2 Day Trek Including Transfer to Puno / Colca Canyon

Getting to know the 2-Day Colca Canyon Trek and Transfer to Puno

This 2-day adventure in southern Peru offers an insider’s look at one of the world’s deepest canyons, Colca Canyon, combined with a transfer to the high-altitude city of Puno. For $179 per person, you’ll explore scenic villages, watch for soaring Andean Condors, and hike through dramatic landscapes, all in small-group comfort. The tour begins in Arequipa, with a pickup from your hotel, and covers about 6 hours of travel to Chivay, with stops along the way, including breathtaking viewpoints and relaxing hot springs. The trip is ideal for active travelers craving authentic scenery and cultural encounters.

What we really appreciated was the chance to see Colca’s iconic condors up close at Condor’s Cross—seeing these magnificent birds glide effortlessly over the canyon was a highlight. Also, staying overnight in modest but comfortable bungalows in Sangalle, with access to a warm pool, made the long trek manageable and enjoyable.

A little consideration is that the trekking is demanding, especially on the second day, when you’ll ascend from about 2,300 meters back to Cabanaconde at nearly 4,830 meters. Also, the tour’s inclusion of meals and accommodations is basic, which might not suit travelers looking for luxury. But if you're fit, eager for genuine experiences, and don’t mind rougher lodgings, this tour is a fantastic value.

This experience suits adventure-minded travelers who want to combine scenic hiking with culture, and who are comfortable with physically demanding activities. It’s perfect if you enjoy small groups, authentic local meals, and seeing wildlife like condors soaring high above the canyon.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Small groups mean more personal attention from guides and a more immersive experience.
• Spectacular Scenery: Dramatic canyon views, lush villages, and wildlife sightings stand out.
• Active Route: Expect challenging hikes, especially on the second day, with significant altitude change.
• Cultural Encounters: Stops in traditional villages and local eateries add a genuine touch.
• Value for Money: Included meals, overnight stay, and a transfer from Chivay to Puno enhance the package’s worth.
• Basic Accommodation: Lodging and amenities are simple, not luxury, but comfortable enough for one night.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Day 1: From Arequipa to Colca Canyon

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup from your hotel or hostel in Arequipa around 3:00 am, as the tour aims to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise over the canyon. The 6-hour drive to Cabanaconde includes scenic stops: first in Chivay for breakfast, a lively town known for its colorful houses and traditional architecture. Here, you get a taste of local life before heading to Condor’s Cross, arguably the most famous viewpoint in South America for observing Andean Condors.

The viewpoint is more than just a photo op; it’s a chance to witness these majestic birds with wings spanning over 3 meters, soaring gracefully in the thermals. Multiple reviews echo how impressive this sight is, with HelgeFrank_D noting, “We saw some condors along the way.” Best of all, this stop is free, and the views are simply unforgettable.

Afterward, the group descends into the canyon, beginning a 3-hour downhill trek from 3,300 to 2,100 meters. Along the way, you'll visit San Juan de Chuccho, a small village where locals grow fruit and vegetables, providing a peaceful break. The descent allows you to take in lush greenery and terraced farmland, offering a glimpse of the traditional agriculture that sustains the region.

Your destination for the night is Sangalle, a village at about 1,900 meters, featuring bungalows and a warm swimming pool—a perfect reward after the day's hike. The included dinner is basic but hearty, with locals serving home-cooked meals. As one traveler put it, Oasis ecolodge is “a little shabby,” but it’s cozy enough and offers a genuine connection to rural life.

Day 2: From Sangalle Back to Puno

Early risers can opt for the uphill trek before dawn, which takes about 3 hours with the help of torchlight, offering spectacular sunrise views—an experience loved by many, including MariaAngelica_d, who called the trek “very nice but a bit demanding under the sun.” After breakfast in Cabanaconde, the group heads back towards Chivay, passing pre-Inca terraces and archaeological ruins, making this a highlight for history buffs.

Next, the tour includes a visit to Chacapi Hot Springs—a relaxing optional stop (entry about PEN15). The pools are set at temperatures up to 60°C, perfect for soaking sore muscles and enjoying the natural surroundings. Many travelers find it a delightful way to unwind, even if the hot springs are not included in the tour price.

On the way back to Arequipa, you’ll stop in the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve at Pampa Cañahuas, where you might spot llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and volcanoes in the background. This lively stop provides a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to see some of the iconic Andean camelids in their natural habitat.

Finally, the transfer continues southward, descending from 4,830 meters to around 2,325 meters, giving you a chance to see the diverse landscape of the high Andes. The journey concludes with your arrival in Puno around 6:30 pm, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or hostel.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

One of the tour’s strengths is combining a challenging trek with local cultural experiences and scenic stops. The inclusion of meals and overnight accommodation helps travelers keep their budget in check, eliminating the hassle of booking separately. Plus, the small group size (max 12 travelers) makes for more personalized guidance and easier group dynamics, which many reviewers appreciate.

However, the basic lodgings and a demanding physical route mean this isn’t suited for travelers seeking luxury or easy sightseeing. The altitude changes and long days require a reasonable level of physical fitness and willingness to tackle strenuous activities.

The price point of $179 offers good value when you consider the included logistics—transfers, meals, and a night in the canyon—though some reviews mention the costs of entrance fees and optional extras like the hot springs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activity, enjoys culture, and isn’t bothered by modest accommodations, this is a rewarding way to experience Colca Canyon. It’s well-suited for travelers comfortable with hiking at high altitudes and who want to see wild condors soaring above the canyon. If you prefer a more relaxed, luxury experience, or have mobility issues, you might find this tour too physically demanding.

This trip is especially fitting if you want a more authentic and personal experience—a small group, guided by knowledgeable local guides, and with the chance to experience real rural life in the Andean villages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Not quite—this trek involves significant hiking, including a demanding ascent on the second day, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What’s included in the price?
Your package covers dinner, lunch, transfer from Chivay to Puno, and two breakfasts. Entrance fees to hot springs and some optional extras are not included.

Can I see condors during the tour?
Yes, the best place in South America for seeing Andean Condors is at Condor’s Cross, where you’ll have a great chance to spot them soaring overhead.

Where do we stay overnight?
In Sangalle or Cielo Azul Lodge, both offering basic but comfortable accommodations with access to a warm pool.

Are meals traditional and local?
Yes, many meals include home-cooked, traditional foods, with reviews mentioning delicious natural juices and authentic regional cuisine.

How long is the transfer from Arequipa to Chivay?
It’s approximately a 6-hour drive, including scenic stops and breakfast in Chivay.

Is there an option to relax at hot springs?
Yes, you can visit Chacapi Hot Springs, about an hour from Cabanaconde, for a soak at your own expense.

In Summary

This 2-day trek in Colca Canyon offers a genuine taste of the southern Peruvian highlands, combining spectacular scenery, wildlife, and authentic village life. It’s a solid pick for those seeking a physically active journey with small-group intimacy and cultural depth. While the lodging and meals are basic, the experience’s authenticity and the opportunity to witness majestic condors soaring above the canyon make it a worthwhile adventure for travelers prepared for some effort.

If you’re looking to connect with Peru’s rugged landscape, enjoy challenging hikes, and appreciate local hospitality, this tour could be the highlight of your trip to Arequipa and Puno.