If you’re looking to experience one of Peru’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders without straining your schedule or wallet, this full-day trip to the Colca Canyon offers a fantastic balance of sights, stories, and comfort. Starting early from Arequipa, you’ll visit the high-altitude Mirador de los Volcanes, explore charming towns like Maca, get a chance to witness the legendary flight of the condors, and end with a relaxing dip in the Chacapi Hot Springs — all for just $50 per person.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning vistas with authentic local encounters. The intimate group size — limited to 17 passengers — means you’ll have more time at each stop and fewer crowds. Plus, the friendly guides clearly know their stuff and keep the journey lively and informative. We also appreciate the inclusion of a continental breakfast to start the day on a good note, as well as the oxygen cylinders on board, which can be a real comfort at high altitudes.

A potential consideration is the early start time — pick-up begins around 3:00 to 3:30 am — which might be a challenge if you’re not a morning person or have difficulty adjusting to high-altitude travel. Also, entrance fees to some attractions (like the canyon viewpoint and thermal baths) are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a thorough overview of the Colca Valley in a compact day, with enough flexibility and comfort to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. If you prefer longer excursions with overnight stays, this might be a bit quick, but for a well-rounded snapshot, it hits the mark.

Key Points

Small group size enhances the experience and allows for more personalized attention.
Stunning viewpoints like Cruz del Condor offer chances to see condors in flight.
The early start means you’ll beat some crowds and enjoy cooler morning air at high elevations.
Inclusions like breakfast and oxygen cylinders add comfort and convenience.
The tour visits authentic towns and scenic spots that showcase local culture and natural beauty.
Optional activities, like hot springs and souvenir shopping, provide added variety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Colca Canyon Day Trip

When we think of Peru’s natural marvels, the Colca Canyon often tops the list. This tour from Arequipa is a carefully curated way to get a taste of its grandeur in just one day, making it perfect for travelers with limited time or those who want a structured, well-organized experience.

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The Early Morning Departure and High-Altitude Drive

The adventure begins well before sunrise, with hotel pickups between 3:00 and 3:30 am. The early start can seem daunting, but it’s a smart move to make the most of daylight and avoid the crowds. The drive from Arequipa to Chivay takes roughly three hours, winding through scenic highlands and volcanic landscapes. During this ride, you’ll gain your first glimpses of the rugged beauty that characterizes this region.

One of the highlights on the way up is the Mirador de los Volcanes, perched at 4,910 meters. Here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Ampato, Sabancaya, and Hualca Hualca volcanoes. It’s a chance to stand at a lofty vantage point, breathe in the thin mountain air, and snap some impressive photos.

Visiting Maca and Local Culture

Next, the tour makes a stop in the quaint Maca, a town known for its colonial church carved from ashlar stone. This part of the trip is about appreciating local craftsmanship and architecture. The guide might share stories about the town’s history and significance, giving travelers a glimpse of rural Peruvian life.

The Heart of the Canyon: Cruz del Condor

The most anticipated stop is the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, located at the very edge of the canyon. Here, if you’re lucky, you’ll witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors, soaring effortlessly at eye level. The free time of about an hour allows for photography, video recording, and simply taking in the breathtaking views of the canyon’s depths.

Many reviews highlight how spectacular the scenery is; one traveler remarked, “The views are so impressive, you can’t help but stay in awe.” This spot is where you really feel the scale of the canyon, which is one of the deepest in the world. The natural grandeur is matched by the sense of being at a vantage point that few get to experience.

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Artisans, Souvenirs, and a Taste of Pisco

En route, the tour makes additional stops where local artisans display their handcrafted souvenirs — perfect for picking up a unique gift or keepsake. Some travelers even take a moment to sample the famous Pisco Sour of Sancayo, adding a flavorful local touch to the day.

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Soothing Hot Springs in Yanque

The last major stop is at the Chacapi Hot Springs in Yanque. These medicinal waters, at 38°C, promise a soothing conclusion to an active day. Travelers often mention how revitalizing the thermal baths are after hours of sightseeing, and many appreciate the chance to unwind in natural waters while enjoying mountain views.

Lunch and Return to Arequipa

A local restaurant in Chivay serves a traditional Peruvian lunch, allowing us to indulge in Arequipa’s cuisine before heading back. The return trip begins around 1:30 pm, with an estimated arrival between 5:00 and 5:30 pm.

What’s Included and What Isn’t?

This tour’s $50 price tag offers excellent value, especially considering the transportation, guide, breakfast, and the small group setting. Entrance fees to the canyon (S/20 for Peruvians, S/40 for locals, S/70 for foreigners) are paid separately, which is typical for guided day trips in the region.

Optional extras, like the thermal bath entry (S/15) or a buffet lunch (S/40), are additional but give some flexibility depending on your preferences and budget. We recommend factoring these into your plans so you can fully enjoy what’s available.

Transport and Comfort

The tour uses a tourist van, which is generally comfortable, and the small group size means fewer strangers and more personalized interactions. The oxygen cylinders onboard are a thoughtful touch for high-altitude comfort, especially for those sensitive to altitude sickness.

Guides and Accessibility

The bilingual guides are described as friendly and passionate, making the experience informative and engaging. They help interpret the landscape and local culture, transforming a scenic drive into a learning adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

Several reviews mention how the tour offers more than just sightseeing — it’s an opportunity to connect with local culture and learn about the natural environment. The stops at Maca, where artisans sell handmade crafts, and the chance to see the condors in flight truly stand out.

Travelers also appreciate the early start because it means fewer travelers at the viewpoints, giving a more intimate experience. The hot springs are often described as a perfect way to relax after a busy morning, making the trip both exciting and restorative.

The Sum Up

This 1-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa packs in a wealth of sights — from volcano views to condor sightings, charming towns to soothing thermal baths — all at a reasonable price. It’s a well-organized, comfortable way to see one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple days.

It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and memorable wildlife encounters. The early start might not be for everyone, but it’s a small price for the stunning views and authentic experiences packed into this day.

If you’re after a balanced, value-packed excursion with a focus on natural beauty and local culture, this trip is an excellent choice. It offers a genuine taste of the Colca Valley’s grandeur with the added comfort of a small group and guided insight.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
Pick-up begins around 3:00 to 3:30 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

How long does the drive from Arequipa to Chivay take?
It’s approximately a three-hour journey, with scenic views along the way.

Are the viewpoints accessible for all travelers?
Most stops, including Cruz del Condor, are accessible, but it’s always good to check if you have mobility concerns.

What’s included in the tour?
The price covers transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and the small group experience.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, entrance tickets to the canyon (S/20 for locals, S/70 for foreigners), optional thermal baths (S/15), and lunch (S/40) are paid separately.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for variable weather, a camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash for extras, and a swimsuit if you plan to enjoy the thermal baths.

Is there free time at the viewpoints?
Yes, especially at Cruz del Condor, where about an hour is allocated for photography and enjoying the views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility to plan your trip around other commitments.

This tour offers a practical, engaging, and memorable way to see the Colca Canyon — one of Peru’s most majestic natural spectacles — with just enough breaks and local flavor to keep the experience authentic and enjoyable.