Imagine waking before dawn in Arequipa, heading towards one of the world’s deepest canyons, with the chance to see majestic condors soaring overhead. This full-day tour, offered at a surprisingly affordable $28 per person, packs a full itinerary into about 15 hours. It’s a well-rounded journey that combines natural spectacle, cultural heritage, and relaxing hot springs, making it a fantastic way to spend a day in southern Peru.

What we particularly love about this experience is how accessible it makes exploring the imposing Colca Canyon without sacrificing comfort. The inclusion of a breakfast at the start provides a warm-up for the long day ahead, and the visit to Chacapi thermal baths offers a soothing break after a day of sightseeing. Also, the chance to see vicuñas and llamas in their natural habitats adds a special touch that makes this tour stand out.

One consideration to keep in mind is the early start time—beginning around 2:30 to 3:00 AM—which might be a challenge for some travelers. Plus, the cost of entrance tickets and optional extras (like hot springs or a buffet lunch) are not included, so budget accordingly. This tour is best suited for those eager to see iconic landscapes and enjoy a diverse mix of cultural and natural sights all in one day.

If you’re looking for an authentic experience that offers stunning views, wildlife spotting, and a taste of traditional Peruvian life, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially fitting for travelers with limited time who want a rundown of the Colca Valley and Canyon.

Key Points

Affordable Price: At $28, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.
Natural and Cultural Highlights: From condors and canyons to colonial villages, there’s a lot packed into the itinerary.
Early Start: Begins around 2:30-3:00 AM, ideal for those who don’t mind early mornings.
Includes Breakfast: A good start to fuel a long day of exploration.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with options to reserve now and pay later.
Extra Costs: Entrance fees, optional hot springs, and meals are additional.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

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Early Morning Departure—A Long but Scenic Journey Begins

The day kicks off very early, with pick-up from hotel around 2:30 to 3:00 AM. While that sounds brutal, it’s a small price to pay for the promise of experiencing Colca Canyon at its most tranquil and spectacular. The guide, often bilingual, sets the tone with a mix of informative commentary and light humor, making the early hours more bearable.

Traveling from Arequipa, you’ll head through the Yura region, passing picturesque landscapes and small villages. The journey itself is part of the adventure, as the changing scenery offers glimpses of rural life and rugged terrain before reaching the canyon.

Cruz del Condor—The Heart of the Experience

By approximately 8:30 AM, the bus pulls into the Cruz del Condor, a renowned viewpoint where you’ll witness the impressive depth of Colca Canyon—one of the deepest in the world. This spot is famous for its condor sanctuary, and if luck is on your side, you’ll see these enormous birds gliding effortlessly overhead. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the condors seemed to dance in the sky, their wings spanning wider than I imagined.”

The guide typically provides insights into condor behavior and conservation efforts, enriching the experience. The scenery here is breathtaking, with steep cliffs and distant peaks creating a dramatic backdrop.

Charming Villages and Pre-Inca Sites

On the way back, the tour makes stops at several quaint villages—Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque—that showcase colonial architecture and traditional life. These towns are perfect for wandering around, admiring colonial churches, and observing locals in traditional dress. The Antahuilque and Choquetico viewpoints are particularly popular; here, you can see pre-Inca tombs and terraces, offering a glimpse into ancient agricultural practices.

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Cultural Experiences and Wildlife

Throughout the day, you’ll see camelids like llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas—the latter known for their incredibly fine fiber. The tour often includes a chance to see trained birds of prey and sample traditional drinks like Colca Sour made from Sancayo, giving a taste of local culture and flavors.

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Relaxation at Chacapi Thermal Baths

About halfway through the day, the tour stops at the Chacapi thermal baths, where natural hot springs provide a relaxing break. The baths are set against scenic views, making it a perfect spot to unwind. The entry fee (~15 soles) is optional, so if you’re keen on a dip, bring some cash.

Lunch and High Altitude Views

Post-baths, an hour-long lunch in Chivay offers a chance to try local cuisine, though this is an optional extra (around 40 soles). The menu typically features traditional Peruvian dishes, and the setting often offers views of the surrounding mountains.

Return Journey with More Highlights

The return trip includes visits to the Tocrapampa wetlands, where birdwatchers will revel in spotting flocks of wild birds and herds of alpacas. We loved how the landscape shifted from rugged canyon walls to lush wetlands and grazing animals. The Pampa Cañahuas area is another highlight for seeing vicuñas in their natural habitat—an experience both beautiful and educational.

By approximately 5:00 PM, you’ll be back in Arequipa, tired but enriched by a full day of natural beauty, cultural insights, and memorable wildlife encounters.

What We Love About This Tour

The value for money is hard to beat. For just $28, you get a rundown of one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes, plus cultural stops and natural thermal baths. The early start means you’ll beat most crowds and witness the canyon in its tranquil morning glow—an experience many travelers cherish.

Another highlight is how the tour balances natural wonders like the soaring condors and dramatic cliffs with visits to authentic villages. This mix gives a well-rounded picture of the region’s geography, history, and daily life.

A Few Considerations

The early departure can be tough, especially if you’re not a morning person. The additional costs for entrance tickets, optional lunch, and hot springs aren’t included, so budget accordingly. Also, since the tour is a long day, travelers should be prepared for some bus time, but the scenery and stops make it worthwhile.

Who Would Love This?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see iconic landscapes without breaking the bank. It suits those comfortable with early mornings and long days on the road but who want a meaningful, authentic experience. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a solid overview of the Colca Valley and Canyon, especially if you’re interested in wildlife and local culture.

The Sum Up

This full-day Colca Canyon tour offers a fantastic blend of breathtaking scenery, birdwatching, and culture at an unbeatable price. While the early start might not suit everyone, the opportunity to witness majestic condors, explore colonial villages, and relax in hot springs makes it a memorable adventure. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, value-packed experience without sacrificing authenticity.

If you’re looking for a well-organized day that combines nature, history, and local life, this tour will deliver all that and more — with a good dose of Peru’s stunning landscapes thrown in.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour departs between 2:30 and 3:00 AM, so be prepared for an early wake-up call. It’s worth it to beat the crowds and enjoy the canyon in the quiet morning light.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and breakfast. Entrance tickets to the canyon are not included, nor are optional extras like hot springs or lunch.

Are there any optional costs I should budget for?
Yes, you’ll need to pay for entrance tickets (around 20-70 soles depending on nationality), hot springs (15 soles), and lunch if you choose to dine in Chivay (around 40 soles).

How long is the drive from Arequipa?
The total trip lasts about 15 hours, with most of that time spent on the bus traveling through scenic landscapes and to various stops.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but young children or those with mobility issues should consider the early start and long hours on the road. The stops are mostly accessible, but it’s best to check with the tour provider if in doubt.

What if I don’t want to do the hot springs?
The hot springs are optional, so you can skip them. There’s no obligation to bathe, and you can simply enjoy the scenic views instead.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This full-day tour offers a great way to see Colca Canyon’s staggering cliffs, observe rare wildlife, and explore traditional villages—all for a very reasonable price. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, cultural insights, or just a full day of adventure, it’s a journey worth considering.