From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Excursion 2D with End in Puno offers a balanced blend of comfort, natural beauty, and cultural charm. For just $105 per person, you’ll enjoy a two-day journey that sidesteps strenuous hikes in favor of relaxed visits to the canyon’s main viewpoints, soothing hot springs, and charming towns. Led by bilingual guides, this tour is perfect for those who want to experience one of Peru’s most spectacular landscapes without the physical exertion often associated with canyon visits.

We particularly appreciate how smoothly everything is organized — from the comfortable accommodations in Chivay to the scenic stops that allow you to savor the landscape without rushing. The inclusion of visits to Salinas National Reserve and Mirador de los Volcanes provides authentic encounters with local wildlife and geology. The highlight for many is the chance to see Condors soaring at Cruz del Cóndor, a truly awe-inspiring sight.

One potential consideration is the overall pace — with a tight schedule covering a lot in just two days, some travelers might find the travel times long, especially on the way back to Puno. However, if your priority is a comfortable, scenic introduction to the canyon and surrounding areas, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience suits travelers who prefer a relaxed, guided approach with minimal physical effort, and those eager to enjoy the stunning vistas, local culture, and thermal baths without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially well-suited for first-timers or travelers with limited time but a strong desire to see the highlights of the Colca Valley.

Key Points

Comfortable and Relaxed: No strenuous hikes, focus on scenic viewpoints and cultural stops.
Highlights Are Unmissable: Condor watching at Cruz del Cóndor, thermal baths, charming towns.
Well-Organized Tour: Includes transportation, guides, and accommodations, offering good value.
Wildlife Encounters: Spot vicuñas and alpacas in their natural habitat.
Cultural Experiences: Drink coca tea, enjoy folklore shows in Chivay.
Transfer to Puno: Convenient end point with scenic stops en route.

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The Full Experience: What to Expect on This Two-Day Journey

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Day 1: Journey from Arequipa to Chivay

We start early, with a pickup around 7:30 to 8:00 am, and head south from Arequipa. The journey is long but thoughtfully broken up with stops that add real value. The first is the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you’re likely to catch glimpses of vicuñas grazing in the wild — a highlight for wildlife lovers. These elegant animals, related to llamas and alpacas, are a rare sight in their natural habitat, and the guide will point out details about their conservation status.

Next, a visit to Patahuasi offers a chance to sip coca tea, a traditional remedy for altitude sickness. Think of it as an herbal hug that can help stave off the mountain discomfort many of us experience at high elevations. Nearby, Toccra Bofedales is a brief stop to observe alpacas grazing freely, giving you a taste of local llama husbandry.

The drive’s high point is the Mirador de los Volcanes, perched at 4,800 meters above sea level. Here, the views of the volcanic landscape and the mountain range are breathtaking — a panorama that underscores why this route is considered one of the most scenic in Peru. From this vantage, you get a sweeping perspective of the Andes, with some patience, you’ll see the rugged beauty that makes the canyon so spectacular.

Arriving in Chivay around midday, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch (paid directly) and settle into your hotel in this charming town. The afternoon offers optional relaxation in hot springs, with waters warm enough for soothing your muscles and easing the altitude effects. If you decide to indulge, expect a warm, medicinal soak that leaves you feeling restored.

In the evening, many guests opt for a folklore show, featuring traditional dances and music that showcase the local culture. It’s a lively way to connect with the region’s identity before a restful night.

Day 2: Exploring the Canyon and Heading to Puno

Breakfast in Chivay sets you up for a morning visit to the Cruz del Cóndor, the tour’s crown jewel. Located about 30 minutes away, this lookout provides one of the best chances to see condors soaring — a majestic sight that makes every long drive worth it. We loved the way the huge birds glided effortlessly overhead, their wingspan impressive against the canyon’s depths.

Spending around 45 minutes here, you’ll witness the grandeur of the canyon and get an up-close look at its sheer cliffs. The scenery is so dramatic it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe. The view of the Andean landscape from this vantage point is truly unforgettable.

On the return, several viewpoints allow you to appreciate the Andenería del Valle, the terraced farming area that shows how local communities have adapted to the steep terrain. Visiting Maca, with its quaint church and local drinks like the Colca Sour (if you choose to try it), adds a touch of local flavor to your day.

Lunch in Chivay wraps up the morning, after which the group boards a comfortable bus heading to Puno. The journey includes scenic stops and natural areas along the route, taking advantage of the many protected zones for flora and fauna. The trip’s relaxed pace and bilingual guides help make the long drive informative and enjoyable.

You’ll arrive in Puno around 7:30 pm, just in time to settle into your hotel after a day packed with stunning views and cultural insights.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The price of $105 covers a lot of ground — all transportation, guided commentary in both Spanish and English, a private room in Chivay, and several scenic and cultural stops. For travelers who want to experience the Colca Canyon’s grandeur without the hassle of arranging transfers or accommodations, this package delivers convenience and comfort.

The inclusion of hot springs and folkloric performances adds authentic touches that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The guided tours help you understand what you’re seeing, making the scenery more meaningful. Plus, the transfer from Chivay to Puno with stops en route turns a long drive into a sightseeing highlight.

However, some travelers noted that the accommodation in Chivay may be average, which is worth considering if your hotel expectations are high. According to one review, “Pas de 5 étoiles à cause de l’hébergement qui était plus que moyen,” but many appreciated the overall organization and the guide’s attentiveness.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s ideal for those who prioritize viewpoints and cultural stops over strenuous activity. If you love scenic panoramas, wildlife, and local traditions, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a guided experience, reducing the stress of navigation or planning.

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The Sum Up

This 2-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa offers a well-rounded, relaxed way to experience one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes. With scenic viewpoints, wildlife sightings, cultural activities, and comfortable accommodations, it balances adventure with ease. The trip’s highlight — watching condors glide over the canyon — is an unforgettable moment that makes the journey worthwhile.

While the accommodation may not be luxury-class, the overall value, organization, and inclusion of scenic and cultural stops make it a smart choice for those looking to see the best of Colca without the physical strain of hiking. Travelers who appreciate comfort, excellent guides, and authentic scenery will find this tour a memorable and worthwhile addition to their Peruvian adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited physical activity?
Yes, the tour is designed to be comfortable and does not require strenuous walking or hiking, focusing instead on viewpoints and cultural stops.

How long is the bus ride from Arequipa to Chivay?
The journey takes approximately 4 hours, with stops along the way for sightseeing and refreshments.

Are the accommodations in Chivay comfortable?
They are described as charming and practical, though some reviews mention they are more functional than luxurious.

What are the main highlights of Day 2?
The Cruz del Cóndor for condor watching, views of the Andenería del Valle, and visiting the town of Maca for local drinks and culture.

Can I visit the hot springs?
Yes, hot springs are optional and require an entrance fee of S/. 15. You can choose to relax here after a day of sightseeing.

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, bilingual guides, a private room in Chivay, breakfast on the second day, and several scenic stops.

What is not included?
Entrance fees for the canyon and hot springs, meals (lunches and some dinners), and optional activities like folklore shows.

How do I get to Puno after the tour?
The tour ends with the transfer from Chivay to Puno, with stops along the route, arriving in Puno around 7:30 pm.