2 Days Colca Canyon Tour with Transfer to Puno

Discovering the Magic of the Colca Canyon in Two Days

If you’re dreaming of soaring condors, breathtaking Andean vistas, and authentic Peruvian villages, this 2-day Colca Canyon tour is worth considering. For around $100 per person, you’ll spend two days exploring some of Peru’s most iconic sights, starting from Arequipa and ending in Puno. The tour includes visits to pre-Inca terraces, volcano lookouts, hot springs, and the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint—all with the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and the guidance of knowledgeable local guides.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances scenic beauty with cultural exposure. The stops at Yanque’s charming church and the scenic viewpoints give you a taste of local life and stunning landscapes. Plus, the hot springs in Yanque offer a relaxing break amid spectacular scenery. The second day’s highlight, of course, is spotting the majestic Andean condors soaring at Cruz del Condor, a moment that makes this tour truly memorable.

One potential consideration is the schedule’s tightness, especially on the second day, which involves early mornings and a long bus ride to Puno. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed, but many appreciate the efficiency given the number of sights covered. This tour suits those who want a rundown of Colca Canyon’s highlights with minimal hassle.

If you’re interested in nature, photography, Andean culture, or simply want to see one of the world’s deepest canyons, this tour offers a good balance of everything. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy organized day trips with guided insights and don’t mind a full schedule.

Key Points

• Includes key attractions like Cruz del Condor, hot springs, and scenic viewpoints.
• Value for money is good, considering transportation, guided commentary, and diverse experiences.
• Comfortable transport with buses equipped with bathrooms, especially from Chivay to Puno.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into local culture and geography.
• Short stays at each stop mean quick visits; the tour isn’t designed for deep exploration.
• The long bus ride to Puno offers spectacular scenery but can be tiring.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour

Traveling through the high Andes can be an adventure in itself, and this tour captures many of the highlights that make this region famous. It’s designed for those who want a snapshot of the canyon’s beauty, combined with some culture, without the need for overnight camping or extensive hiking.

Day 1: From Arequipa to Chivay, with Hot Springs Stop

The journey begins early with pickup from your hotel in Arequipa. You’ll quickly leave the city behind, heading toward the spectacular Colca Valley. The first stops offer close-up views of South American camelids—vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas—grazing in the wild. Our guide mentioned that Patahuasi was a good spot to taste hot drinks like muña and chachacoma, traditional herbs believed to help prevent altitude sickness—a thoughtful touch for those sensitive to high elevations.

Next, a stop at the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve allows for birdwatching, especially of high Andean species and migratory birds. It’s an excellent introduction to the region’s biodiversity. The volcano lookout at Abra Patapampa, at nearly 5,000 meters, offers panoramic views of volcanic mountain ranges. Be prepared for the altitude; this spot is the highest point on the route, but the scenery is worth the quick stop.

Descending into Chivay, you’ll find a lively village where you can enjoy a buffet lunch (optional, around $10), offering local dishes that showcase the region’s flavors. Afterward, the highlight of the afternoon is the Chacapi Hot Springs in Yanque—waters above 35°C, perfect for a soothing soak. While activities like horseback riding, quad biking, or ziplining aren’t included, many travelers appreciated the chance to relax after a busy morning. Several reviews praised the hot springs as a highlight, with one noting, “the medicinal pools with waters above 35°C offer a variety of options to have fun.”

In the evening, optional dinner at a local restaurant features traditional dances, adding a cultural flavor (not included in the tour price). It’s a good way to unwind and mingle with fellow travelers.

Day 2: Condors, Villages, and the Long Road to Puno

The second day kicks off early at Yanque’s town square, followed by a visit to the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Arriving around 8:10 a.m., you’ll be in prime position to see the impressive flight of the Andean condors—the symbol of the region. Several reviews highlighted this as a “magical” moment, with one reviewer describing it as “an unforgettable experience.” The canyon’s depth (over 4,160 meters) and the soaring condors create an awe-inspiring scene.

After condor spotting, the tour continues with visits to viewpoints like Antahuilque and Wayrapunku, offering great photo opportunities of terraced fields and geological formations. These stops don’t take long but are appreciated for their scenic views and cultural insights.

Next, the charming town of Maca hosts its colonial church and the chance to taste the Colca Sour, a local beverage. This adds a small but meaningful cultural touch before heading back to Chivay for lunch.

The final leg involves a bus ride to Puno—a six-hour journey through increasingly stunning landscapes. The bus is equipped with a bathroom, which is a welcome relief during the long ride. Along the way, the tour makes brief stops at Lagunillas and the Cordillera Volcánica viewpoint, giving you more chances to photograph the high-altitude scenery and local wildlife.

The trip concludes in Puno around 7:30 p.m., ready for your next Peruvian adventure.

What We Love About This Tour

Authentic landscapes and wildlife are front and center. You’ll get close enough to llamas and alpacas to appreciate their gentle presence, and the condors are the true stars with their impressive wingspans and soaring grace.

The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm really elevate the experience. Many reviewers praised guides for their expertise, making complex geology and local culture accessible and interesting. This is especially valuable if you’re keen on understanding what you’re seeing beyond just taking photos.

Good value for money is evident when considering the variety of sights, transportation, and guided commentary included. The hot springs, viewpoints, and cultural stops provide a well-rounded glimpse of the region without extra charges, barring meals and optional activities.

Potential Drawbacks

The tour is quite full, and the schedule is ambitious, especially on day two. The early start for condor viewing requires waking up at dawn, and the bus ride to Puno is long. For travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace, this could feel a bit rushed—yet many appreciate the efficiency and coverage it offers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see the highlights of Colca Canyon, with limited time but a desire for a comprehensive experience. It suits those who enjoy guided tours and value local insights. If you’re looking for a deep dive into one particular aspect of the region, this might feel too brief, but for a well-organized overview, it hits the mark.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• The tour costs around $100, which is quite reasonable considering the transportation, guide, and key sites included.
• Meals are mostly not included, except for the optional buffet lunch on day one, so budget accordingly.
• The accommodation is a 2-star hotel, which is functional but basic. If you prefer more comfort, you might want to plan for additional upgrades.
• The tour is offered as a small group, which enhances the personal touch and allows for more flexibility in stops.
• Confirmations are quick, and the tour is accessible for most travelers, though those with mobility issues should consider the amount of walking involved at viewpoints.

FAQs

What is the cost of this tour?
It’s priced at $100 per person, providing transportation, a guide, and visits to key sites. Meals and optional activities are extra.

How long is the bus ride from Chivay to Puno?
It’s about six hours, passing through stunning high-altitude scenery, with brief stops for photos and refreshments.

Are the hot springs included?
No, the hot springs at Chacapi are an optional stop. Entrance fees are not included, and activities like horseback riding or ziplining are also extras.

What is the best time to do this tour?
While not specified, the weather in the region tends to be best during the dry season (May to October). Early mornings are cooler, especially at the condor viewpoint.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, as long as participants are comfortable with early mornings and bus travel. The stops are mostly sightseeing with minimal hiking involved.

Can I book this tour if I don’t stay in Chivay or Puno?
Yes, pickup is offered from hotels in the city centers. However, transfers outside the main villages may be an extra charge.

What should I bring?
Layers for variable weather, sun protection, a hat, water, and a camera are essential. Also, consider any personal medications, especially for altitude.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

To sum it up, this 2-day Colca Canyon tour offers a well-rounded experience packed with incredible sights, cultural stops, and memorable wildlife encounters. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to see the canyon’s highlights without extensive planning or long hikes. If you’re after a good balance of comfort, value, and authentic scenery, this tour will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Andean highlands—and some fantastic photos to prove it.