Arequipa: Excursion to Querulpa and Chancaray

Arequipa: Excursion to Querulpa and Chancaray — A Deep Dive into Ancient Footprints and Healing Waters

Arequipa, often called the “White City,” has a lot to offer beyond its beautiful architecture. For travelers eager to explore Peru’s lesser-known natural and archaeological treasures, the Querulpa and Chancaray tour provides a fantastic mix of history, nature, and local culture. For $39 per person, this full-day trip takes you about 10 hours, starting early at 5:00 am, with round-trip transfers from Aguas Calientes, so you can sit back and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines dinosaur footprints at Querulpa — a rare and fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life — with the healing waters of Chancaray, which promise relaxation amid beautiful surroundings. Plus, the opportunity to meet resident llamas and enjoy prime viewpoints makes for a well-rounded experience. The only consideration? The early start might be a bit challenging for those who prefer sleeping in on vacation. Still, it’s perfect for curious travelers who want a comprehensive day of discovery in the Majes Valley, especially if you’re into archaeology or natural beauty.

This tour is ideal for those looking to see authentic, off-the-beaten-path sites with a relaxed pace. It also suits travelers eager to combine adventure with some well-deserved downtime in thermal waters. If you’re interested in combining nature, history, and local flavor without breaking the bank, this trip strikes a good balance.

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Key Points

• Unique archaeological sites: Discover authentic dinosaur footprints and ancient petroglyphs at Toro Muerto.
• Relaxing thermal waters: Enjoy a refreshing dip at Chancharay Spa, known for its healing waters.
• Cultural insights: Visit a local winery and vineyard, adding a taste of regional Peruvian life.
• All-in-one experience: The tour includes transportation, guide, and entrance fees, providing good value.
• Early start: Be prepared for a 5:00 am pickup — ideal for maximizing your day.
• Authentic encounters: Meet resident llamas and capture scenic vistas from prime viewpoints.

Exploring the Itinerary: What Does the Day Look Like?

Early Morning Pickup and Journey into the Majes Valley

The day begins bright and early at 5:00 am, with pickup from your hotel or the Plaza de Armas — a logistical advantage that spares you the hassle of figuring out transportation. Your guide, who speaks both Spanish and English, will set the tone for the day, sharing insights about the region’s geology and history as you head toward the Majes Valley.

We appreciated the brief stop at Alto de Pedregal, which offers a great chance to stretch and snap photos of the surrounding landscape — perfect for those group shots or wildlife spotting. The drive itself is a window into the rural heart of southern Peru, where the landscape transitions from urban to open desert and lush farmland.

Petroglyphs of Toro Muerto: Ancient Carvings in the Desert

Next, your first major stop is Toro Muerto, famous for its vast collection of petroglyphs carved into huge stones. These ancient carvings, created by inhabitants of the region ages ago, are fascinating and provide a tangible link to Peru’s early cultures. The guide explains that the site is in the middle of the desert, which accentuates the experience of encountering a slice of prehistoric life in a stark, beautiful setting.

According to reviews, visitors find the petroglyphs “impressive,” and many appreciate the chance to see something truly authentic — not a recreated museum piece. Entrance to Toro Muerto costs S/.7, so plan to have cash on hand for this.

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Querulpa Park: Dinosaur Footprints and Life-Size Replicas

The highlight for many is Querulpa Park, where life-size replicas of dinosaurs stand as a testament to the region’s ancient past. This part of the tour is particularly engaging because it’s designed to appeal to both kids and adults. We loved the way the park makes prehistory approachable, with detailed models and informative signs.

But the real treasure here are the authentic dinosaur footprints found in the area. This is a rare opportunity — not every region in Peru has such clear evidence of prehistoric creatures. Tour guides often mention the importance of these footprints for paleontologists, and you’ll find yourself imagining what this land looked like millions of years ago.

Chancaray Spa: Refreshing Waters and Relaxation

Midway through the day, you’ll head to Chancaray Spa, where you can take a soothing dip in waters reputed for their healing properties. With about an hour allocated for this, travelers often describe it as a wonderful break from the morning’s walking. The thermal waters are set in a serene environment, and some reviews mention that the experience “felt like a true escape.”

Admission costs S/.5, so bringing cash for the entrance fee is recommended. Depending on your mood, you might want to bring swimwear, water, and a towel — just in case you want to enjoy the waters fully.

Lunch and Local Flavor

After the spa, you’ll have some free time for lunch. While the tour doesn’t include a meal, this is a perfect chance to try local specialties at nearby restaurants. Many travelers recommend sampling regional dishes like cuy (guinea pig) or perdiz (partridge), paired with a glass of local wine.

Vineyard Visit: Savoring the Majes Valley

Before heading back to Arequipa, the tour includes a visit to a local winery and vineyard, where you can learn about traditional wine and pisco production. For those interested in regional products, this is a delightful way to end the day. The visit offers a taste of Peru’s diverse agriculture and some authentic souvenirs.

Return to Arequipa

You’ll arrive back in Arequipa around 7:00 pm, tired but full of stories and photos. The early start and full itinerary mean you get a lot for your money, and the round-trip transportation ensures a hassle-free experience.

Authenticity and Value: What Does It Mean for You?

The price of $39 offers excellent value for a day packed with diverse sites — from prehistoric footprints and petroglyphs to thermal waters and local wines. Because tickets and transportation are included, you won’t be surprised by extra costs, making this a budget-friendly option for curious travelers.

The guided aspect is helpful, especially since the guide provides in-depth explanations and context that you might miss exploring on your own. This helps turn a sightseeing trip into a meaningful experience.

While the early start may be inconvenient for some, it allows you to maximize your time in the region. The small group size often cited in reviews makes the tour intimate and engaging, perfect for asking questions and sharing observations.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring cash for entrance fees and souvenirs.
• Wear comfortable shoes — there’s a fair amount of walking, especially at Toro Muerto and Querulpa.
• Pack swimwear and water if you plan to enjoy the thermal waters.
• Check the weather forecast for hot or cool conditions and dress accordingly.
• Confirm your contact info and WhatsApp details with the tour provider beforehand, especially if you’re booking last-minute.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is excellent for adventure seekers and history buffs alike who are eager to see authentic archaeological sites without the hassle of organizing separate visits. It’s also a fantastic choice for those who want a mix of nature, relaxation, and cultural insights in a single day.

Travelers who appreciate small-group excursions, guided commentary, and value-packed experiences will find this tour offers good bang for their buck. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples looking to explore a different facet of Peru’s diverse landscape and history.

However, if you prefer a relaxed pace or dislike early mornings, you might want to consider whether the early start fits your style. But for those ready for an engaging, full-day adventure into the Majes Valley, this trip delivers on many fronts.

FAQ

Is the pickup from the hotel included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or the Plaza de Armas.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide speaks both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible for most travelers.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 10 hours, starting at 5:00 am and returning around 7:00 pm.

What are the main sites visited?
You’ll visit Toro Muerto petroglyphs, Querulpa Dinosaur Park, Chancaray Spa, and a local winery.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are included, but some like Toro Muerto (S/.7) and Chancaray Spa (S/.5) have to be paid separately with cash.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t part of the package, so plan to bring cash or try local restaurants during free time.

What should I bring?
Bring water, swimwear if you plan to soak, cash for entrance fees or souvenirs, and comfortable walking shoes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since the dinosaur park and petroglyphs are engaging for kids, though the early start might be tiring.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is booking flexible?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

This Querulpa and Chancaray tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Arequipa’s most intriguing sights, giving you a taste of ancient history, local culture, and natural relaxation. It’s a smart choice for travelers looking to pack a lot into one memorable day.

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