3 Day 2 Night Trek / Colca Canyon

Exploring the Colca Canyon on a 3-Day Trek: What You Need to Know

This 3-day, 2-night trek through the Colca Canyon in Arequipa, Peru, offers an immersive experience into one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. For $154 per person, you’ll spend around three days walking through rugged terrain, spotting soaring Andean condors, enjoying hearty local meals, and relaxing in natural hot springs. What’s especially appealing is how this tour balances adventure and comfort, with accommodations included and opportunities to see native wildlife, like alpacas and vicuñas, up close.

Two things we particularly like about this experience: first, the stunning scenery—from the dramatic canyon walls to lush villages—and second, the knowledgeable guides who bring the region’s stories and ecological insights alive. A potential consideration is the early start every day, which might be a challenge for late risers or those who prefer a slower pace.

This tour suits active travelers who enjoy hiking, nature lovers eager to spot condors and camelids, and those looking for an authentic Peruvian experience away from crowded tourist spots. If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed adventure that combines physical activity with cultural insights, this trek is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Walk through one of the deepest canyons in the world, with views that will stay with you.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot the famous Andean condors, as well as local camelids like alpacas and vicuñas.
• Cultural Stops: Visit archaeological sites and local villages to learn about traditional practices like honey production.
• Comfort & Convenience: Accommodation and some meals are included, making the experience easier to enjoy without constant planning.
• Physical Challenge: Expect some steep descents and ascents, but most hikes are manageable with a moderate fitness level.
• Authentic Experience: Stay in villages like San Juan de Chuccho and Oasis Sangalle, where you can connect with local life and natural beauty.

A Detailed Walkthrough of the Colca Canyon Trek

Day 1: From Arequipa to the Canyon’s Edge

The adventure begins early—around 3:30 am—when the tour picks you up from your hotel or designated meeting point. The bus ride to Chivay, your first stop, takes roughly 3.5 hours, giving you a chance to nap or soak in the changing scenery. Once in Chivay, you’ll enjoy a breakfast with local flavors before continuing to Condor’s Cross, a must-visit spot for birdwatchers and anyone eager to see the famous soaring condors.

Here, you’ll spend about 40 minutes watching these majestic birds circle overhead—an experience that really highlights the canyon’s grandeur. The views from Condor’s Cross are spectacular, giving you a panoramic look at the vast canyon walls and the lush valley below.

Next, the journey continues downhill—about 3.5 hours of walking from 3,300 meters to 2,100 meters elevation—where you’ll physically feel the change in altitude. The descent is manageable but involves some steep sections, so good walking shoes are a must. You’ll arrive at San Juan de Chuccho, a village with a tropical climate and plenty of greenery. This is your home base for the night, and the local hosts often provide hearty dinners.

Day 2: Into the Heart of the Canyon

After breakfast, the day begins with a visit to Cosñirhua, where you’ll see local honey production and taste fresh honey—something many reviews highlight as a tasty highlight. You also get to explore archaeological ruins, giving some insight into pre-Inca cultures that once thrived here.

The trek continues to Malata, with its charming old Spanish church, and then a descent towards the deepest part of the canyon—a physically demanding stretch that takes you down to 1900 meters. By this point, most travelers are deep into the canyon’s silence and stunning natural beauty.

Your destination for the second night is Oasis Sangalle, a small, lush town that feels like an oasis in the desert. Surrounded by vegetation and near the river, it’s the perfect place to unwind after the physically demanding hike. Many reviews describe Sangalle as “beautiful” and “a great spot to relax,” with local lodges accommodating visitors comfortably.

Day 3: Climbing Out and Return to Arequipa

The final day kicks off with an early morning trek uphill—about 3 hours—to reach Cabanaconde. The ascent is steep and challenging, but the reward is a breakfast in a charming town with views over the canyon.

From there, you’ll travel back to Chivay for a leisurely lunch, often regional cuisine like trout or papas a la huancaína, and then start the scenic drive back towards Arequipa. On the way, the bus passes through the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you might see volcanoes and camelids like llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.

If time permits, many tours include a visit to the hot springs near Chivay, a relaxing way to soothe sore muscles and enjoy natural mineral waters heated by geothermal activity. Just note the entrance fee (~15 soles) isn’t included in the tour cost.

What Travelers Love (and What to Watch Out For)

Reviewers rave about the guides, often praising their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer called their guide “very good and helpful,” while others appreciated the opportunity to learn about local honey production and archaeological sites. Many mention how the stunning views of condors and the variety of local wildlife truly make the experience worthwhile.

Food is another bright spot, with many travelers noting the delicious regional dishes served during the stops. The lodges in Sangalle and San Juan de Chuccho are praised for their authenticity and comfort, making the physically demanding hikes more manageable.

However, some reviews mention the early mornings and tough ascents as challenging. A few travelers express frustration over guides’ attitudes towards altitude sickness and slower hikers, so if you’re sensitive to altitude or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be ideal.

The tour offers fantastic value—combining guided hikes, comfortable accommodations, incredible scenery, and cultural insights—making it a top choice for active travelers eager to see one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You get three hearty breakfasts, two dinners, and three lunches, which help you refuel after long days of hiking. The hot springs and some attractions, like entrance to the canyon (70 soles) and hot springs (15 soles), are extra costs. The last lunch in Chivay, costing about 30 soles, is also optional.

The pickup service from Arequipa is convenient, and the small group size (max 12 travelers) ensures a more personal experience. Keep in mind, this tour is non-refundable, so make sure your plans are firm before booking.

Practical Tips for Your Trek

• Physical fitness: You don’t need to be an athlete, but a moderate fitness level will make the hikes more enjoyable.
• Altitude: Be aware of potential altitude sickness; staying hydrated and pacing yourself helps.
• Gear: Bring sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler mornings.
• Money: Have some soles on hand for entrance fees and optional hot springs.
• Early mornings: Prepare for early starts, especially on the last day with the uphill climb.
• Group size: Smaller groups mean more personalized attention, but it can also mean more walking with the group.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trek is perfect for adventurous spirits who enjoy a mix of physical activity and cultural discovery. If you love birdwatching and want to see condors, or if you’re keen to experience local villages and traditional lifestyles, this tour delivers. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate comfortable lodges and hearty, regional food.

Travelers looking for a more relaxed or luxury experience might find the early mornings and physical demands a little tough, but for most, this is a rewarding adventure that balances challenge with awe-inspiring scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to wake up on Day 1?
You’ll be picked up around 3:00 am for the drive to Chivay, so expect to set your alarm early.

Are meals included in the tour price?
Yes, you’ll enjoy breakfast on all three days, plus two dinners and three lunches. Some optional expenses, like hot springs or additional snacks, are extra.

What’s the best way to prepare physically?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended, especially for the uphill climbs. Regular walking or hiking beforehand will make the trek more enjoyable.

Can I join if I have altitude sickness?
If you’re prone to altitude sickness, it’s wise to consult your doctor beforehand. The tour involves significant altitude changes, but hydration and pacing help.

Is the group size small or large?
The tour limits to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with your guides.

How much walking is involved each day?
Most days involve about 4 to 5 hours of walking, with some steeper sections, especially the return climb on Day 3.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the lodges in San Juan de Chuccho and Sangalle are described as cozy and surrounded by nature, adding to the authentic experience.

What if the weather turns bad?
This experience is non-refundable if canceled due to weather, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the weather is poor.

To sum it up, this Colca Canyon trek offers an excellent balance of adventure and comfort for those ready to tackle a physically rewarding journey. With expert guides, breathtaking scenery, and authentic local interactions, it’s ideal for energetic travelers eager to see a stunning slice of Peru’s natural beauty. If you’re after an immersive, well-organized experience that combines wildlife, culture, and physical challenge, this tour ticks all those boxes—and then some.