Experience the majesty of Peru’s Colca Canyon without breaking a sweat. This 2-day, 1-night tour from Arequipa offers a gentle, comfortable way to see one of the world’s deepest canyons, with plenty of scenic stops and authentic touches along the way. For just $65 per person, you’ll enjoy a well-paced journey that balances sightseeing, culture, and relaxation — all while avoiding strenuous hikes or overly crowded tours.

One of our favorite details? The tour’s emphasis on ease and comfort. You don’t need to be an adrenaline junkie to appreciate this landscape — instead, you’ll experience the canyon’s breathtaking views from well-placed viewpoints and comfortable accommodations. Plus, the inclusion of thermal baths in Chivay means you can unwind after a day of sightseeing, a perfect antidote to travel fatigue.

A small caveat? The tour’s price excludes some key experiences, like entrance fees and meals, which can add up. But if you’re looking for a laid-back introduction to the canyon, this package hits a great balance. It’s especially suited to those who want an authentic, scenic experience with minimal physical effort, perfect for travelers of all ages or those with limited mobility.

If you enjoy stunning vistas, local culture, and relaxing thermal baths, this tour offers a genuine taste of what makes the Colca Valley special. It’s ideal for first-timers, older travelers, or anyone who prefers a more comfortable, guided experience over strenuous trekking.

Key Points

Comfortable sightseeing: The tour focuses on scenic viewpoints and relaxing activities, making it suitable for those who prefer a gentle pace.
Authentic local experience: Stops include the charming town of Chivay and traditional drinks like coca mate, giving you a taste of local culture.
Stunning vistas: The Mirador de los Volcanes and Cruz del Cóndor provide some of the most impressive views and condor sightings.
Relaxation options: The optional thermal baths and folkloric show add a leisurely dimension to the trip.
Value for money: Despite additional costs for meals and entrance fees, the overall experience offers a solid introduction to the canyon for just $65.
Small group size: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

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Exploring the Colca Canyon: What to Expect

This tour is designed for travelers who want to enjoy the spectacular scenery and local culture without the physical demands of strenuous hiking or trekking. The itinerary carefully balances sightseeing, comfort, and cultural exposure, making it an excellent choice for families, older travelers, or those with mobility considerations.

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Day 1: From Arequipa to Chivay

Our journey begins early, with a pick-up from your hotel in the center of Arequipa — expect to be on the road by 8 a.m. The drive is approximately four hours, but it’s far from a tedious bus ride. Instead, we loved the way the trip included several pauses, turning the drive into part of the experience. The route passes through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a landscape dotted with vicuñas, Peru’s elegant, wild camelids. Seeing these animals graze in their natural habitat is a quiet highlight, especially if you’re a wildlife enthusiast.

Next, we stop at Patahuasi for a traditional coca mate. This small ritual is both practical and cultural — drinking coca tea is a common way to help with altitude sickness, and it offers a chance to connect with local customs. A quick visit to the Toccra Bofedales offers a peaceful view of Alpacas grazing freely, a picture-perfect snapshot of high-altitude life.

The highlight of the morning is the Mirador de los Volcanes, perched at 4,800 meters above sea level. From this high vantage point, you’ll get sweeping views of the western mountain range — it’s a dramatic reminder of how rugged and expansive these landscapes are. We loved standing here, soaking in the scenery without the need for a strenuous hike.

After a leisurely lunch in Chivay (cost paid separately), the afternoon can be spent relaxing at the thermal baths. The hot springs (optional, paid entrance) are a cozy way to unwind, with waters ranging from 35 to 38°C. Many visitors found this a perfect way to soothe travel fatigue while enjoying the natural setting. In the evening, you might opt for a folkloric show, featuring regional dances and music, which adds a lively cultural touch — again, optional but highly recommended if you want a full flavor of local life.

Day 2: Cruz del Cóndor and Return to Arequipa

The next morning, we headed to the Cruz del Cóndor, the most famous viewpoint known for condor sightings. We loved how this spot offers a chance to see these majestic birds soaring effortlessly over the canyon — a sight that truly leaves an impression. Spend about 45 minutes here, soaking in the grandeur of the canyon’s depths and the sheer size of the condors gliding overhead.

On the way back, there are stops at viewpoints overlooking the Andenería del Valle, a terraced landscape that reveals how locals have cultivated this land for centuries. A visit to Maca, a small town with a distinctive church, offers a glimpse into local village life. Tasting the Colca Sour, a locally made drink, can be a fun way to round out the experience, if you’re interested.

Lunch in Chivay caps the trip before we begin the return journey to Arequipa. The return trip can include additional stops, time permitting, giving you a chance to revisit or see any overlooked viewpoints.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour strikes a good balance in value, focusing on comfort and scenic highlights. Your price of $65 covers your hotel pick-up in Arequipa, all transportation, and a professional guide fluent in both English and Spanish. The tour also includes accommodation in Chivay and breakfast on the second day.

However, there are some costs not covered. Entrance fees to the Colca Canyon are around S/. 20-70 depending on your nationality, so budget for that. The hot springs cost about S/. 15 if you choose to visit. Meals are paid separately — lunch on both days, and dinner if you opt for the folkloric show, which costs about S/. 45.

While these extras may seem like adds, they’re fairly typical in tours of this type, and the overall cost remains reasonable considering the scenic and cultural value.

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Why This Tour Works for You

This relaxed, scenic experience is perfect for travelers wanting a taste of the Colca Canyon without the physical exertion or complication of more intense treks. It suits older travelers, families with children, or those with limited mobility, thanks to comfortable transportation and minimal walking. The focus on viewpoints, cultural stops, and relaxing baths make it ideal for those seeking a leisurely adventure.

If your priority is to see the spectacular views of the canyon, especially with the chance to observe condors in flight, this tour delivers beautifully. The inclusion of local traditions and optional thermal baths enhances the sense of authentic Peru, making the journey as much about culture as scenery.

The small-group setting, limited to 15 participants, ensures a more personal experience. Plus, the flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay-later reservations, provide peace of mind — especially important if your plans are not yet set in stone.

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The Bottom Line

For travelers eager to witness the grandeur of the Colca Canyon without the challenge of strenuous hiking, this tour offers a perfect blend of comfort, scenery, and culture. The scenic viewpoints, relaxed pace, and optional thermal baths make it a memorable and stress-free option. It’s especially suited for those who want a rundown of the canyon’s highlights, all within a manageable two-day framework.

If you’re after a low-pressure, scenic jaunt into one of Peru’s most stunning landscapes, this tour provides excellent value and an authentic experience. It’s a gentle, picturesque introduction to the region that leaves plenty of room for relaxation and curiosity.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Chivay?
The journey takes approximately four hours, including several scenic stops. It’s a comfortable drive with opportunities to stretch and enjoy the views.

What is included in the tour price?
Your tour includes hotel pick-up in Arequipa, transportation throughout the trip, a professional bilingual guide, accommodation in Chivay, and breakfast on the second day.

Are meals included?
No, meals are paid separately. You’ll have the chance to buy lunch in Chivay on both days, and dinner if you choose to attend the folkloric show.

What are the entrance fees?
Entrance to the Colca Canyon varies — around S/. 20-70 depending on nationality. The hot springs cost S/. 15. This is paid by you at the site.

Can I visit the hot springs?
Yes, the thermal baths are optional. Many guests enjoy the relaxing soak after a day of sightseeing, but it’s an extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Yes, since it emphasizes scenic viewpoints and comfortable transportation rather than strenuous activity, it’s suitable for travelers with limited mobility.

How much time do I get at Cruz del Cóndor?
You’ll spend about 45 minutes here, enough to see the condors and enjoy the spectacular canyon views.

Can I cancel or change my booking easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now with pay-later options to keep your plans flexible.

This tour provides a relaxed but comprehensive glimpse into one of Peru’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re after breathtaking views of condors, a taste of local culture, or simple relaxation, the Colca Canyon 2-day tour from Arequipa offers a solid, memorable experience.