Experience the beauty and tranquility of Peru’s Colca Canyon on this 2-day tour from Arequipa for just $75 per person. You’ll visit the dramatic Colca Canyon, explore the charming town of Chivay, and relax in natural thermal baths. Led by bilingual guides, this journey offers a balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and comfortable travel—without the need for strenuous activity.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines relaxed sightseeing with authentic local flavor. The stops at Salinas National Reserve to see vicuñas and alpacas bring you close to Peru’s iconic wildlife, while the visit to Chacapi thermal baths offers soothing, warm waters after a day of exploring. The small group size (limited to 15 participants) ensures a more personal, engaging experience.

One consideration is that some parts of the tour, like the hot springs or folkloric dinner, are optional and paid separately. This means you can tailor your experience based on your budget and interests. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate comfortable, scenic tours without intense physical effort—ideal if you want to see the highlights of Colca Canyon at a relaxed pace.

If you’re after stunning views, authentic local experiences, and a well-organized trip, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors or those traveling with family who prefer a more laid-back yet insightful adventure.

Key Points

Comfortable and accessible tour with minimal physical effort required
Includes key highlights like Colca Canyon, Chivay, vicuña sightings, and thermal baths
Bilingual guides enhance understanding of local culture and history
Affordable price point offers good value considering transportation, guides, and lodging
Optional activities let you customize your experience, such as hot springs and folkloric dinner
Small group size ensures a more personal and engaging trip

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Colca Canyon Tour

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The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

This 2-day journey is designed to show you some of the most spectacular sights around Arequipa without the fatigue. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace but still want to soak in the scenery and local flavor of the region.

Day 1: From Arequipa to Chivay, with Spectacular Stops

Your adventure begins bright and early. Between 7:30 am and 8:00 am, a driver picks you up in the center of Arequipa, setting out on a roughly 4-hour drive towards the heart of the canyon. The route is as impressive as the destination—passing through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to elegant vicuñas and alpacas, which are always a hit for animal lovers.

One of the highlights on this stretch is the Patahuasi stop, where you can enjoy a cup of traditional coca tea—a local remedy for altitude sickness. This is a thoughtful touch, especially considering the high elevations reaching up to 4,800 meters at Mirador de los Volcanes. The views from this lookout are spectacular, with sweeping vistas of volcanic peaks and the western mountain range.

The Mirador de los Volcanes is often praised for its panoramic beauty. As one traveler put it, “We loved the way the landscape unfolded, with volcanoes lining the horizon, reminding us how vast and wild Peru’s mountains really are.” From here, the descent to Chivay is quick, arriving around 12:30 pm for lunch (which is optional and paid separately).

Afternoon in Chivay: Hot Springs and Cultural Flavors

After settling into your hotel, many choose to unwind at the Chivay thermal baths. These natural thermo-medicinal waters (around 35-38°C) are renowned for their relaxing properties. The entrance fee is about S/. 15, and travelers often comment on how perfect it is to soak away the travel tiredness.

In the evening, optional dinner with folkloric dancing offers a lively look at local traditions. For around S/. 35, you can enjoy music and dance that showcase the vibrant culture of the region. Even if you skip the dinner, the hot springs alone make this an ideal way to relax after a long day.

Day 2: The Colca Canyon and Condor Viewing

Wake up to a hearty breakfast, then head out early to Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor, about 30 minutes away. This viewpoint is world-famous for spotting Andean condors soaring high above the canyon. The spectacular flight of the condor is often described as awe-inspiring, with travelers saying, “Watching these giants circle overhead, I felt like I was witnessing something truly majestic.” Expect to spend around 45 minutes here taking in the views.

Next, the tour stops at various viewpoints to admire the Andenería del Valle, the terraced agricultural fields carved into the canyon walls, showcasing how local farmers adapt to the environment. In Maca, you might visit the church or sample a Colca Sour, a local cocktail made from regional ingredients—if you’re interested in tasting local flavors.

At noon, enjoy a second meal in Chivay, with the option to make your meal a buffet for around 40 soles. The return trip to Arequipa starts around 1 pm, with potential extra stops if time permits, allowing for a more comprehensive experience depending on your group’s pace.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s cost of $75 per person covers transportation, bilingual guides, accommodation in Chivay, and breakfast on the second day. It also includes all scheduled tourist stops and entrance fees, except for the hot springs (S/. 15), dinners, and lunches—which you pay directly if you choose to partake.

The small group size (max 15) contributes to a more intimate atmosphere, encouraging questions and personal attention. Guides are fluent in both Spanish and English, making it accessible for international travelers.

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Authenticity and Comfort: What Travelers Say

Many travelers appreciate the relaxed pace of this tour, emphasizing that it’s suitable for those who want to see the highlights without strenuous hikes. As one review mentioned, “We loved the way the tour was so well-organized, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.” The comfortable transport and the personalized guidance also stand out as key benefits.

Others highlight the spectacular views—from the Vicuñas in the reserve to the majestic condors soaring above the canyon. The optional thermal baths are often praised as a perfect way to unwind after sightseeing, though some mention that they are an additional expense.

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Practical Considerations

The price of $75 is quite reasonable for the full experience, especially considering the transportation, guide, and accommodations. However, be mindful that meals and entrance fees to certain attractions are paid separately, which can add to your overall budget if you choose to indulge in all optional activities.

The timing is designed for comfort, but it’s worth noting that the high altitude and long drive may not suit everyone. Those prone to altitude sickness should plan accordingly, and it’s advised to stay well-hydrated.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers looking for a relaxed, well-organized experience of Colca Canyon. It’s perfect for those who want to see the best views and wildlife without strenuous hikes or long walks. Families, older travelers, or anyone with limited mobility will find this a suitable option. If you’re curious about local culture, enjoy scenic drives, and want to include some relaxing thermal baths, this tour offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Colca Canyon tour offers a solid, comfortable way to experience one of Peru’s most stunning landscapes. With highlights like Vicuña sightings, the condor flight, and thermal baths, it balances natural beauty with local culture, all wrapped in a relaxed pace suitable for most travelers. The value for money is good, especially given the small group sizes and multilingual guides, making for an intimate and informative adventure.

While not suited for those seeking intense hikes or long trekking days, it’s an ideal choice for travelers who prioritize scenic beauty, authentic encounters, and comfort. The optional activities allow flexibility, letting you tailor the experience to your interests and budget.

If your goal is to see spectacular landscapes with minimal hassle, to enjoy some authentic local culture, and to relax in thermal waters after a day of sightseeing, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a great way to tick off one of Peru’s most iconic destinations without overexertion.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation throughout the two days, ensuring comfortable and hassle-free travel.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $75 per person, which covers guides, hotel in Chivay, and scheduled stops. Extras like meals and entrance fees are paid separately.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included except for the second-day breakfast. Lunch and dinner costs are paid directly by travelers if they choose to eat at the recommended places.

Can I visit the hot springs?
Yes, the Chivay thermal baths are optional, with an entrance fee of S/. 15. Many travelers find them a perfect way to unwind, but it’s an extra cost.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Availability depends on the season, but generally, the tour operates year-round. Check current schedules for starting times.

Is the tour suitable for anyone with mobility issues?
Yes, since it does not involve strenuous walking or hiking, it’s suitable for those with limited mobility, as long as they can handle the high-altitude environments.

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Chivay?
The drive is approximately 4 hours, including stops, making it manageable for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and some cash for meals, entrance fees, and optional activities like the hot springs.

This Colca Canyon tour offers a fantastic balance of natural grandeur, cultural insights, and relaxation—making it a memorable addition to any Peru itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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