expert Recommendations

1. Acclimatization: We recommend spending at least one day in Arequipa before the tour to avoid altitude sickness at Patapampa.

2. Experiential Extension: If you have an extra day, try our “Living Culture Add-on” in Coporaque. Live with a local family, help with farming or herding, and experience the reality of Andean life (see Additional section).

3. Connection to Puno: If Lake Titicaca is your next destination, don’t return to Arequipa; take the direct connection from Chivay to Puno to save time.

4. Language: During the experiential extension, locals mainly speak Spanish and Quechua; it’s a great chance to practice your hand gestures and basic words!

❓ FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Condor guaranteed every day? The Condor is a wild animal, so there is no 100% guarantee, but chances at Cruz del Condor are very high in the morning.

2. What is the Colca Tourist Ticket? It is a mandatory tax to enter the protected area. It must be paid in cash upon entering the valley.

3. Are there vegetarian options? Yes, buffet restaurants in Chivay and Coporaque offer a variety of vegetables, quinoa dishes, and pasta.

You can visist our other option tour in Arequipa: Arequipa City Tour