Arequipa: 2-day Colca Canyon Trekking, Ending in Puno

Arequipa: 2-day Colca Canyon Trekking, Ending in Puno offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and active exploration. For around $141 per person, you’ll spend two days witnessing the breathtaking Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, and wrapping up in the vibrant city of Puno on Lake Titicaca. Guided by professionals, with small groups limited to 18 travelers, this tour provides a more intimate experience—ideal if you’re craving authentic landscapes paired with manageable logistics.

What we love most? First, the chance to see flying condors at Cruz del Cóndor, a highlight that truly lives up to expectations with their impressive wingspan gliding over the canyon’s edge. Second, the stay in a cozy adobe bungalow at Sangalle Oasis, where you can unwind in natural hot pools and enjoy a peaceful setting amidst palm trees.

A possible challenge? The early mornings—starting as early as 4:30 am on the second day for the ascent from Sangalle—might test your stamina. But if you’re prepared for some physical activity and appreciate scenic hikes, this will be well worth it.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate active days, stunning vistas, and small-group intimacy. It’s perfect for those looking for a well-rounded adventure that combines hiking, cultural visits, and natural relaxation—plus a smooth transfer to Puno to continue exploring Peru’s highlands and Lake Titicaca.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The canyon’s dramatic depths and the flight of condors are unforgettable.
• Authentic Experience: Staying overnight in traditional adobe bungalows offers a real taste of local architecture and hospitality.
• Active Journey: Expect around 7 hours of hiking across two days, with challenging ascents and descents.
• Cultural Stops: Visits to towns like Chuccho, Malata, and Cosñirhua introduce you to local life and scenery.
• Natural Hot Springs: Optional visits to the thermal baths in Chivay provide a relaxing break.
• Seamless Transfer: The trip ends with a scenic drive to Puno, including several sightseeing stops that enrich your understanding of the area.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Colca Canyon Trekking Experience

The Journey Begins: Arequipa to Colca Canyon

Your adventure kicks off early from your hotel in Arequipa, with a pickup around 3:00 to 3:30 am. We found this early start necessary to maximize time in the canyon and avoid midday heat. After a roughly three-hour bus ride, we arrived in Chivay, the gateway town, around 6:30 am. Here, a hearty breakfast sets you up for the day ahead.

The next stop is the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. This site is a must-see for anyone wanting to witness condors in their natural habitat. We loved the thrill of seeing these majestic birds soar effortlessly over the canyon’s edge, wings spanning more than 3 meters. The view is jaw-dropping—an expansive chasm over 3,400 meters deep—and the perfect backdrop for photography.

Descending into the Canyon: The Hike Begins

From Cabanaconde, the landscape changes dramatically. We started our descent around mid-morning, walking about 3.5 hours down to the Colca River. The path is well-trodden but steep, and the views of rugged cliffs and terraced fields make the effort worthwhile. Crossing the first suspension bridge introduces a touch of adventure, and the scenery continues to impress.

Our guides manage the pace well, making sure everyone is comfortable. We appreciated the frequent stops for photos and water, especially considering the altitude. Once in San Juan de Chuccho, a charming village, we enjoyed a well-deserved lunch—a simple but delicious meal that reflected local flavors.

The Oasis and Restful Night

The afternoon included visits to the villages of Malata and Cosñirhua, where we glimpsed local life and traditional architecture. Then, we arrived at the Sangalle Oasis around 5:00 pm. This tranquil spot is the highlight for many—there are natural pools for relaxing, surrounded by lush palms and rustic adobe bungalows for overnight stays. We loved the chance to dip in the hot pools after a long day of hiking, with the starry sky overhead adding to the peaceful ambiance.

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The Early Rise: Climbing Back Out

The second day begins before dawn. Around 4:30 am, we set out for the 3-hour ascent back to Cabanaconde. This early start is tough but offers cool temperatures and fewer crowds—plus, arriving early means beating the heat. Breakfast in Cabanaconde provides energy for the final stretch.

The journey continues with a scenic drive back to Chivay, where we visited the famous Calera Thermal Baths—a popular stop for relaxing aching muscles. We also enjoyed a buffet lunch (not included in the tour price), which many found worth the extra cost.

Transition to Puno: Scenic Stops Along the Way

The most exciting part of the second day is the scenic drive from Chivay to Puno. Our guide arranged several tourist stops that added depth to our trip. We admired volcano views, observed llamas, and watched Andean birdlife at Lagunillas. The stops are brief but informative, offering great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch.

The bus arrives in Puno around 7:30 pm, just a five-minute taxi ride from the city center, making your evening easy to plan. The trip has a friendly, small-group vibe that makes it easy to connect with others and ask questions along the way.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transportation and Group Size

The tour provides comfortable tourist transport, which is crucial given the long distances and rough roads. Limiting groups to 18 participants means you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd, and guides can give more personalized attention, including language support in English and Spanish.

Accommodation and Meals

Staying overnight in a cozy bungalow at Sangalle offers a chance to rest in a traditional setting, which adds a layer of authenticity often missing in larger tours. Meals are included—2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner—which are straightforward but wholesome, helping keep costs reasonable.

Cost and Overall Value

At $141, this tour packs a lot into two days. You get the magic of condor sightings, scenic hikes, cultural stops, and a comfortable overnight stay—all guided by professionals. The tour also includes entry to the water pools at the oasis, which many travelers found a delightful bonus.

However, some costs are extra—like the ticket to enter Colca Canyon (20-70 soles) and optional hot spring entrance fees. Budgeting for these extras will ensure your experience remains smooth.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re physically active and eager to see some of Peru’s most stunning landscapes, this adventure is a fantastic choice. The early mornings and hiking intensity suit those comfortable with moderate exertion. It’s ideal for travelers who value small-group experiences, cultural stops, and natural beauty, all wrapped into a manageable two-day schedule.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Colca Canyon trek offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenic wonders, and cultural insights. You’ll love the chance to see flying condors, walk through traditional villages, and relax in natural hot pools—all while staying in charming accommodations that enrich the experience. The trip’s value lies in its comprehensive itinerary, guided support, and the opportunity to witness one of the world’s deepest canyons firsthand.

While the early starts and physical activity might not suit everyone, those prepared for a bit of a challenge will find this tour rewarding and memorable. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a genuine taste of Peruvian highland life while enjoying stunning vistas that linger long after the trip ends.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable tourist transport throughout, from pickup in Arequipa to the drive to Puno, including scenic stops along the way.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all transport, a professional guide (English and Spanish), one night in a bungalow at Sangalle Oasis, two breakfasts, one lunch, one dinner, and entry to the water pools in the Oasis.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, you’ll need to budget for the entrance ticket to Colca Canyon (20-70 soles) and optional hot spring admission (15 soles). Lunch on the second day is not included in the tour price.

What is the difficulty level?
The tour involves around 7 hours of hiking over two days, with some steep descents and ascents. Early mornings and physical stamina are recommended, but guides manage the pace well.

How many people typically join?
The group size is limited to 18 participants, offering a more personal and intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with hiking and early mornings. Check personal fitness levels before booking, especially for the second day’s ascent.

This Colca Canyon trek is a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine breathtaking scenery with authentic local experiences, all in a compact two-day adventure. Prepare for stunning vistas, wildlife sightings, and a genuine glimpse into Peru’s highland life.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby