Trip to Colca Canyon 2 Days + Transfer to Puno with Meals

Intro and First Impressions

If you’re looking to explore one of the world’s deepest canyons and then continue smoothly onto Lake Titicaca, this 2-day tour from Arequipa to Puno offers a practical way to do so. For $150 per person, you’ll get a comprehensive experience: visiting Colca Canyon, soaking in Chacapi hot springs, and enjoying scenic views en route to Puno, nestled by Lake Titicaca. The tour is organized by AREQUIPA EXPLORER Y ACTIVIDADES TURISTICAS and includes hotel pickups, guided commentary in English and Spanish, and meals.

What we love most is the balance of active sightseeing and relaxing moments — from the awe-inspiring Condor flight to the soothing thermal waters of Chacapi. Plus, the chance to see vicuñas and alpacas in their natural habitat makes this tour stand out as both scenic and authentic. A potential consideration is the early start on Day 1 and the long travel times between stops, which might be tiring for some.

This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, enjoy cultural touches (like coca tea and local drinks), and want a well-organized, value-packed experience—especially those with limited time to cover these highlights in one go.

Key Points

• Deepest canyon: You’ll visit Colca, one of the most impressive natural wonders in Peru.
• Scenic viewpoints: The Mirador de los Volcanes and Condor Viewpoint provide unforgettable vistas.
• Cultural experiences: Drink coca tea, see alpacas grazing, and taste regional drinks like Colca Sour.
• Hot springs: Relax in the thermal waters of Chacapi after a day of sightseeing.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes hotel pickup, professional guides, and meals.
• Transport: Modern, comfortable vehicles with scenic stops on the way to Puno.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: Arequipa to Colca Canyon

Starting early in the morning—around 8:00 am—you’ll be picked up from your hotel in central Arequipa. This is a good time to settle in because the day is packed with breathtaking scenery and interesting stops. The 4-hour drive to Chivay, the main town in Colca, is not just transit; it’s part of the adventure.

Traveling through the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca offers a chance to spot vicuñas, the elegant camelids that thrive at high elevations. The guide usually shares stories about their importance to local culture and ecology, which adds depth to the experience. You’ll also stop at Patahuasi, where drinking coca tea is a customary remedy against altitude sickness—something we found quite useful given the high elevations (up to 4,800 meters at the Mirador de los Volcanes).

Another highlight during the drive is the Toccra Bofedales, where herds of alpacas graze freely. It’s a lovely scene of pastoral life and a good photo opportunity. The Mirador de los Volcanes is the highest point of the trip, offering sweeping views of the volcanic landscape and the western mountain range. From here, you begin descending into the canyon itself—a spectacular sight that captures the imagination.

Chivay and the Hot Springs

Arriving in Chivay, you’ll have time to grab a lunch buffet—a good chance to taste local dishes and replenish energy. Afterward, many travelers choose to relax in the Chacapi hot springs, which feature thermo-medicinal waters ranging from 35°C to 40°C. The pools are a perfect way to unwind after a day of elevation change and scenic drives.

A few reviews mention that the hot springs are an optional extra or that tickets cost around S/40. If you love soaking in natural mineral waters, this stops is a clear highlight. The evening offers a chance to attend an optional folkloric dinner show, which adds a lively cultural touch to the stay.

Day Two: The Condor and the Canyon’s Depths

The next morning, you’ll head to the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor, about 30 minutes from Chivay. This is the star attraction—the Condor flight is a sight that often leaves visitors speechless. Watching these majestic birds glide effortlessly over the canyon is an experience that justifies the early wake-up call. Multiple reviews mention that the view of condors soaring is truly unforgettable.

You’ll spend about 45 minutes at this viewpoint, soaking in the dramatic canyon vistas, which stretch below into the valley. For many, the imposing cliffs and the wingspan of the condors are the highlights of the trip.

On the way back, you’ll stop at viewpoints in the area, including Maca, a charming town with a historic church, and the Andenería del Valle—terraced farming areas that showcase traditional agricultural techniques. You may even get a taste of local drinks like the Colca Sour, made from regional ingredients.

The Scenic Ride to Puno

In the early afternoon, you’re set for the drive to Puno, traveling along high-altitude lakes and scenic landscapes. The journey offers a chance to observe local birdlife and camelids, as well as to enjoy panoramic views of the lakes. The trip typically concludes around 7 pm at Puno’s bus terminal, just a few minutes from the main square.

If you’re staying nearby, the tour staff can assist with arranging trusted taxis, making it easy for you to settle in for the night.

More Great Tours Nearby

Deep Dive into the Experience

Transportation and Group Size: The tour uses comfortable tourist vehicles, providing a worry-free ride between stops. While the group sizes aren’t specified, most tours this length tend to be well-organized and not overly crowded, ensuring you get personal attention from guides.

Meals and Inclusion: The buffet lunches are generally well-reviewed, offering regional dishes that give you a taste of local cuisine. The second-day breakfast adds a nice touch, while the dinner with folkloric show in Chivay introduces a lively cultural element.

Cost and Value: At $150, the price reflects a package that covers transportation, hotel stay in Chivay, meals, and guided commentary. The entrance fee to Colca Canyon (S/20) is additional but manageable. Budgeting a bit extra for optional activities like hot springs makes sense, but overall, the tour offers solid value considering the sights and comfort.

Authentic Cultural Encounters: From coca tea to local drinks, the tour provides small but meaningful ways to connect with regional traditions. The guide’s bilingual commentary helps deepen your understanding, making the experience both scenic and educational.

Authentic and Uncrowded: Many travelers appreciate the quiet, laid-back pace, especially compared to more crowded day trips. The overnight in Chivay means you can enjoy the canyon’s beauty without rushing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers eager to see Colca Canyon’s stunning vistas without feeling rushed. It’s ideal if you appreciate well-organized itineraries that balance sightseeing with relaxation. Also, those who enjoy local cuisine, thermal baths, and birdwatching will find plenty to love. Because it’s suitable for those with wheelchair access, it’s also inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Final Thoughts

In the world of guided tours, this 2-day trip offers a comprehensive, value-rich way to explore some of Peru’s most iconic landscapes. The combination of spectacular canyon views, native wildlife, and warm springs makes it a well-rounded experience. The professional guides and included meals simplify logistics, leaving you free to absorb the scenery and culture.

While the early mornings and long drives might not be for everyone, those who enjoy a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insights will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time who want to see Colca Canyon and continue onward to Lake Titicaca—a memorable way to connect two of Peru’s most striking natural wonders.

What is the starting time for the tour?
You should check availability, but departures generally start around 8:00 am, with pickups in central Arequipa.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup in Arequipa, with communication a few days before to confirm the exact time and location.

How long is the drive to Colca Canyon?
The drive takes approximately 4 hours from Arequipa, with scenic stops along the way.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes 2 buffet lunches, 1 breakfast on the second day, and an optional dinner with folkloric show in Chivay.

Can I visit the hot springs?
Yes, the Chacapi hot springs are optional, with tickets costing around S/40. Many travelers enjoy soaking here after the day’s activities.

What is the main highlight of Day 2?
The Condor Viewpoint offers spectacular views of soaring condors and the canyon below—truly unforgettable.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

How do I get to Puno after the tour?
The guide will help arrange trusted taxis or transportation from Puno’s bus terminal, which is close to the main square.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for changing weather, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning vistas. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable for the canyon and town stops.

To sum it up, this guided tour offers a practical and immersive way to experience the dramatic Colca Canyon, enjoy relaxing hot springs, and journey comfortably to Lake Titicaca. It balances scenic beauty with cultural insights, making it perfect for travelers who want a dependable, well-organized adventure that highlights Peru’s natural splendors.

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