Arequipa: Colca Valley and Condor Viewpoint 2 Days/1 Night — A Balanced Journey into Peru’s Natural Beauty

The Colca Valley tour, offered for $99 per person, takes you from the heart of Arequipa to one of Peru’s most renowned natural sites—the Colca Canyon—over two days. Guided by friendly bilingual experts, you’ll explore spectacular landscapes, watch Andean condors soar overhead, and experience authentic local culture in charming villages. The itinerary includes a cozy overnight stay, visits to thermal springs, and a chance to see some of the region’s iconic volcanoes and camelids.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its accessible price point combined with a variety of highlights—from wildlife viewing at Cruz del Cóndor to soaking in medicinal thermal waters. It offers a good balance for those wanting a taste of the canyon’s grandeur without the expense of more intensive multi-day treks.

One potential concern is that not everything is included in the price—meals, entrance fees, and some activities come extra. This means you should budget accordingly if you’re aiming for a fully inclusive experience.

This trip would suit travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to the Colca Valley—with enough comfort and guidance—without committing to longer, more strenuous hikes. If you’re after authentic scenery and cultural insights, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Views: The canyon, volcanoes, and surrounding highlands provide breathtaking scenery.
Wildlife & Birdwatching: The opportunity to see the majestic Andean condors in flight.
Cultural Experiences: Visits to traditional villages like Maca and Yanque reveal local customs.
Thermal Baths: Relaxing at Calera hot springs adds a soothing touch to your trip.
Value for Money: A cost-effective way to explore the canyon and its highlights.
Limited Meals Included: Be prepared to budget for meals outside of breakfast.

While in Chivay, here are other experiences we've covered

An In-Depth Look at the Colca Valley Tour

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Arequipa, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city. Transportation is provided for the entire trip, ensuring comfort and ease as you leave behind the city’s bustle for the Andean highlands.

Day 1: From Arequipa to Chivay

The first leg of the journey takes you through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a striking landscape of volcanic formations and high-altitude plains. The stop at Patapampa viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding volcanoes, making it a perfect photography moment.

Arriving in Chivay, the main town in the valley, you’ll have a chance to visit the Calera thermal baths—a relaxing stop with natural, medicinal waters. While some reviews mention that the hotel lacked hot water, the baths themselves are often praised for their rejuvenating qualities, making this a highlight for many.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy local flavors and traditional dances. It’s a lively way to get a taste of the region’s culture and community spirit, which, in our view, adds authenticity to the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 2: The Heart of the Canyon and Departure

The next morning begins with breakfast at your hotel before heading to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, arguably the star of the tour. Here, you’ll witness majestic condors gliding effortlessly on thermal updrafts, a truly awe-inspiring sight. One reviewer called it “brilliant,” emphasizing that the condor flight alone makes the trip worthwhile.

After soaking in the views of the Colca Canyon’s crater, the tour visits the charming villages of Maca and Yanque. In Maca, residents share insights into their traditions and daily life, giving you a glimpse of local culture beyond the tourist spots. Yanque, with its picturesque church and peaceful atmosphere, provides a relaxed setting before heading back to Chivay for lunch.

The return journey concludes with a transfer back to Arequipa, wrapping up this visually stunning and culturally rich experience.

While you're exploring Chivay, here are other experiences we've looked into

What’s Included and What to Budget For

Included in the price are hotel pickup, transportation, one night’s stay with breakfast, and a professional bilingual guide. Meals beyond breakfast, entrance fees to sites like the canyon and hot springs, and optional dinner and show are extra, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

We loved the way the tour balances natural beauty with cultural storytelling. For instance, the visit to Maca offers an authentic window into village life—residents share their traditions, which is more meaningful than just passing through. The hot springs provide a relaxing break, although you should note that some travelers found the hotel’s hot water situation less than ideal, so do ask about it beforehand.

The small group size—limited to 15 participants—means a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or just enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

The Price and Its Value

At $99, this tour offers decent value considering the transportation, guiding, and overnight accommodation included. However, it’s important to factor in the additional costs for entrance fees, meals, and optional activities to get a full picture of your expenses. Many travelers find that the condor sightings and scenery justify the price, especially if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the canyon.

Authenticity and Visitor Insights

The reviews reflect a mixed but generally positive consensus. One traveler shared that while the landscapes are beautiful and the trip brilliant, some felt that the experience might be a bit superficial, especially if expecting everything to be included or a more luxurious hotel stay. Conversely, others praised the knowledgeable guide (Will, in this case) and the amazing views.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for a comfortable, guided introduction to the Colca Valley. It’s perfect if you want to see the condors and enjoy some cultural stops without committing to a multi-day trek. It also suits those who appreciate small group settings and value the insights of a bilingual guide.

If you prefer a more luxurious stay or want all meals included, you might want to explore other options or consider extending your trip. But for an authentic, scenic snapshot of the region, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ: Quick Answers for Your Trip Planning

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, it’s mostly a sightseeing trip with some walking in villages and at viewpoints. No strenuous hikes are involved.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but lunch, dinner, and show are extra. You should budget for these separately.

How long is the travel time?
The trip lasts about two days, with transportation arranged for all transfers and sightseeing.

What should I pack?
Bring layers for variable weather, sun protection, a hat, camera, and some cash for extras.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the hotel comfortable?
Most reviews suggest standard accommodations, but some travelers mention the hotel lacked hot water—so check beforehand.

What are the highlight moments?
Watching condors soar at Cruz del Cóndor, exploring traditional villages, and relaxing in hot springs are top highlights.

Is this a good value?
Considering guided transportation, overnight accommodation, and expert guides, many find it worth the price, though extras add up.

Can I do this tour as a solo traveler?
Yes, it’s designed for small groups and is suitable for solo travelers who enjoy guided experiences.

Will I see volcanoes?
Yes, during the trip, you’ll pass by and see impressive volcanoes and high-altitude landscapes.

In The Sum Up

This Arequipa to Colca Valley tour offers an engaging, affordable way to explore one of Peru’s most striking natural wonders. With scenic vistas, birdwatching at the condor lookout, and cultural insights in villages like Maca and Yanque, it packs a lot into two days. While not all activities are included in the base price, the experience remains value-packed for those wanting an authentic taste of the canyon’s grandeur.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours, scenic landscapes, and small-group experiences. If you’re flexible on meals and hotel amenities, and eager to witness the flight of the condors, this trip provides a memorable snapshot of the Colca Canyon’s incredible beauty.

Final Thoughts

The Colca Valley tour is a great way to see a dramatic slice of Peru’s highlands without overextending your schedule or budget. With stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural stops, it offers a well-rounded experience. Keep in mind the extra costs for entrance fees and meals, and you’ll be well-prepared for an authentic adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Peru, this tour can deepen your appreciation for the region’s natural and cultural riches.