2-Day Group Tour to Colca Canyon from Arequipa to Puno

A 2-Day Adventure from Arequipa to Puno: Discovering Colca Canyon and Beyond

Traveling through Peru’s highlands is an experience that stays with you long after you return home. For those with a sense of adventure and a love for dramatic scenery, this 2-day group tour from Arequipa to Puno offers a deep dive into the country’s most captivating landscapes. For $340.95 per person, you’ll spend two memorable days exploring Colca Canyon, the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve, and passing by snow-capped volcanoes and alpine lakes.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see majestic wildlife like llamas, alpacas, flamingos, and condors in their natural habitat—no staged zoos here. Plus, the expert guides bring the region’s geology and wildlife to life, making the journey both educational and fun. On the flip side, the long drive on the second day might be tiring for some travelers, especially if you’re not accustomed to high altitudes. Still, this trip is well-suited for those eager to see authentic Andean scenery while enjoying a small, intimate group experience.

If you’re curious about breathtaking vistas, wildlife spotting, and cultural insights, this tour hits all those marks. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of adventure and comfort, with organized logistics and knowledgeable guides guiding the way.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views of lakes, glaciers, volcanic peaks, and the deep Colca Canyon.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot alpacas, llamas, flamingos, ibises, and the iconic Andean Condors at Cruz del Condor.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, accommodations, breakfast, all entrance fees, and round-trip transport.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey engaging.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines scenic drives with leisure options, such as hot springs or short treks.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds.

In-Depth Review of the 2-Day Arequipa to Puno Tour

The Journey Begins: Arequipa to Yanque

Starting early around 7:00 am, we’re picked up from our hotel, and the adventure begins. The first few hours are spent cruising through some of Peru’s most striking highland scenery. Our guide, Henry, earns high marks for his wealth of knowledge and engaging commentary, helping us understand what we’re seeing along the way.

Our first major stop is the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve, a true highlight. Here, we get our first glimpses of native Andean animals—alpacas and vicuñas grazing peacefully, flamingos wading through lakes, and soaring Andean eagles overhead. As one reviewer noted, “Henry was very knowledgeable and great to listen to,” which truly enhances the experience.

The landscape is a patchwork of lakes, glaciers, and volcanoes—including Ampato, Sabancaya, Huallca, and Misti—providing a dramatic backdrop to this wildlife-filled stop. We then ascend to the highest point of the trip at 4,800 meters (about 15,700 feet), a good reminder of the altitude challenges in the Andes.

Relaxing in Yanque

Arriving in Yanque in the afternoon, you have options. Some may opt for a quick dip in the hot springs, which are said to be relaxing after a day of travel. Others might choose a short walk to take in the panoramic views of the canyon’s terraces and nearby volcanoes. The hotel we stayed in was comfortable, though one reviewer cautioned it’s not the most luxurious—still, it’s generally regarded as cozy and functional.

The highlight of the evening is enjoying the quiet serenity of the canyon, with many opting to relax and prepare for the next day’s early start.

Colca Canyon and the Flight of the Condors

The next morning kicks off well before dawn, as we’re whisked away to the most famous viewpoint: Cruz del Condor. From this vantage point, the canyon stretches around 1,200 meters deep, and here’s where you’re most likely to see the giant condors soaring gracefully overhead. As one traveler put it, “We had some issues regarding our embarking on the bus,” but most found the condor sighting to be a truly special moment. The dramatic canyon scenery provides a perfect backdrop for these impressive birds—wingspan up to 3 meters.

Following the condor viewing, we continue to Chivay, a town famed for its traditional markets and lively atmosphere. From there, it’s a scenic drive towards Lake Titicaca, passing lakes, lagoons, and flamingos—an absolute highlight for nature lovers.

The Final Stretch: Puno

Reaching an altitude of around 4,850 meters (about 15,900 feet), the landscape becomes even more breathtaking, with sweeping vistas of the highland plains. Our guide shares interesting facts about the region’s ancient history and local culture, enriching the journey. Once in Puno, a private transfer takes us to our hotel, ready to rest after two packed days of sightseeing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The expert guides consistently earn praise in reviews. One traveler said, “Carlos was very knowledgeable and spoke perfect English,” which helps bridge language gaps and deepen your understanding of the area. The guided nature of the trip ensures you see the most important sights without the stress of planning and navigating on your own.

Wildlife sightings at the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve are surprisingly good, especially considering the altitude and the fact that these animals are in their natural habitat. Watching condors circle overhead at Cruz del Condor is a truly unforgettable moment—many reviews mention this as the tour’s highlight.

The inclusion of one night’s accommodation and breakfast adds value for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience. The overall organization—hotel pickups, entrance fees, transportation—is seamless, which makes for a smoother trip compared to self-organized travel.

Practical Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While the scenery and wildlife are spectacular, some travelers note the long hours of driving, especially on the second day. The drive from Yanque to Puno can be tiring, particularly at high altitudes, which might cause some discomfort. If you’re not used to altitude or long bus rides, this is worth considering.

Another point to keep in mind is that the lodge in Yanque isn’t a luxury hotel, but it is comfortable enough for a night’s stay. Some reviews mention a desire for more upscale accommodations, but most feel it’s appropriate given the focus of the tour.

Lastly, despite being a small group (maximum 10 travelers), there may be moments of disorganization or minor issues—a common complaint in reviews—so patience and flexibility can help improve the experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who enjoy scenic drives through varied landscapes. It suits travelers who want a guided experience with knowledgeable guides and small-group intimacy. It also appeals to those eager to see the majestic condors and vibrant highland wildlife while appreciating the natural beauty of Peru.

However, it may not suit travelers seeking luxury accommodations or those who prefer a more relaxed pace on their trips. The early mornings and long drives mean it’s better suited for active, enthusiastic travelers comfortable with high altitudes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Arequipa, making the start of your journey hassle-free.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $340.95 per person, which covers most expenses including accommodations, entrance fees, breakfast, and transportation.

Are meals included?
Only one breakfast is included on the first morning. Other meals are at your discretion, so you may want to budget accordingly.

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Yanque?
The drive takes about four hours, including stops at viewpoints like the Pampa Cañahuas Reserve.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with high altitudes and long bus rides. The group size is limited to 10, offering a more personalized experience.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book around 71 days in advance, especially if you want to secure a spot during peak seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 44 days before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within that window are less flexible.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from Arequipa to Puno offers a layered look at some of Peru’s most incredible sights. From the wildlife-rich Pampa Cañahuas Reserve to the soaring condors at Cruz del Condor, the journey is packed with visual and experiential highlights. The knowledgeable guides and organized logistics make it a convenient way to cover a lot of ground without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

It’s a great choice for travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes, wildlife sightings, and cultural insights in a small, personable group setting. While the drive might be long and the accommodations modest, the scenery and wildlife encounters make it worthwhile for most.

If you’re after an active, enriching adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and memorable moments, this tour delivers on those promises—highlighting Peru’s rugged beauty and vibrant wildlife with a professional touch.

Happy travels, and may your journey through the Peruvian highlands be filled with stunning vistas and unforgettable encounters!