Arequipa: Excursion to Colca Canyon, Ending in Puno

Planning a day trip from Arequipa that combines stunning scenery, wildlife, and a touch of adventure? This tour for $90 per person offers just that. You’ll start early with a pick-up from your hotel, journey through some of the most impressive landscapes in the Andes, and finish in Puno, after taking in the grandeur of the Colca Canyon — one of the deepest in the world.

What makes this trip stand out are the majestic flight of the condors at Cruz del Cóndor and the chance to relax in the Chacapi thermal baths. These are real highlights that give you a taste of Peru’s natural beauty and wildlife. Plus, the scenic stops at viewpoints like Patapampa and the chance to see camelids and wild birds at Salinas Reserve add authenticity and local flavor.

A potential consideration is the early start time — 3:00 am — which might be challenging if you’re not a morning person. Also, the full-day journey involves quite a bit of travel, so comfort and patience are key. This tour suits travelers who want an immersive, full-day experience that covers a lot of ground and offers genuine, memorable sights.

If you’re eager for a well-organized, value-packed day that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and scenic drives—especially if you’re heading on to Puno afterward—this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

Majestic condor sightings at Cruz del Cóndor are a highlight.
Deepest in the world: The Colca Canyon provides breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Thermal baths: Relax in natural hot springs at Chacapi, a perfect way to unwind after a morning of sightseeing.
Authentic towns: Stops in towns like Antahuillque offer a glimpse into local life.
Scenic viewpoints: From Patapampa, you’ll see volcanoes like Ampato and Sabancaya.
Flexible options: Tour includes a hotel pick-up, guide, breakfast, and optional Puno transfer.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa

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The Morning Start: Early Rise for Big Rewards

The adventure begins at 3:00 am with hotel pickup — yes, it’s early, but this is what makes the experience worthwhile. Traveling in a comfortable bus, we leave behind the quiet streets of Arequipa for the highlands. The early start ensures we arrive at the Colca Canyon before the crowds and have the best chance to see the soaring Andean condors.

The three-hour drive takes us through the southern landscapes of Peru — rugged, untouched, and full of stunning vistas. As you settle in, it’s worth noting that this early start means you’ll probably want to rest afterward, so consider this when planning your day.

Breakfast at Chivay: Fuel for the Day

Around sunrise, we arrive in Chivay, a small town at over 3,000 meters. Here, a delicious breakfast awaits — bread with butter and jam, juice, and a hot coffee or tea. It’s a pleasant way to start the day, and the setting at this altitude adds a touch of adventure. The breakfast is straightforward, but enough to energize you for the morning ahead.

Cruz del Cóndor: The Heart of the Experience

The highlight is the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, where we get a panoramic view of the canyon’s depths. This spot is famous for the majestic flight of condors, which can often be seen soaring effortlessly on the rising thermal currents. While sightings depend on the day and weather, many visitors report glimpsing these impressive birds — “we loved the way the condors glided so close,” as one traveler put it.

The canyon itself is awe-inspiring: jagged cliffs, terraced valleys, and a landscape that seems to stretch forever. The depth and scale are hard to grasp until you stand at the edge and look down.

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Discovering Local Towns and Hot Springs

Next, we visit Antahuillque and other small towns, where life moves at a different pace. These places offer authentic glimpses into local culture, away from tourist crowds. It’s an opportunity to see traditional houses, local markets, and perhaps interact with residents.

Around 11:30 am, we head to Chacapi thermal baths, a tranquil spot where you can soak in natural pools. The warm waters provide a welcome break and a chance to relax muscles sore from the early start. The thermal baths are simple but charming, and many travelers appreciate this peaceful stop.

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Lunch and Free Time in Chivay

Back in Chivay, you’ll have some free time to grab lunch on your own. Options range from traditional Peruvian dishes to more tourist-oriented cafes. It’s worth exploring a bit to taste local specialties like papa a la huancaína or alpaca meat, if available.

The Road to Puno: Volcanoes and Salinas

After lunch, the journey continues southward toward Puno. The bus stops at key viewpoints like Patapampa, where you can admire the majestic volcanoes — Ampato and Sabancaya. The landscape here feels volcanic and wild, a stark contrast to the canyon’s lush terraces.

Stops at Salinas Reserve and Lagunillas offer opportunities to spot wild camelids — llamas and alpacas — and birds in their natural habitat. Travelers often mention the chance to see these animals up close as a highlight of the day.

The drive to Puno is approximately six hours, but with stops and scenic views, it doesn’t feel rushed. We arrive at the Puno terminal around 7:30 pm, tired but full of memories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $90, the tour covers the essentials: hotel pickup, bus transportation, a bilingual guide, and breakfast. It’s a good value considering the long day and the sights covered. However, you’ll need to budget extra for entrance fees (70 S/ to Colca Canyon, 15 S/ to thermal baths), your lunch, and any optional transfers to Puno if you want the convenience.

The Real Traveler Experience

Many reviewers emphasize the spectacular views and the opportunity to see condors — “It was worth waking up early just for the condors,” one wrote. Others appreciated the thermal baths as a relaxing capstone after the canyon’s rugged terrain.

Some found the early start tough, but most agreed it was doable for a day packed with highlights. The guided aspect was praised for providing insights without feeling overly rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their day with a mix of nature, wildlife, and scenic drive. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and long travel days, you’ll find this to be a rewarding experience. It’s particularly good for those heading to Puno afterward, as it offers a seamless transition south.

It’s also suited for travelers who prefer guided tours that handle logistics, so you can focus on taking in the sights without worrying about directions or timing. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider breaking the trip into two days.

The Sum Up

This Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa offers a well-rounded experience packed into a single day. You get the chance to see breathtaking landscapes, the iconic condors, and relaxing hot springs, all while traveling comfortably in a guided group. The stops at viewpoints and towns give you real insights into local life and natural wonders, making it a worthwhile addition to your Peru itinerary.

While the early start might be a challenge, it’s a small price to pay for the spectacular vistas and wildlife encounters. If you’re looking to cover a lot of ground in one day and enjoy authentic scenery, this tour provides excellent value and memorable sights.

For travelers eager to combine adventure, natural beauty, and cultural stops without the hassle of planning, this excursion hits the mark. Just bring your camera, some snacks, and a spirit ready to soak in some of Peru’s most striking landscapes.

FAQ

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins early at around 3:00 am with hotel pick-up, so be prepared for an early start to make the most of the day.

How long does the whole trip last?
The full tour lasts about 16-17 hours, ending in Puno around 7:30 pm.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time in Chivay to choose a place to eat on your own.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, you need to pay for entrance fees to the Colca Canyon (70 S/) and the Chacapi hot springs (15 S/). Optional Puno transfer costs extra if chosen.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in both English and Spanish to accommodate different travelers.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Arequipa is included, making the start seamless.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?
Most parts are accessible, but the early start and walking at viewpoints may require some stamina. Always check with your guide if you have concerns.

This tour offers a fantastic snapshot of southern Peru’s natural grandeur, combining wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and local culture — all in a day that’s well worth waking up early for.