2 Day 1 Night Trek / Colca Canyon

A 2-Day Trek Through the Magnificent Colca Canyon: An Adventure for Nature Lovers and Active Travelers

If you’re looking to see one of the deepest canyons in the world without sacrificing comfort or good company, this 2-day, 1-night trek in Colca Canyon should be on your list. Starting from Arequipa, this journey mixes exhilarating hikes with cultural sights and some well-deserved relaxation at the end. The tour, costing around $124 per person, offers a balanced blend of adventure and comfort, with bilingual guides, included meals, and hotel transfers making logistics straightforward.

What we love about this experience is how it allows you to fully appreciate the canyon’s grandeur at a relaxed pace — splitting the trek into two days means you’re not rushing through the scenery. Plus, the overnight stay at the cozy Cielo Azul lodge with a swimming pool means you can unwind after a day of hiking. However, one aspect to consider is the cost of entrance fees to sites like the canyon itself and hot springs, which aren’t included in the base price. This is common for tours in the region, but worth noting for your budget planning.

This trek is best suited for active travelers who enjoy hiking and outdoor experiences but also appreciate some comfort and cultural insights. If you’re prepared for a physically moderate but rewarding adventure, with the chance to see the majestic Andean condor, then this tour will deliver.

Key Points

• Guided in English and Spanish for clear explanations of the landscape and wildlife.
• All meals included, removing the hassle of meal planning during the trip.
• Hotel transfers included, making transportation hassle-free, especially after early mornings.
• Overnight stay at Cielo Azul lodge with a pool, ideal for relaxing after a long hike.
• Stops at notable sites like Condor’s Cross and Sangalle provide unique views and experiences.
• Clear itinerary with well-timed stops and scenic highlights, balanced between activity and rest.

Exploring the Colca Canyon: A Trekking Experience Rich in Views and Wildlife

This tour offers a well-rounded look at the spectacular Colca Canyon, a natural wonder with dramatic cliffs and a reputation for spotting the flying giants — the Andean condors. The adventure begins early with a pickup from your Arequipa accommodation, setting the tone for a full day of exploration. The drive to Chivay takes about six hours, but it’s part of the experience, with scenic stops along the way.

Day 1: From Arequipa to the Depths of the Canyon

Your first stop is the vibrant Plaza de Armas de Chivay, a lively town with charming colonial architecture and colorful surroundings. Here, you’ll enjoy breakfast before heading to Condor’s Cross, a viewpoint famed for its incredible condor sightings. According to reviews, this spot truly lives up to its reputation, with some travelers like Marco praising their guide Eveline for her knowledge and support during the viewing.

Watching the condors glide effortlessly on the thermals, wingspan over 3 meters, is a highlight that makes this trip memorable. The guide’s insights, often in both English and Spanish, help you appreciate these majestic birds’ significance and the landscape’s scale.

Next, it’s a short bus ride to start the trek downhill. Expect about 3 hours of hiking from 3,300 meters down to approximately 2,100 meters into the canyon. The descent is manageable and offers spectacular views of terraced fields and rugged cliffs. On reaching Sangalle — known locally as the Oasis — you’re greeted with the chance to dive into the warm swimming pool, a fabulous way to relax after the ascent.

The evening is spent at the Cielo Azul lodge, where dinners are included and the atmosphere is cozy. Some reviews mention bugs at dinner, so don’t be surprised — this is part of real outdoor life in the canyon.

Day 2: Returning with a Touch of Hot Springs and Wildlife

The following morning kicks off very early (around 3:00 AM) with a trek uphill to Cabanaconde, often by torchlight. This three-hour uphill hike during sunrise is exhilarating, offering panoramic views. After breakfast in Cabanaconde, you have the option to visit Chacapi Hot Springs for a soak — a 15 soles entrance fee applies, which isn’t included in your package.

On the drive back to Arequipa, you’ll stop at the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you can see volcanoes and South American camelids — llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. This quick stop provides a lovely photo opportunity and a chance to observe local wildlife.

The return journey allows you to reflect on the full experience, passing through traditional towns and colonial architecture, and ending with your transfer back to your hotel or hostel.

What Really Makes This Tour Stand Out

The most praised aspect of this trip is the guides’ knowledge and hospitality. Several reviews mention guides like Eveline, who went above and beyond to support hikers, especially those dealing with heat-related sickness or first-time treks. The guides’ ability to share local insights, animal sightings, and geology enriches the experience far beyond just hiking.

Another highlight is the stunning landscape — from the dizzying cliffs of the canyon to the lush riverbeds and terraces. The views are truly breathtaking and provide perfect photo opportunities. The chance to see condors soaring overhead elevates this trip from a simple hike to a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sighting.

On the practical side, meals are well taken care of — with two breakfasts, a lunch, and dinner included, you won’t have to worry about what to eat during the trek. The overnight at Cielo Azul offers a comfortable base, with a swimming pool and cozy bungalows, making it easier to relax after each day’s exertion.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is an excellent value, paying for entrance fees separately (around 70 soles for the canyon and 15 soles for hot springs) is customary but can add up. Also, some reviews mention minor inconveniences like bugs or the quality of breakfast on the first day, so packing a bit of bug spray or extra snacks might be wise.

The tour is physically moderate — manageable for most active travelers — but those with mobility issues or a very low fitness level might find the uphill hikes challenging. It’s not a strenuous climb, but early mornings and steep descents require some stamina.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of Colca Canyon without sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to hike, see condors in flight, and enjoy some relaxation in the hot springs afterward. It also suits travelers who appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more enriching.

If you’re interested in cultural sights and outdoor adventure wrapped into one, this tour offers a good balance. It’s less suited for those seeking a very leisurely or luxury experience, given the early starts and some outdoor exposure, but the included meals and cozy lodging help balance that out.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day trek in Colca Canyon offers a robust combination of adventure, wildlife viewing, and culture at an accessible price. The guides’ expertise, stunning scenery, and comfortable overnight stay make it a strong choice for travelers who want to combine physical activity with meaningful natural sights.

While the entrance fees are not included, the overall value — especially considering the included meals, transport, and the chance to see the famed condors — makes it a worthwhile investment. If you’re prepared for some early mornings and a bit of outdoor life, you’ll find this tour delivers a genuine and memorable experience of one of Peru’s most impressive landscapes.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, hotel or hostel pickups in Arequipa are included, making logistics easier and saving you time.

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Colca Canyon?
The drive takes about six hours, including stops for breakfast and sightseeing.

Are meals included during the tour?
Yes, two breakfasts, a lunch, and dinner are included, so you don’t need to worry about food during the trek.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The key highlights are the condor sightings at Condor’s Cross, the scenic hike into the canyon, and relaxing at Sangalle’s hot springs.

Is there an option to visit the hot springs?
Yes, on the second day after returning from the canyon, you can visit the hot springs near Chivay for 15 soles — entry fee not included.

How physically demanding is this trek?
It’s moderate — suitable for active travelers comfortable with hiking and early mornings, but not overly strenuous.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay overnight at Cielo Azul lodge, which offers cozy bungalows and a pool for relaxing after your hike.

Are guides available in both English and Spanish?
Yes, guides speak both languages, ensuring clear explanations regardless of your preferred language.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, good weather in the region is typical from May to September, ideal for hiking.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
No, the tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked; plan accordingly.

Whether you’re after incredible wildlife sightings, stunning landscapes, or simply a good adventure, this Colca Canyon trek offers a well-balanced, authentic experience worth considering.