If you’re heading to Arequipa and looking for a day packed with breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and relaxing hot springs, this 1-Day Colca Canyon + Thermal Baths Tour offers a compelling option. For around $32, it packs a full day of adventure, including the chance to see majestic condors, explore the charming town of Chivay, and unwind in natural thermal baths.

What we love most about this trip are the spectacular views of the canyon and the condor flight—nothing beats the thrill of witnessing these enormous birds soaring overhead. Plus, the optional visits to hot springs or ziplining add a dash of fun and relaxation, making this tour suitable for travelers wanting a mix of nature, wildlife, and local culture.

A consideration to keep in mind is the long travel time—about 3 hours each way—so if you’re prone to car fatigue or short on time, this might be a full day of bus travel. That said, the tour’s value is evident in the diverse experiences packed into one day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and cultural stops, and who don’t mind a busy schedule. Families, solo travelers, and groups looking for an affordable, well-organized day trip will find this experience particularly appealing.

Key Points

Affordable price for a full-day tour with many highlights.
Spectacular condor sightings at Mirador de la Cruz del Condor.
Variety of activities, including viewpoints, optional thermal baths, and local food tasting.
Comfortable transportation and bilingual guides enhance the experience.
Long travel hours but with scenic stops and photo opportunities.
Suitable for travelers seeking nature, wildlife, and culture in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Majesty of Colca Canyon

Starting early from Arequipa, we hop into a comfortable van, and the day begins with a scenic 3-hour drive southward. The landscape shifts from the urban charm of Arequipa to the sweeping plains and volcanic vistas of the Andes. Our guide coordinates pickup from your hotel, ensuring a smooth start.

The first stop in Chivay, a quaint town nestled in the valley, sets a relaxed tone with breakfast and some essential orientation. Here, the guide provides helpful instructions on how to make the most of the upcoming visit to the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor, the prime spot for condor watching.

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The Heart of the Canyon

After about 45 minutes of further travel, we arrive at the main viewing point for the Colca Canyon, which—at nearly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon—offers jaw-dropping vistas. The canyon’s sheer cliffs and terraced landscapes are visually captivating, but the real spectacle is the flight of the condors.

The guide explains that you’ll see these enormous birds with wingspans of up to 3.5 meters, soaring gracefully in the thermals. We loved the way the guide pointed out the different ages—females, males, juveniles—and shared insights into their behavior. As one reviewer put it, seeing the “splendor of the condors” was a highlight that made the long drive worthwhile.

Wildlife and Photo Opportunities

While waiting for the condors to appear, we took time to appreciate the surrounding flora and fauna, and the viewpoints offered multiple angles for photos. The guide’s explanations helped us understand the importance of this protected area, and we appreciated the chance to see local wildlife and the remarkable landscape.

Optional Hot Springs and Adventure

The tour provides an hour-long stop where you can choose to visit natural hot springs, try ziplining, or go for a short hike. Many travelers, including one who described the experience as “filling themselves with the magic of the valley,” found this a relaxing or invigorating break. The hot springs are a popular choice, offering a warm soak amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

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The Flavors and Views of the Valley

After a satisfying lunch—usually included or available for an extra fee—the journey continues with a scenic drive back towards Arequipa.

On the way, you’ll stop at viewpoints like Patapampa, where snow-capped peaks and volcanoes surround you, providing perfect photo opportunities. The Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve offers the chance to observe camelids such as llamas and alpacas, adding a touch of Andean wildlife to your day.

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Final Views and Return

The bus ride back is filled with panoramic vistas, and the guide keeps the atmosphere lively with stories and explanations. We arrived back in Arequipa around 5:30 to 6 p.m., having experienced a well-rounded day of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural sights.

Overall Value and Suitability

At $32, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of diverse experiences. The included transport, bilingual guide, and breakfast make it a hassle-free way to explore a spectacular part of Peru without breaking the bank. The opportunity to see condors up close and enjoy the canyon scenery is a highlight that will linger in your memory.

However, the long bus ride could be tiring, especially if you’re not used to extended travel in a van. The optional stops like hot springs add a bit of flexibility—if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to choose your activities accordingly.

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a snapshot of the incredible natural landscape and wildlife of the Colca Valley, especially if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful experience outside of Arequipa.

The Sum Up

This 1-Day Colca Canyon + Thermal Baths Tour delivers a compelling mix of scenery, wildlife, and local culture at a budget-friendly price. The chance to see majestic condors in flight is unbeatable, and the scenic stops along the way make it a visually rewarding journey.

The tour’s convenience—hotel pickup, bilingual guides, and included breakfast—means you can focus on enjoying the experience rather than organizing logistics. The optional visits to thermal baths or ziplining add a bit of adventure, appealing to a broad range of travelers.

While the lengthy drive might not suit everyone, those with a sense of adventure and a love for nature will find this trip offers a genuine taste of Peru’s rugged beauty. Perfect for solo explorers, families, or groups seeking a well-organized, cost-effective day trip, this tour will leave you with memorable images of soaring condors, dramatic canyons, and peaceful thermal waters.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Arequipa, making start-up easy and stress-free.

How long is the travel time? Expect approximately 3 hours each way, totaling around 6 hours of driving, including stops and scenic viewpoints.

What is the main highlight of this tour? The opportunity to see condors soaring at Mirador de la Cruz del Condor is the standout moment, with impressive wingspans and a dramatic flight display.

Can I visit the hot springs during the tour? Yes, you have about an hour to relax in the thermal baths or participate in other optional activities like ziplining.

Is food included? A continental breakfast is included, and there is an option for lunch at an extra cost of S/.30, typically a buffet.

What wildlife can I expect to see? You’ll observe camelids such as llamas and alpacas in the National Reserve, along with abundant birdlife in the canyon.

How flexible is the tour schedule? The tour operates daily with varying start times; check availability for specific departure times.

How many people are typically on the tour? While the exact group size isn’t specified, tours like this generally operate in small to medium groups, enhancing the experience.

What should I wear or bring? Comfortable clothes, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended, especially since you’ll be outdoors for much of the day.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, families with children who enjoy nature and wildlife will find this trip engaging, though always consider your child’s comfort with long bus rides.

This well-rounded tour offers a taste of Peru’s stunning landscapes and fascinating wildlife at a very reasonable price, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the best of the Colca Valley without a multi-day commitment.