Arequipa: 2-Day Tour of the Colca Canyon — A Deep Dive into Peru’s Majestic Landscape

Imagine standing at a viewpoint and watching condors soar effortlessly overhead, feeling the cool mountain air, and gazing into one of the deepest gorges in the world. That’s exactly what this 2-day tour from Arequipa offers—an immersive journey through the stunning Colca Valley, combined with moments of relaxation and cultural discovery. Priced at $117 per person, this trip is a well-balanced mix of nature, tradition, and comfort, designed for travelers eager to see some of Peru’s most iconic landscapes without sacrificing convenience.

We particularly loved the opportunity to meet vicuñas in their natural habitat during the trip to the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. The landscape here is truly surreal—vast, volcanic terrain dotted with wildlife, with the chance to snap photos of these elegant animals. The visit to thermal baths in La Calera is also a standout, offering a relaxing soak with claimed medicinal benefits after a day of sightseeing.

One possible consideration is the transportation duration—it’s about three hours each way from Arequipa to the canyon, which can feel a bit long for some. However, the scenic stops along the way help break up the journey and add extra value. This tour is perfect if you enjoy nature, panoramic views, and cultural insights, especially if you’re traveling with a small group seeking an intimate experience.

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Key Points

Stunning Views: From mountain panoramas to the famous Cruz del Condor, the vistas are unforgettable.
Wildlife Encounters: Spot vicuñas in their natural environment, an experience that’s as exciting as it is authentic.
Cultural Richness: Stops in towns like Maca and Yanque let you appreciate pre-Inca settlements and local traditions.
Relaxing Thermal Baths: The natural hot springs of La Calera add a soothing touch to your adventure.
Expert Guides: Bilingual guides ensure you understand the significance of each stop and answer your questions.
Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personal experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.

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A Detailed Look at the Colca Canyon Tour

Day 1: From Arequipa to Chivay – Setting off on an Adventure

The journey begins bright and early at 8:00 a.m., with a convenient hotel pickup within 1 kilometer of the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa. This is a good point to mention that if your hotel isn’t nearby, you’ll need to head to the designated meeting spot—something to keep in mind for a smooth start.

Our guide, whose name I wish I knew, was friendly and fluent in both English and Spanish, making the explanations accessible whether you’re a local speaker or a tourist. Within an hour and a half, we arrived at the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Here’s where the magic happens—meeting vicuñas in the wild—a true highlight. Their graceful form and the vast, windswept landscape make for incredible photos, and according to reviews, many travelers are thrilled to spot them in their natural habitat.

Next, we stopped at Tocrapampa Lagoon, a wetland teeming with birdlife. The scenery here is panoramic, offering views of volcanic peaks and wetlands that look like something out of a dream. The highlight for many is the Mirador de los Andes at Patapampa, which provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountain range and, on clear days, a good look at volcan Misti looming nearby.

Arriving in Chivay, we had about 90 minutes to explore and grab lunch in a local restaurant. This offers a great chance to try regional dishes like pachamanca or trucha (trout), a local specialty. Afterward, a visit to the thermal baths of La Calera is included—an ideal way to unwind after a day of travel and sightseeing. These hot springs are reputed for their medicinal properties, and many travelers find the warm waters soothing, especially if they’ve been sitting in a bus all morning.

The evening is free to enjoy in Chivay—whether that’s relaxing at your hotel, strolling around, or joining an optional folkloric dinner show. We loved the relaxed pace and the chance to soak in the local atmosphere.

Day 2: The Heart of the Canyon and Return to Arequipa

After breakfast, we set out early to Colca Canyon—the star of the trip. The drive itself is scenic, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the volcanic landscape. Our first stop was Cruz del Condor, a viewpoint famous worldwide for spotting condors. Watching these enormous birds glide effortlessly on thermal currents is simply awe-inspiring. Many reviews mention the thrill of seeing condors in flight—some travelers swear it’s a bucket-list moment.

From the lookout, we also took in the depth of the canyon, which is truly humbling. The views are wide, dramatic, and best enjoyed with plenty of time for photos. The guides do their best to explain the geology, flora, and fauna, and we appreciated their insights into the pre-Inca cultures that inhabited the area.

Moving on, we visited viewpoints like Wayrapunko, Antahuilque, and Choquetico—each offering unique perspectives on the landscape and archaeological sites. These stops help you understand the cultural significance of the area beyond just its natural beauty.

We then visited Maca and Yanque, two charming towns where we learned about traditional crafts and local customs. The relaxed pace and authentic vibes make these towns a highlight for many travelers seeking real cultural connection.

Lunch in Chivay is another chance to enjoy regional dishes before heading back to Arequipa. The drive back takes roughly three hours, and the guide points out notable sights along the way.

Arriving back in Arequipa at about 5:00 p.m., the tour concludes. Your hotel drop-off makes for an easy end to a packed but rewarding two days.

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Accommodation & Logistics

The included overnight stay in Chivay is in a comfortable hostel, with a double room and a continental breakfast. This simple yet cozy lodging ensures a good night’s rest before the next day’s early start.

Pick-up is available at hotels within a kilometer of Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas, simplifying logistics, but if your hotel is outside this zone, you’ll need to meet at the main square.

Transportation is by bus or minibus, which is comfortable enough for the long drive. The small group limit of 15 enhances the experience, keeping it personalized and allowing easier interaction with the guide.

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What’s Not Included

Lunches and dinners (though you’ll have the chance to try regional dishes in Chivay)
Entrance fees to the Colca Valley (70 S/ for foreigners or 25 S/ for Peruvians)
Entrance to the thermal baths (15 S/)

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $117, this tour offers solid value for the deep dive into the Colca Canyon and surrounding attractions. The price covers transportation, a guide, one night accommodation, breakfast, and entry fees to key sights. For travelers looking for a well-organized, guided experience with plenty of opportunities to photograph and relax, this is a highly appealing option.

The scenic stops, wildlife sightings, and cultural visits all contribute to a comprehensive experience. Reviewers have praised the stunning views and expert guides, making it clear that even the long travel hours are worthwhile thanks to the scenery and insights you gain.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, and for travelers who prefer a small group setting that fosters a more personal connection.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour of the Colca Canyon from Arequipa strikes a good balance between natural beauty, cultural exploration, and relaxation. You’ll see some of Peru’s most spectacular landscapes—from soaring condors to volcanic peaks—and gain a deeper appreciation of the region’s history and wildlife. The included thermal baths add a relaxing touch, and the guide’s bilingual skills help make the experience accessible for all.

While the long drive might be a consideration for some, the stops and scenery along the way make it more than worth the effort. It’s a journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Peru’s rugged, volcanic heart.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a manageable yet immersive glimpse of the high Andes. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized way to see the canyon’s highlights with the comfort of a small group, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pick-up?
Pick-up starts at 8:00 a.m., so it’s best to be ready a little before that time. The guide will meet you at your hotel within a 1-kilometer radius of Plaza de Armas in Arequipa.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable clothing, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and some cash for optional expenses like meals or entrance fees. A hat and water bottle are also recommended for the outdoor stops.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
While the itinerary is relatively accessible, consider the long bus ride and outdoor walking at viewpoints. It’s best for children and seniors who are in good health and capable of sitting for extended periods.

Can I book the tour last minute?
Yes, but availability depends on the date. It’s advisable to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there will be time for you to buy lunch in Chivay. The tour includes one breakfast at the hotel.

How much are the entrance fees?
Entrance to the Colca Valley costs 70 S/ for foreigners or 25 S/ for Peruvians. The thermal baths cost 15 S/ per person.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transportation is by bus or minibus, which is generally comfortable and well-maintained for the long drive.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Most travelers prefer dry seasons for clearer views, but the tour operates year-round, weather permitting. Check availability for your preferred dates.

Final Summary

For those craving a genuine taste of Peru’s spectacular landscapes and cultural richness, this 2-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa offers a reliable and well-rounded experience. It balances scenic marvels, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights with the comfort of a small group and guided commentary. The mix of adventure and relaxation—especially the hot springs—makes it a memorable addition to any itinerary.

If you enjoy stunning views, engaging guides, and authentic local towns, this tour won’t disappoint. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized journey that balances activity with downtime. Overall, it’s an excellent way to see one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders with the right mix of comfort and adventure.