Imagine exploring one of Peru’s most dramatic landscapes on a 2-day trek that offers a generous start time of 8:30 am—no 3 am wake-up calls here. For $70 per person, this guided journey takes you from the high elevations near Cabanaconde into the depths of the Colca Canyon and back, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy breathtaking views, local culture, and even a refreshing swim.
What we love about this tour is how it balances physical challenge with comfort and authenticity. First, the guided walk is led by bilingual guides who share detailed insights about the flora, fauna, and traditions of the region. Second, the lodging in Sangalle features a private room with a bathroom and a swimming pool—perfect for unwinding after a long day of hiking.
A noteworthy consideration: the upward climb on day two begins at 5:00 am and lasts three hours, which might be intense for some travelers. The tour is designed for those comfortable with a good physical routine.
This experience suits active travelers, nature lovers, and anyone interested in a genuine trek rather than just sightseeing from a bus or viewpoint. If you’re eager for an immersive, well-structured adventure with plenty of authentic touches, this tour might be just right.
Key Points
- Flexible start time at 8:30 am avoids early morning fatigue.
- Authentic insights from bilingual guides enhance the cultural experience.
- Comfortable overnight lodging with private bathrooms and a scenic pool.
- Balanced daily distances with manageable walks and elevation changes.
- Includes transportation from Cabanaconde to the trek start and back.
- Limited group size for a more personal experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Colca Canyon Trek from Cabanaconde
When considering a trip into the Colca Canyon, many travelers are drawn by its legendary depth—more than twice the Grand Canyon’s— and the chance to see the majestic Andean condors soaring overhead. This particular tour, starting from Cabanaconde and lasting two days, offers a well-rounded experience with a thoughtful schedule that balances trekking, scenery, and comfort.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
Day 1: Starting the Journey
The adventure begins with a pick-up around 8:30 to 8:40 am from your hotel in Cabanaconde, a small mountain town that itself offers a glimpse into rural life in the Andes. The group travels by van to San Miguel, the official starting point of the trek. This transportation arrangement ensures you avoid the fatigue of an early morning drive, which is appreciated by those who prefer a relaxed start.
From San Miguel, the descent begins—a three-hour walk down to the San Juan de Chuccho valley. The terrain here is a mix of dirt paths and hillside switchbacks, offering panoramic views of the canyon’s layered walls. You’ll be walking from around 3300 meters to 2100 meters above sea level, which helps acclimate you for the more strenuous parts ahead.
In the valley, a well-earned lunch awaits, often with traditional Peruvian fare to energize you for the afternoon. After refueling, the trek continues—this time up and down—toward the Oasis of Sangalle, a lush spot famed for its swimming pool and mountain vistas. The final three-hour walk concludes around 4:30 pm, giving you time to relax by the pool, enjoy dinner, and settle into your private bathroom-equipped room.
Day 2: The Uphill Climb and Return
The next morning kicks off very early—by 5:00 am—for the uphill climb back to Cabanaconde. This ascent takes about three hours and is arguably the most physically demanding part of the trek. It’s a classic example of the altitude challenges in the Andes, climbing from 2100 meters back up to 3300 meters.
Arriving in Cabanaconde around 8:00 am, you’ll enjoy breakfast before the tour concludes at the main square. The timing allows for the rest of the day to explore, relax, or continue your journey in the region at your own pace.
The Highlights and Authentic Experiences
Scenic vistas are the star of this tour. From the high plateaus of the canyon rim, you’ll see spectacular views of layered cliffs, deep valleys, and remote villages. As several reviews highlight, the guides are a big part of what makes this trek memorable—they’re bilingual, friendly, and full of interesting facts about local traditions, plants, and animals.
A real treat is the lodging at Sangalle, which offers a private room, dinner, breakfast, and a swimming pool — an unexpected luxury in this rugged landscape. The pool, set amidst the mountains, is a perfect spot for cooling off after a long day of walking, and the private bathroom adds a touch of comfort that many trekkers appreciate.
The Value of the Tour
At $70, this tour packs in quite a lot: transportation, a professional guide, full board (lunch, dinner, breakfast), private lodging, and access to the pool. Considering the alternative—hiring transport independently or staying in more remote accommodations—it’s a good deal. The small group size, limited to 11, ensures a more personalized experience and easier social bonding.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Considerations
The tour’s schedule means you’ll need to be comfortable with moderate to strenuous physical activity. The early morning start on day two can be challenging, but it’s necessary to beat the heat and avoid the afternoon fatigue. Good physical condition is recommended, especially for the uphill stretch.
Packing is straightforward: bring sun protection, comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, and a small backpack with essentials. The tour provides the basics, but you’ll want to bring extra snacks or personal items.
Authenticity and Cultural Insights
The guides don’t just lead the hike—they share stories about local people, their traditions, and the flora and fauna of the canyon. As one traveler mentions, Willi, their guide, was particularly knowledgeable, offering insights into the cultural life of the Colca region. This adds depth to the experience, transforming it from a simple walk into a window on Andean life.
Considerations and Who It’s For
This trek isn’t suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues—particularly back, heart, or respiratory problems. The physically demanding nature, especially the early morning ascent, demands a reasonable level of fitness. People looking for a relaxed sightseeing experience might find this too strenuous, but those wanting to walk, experience nature, and connect with local culture will find it rewarding.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re looking for a moderate but authentic adventure that combines stunning scenery, cultural insights, and comfortable lodging, this two-day trek is a great choice. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a bit of physical effort and want to see the best parts of Colca Canyon without the hassle of early starts or overly commercialized tours.
The inclusion of accommodation with a pool, private bathrooms, and good guides makes it stand out. Plus, the small group size ensures you’ll get more personal attention and a more intimate experience. If you’re a nature lover, or you want to understand the local way of life along with some outdoor activity, this tour offers excellent value.
FAQs
How early do I need to start on day two?
You begin walking at 5:00 am for the uphill climb, so be prepared for an early start after a good rest in Sangalle.
Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, especially the ascent on day two. Good physical condition is recommended, and the tour is suited for people comfortable with hiking and elevation changes.
What is included in the price?
Transportation from Cabanaconde to the trek start, guides (bilingual), lunch, dinner, breakfast, private room with bathroom, and access to the swimming pool.
Can I buy the canyon entry ticket on the day?
Yes, the tour provides the opportunity to purchase the entry ticket at the beginning of the trek if not bought beforehand.
What should I bring?
Sun hat, swimwear, snacks, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, cash, flashlight, daypack, hiking pants.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s recommended for travelers 14 years and older due to the physical demands.
Are vegetarian options available?
The tour includes lunch and dinner, but specific dietary requirements aren’t mentioned; you might want to inquire in advance.
What if I want a more relaxed schedule?
Many reviewers suggest taking a public bus to Cabanaconde and staying overnight there, then starting the trek at 8:30 am, which makes it more relaxed.
Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, enhancing the educational experience.
What if I can’t do the full trek?
The tour is planned for those able to handle the walking distances and elevation changes. Partial participation isn’t typically offered, so assess your fitness beforehand.
This two-day Colca Canyon trek offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and comfortable overnight stays. It’s a solid choice for those wanting an active adventure with authentic touches and expert guidance—sure to create lasting memories in one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here: