Arequipa: Tour to the Capua Waterfalls + Yura Hot Springs

This full-day tour in the Arequipa region offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an appealing choice for travelers eager to experience Peru beyond the city. For $77 per person, you’ll start early in the morning, exploring lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and soothing thermal baths—all with the guidance of friendly, English-speaking guides. The tour includes transportation, a scenic hike, and time to unwind in naturally heated springs, providing a well-rounded day out.

We especially like how accessible the hike to the Capua Waterfalls is—just a 40-minute walk one way, yet it rewards you with stunning views of streams, waterfalls, and caves. Equally enjoyable is the opportunity to soak in the Yura hot springs, known for their supposed healing properties, which makes this trip both invigorating and restorative. The only consideration? The entrance fee to the hot springs isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for that if you plan to dip.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity and leisure, those interested in seeing local towns like Yura, and anyone looking for a manageable day trip that combines natural beauty with cultural insight. If you’re after a straightforward, value-packed adventure that won’t take up your entire day, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

Accessible hike: A 40-minute walk delivers rewarding views of waterfalls and caves.
Relaxing thermal baths: Yura’s hot springs are renowned for their healing properties.
Cultural stop: The tour includes a visit to Yura’s historic center.
All-in-one experience: Combines nature, local history, and wellness.
Value for money: At just $77, it offers a full day packed with diverse activities.
Guided tour: English-speaking guides make the experience informative and smooth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

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

Starting early and traveling to Yura

The day begins with a 6:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Arequipa’s historic center. This early start is typical for full-day excursions in the region, allowing you to maximize your time and beat any crowds. The journey north takes you through the scenic outskirts of Arequipa, giving you your first glimpses of rural life and the landscape dotted with lime kilns—an important ingredient in local construction, as your guide might point out.

This part of the trip is more than just transit; it sets the tone for the day, with fresh air and colorful scenery. The small town of Yura, famous for its lime production, adds a touch of regional character. It’s a quiet, unassuming place that acts as a stepping stone to the natural wonders ahead.

The hiking experience to the Capua Waterfalls

Once in Yura, the real adventure begins. The hike to the Capua Waterfalls takes roughly 40 minutes, and while it’s not a long trek, it’s packed with visual treats. Expect streams crisscrossing the trail, lush greenery, and small caves along the way. The landscape’s serenity is punctuated by the sound of waterfalls, making every step a sensory delight.

Multiple reviews emphasize how the walk is manageable, even for those with moderate fitness levels. One traveler noted, “The hike was just the right length to feel like an adventure but not exhausting,” which is exactly what you want when exploring natural sites during a busy trip. The trail is well-trodden, making it accessible but still authentically wild.

Arriving at the waterfall, you’ll have about 30 minutes to rest, take photos, or simply soak in the view. Bring a picnic if you want, as there are no facilities at the waterfall itself, but the reward is clear—a spectacular cascade set amidst pristine nature.

The return hike and visit to Yura’s hot springs

After soaking up the scenery, you’ll hike back to the starting point. This return leg offers a different perspective of the landscape, with opportunities for reflection or catching a few more photos.

Next, the group travels by road to Yura’s hot springs, which are famed for their therapeutic qualities. With temperatures ranging from 22 to 32ºC, the pools are perfect for soothing tired muscles and relaxing after the hike. The waters are believed to have healing properties, especially for skin, stomach issues, or rheumatic conditions—something many visitors appreciate.

Note: Entry to the thermal baths isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay a small fee if you want to enjoy the springs. Many reviews praise the baths as a highlight, describing them as an ideal end to a day of adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Yura’s historic center

Before heading back to Arequipa, the tour stops in Yura’s historic center. This is a chance to see a traditional Peruvian town with local churches, markets, and a laid-back vibe. It’s a quick cultural detour that adds depth to your understanding of the region.

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

Return to Arequipa

The journey concludes with a comfortable ride back, arriving around 4:00 p.m. in your hotel. It’s a well-paced schedule, giving you ample time to reflect on the day and perhaps plan your next adventure in the city.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s cost of $77 covers hotel pickup within the historic center, transportation by minibus or bus, and an English-speaking guide. It’s a straightforward package that offers good value given the variety of experiences packed into the day.

Extras like entrance fees to the thermal baths and lunch are not included, so budget accordingly. Many travelers find that packing a picnic for the waterfall stop enhances the experience, as there are no food options there.

Note: Cancellation is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—ideal if your plans are still flexible.

The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives

Reviews highlight that the hiking is manageable and scenic, making it suitable for most fitness levels. One commenter wrote, “The landscape was breathtaking, and the waterfalls were the perfect reward after the walk.” Others appreciate the relaxing thermal baths, describing them as “a blissful way to unwind after the hike,” and noting their healing properties.

However, some mention that the entrance fee for the hot springs can be an extra expense, so it’s worth planning for that. A few also comment that the early start might be tiring but worth it for the full day’s experience.

It’s clear that this tour offers a well-rounded blend of nature, culture, and wellness—especially valued for its affordability and the chance to see a different side of the Arequipa region.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to explore some of the natural highlights near Arequipa without breaking the bank. For adventure lovers, the manageable hike combined with the stunning waterfalls makes for a memorable outing. For those seeking relaxation, the Yura hot springs provide a soothing end to the day, with their reputed healing benefits adding to the experience.

It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities but also want a touch of local culture. The day’s pace is balanced—long enough to feel fulfilling but not exhausting—making it ideal for families, older travelers, or anyone with limited time but big curiosity. If you’re looking for good value in a scenic, restorative adventure, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 6:00 a.m., giving you a head start to enjoy the day without feeling rushed.

How long is the hike to the waterfalls?
The hike is about 40 minutes one way, making it manageable for most.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, which helps make the experience informative and easier to follow.

Is the entrance to the hot springs included?
No, the thermal bath entry fee is not included, so you should plan to pay that separately if you want to soak.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a picnic if you like, as there are no facilities at the waterfall site.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs from about 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., providing a full but relaxed day of sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, it’s generally manageable for most ages, thanks to the reasonable hike duration and the relaxing hot springs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This trip balances adventure, scenery, and relaxation, making it a solid choice for those wanting a taste of Peru’s natural beauty without the need for strenuous trekking or lengthy excursions. It’s also a smart pick for travelers looking for good value while enjoying authentic local experiences.