COLCA CANYON FULL DAY TOURS

A full-day tour to Colca Canyon from Arequipa offers an enticing mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxing moments—all for just $20 per person. Starting early, typically around 3:00 am, this journey takes you across rugged landscapes, through traditional villages like Maca, and to the famous Mirador de la Cruz del Condor, where you’ll witness the incredible flight of the condors.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to see the depth and grandeur of one of the world’s deepest canyons without the hassle of an overnight stay, plus the chance to relax in the thermal baths of Chacapi. The guide’s local knowledge and friendly attitude truly elevate the experience, making it feel more like visiting friends than just another tour bus.

One potential consideration is the early start—you’re on the road before dawn, which might challenge some travelers’ sleep schedules. However, if you’re an early riser or love the idea of beating the crowds, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and comfort, along with a good value for the price.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $20, this tour offers excellent value for an all-day adventure filled with sights and experiences.
• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visiting villages like Maca gives you a taste of local life and tradition.
• Spectacular Views: The Condor flight and canyon vistas are the highlights, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Relaxation Included: Hot springs at Yanque provide a soothing break during the busy day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, such as Christ, enhance the experience with helpful insights and altitude sickness assistance.
• Convenient Logistics: Pickup from downtown Arequipa makes the trip straightforward, with a well-planned itinerary.

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An In-Depth Look at the Colca Canyon Full Day Tour

Starting Off Early: The Dawn Drive from Arequipa

The tour kicks off in the early hours, around 3:00 to 3:30 am, with pickups from your hotel in downtown Arequipa. This early start can seem daunting, but it’s essential for making the most of the day. Traveling in a comfortable tourist bus, you’ll appreciate the air-conditioned transport and the company of fellow travelers eager for adventure.

The drive to Chivay, the gateway town to Colca Canyon, takes approximately three hours. During this time, you can catch up on some sleep, enjoy the scenic mountain views, or chat with others in the group. We found that the journey itself is part of the experience—driving through rugged terrain, with peaks and valleys unfolding outside the window.

Breakfast in Chivay: Fuel for the Day Ahead

Once in Chivay, the tour includes a delicious breakfast. This is a great chance to enjoy local flavors and prepare for the busy day. Many guides, like Christ, are attentive to altitude sickness symptoms, so don’t hesitate to mention if you need a moment to acclimate.

Mirador de la Cruz del Condor: The Canyon’s Crown Jewel

The highlight of the trip is the visit to the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor, about an hour from Chivay. Here, you’ll spend roughly 45 minutes observing the majestic flight of the condors, soaring effortlessly on thermal currents. The sight of these enormous birds gliding over the canyon’s edge is something you’ll want to photograph and remember.

Several reviews, like Cheong Chee’s, praise Christ the guide for his attentive care, especially regarding altitude sickness. The vantage point offers sweeping views of the canyon’s depth and the opportunity to appreciate how nature has carved this landscape over millennia. The flight of the condors is the tour’s most memorable moment, and many travelers report it’s worth the early wake-up call.

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Exploring Traditional Villages: Maca and Beyond

On the way back, the tour makes stops at viewpoints showing the terraces of the valley, which testify to ancient agricultural ingenuity. The village of Maca is particularly charming, with its old church and traditional houses. You might also get the chance to taste local drinks like Colca Sour, made from regional ingredients—a small but authentic touch that helps you connect with local culture.

Relaxing in the Hot Springs: A Soothing Interlude

Before lunch, the group visits the Yanque Hot Springs, where you can soak in thermo-medicinal waters ranging from 35°C to 38°C. Entry is optional, but many find the warm pools to be a welcomed break after a morning of sightseeing. It’s a great way to relax tired muscles and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Lunch and Scenic Return: A Well-Planned Day

Lunch in Chivay is typically included or optional, depending on your booking, with the tour offering a buffet for a reasonable extra cost. You’ll then begin your return journey to Arequipa, stopping at Mirador de los Volcanes—the highest point of the trip at 4,800 meters—which offers expansive views of the mountain range.

Another notable stop is at the Bofedales de Toccra, where herds of alpacas freely graze, a delightful scene for animal lovers and photographers alike. Passing by the habitat of vicuñas, the elegant wild camelids, adds to the sense of being close to nature.

Arriving Back in Arequipa: Close to the Main Square

By late afternoon, around 5:30 pm, you’ll be dropped off near Arequipa’s main square, ending a long but rewarding day. The early start and packed schedule are balanced by the richness of the experiences packed into this single day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The value for money is clear—at just $20, you receive transportation, a guide, breakfast, and several key highlights. The guides receive high praise for their professionalism and helpfulness. Cheong Chee lauds Christ and Carlos, emphasizing their effort to make everyone comfortable and attentive to altitude symptoms.

The inclusion of hot springs, cultural stops, and the condor viewing makes this a well-rounded experience. The tour offers a genuine taste of the Andean landscape and culture, with enough flexibility to enjoy the scenery and learn about local life.

Some Considerations

The main drawback is the early start, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re not used to waking up before dawn. Also, parts of the trip involve long hours on the bus, though the stops break up the journey and add value. Entrance tickets to the canyon and other sites are not included and cost extra, so budget accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day outing is ideal for travelers who want an affordable, comprehensive experience of Colca Canyon without overnight arrangements. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic vistas, wildlife spotting, and culture in small villages. Travelers with an interest in photography, nature, or local traditions will find plenty to love.

If you’re a budget-conscious adventurer seeking a full day of discovery, this tour packs in a lot for a modest price. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate guided commentary and want the safety and comfort of a structured outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour usually begins around 3:00 to 3:30 am with hotel pickups and wraps up around 5:30 pm, returning close to Arequipa’s main square.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most of the tour is accessible, some stops involve walking and exposure to high altitudes. The guide, Christ, is attentive and can assist with altitude sickness if needed.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the tourist transport, bilingual guide (English and Spanish), breakfast, and pickup from downtown hotels. Entrance tickets, optional hot springs, and lunch are extra.

How much are the entrance fees?
Peruvians pay 20 soles, South Americans 40 soles, and Europeans and others 70 soles for the canyon entrance. These are paid separately.

Is the hot springs visit worth it?
Most travelers find the Yanque Hot Springs a relaxing, scenic break. Entry costs about 15 soles, and it’s optional, so consider your preference.

Can I see condors without waking up early?
No, the best condor sightings occur at the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor early in the morning. It’s the tour’s highlight.

Are the views really that spectacular?
Absolutely. The canyon’s imposing cliffs and vast landscape are awe-inspiring, especially from viewpoints like the Mirador de los Volcanes.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is listed as accessible, but some stops might involve uneven terrain. It’s best to confirm with the provider if you have specific needs.

Final Thoughts

The Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa offers an affordable, engaging, and well-organized way to experience one of Peru’s most stunning natural treasures. The combination of breathtaking scenery, culture, and relaxing thermal baths makes it a well-rounded day trip.

With experienced guides like Christ, who genuinely care about your comfort and enjoyment, you’ll gain more than just sightseeing—you’ll get a sense of the local landscape and way of life. It’s especially suited for budget travelers or those short on time, eager for a packed day of adventure.

While the early start might be a challenge for some, the payoff is the unmatched views, the chance to see flying condors, and the opportunity to connect with Peru’s highland culture. For a value-packed day with memorable moments, this tour delivers.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply eager to see the wonders of the Andes, this trip is a practical and authentic choice—one that leaves you with plenty of stories to tell and images to cherish.

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