Arequipa: Colca Canyon Trekking 2 days and 1 night + food

Arequipa: Colca Canyon Trekking 2 Days and 1 Night + Food
Location: Arequipa Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8
Price: $120 per person
Supplier: Destinos y Rumbos
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A Quick Glimpse: What’s this tour all about?

This 2-day adventure whisks you from the bustle of Arequipa into the quiet majesty of Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world. For $120, you’ll enjoy a mix of stunning scenery, local villages, and wildlife sightings, with an overnight stay at a rustic refuge deep inside the canyon. The experience is guided by bilingual guides, with transport, meals, and lodging included, making it a practical yet immersive introduction to the region.

What we love about this trek:
– The early morning departure (around 3:00 am) means you get a head start to beat the crowds and see the majestic flight of condors from Cruz del Condor.
– The overnight in Sangalle, with its star-lit sky and pools, feels like a true escape into nature, away from modern distractions.

A possible drawback?
– The early start and physically demanding sections might be challenging for some travelers, especially those with mobility issues.
– Also, the rustic accommodation in Sangalle has no electricity or internet, so be prepared to disconnect.

This tour suits active travelers who want to see authentic rural life, jaw-dropping landscapes, and wildlife, and who enjoy a bit of adventure and physicality. If you’re after a more relaxed pace, you might prefer a less strenuous day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The scenery along the canyon, especially at Cruz del Condor, is breathtaking.
• Wildlife Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for condors, llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
• Authentic Experience: Staying overnight in a rustic refuge offers a true taste of canyon life.
• Cultural Insight: Passing through villages like Cabanaconde and La Pampa de San Miguel provides a glimpse of local Andean traditions.
• Physical Challenge: Expect around 4-6 hours of trekking each day; good fitness helps.
• No Modern Distractions: The refuge in Sangalle has no electricity or internet—ideal for disconnecting.

Exploring the Details: Your 2-Day Journey into Colca Canyon

Day 1: From Arequipa to Sangalle’s Heart

The adventure kicks off before dawn—around 3:00 to 3:30 am—when your guide picks you up from your hotel if you’re staying in the downtown area. The drive to Chivay takes approximately three hours, giving you a chance to catch some early morning vistas of the Peruvian highlands. Once in Chivay, a hearty breakfast awaits in a tourist restaurant, fueling you up for the day ahead.

From there, the trip continues for another hour to Cruz del Condor, the pinnacle of this tour. Here, you’ll witness the impressive flight of condors soaring effortlessly on thermal currents—a sight that’s as close to majestic as nature gets. Many travelers highlight this as the tour’s standout moment, with one describing it as “breathtaking,” and another appreciating the vantage point’s “spectacular views of the canyon’s shape.”

Leaving Cruz del Condor, the journey winds through villages like Cabanaconde and La Pampa de San Miguel, offering glimpses of rural life and terraced fields carved into the landscape. The walking begins here: about four hours of hiking along the canyon’s interior, with views of traditional villages and the lush interior of the canyon. We loved how the guide shared stories about local customs and the significance of the terraced farming practices that have sustained communities here for centuries.

Lunch takes place at San Juan de Chucho after the hike—an opportunity to relax and recharge. Then, the trek continues for roughly three hours into Sangalle, known as the “Green Valley” or “Oasis,” a rugged yet inviting spot with natural pools and beautiful scenery. This is the highlight for many: arriving in Sangalle, you get a sense of being truly immersed in nature, far from modern distractions.

The refuge here is simple—shared rooms with no electricity or internet—yet cozy and functional. After dinner, you’ll have the evening free to enjoy the stars, listen to the canyon’s eerie quiet, and unwind. Several reviewers emphasize the magic of this rustic setting, describing it as “a perfect way to disconnect and reconnect with nature.”

Day 2: Climbing Back and More Wonders

Early risers will appreciate the sunrise over the canyon, with the cool morning air invigorating the start of the second day. The hike back to Cabanaconde is challenging—about three hours ascending the canyon walls—so pack your strength for this part. But the reward is a delicious breakfast in Cabanaconde and a chance to reflect on the incredible sights of the previous day.

From Cabanaconde, your guide will wait with transport to take you back to Chivay, with scenic stops at various viewpoints. The wetlands of Tocra offer great bird-watching opportunities, where you might spot flamingos and other wetland species, and the Pampa Cañahuas area is famous for herds of vicuñas, which are prized for their fine fiber.

Later, a visit to the thermal baths in Chivay provides a relaxing end to your trek, with warm waters soothing your muscles after two days of hiking. Lunch is available in Chivay at your own expense, giving you time to enjoy local cuisine or browse market stalls.

The journey back to Arequipa includes stops at the volcano viewpoint (at 4,910 meters), offering panoramic vistas, and the wetlands of Tocra, where the flocking birds and herds of llamas and alpacas give you a taste of Andean wildlife.

Arriving in Arequipa around 5:30 pm, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and perhaps a new appreciation for the rugged beauty of southern Peru.

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What’s Included and What’s Not? A Practical Breakdown

The tour covers most essentials, making it an attractive value for $120. Included are hotel pickups (if in downtown Arequipa), round-trip transportation, bilingual guides, two breakfasts, one lunch, and dinner on the first day, plus lodging at the Sangalle refuge.

You’ll need to budget for some extras:
– The tourist ticket—S/. 20 for locals, S/. 70 for foreigners—required to access the canyon.
– The thermal baths (S/. 15), and
– Lunch on the second day, which is not included but can be enjoyed at your leisure in Chivay.

The lodge in Sangalle provides a genuine experience of living in the canyon’s heart, although it’s quite rustic—no electricity or Wi-Fi. That’s part of the charm, but travelers craving comfort might find it a bit spartan.

Transportation & Timing: Why They Matter

The early departure is a key part of the experience. Packing a sense of adventure into just two days means you’ll need to be prepared for long hours in vehicles and on foot. The transport is comfortable enough, but be aware that the road to Chivay can be winding and bumpy.

The timing allows you to maximize your time in the canyon, especially with the sightseeing stops at Cruz del Condor and the wetlands. For those concerned about the physicality, note that the ascent on Day 2 is demanding but very rewarding.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys active travel and wants to see one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes up close, this is a strong choice. The mix of scenery, wildlife, and cultural insights, combined with a rustic overnight stay, appeals particularly to travelers seeking something authentic and memorable.

It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with early mornings, physical activity, and stepping into a simpler lifestyle for a night. History and wildlife buffs, nature lovers, and those wanting a genuine Andean adventure will find this tour rewarding. However, those seeking a leisurely experience with more creature comforts may want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For $120, you get a comprehensive introduction to the stunning depths of Colca Canyon, a chance to observe condors in their natural habitat, and an immersive overnight stay in a remote refuge. The scenery alone makes it worth the effort—imagine towering canyon walls, rugged villages, and wild condors soaring overhead.

The experience offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure, with the added bonus of disconnecting from modern life for a night. You’ll leave with not only photos and memories but also a sense of appreciation for the resilience of the Andean communities and the raw beauty of the landscape.

This tour suits those who want a fuller experience than a day trip, are physically prepared for some hiking, and are eager to see Peru’s spectacular natural side. If you’re after an authentic, adventure-packed journey that’s packed with stunning views and cultural stops, this trek is a great bet.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Not really. The tour involves about 4 hours of trekking on Day 1 and a challenging ascent on Day 2, which might be tough for those with mobility impairments or very young children.

What should I bring for the trek?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, water, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Given the rustic nature of the refuge, pack light but ensure you have essentials for two days in a remote environment.

Are meals included?
Yes, two breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner are included. You can expect hearty, simple local fare designed to fuel your hike.

Will I see condors at Cruz del Condor?
Yes, this is the best spot to observe the flight of condors, especially in the early morning when they soar on thermals. Multiple reviewers have highlighted this as a highlight.

How long is the drive from Arequipa?
Approximately three hours to Chivay, plus additional driving to the canyon and villages. Early departure means you’ll start your adventure before sunrise.

Is there free time during the tour?
The tour is quite packed, but you’ll have some time in Sangalle in the evening to relax or stargaze, and some optional stops on the way back for photos and bird-watching.

In summary, this trek combines spectacular scenery, authentic cultural interactions, and an immersive night in the heart of one of Peru’s most famous landscapes. It’s a memorable experience for those craving adventure and willing to embrace a bit of rustic living. For travelers who love nature’s grandeur and don’t mind a physical challenge, this is a no-brainer.

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