Arequipa: Colca Canyon Excursion 2 Days with End in Puno

This 2-day tour offers a gentle, well-paced way to explore some of Peru’s most captivating sights. For $122 per person, you’ll travel from Arequipa to the breathtaking depths of the Colca Canyon, witness the soaring flight of the condors at the Cruz del Cóndor lookout, and unwind in natural thermal baths. The journey ends in Puno, just a short ride away from Lake Titicaca, making it ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed yet immersive experience.

What we love about this trip is how it balances comfort with authentic scenery — you don’t have to hike or exert yourself heavily. The stops at vicuñas, alpacas, and the Toccra Bofedales provide pleasant encounters with local wildlife, and the hot springs offer a soothing break after a day of sightseeing. Also, the option to enjoy a folkloric dance show in Chivay adds a dash of local culture.

One consideration is that some expenses, like meals, entrance fees, and optional thermal baths or folkloric shows, are paid separately. That means you pay for comfort and convenience, but not all inclusions are covered upfront. If you’re after an easy-going, scenic experience without strenuous activity, this tour suits those with limited time who want a taste of the canyon’s majesty and local charm.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, guided trip that includes some of the best viewpoints and cultural highlights without long hikes or physical effort. It’s especially suitable if you want to combine natural beauty with a touch of local culture, all while traveling comfortably.

Key Points

Comfortable pace: Designed for easy enjoyment, not strenuous hiking.
Spectacular views: From the Mirador de los Volcanes to Cruz del Cóndor, expect breathtaking panoramas.
Wildlife encounters: Opportunities to see vicuñas, alpacas, and other native animals.
Thermal baths: Relax in hot springs with thermo-medicinal waters, optional but highly recommended.
Cultural experiences: Enjoy folkloric dances and local drinks like the Colca Sour.
Flexible options: Many activities and meals are optional, giving you control over your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

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Day 1: From Arequipa to Chivay

The tour begins early, with pickup from your hotel in the heart of Arequipa. This is a good thing because it maximizes your sightseeing time while minimizing stress. We head north, passing through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Here, the highlight is spotting vicuñas, Peru’s native camelids, whose soft, fine wool makes them a pretty special sight. We loved the way the guide pointed out the different animals grazing peacefully in these high-altitude plains — it’s a reminder of the stunning biodiversity in this region.

Next stop is Patahuasi, where you can try the traditional coca mate. For many travelers, this is a comforting ritual—something to help battle altitude sickness and connect with local customs. A short visit to the Toccra Bofedales allows us to see alpacas grazing freely, adding a calming pastoral scene to the trip.

The Mirador de los Volcanes is a high point on the route at 4,800 meters above sea level. The view from here is spectacular — a sweeping vista of volcanic peaks and mountain ranges stretching into the distance. We found this the ideal spot for photos and simply soaking in the rugged beauty of the landscape.

Arriving in Chivay around midday, we are set for a relaxing lunch (not included in the tour price, but many options available). After checking into our hotel, the afternoon offers a chance to soak in the thermal baths. The hot springs are a real treat — the waters, ranging between 35°C and 38°C, are known for their relaxing and medicinal qualities. Many reviews mention how soothing this is after a day of travel, and it’s a bonus that the entrance fee is modest (around S/. 15).

For dinner, optional folklore entertainment is available, with lively dances that showcase regional traditions. It’s a great way to connect with the local culture without feeling like a tourist trap.

Day 2: The Heart of the Canyon and Condor Watching

A hearty breakfast kicks off the second day before we make a 30-minute drive to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. This spot is renowned for its incredible condor flights — watching these majestic birds soar on the thermal currents is something you won’t forget. We spent about 45 minutes here, and several reviews mention the “spectacular flight of the condors,” which truly is a highlight of the trip.

On the way back, there are stops at other viewpoints where you can admire the Andenería del Valle — the terraced fields carved into the canyon walls — and the charming town of Maca. Here, you may choose to taste another local specialty, Colca Sour, made with regional ingredients, adding a flavorful local touch to your trip.

Returning to Chivay for lunch (again, paid by you), the group may have time to explore the town’s sights, including its historic church. The return journey to Arequipa is flexible, with options to stop at additional points of interest depending on your timing and group preferences.

Travel logistics and value

The tour includes private overnight accommodation in Chivay, which means you won’t be sharing a cramped hostel — comfort is prioritized. The transport is cozy and reliable, and guides are bilingual, making navigation and explanations accessible to a broad range of travelers. The total cost covers most logistical aspects, though meals, entry fees, and optional activities cost extra.

Travelers have noted that the value for the price is good, especially considering the included transportation, overnight stay, and guided commentary. The trip is well-organized, with a focus on enjoying stunning views and authentic encounters rather than physical exertion.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you prefer a comfortable, scenic experience over strenuous activities, this trip fits perfectly. It’s ideal for those seeking easy access to breathtaking vistas, wildlife, and cultural highlights. It suits travelers who want the convenience of a guided trip with flexible options for meals and extra activities.

It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time but still eager to see the Colca Canyon and its famous condors. If you’re traveling with family, older travelers, or anyone who prefers a relaxed schedule, you’ll appreciate the lack of strenuous hikes and the focus on comfort.

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Final Thoughts

This 2-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa offers an excellent combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, cultural experiences, and relaxation. You’ll enjoy panoramic views, the chance to see condors in flight, and soothing thermal baths—all at a pace that’s easygoing rather than exhausting.

The value lies in the convenience and comfort, especially with the included hotel stay and expert guides. While some expenses are extra, you’ll find that paying for optional activities like the folkloric show or thermal baths enhances your experience without adding stress.

For those wanting to get a taste of Peru’s natural grandeur without heavy physical activity, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good views, wildlife, and culture, all wrapped up in a relaxed, well-organized package.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since it’s designed for easy enjoyment without strenuous activity, it works well for a range of ages, including families and older travelers.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup in Arequipa, transportation, overnight accommodation in Chivay, and guides in both Spanish and English. Meals, entrance fees, and optional activities like thermal baths and folkloric shows are paid separately.

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Chivay?
It takes about 4 hours, including stops at scenic points like the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve and Mirador de los Volcanes.

Can I visit the thermal baths?
Yes, you can enjoy the thermal baths in the afternoon of the first day. Entrance costs around S/. 15 and many find this a relaxing way to unwind after the drive.

What’s the best time to see the condors?
The Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint is best early in the morning, around 9:00 to 10:00 am, for optimal condor sightings.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are plenty of options in Chivay, and you can choose to enjoy local dishes or a buffet for around 40 soles.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to lock in your plans.

What should I bring?
Layered clothing for variable weather, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera for those spectacular views. Comfortable shoes are recommended if you plan to explore beyond the main viewpoints.

How many people are in each group?
While specific group sizes are not detailed, tours tend to be small and personalized, especially with private transport and guided commentary.

Can I extend my stay in Puno afterward?
Yes, the trip ends in Puno, which offers access to Lake Titicaca and other attractions. It’s a good base for further exploration.

This tour offers a well-rounded, accessible way to see Peru’s iconic canyon, wildlife, and culture without the fatigue of strenuous hikes or complicated logistics. If you’re after a scenic, comfortable, and authentic experience, it’s a solid choice — especially for those new to the region or traveling with family.