From Arequipa: Colca Canyon and Puno Bus Tour

Discovering the Colca Canyon and Puno on a Single Day from Arequipa
If you’re looking for a way to see some of Peru’s most spectacular scenery without spending days on the road, this Colca Canyon and Puno bus tour offers an ambitious but rewarding adventure for around $69. For a full day, you’ll hop on a comfortable bus, travel through rugged highland landscapes, and visit iconic sights like the Cruz del Condor, the Chacapi hot springs, and the Salinas and Lagunillas Reserve.

What we love about this trip is the chance to get up close with Andean condors soaring above the canyon, and the relaxing dips in warm thermal waters—surely two of the most memorable moments in Peru. Plus, taking in the views of volcanoes like Ampato and Sabancaya from the Patapampa viewpoint adds a dramatic touch to the day.

A potential downside is the early start; be prepared to wake up around 3:00 AM for pickup. Also, because it’s a long, busy day, it might feel rushed for those who prefer more time at each stop. But if you’re eager to see both the deep canyon and the high-altitude reserve**, this tour strikes a good balance of highlights.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive highlights tour without the hassle of planning multiple trips or spending extra days on the road. It’s especially good if your time in Peru is limited but you’re eager to tick off some of its most eyecatching sights.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: See the Cruz del Condor and the volcanoes from Patapampa with panoramic vistas.
• Wildlife Encounters: Watch for Andean condors and spot herds of camels in the Salinas Reserve.
• Relaxation: Enjoy a hot springs soak in Chacapi, perfect after a morning of sightseeing.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the town of Chivay and learn about local life.
• Value: For $69, you get a full day of transportation, guides, and a delicious breakfast, making it an accessible way to experience dramatic landscapes.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and keep your plans adaptable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Early and Getting on the Road

The tour kicks off with a pick-up at your hotel in Arequipa, usually early in the morning, around 3:00 AM. This might seem brutal, but it’s necessary to maximize daylight and make the most of the day. The bus is generally comfortable, and the group tends to be small enough for friendly interaction but large enough for a lively atmosphere.

Traveling through the Peruvian highlands, you’ll get a taste of the rugged, mountainous scenery that defines this region. The drive from Arequipa to Chivay covers a good stretch of open landscape, with occasional villages and cattle grazing in the high plains. Along the way, your guide will point out notable features and answer questions, making the journey informative as well as scenic.

Chivay and the Breakfast Stop

Arriving in Chivay, the tour offers a continental breakfast of bread, jam, juice, and hot coffee or tea. It’s a good chance to stretch and re-energize before heading to the first major highlight—the Cruz del Condor. The town also serves as a hub for exploring the canyon itself, and some travelers mention the chance to browse local markets or buy souvenirs if time allows.

Cruz del Condor and the Depth of the Canyon

The Cruz del Condor viewpoint is the tour’s centerpiece. We loved the way this spot offers near-unobstructed views of the Colca Canyon, which is actually twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. The real star here is the Andean condor, with wingspans that can reach over 10 feet. The guide will tell you stories about these majestic birds and their soaring habits, but it’s truly a thrill to see them glide effortlessly overhead.

Some reviews praise the spectacular vistas, noting that the canyon’s rugged cliffs and terraced landscapes look like a painting. Keep in mind, the condors are wild and can be unpredictable—sometimes you catch a flock right at the viewpoint, other times it takes patience. Early mornings tend to be best for bird sightings, so be prepared for an outdoor wait.

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Visit to Antahuillque and Hot Springs

After the canyon, the tour continues to Antahuillque, a small town that provides a glimpse into local life. Then, the highlight for many is the stop at the Chacapi hot springs. Here, you can enjoy an hour relaxing in natural thermal pools with warm water, set against a beautiful mountain backdrop. Travelers often mention how soothing it is after a morning of sightseeing, with some describing it as a “perfect way to unwind.” Bring your swimwear and towel, as the hot springs are open-air and quite scenic.

Lunch and the Journey to Puno

Post-soak, it’s time for a free lunch in Chivay—many tour operators recommend trying local dishes like trout or alpaca if you have time. Afterward, the bus heads southeast toward Puno, making a key stop at Patapampa viewpoint. Here, you’ll see the volcanoes of Ampato and Sabancaya, set against a vast Andean sky. The panoramic views are stunning, giving you a real sense of the high-altitude landscape.

Next, the tour visits the Salinas and Lagunillas Reserve. This area is home to herds of camels and a variety of wild birds, making it a fascinating stop for nature lovers. The landscape here is stark yet beautiful, with salt flats and lakes that reflect the sky.

Final Destination: Puno

The journey concludes with a transfer to Puno, a city on the shores of Lake Titicaca. It’s the perfect place to rest after a packed day, or to continue exploring Peru’s highland culture.

What the Tour Includes and What to Consider

This tour’s price of $69 covers transportation, a guide (in Spanish or English), and the breakfast—a fair deal for such a comprehensive experience. Entrance fees to the canyon are not included ($70 S/ per person), nor are the hot springs ($15 S/), so budget accordingly if you want to soak or visit the canyon thoroughly.

While the tour is a good value, it’s worth noting that the long hours in the bus could be tiring, especially for those sensitive to early mornings or high-altitude travel. The group size is manageable, but the schedule is tight, so don’t expect long leisure periods at each stop.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and outdoor viewing.
• Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses—the high-altitude sun can be intense.
• Pack snacks and water for the journey, especially since lunch is on your own later.
• Don’t forget your camera—the scenery is breathtaking.
• Be prepared for weather changes, including cold mornings and sunny afternoons.
• If you want the best chance of condor sightings, arrive early to the Cruz del Condor.
• Remember, hot springs are optional, but they’re a great way to relax if you have time.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This full-day trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of southern Peru’s natural beauty in one convenient package. It suits those who enjoy birdwatching, mountain scenery, and hot springs, but don’t want the hassle of planning multiple excursions or overnight stays.

If you’re pressed for time but eager to see the depth of Colca Canyon and the high-altitude volcanoes, this tour provides a good balance between convenience, value, and authentic sights. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who are comfortable with early mornings and long bus rides but want to maximize their sightseeing.

The Sum Up

In all, this bus tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon and Puno offers a well-rounded, cost-effective way to see some of Peru’s most striking landscapes. While the early start and busy schedule aren’t for everyone, the chance to see condors soaring above the canyon, relax in thermal waters, and stand before majestic volcanoes makes it worth considering.

For those who value breathtaking views and wildlife encounters but prefer to keep travel logistics simple, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for travelers with limited time in Peru who want a full day of adventure and scenery packed into a single trip.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins early in the morning, around 3:00 AM, to maximize daylight and sightseeing opportunities.

How long is the bus ride?
The trip involves a full day of traveling, with the total duration being approximately 12 hours, including stops and meals.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing suitable for walking and high altitudes.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a continental breakfast. Lunch is not included, so you should plan to have some snacks or buy lunch during the free time.

How much are the entrance fees?
Entrance to the Colca Canyon costs around 70 S/ per person, and the hot springs are 15 S/. These are paid separately.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years, pregnant women, or anyone with back or heart problems due to early start times and high-altitude travel.

What guides will I have?
Guides speak Spanish and English, providing commentary and answering questions throughout the day.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making your plans flexible.

Is this a good value?
Absolutely. For $69, you get transportation, a guide, breakfast, and access to impressive natural sights—making it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers eager for adventure.

This tour is a fantastic way to pack in some of Peru’s most iconic sights without the hassle of logistics or extra overnight stays. With engaging guides, stunning vistas, and the chance to see wildlife and relax in thermal waters, it’s a memorable highland day trip for curious explorers.

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