The From Arequipa: Tour Colca Canyon 2 Days with End in Puno offers a relaxed, well-organized way to experience one of Peru’s most stunning landscapes without overexerting yourself. Priced at $95 per person, this journey takes you from the bustling streets of Arequipa through the breathtaking depths of Colca Canyon, ending in the vibrant city of Puno near Lake Titicaca. With a blend of scenic viewpoints, charming towns, and natural thermal baths, it’s a tour suited for travelers seeking authentic sights without physical strain.

What we particularly appreciate about this trip is the comfortable pace — no long hikes or strenuous climbs — combined with the opportunity to observe vicuñas and alpacas in their natural habitat and to enjoy the spectacle of condors soaring at the canyon’s edge. Another plus is the inclusion of local touches, like coca tea to combat altitude sickness and optional folklore shows that enrich the cultural experience.

One consideration worth noting is the cost of some extras, such as entry fees and meals, which are paid separately. Also, since the tour involves multiple stops along mountainous roads, travelers prone to motion sickness should prepare accordingly. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, scenic overview of the canyon and surrounding highlights without the physical rigor of longer treks — perfect for older travelers or those with limited time but a desire to see the best.

If you’re looking for a balanced blend of comfort, natural beauty, and cultural insights, this tour can be an excellent choice. It’s especially fitting for those who enjoy guided group experiences with knowledgeable guides and value the convenience of door-to-door pickup and all-inclusive stops.

Key Points

Comfortable pace with minimal physical effort, ideal for relaxed travelers.
Includes scenic viewpoints and a visit to the famous Condor lookout.
Cultural touches like coca tea to help with altitude sickness.
Charming town of Chivay with options for thermal baths and folkloric shows.
Good value considering transportation, guide service, and included stops.
Potential extra costs for entrance fees and meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience of a Lifetime in Colca Canyon

When we think of Colca Canyon, it’s the dramatic landscapes and soaring condors that come to mind. This tour offers an accessible way to enjoy these sights while avoiding the strenuous routes. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed pace but still want to see the highlights.

Our journey begins early in the morning, with pickup from your hotel in Arequipa’s center. The drive to the canyon takes about four hours, but that includes plenty of scenic stops that showcase the region’s natural beauty. One of our favorite parts is passing through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where the sight of vicuñas grazing in the wild is a real highlight. These shy, elegant creatures are the highlight of the reserve, and you might find yourself stopping just to admire their delicate features.

Next, you’ll stop at Patahuasi to sip some traditional coca tea. This local brew isn’t just a cultural ritual — it’s also a practical aid for high-altitude travel, helping to fend off mountain sickness. We loved how this small detail made a difference in making the journey more comfortable, especially as you ascend to 4,800 meters at the Mirador de los Volcanes, where the view stretches across the mountain range.

Arriving in Chivay, the main town in the canyon, you’ll be greeted with the option to indulge in a hearty lunch (not included), which offers a chance to sample local flavors. The town itself exudes Peruvian charm, with friendly streets and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect after the long drive.

Perhaps the most relaxing part of the day is the visit to Chacapi’s thermal baths. The warm waters, ranging from 35°C to 38°C, offer a soothing break after the journey. They’re optional, and you’ll pay a small fee, but many travelers find these thermal pools a highlight, especially after a day of altitude and scenic sightseeing.

In the evening, you can enjoy a folklore dance show, providing a window into local traditions, with music and dance that celebrate the region’s cultural identity. The hotel in Chivay offers comfortable accommodations, making it easy to rest before the big morning of condor watching.

The second day is reserved for one of the tour’s most iconic moments: visiting the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor. From this vantage point, you’ll see vast canyon vistas and hope for a glimpse of the soaring Andean condors, whose wingspan can reach up to 3 meters. As one reviewer noted, “Very nice excursion, with a great guide Roy,” which underlines the importance of a knowledgeable guide to point out these majestic birds.

While at the viewpoint, you’ll spend about 45 minutes observing the flight patterns of condors, a truly unforgettable sight. It’s a reminder of why so many travelers consider this one of the world’s most impressive birdwatching spots. You’ll also stop at Maca, a picturesque village with a quaint church and local offerings, including drinks like Colca Sour, made from regional ingredients.

On the return journey to Arequipa, additional stops may be made based on weather and group preferences. This flexibility is part of the tour’s charm — it’s designed to give you a broad and scenic overview without rushing.

Finally, the journey concludes with a transfer to Puno, where your trip ends at the bus station near Lake Titicaca. This transition is smooth, with the scenic drive offering a chance to reflect on the landscapes and wildlife you’ve just experienced.

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Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is a key part of this tour’s appeal. You’ll travel in a private vehicle, with pickup arranged at your hotel — whether you’re staying in the city’s heart or at a remote location. The group is limited to 18 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for more personalized attention from your guides.

The tour’s timing is designed to maximize sightseeing while respecting the natural rhythms of the day. Starting early at around 7:30-8:00 am, the pace is relaxed, with plenty of stops along the way for photographs and comfort.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $95 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included transportation, guide service, and multiple scenic stops. The separate costs for entrance fees (around S/. 20-70 depending on nationality), optional hot springs, and meals mean you should budget extra. Still, the convenience of a guided, all-inclusive experience often outweighs the minor additional expenses.

The tour is especially suitable for those who prefer to avoid strenuous hiking but still want to see the most photogenic and iconic parts of Colca Canyon. It’s also a smarter choice for travelers concerned about altitude, since coca tea stops and rest periods are built into the schedule.

Authenticity and Local Experience

This tour provides a genuine look at the region’s natural beauty and cultural traditions. The stops in towns like Maca and Chivay give you a chance to see local architecture, taste regional drinks, and observe rural life in the Andes.

The guides are a highlight, with travelers often praising their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer mentioned, “Thank you Roy,” highlighting how helpful and engaging a good guide can be in making the experience memorable.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best for those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and culturally rich experience of Colca Canyon. It’s ideal if you want to see the condors, enjoy thermal baths, and explore charming towns without the physical exertion of long hikes or climbs. Travelers with limited time but a desire for an authentic, guided overview will find this a good match.

It’s also suitable for older travelers or those with mobility considerations, thanks to the mostly comfortable, vehicle-based itinerary. If you’re a birdwatcher or a lover of stunning vistas, the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint alone justifies the trip.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Chivay?
The drive takes approximately four hours, including several scenic stops along the way, such as the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve and Mirador de los Volcanes.

What’s included in the tour?
Pickup from your hotel, private room in Chivay, breakfast on the second day, guided sightseeing, transportation throughout, and stops at various viewpoints are included. Entrance fees and meals are paid separately.

Are the thermal baths in Chivay worth visiting?
Yes, many travelers find the thermal baths relaxing after the day’s travel, especially since they’re heated and medicinal. Entry costs around S/. 15.

Can I see condors on this tour?
Absolutely. The Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint is the main spot for condor sightings, with about 45 minutes allocated for observing these magnificent birds soaring above the canyon.

What about the altitude?
The tour reaches a high point of 4,800 meters at the Mirador de los Volcanes. The coca tea stops are designed to help mitigate altitude sickness, but travelers should be aware of possible effects and prepare accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The relaxed pace and vehicle-based stops make it suitable for most ages, but travelers should consider altitude and comfort levels.

What are the costs for extras?
Entrance to Colca Canyon costs around S/. 20–70, depending on your nationality; hot springs cost S/. 15, and meals like dinner and lunch are paid on the spot, roughly 35–40 soles each.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provided link, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Payment can be made later, offering flexibility.

Is the group size small or large?
Limited to 18 participants, providing a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

This 2-day tour from Arequipa offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfort. It caters to those who want a rundown of the Colca Canyon and surrounding highlights without the physical demands of strenuous trekking. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply someone seeking stunning vistas, this trip provides an authentic and memorable experience.