3-day trek to the Colca Canyon from Arequipa ending in Puno

A 3-Day Trek from Arequipa to Puno through the Colca Canyon

This 3-day tour takes you from the bustling city of Arequipa into the depths of Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, before ending in Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. For $175 per person, you’ll enjoy a combination of scenic hikes, visits to traditional villages, and chances to see the famous Andean condors soaring at Cruz del Cóndor.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the authentic immersion — staying overnight in local families’ homes in San Juan de Chuccho — and the opportunity to explore various towns along the canyon, each with its own character and charm. It’s a trip that balances adventure and cultural discovery.

One potential drawback is that the schedule is quite packed, with early starts and some long walking days, which might be tiring if you’re not used to trekking. Also, the tour’s review mentions that delays can happen, affecting some key stops like the Mirador de los Volcanos or the Cruz del Cóndor. Still, for lovers of outdoor trekking and local culture, this tour offers incredible value.

If you’re looking for an immersive, budget-friendly experience that combines stunning scenery with authentic village visits, this trek is a solid choice — especially if you’re keen to see the condors and enjoy some of the best hiking in southern Peru.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Staying overnight in a family home in San Juan de Chuccho offers genuine insight into local life.
• Spectacular wildlife viewing: The Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint provides unforgettable condor sightings, a highlight for many travelers.
• Diverse towns and scenery: Visiting towns like Cabanaconde, Cosñirhua, and Sangalle adds cultural depth and variety to the trek.
• Challenging but rewarding hikes: Expect early mornings and several hours of walking, suitable for active travelers comfortable with rough terrain.
• Value for money: At $175, the tour includes transport, guiding, meals, and two nights lodging, making it a comprehensive package.
• Potential for delays: Some reviews note late departures and shortened stops, so flexibility and patience are key.

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Detailed Review: What to Expect on the 3-Day Trek to Colca Canyon

Starting Point and First Day: From Arequipa to the Canyon

The adventure begins early in the morning, with a pickup from your hotel in Arequipa. The bus ride to the canyon is scenic but can take around 3 hours, depending on traffic and stops. Once in Chivay, we stop for breakfast, fueling up for the day ahead.

Our first major highlight is the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. This spot is famous for its soaring condors, and we loved how the massive birds glide effortlessly on the thermals, their wingspan impressive against the deep canyon backdrop. It’s a highlight that makes the long journey worthwhile. However, some reviews note that delays can cut short your time here, so patience is essential.

After the condor viewing, we head to Cabanaconde, where we begin our walk inside the canyon. The route from Cabanaconde down to San Juan de Chuccho takes about 3.5 hours of moderate trekking. The trail offers stunning views of terraced fields and rugged cliffs — a landscape that’s as breathtaking as it is humbling. Here, you’ll get to meet local residents, see traditional agriculture, and enjoy the simple charm of rural life.

Overnight stays are at a local family’s house in San Juan. The accommodations are straightforward, with basic dormitories, but the experience of sharing a meal and learning about local customs makes it memorable.

Day 2: Exploring Villages and Relaxing in Sangalle

The second day is dedicated to exploring the canyon’s vibrant villages and the lush Sangalle oasis. After breakfast, we start walking early in the cool morning hours, passing through towns like Cosñirhua and Malata. The landscape shifts from rugged cliffs to more cultivated terraces, highlighting traditional farming practices.

The highlight of the day is Sangalle, an oasis nestled in the canyon floor. It’s a perfect spot for rest, with natural pools where you can cool off after hours of hiking. Many travelers, like one reviewer, mention that they appreciated the chance to relax in the refreshing thermal pools, though the entrance costs around 15 soles.

The afternoon is free — a chance to unwind, enjoy lunch, or simply soak up the peaceful environment. Dinner is served at the guesthouse, and we spend the night here, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Day 3: Climbing Out and Visiting Hot Springs before Heading to Puno

The last day involves an early morning climb back out of the canyon. We start at 5 a.m., ascending for about three hours, which is a challenging but rewarding part of the trek. The ascent is steep and requires some energy, but the views from the top, especially across the canyon and surrounding volcanic landscapes, are spectacular.

Once at the top, we’ll have breakfast in Cabanaconde before a scenic drive back through the canyon towns. Along the way, we visit notable spots like the Pampas de Apachetas at Patapampa, known for its panoramic views of mountains and volcanoes, and Toccra Pampa, where you might see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas grazing naturally.

A stop at Chivay offers the chance to visit thermal baths — a relaxing way to soothe tired muscles, with about 40 minutes to soak in the warm waters. The entrance fee is around 5 USD.

In the late afternoon, the tour transfers you to Puno, arriving around 7 p.m., completing an active and scenic journey through some of Peru’s most iconic landscapes and villages.

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The Value of This Tour

For $175, this tour includes round-trip transportation, guides, meals (3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners), and two nights’ lodging in local homes and the oasis. The inclusion of meals and accommodations makes it a comprehensive package, especially considering the remote nature of the canyon.

While some travelers mention that a couple of stops might be rushed or affected by delays, the overall value holds up because you’re getting a well-organized, guided experience that covers transportation, cultural insights, and scenic highlights in just three days.

The tour’s price also covers entrance fees for the Colca tourist ticket (70 soles), a mandatory cost. Optional extras like hot springs are available at additional expense, but the hot springs are a popular way to relax after days of trekking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits energetic travelers who are comfortable with early mornings and walking for several hours each day. The focus on walking through villages, terraced fields, and the canyon makes it ideal for those who want a mix of nature and culture. The overnight stays with local families give a taste of authentic rural life, making it great for those seeking more than just sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely trip, or have mobility issues, this might be a bit strenuous. Also, if you’re sensitive to delays, be prepared for some unpredictability, as some reviews mention.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For exploration lovers eager to see Colca Canyon’s majestic landscapes and soaring condors, this tour offers a compelling package. The combination of hiking, local interactions, and scenic viewpoints makes it a memorable adventure.

The chance to stay overnight in a family home amplifies the authenticity, and the inclusion of meals and transport adds convenience and value. Despite minor hiccups reported by some travelers, the overall experience balances adventure, cultural exposure, and affordability.

This trek is perfect for those who want an active, eye-opening journey into Peru’s stunning southwestern landscapes, all at a reasonable price point. If you’re prepared for early mornings and a fair amount of walking, you’ll come away with incredible stories and views that last a lifetime.

FAQ

How long does the tour last each day?
Each day involves several hours of walking, with early starts around 5 a.m. on the last day for the ascent. The total duration over three days adds up to about 12-15 hours of activities, depending on delays.

What’s included in the price?
The $175 covers transportation, guide services, all meals (3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners), overnight stays in local accommodations, and entrance fees for the tourist ticket.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Accommodations are basic, with dormitory-style rooms in a local family’s home and at the oasis. They offer a genuine experience, but don’t expect luxury; think simple, rustic, and authentic.

Can I expect to see condors?
Yes, the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint is renowned for condor sightings. Timing is key — early morning is best for watching these impressive birds soaring effortlessly overhead.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, water, sun protection, layers for changing weather, and snacks for the trek. Also, consider taking extra money for optional activities like hot springs.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves vigorous walking and steep climbs, especially on the last day. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with physical exertion.

To sum it up, this 3-day trek to Colca Canyon offers an excellent balance of adventure, scenery, and cultural engagement. It’s especially recommended for those who want to witness one of the world’s deepest canyons, see condors in flight, and connect with local communities — all at a fair price. Be prepared for early mornings and some delays, but rest assured, the views and experiences will stay with you long after the trek ends.

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