Exploring the Colca Canyon 2-Day Tour: A Guide to Peru’s Majestic Landscape

This 2-day adventure from Puno to Arequipa takes you through some of Peru’s most spectacular scenery, including the famous Colca Canyon, known as one of the deepest in the world. For just $132 per person, you’ll experience a journey filled with impressive vistas, native wildlife, and charming towns, all guided by knowledgeable English-speaking guides.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural sights with cultural insights and some well-earned relaxation, like enjoying thermal baths in Chivay. Plus, the route over the altiplano offers the chance to spot vicuñas, llamas, and flamingos — not something you’ll see every day.

One possible drawback is the early morning start, which is necessary to fit everything in, but if you’re an early riser, this shouldn’t be a problem. The tour is best suited for travelers who want a full, authentic experience of the highlands and canyon, without the fuss of organizing transport themselves. It’s ideal if you’re staying in Puno or Arequipa and craving an in-depth look at this iconic landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Views: The route offers memorable vistas of the altiplano, volcanoes, and the mighty Colca Canyon.
Wildlife Spotting: Vicuñas, flamingos, condors, and llamas are just some of the animals you might see.
Cultural Stops: Visiting charming towns like Chivay, Yanque, and Maca gives you a taste of local life.
Expert Guides: Guides are fluent in English and Spanish, and their knowledge enhances the experience.
Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is by minibus, and accommodations are included with breakfast.
Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 15) mean more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

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

Starting Point: From Puno to the Altiplano

The tour kicks off early in the morning, with hotel pickups between 6:15 and 6:30 am. This early start is a smart move: it allows us to beat the crowds and enjoy the day’s highlights in a more intimate setting. The drive from Puno to Chivay is about 300 kilometers, roughly a 6-hour trip, but it’s far from dull.

As we cross the highlands, you’ll notice the landscape morphing from the bustling streets of Puno to vast wetlands, lagoons, and streams. It’s a landscape that feels untouched, and it’s common to spot vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas grazing peacefully, along with flocks of flamingos and guallatas. This scenery isn’t just beautiful; it’s a reminder of the diverse wildlife that has adapted to these high-altitude environments.

The Route: Volcanoes and Panoramas

A highlight of the drive is the stop at Patahuasi, where we enter the Colca Canyon, passing by the crater of the extinct Chucura volcano. The views from the volcanoes viewpoint at 4,910 meters are spectacular, offering a sweeping look at the Cordillera Occidental. It’s a photo-worthy moment that makes the early wake-up call worth it.

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Chivay: The Heart of the Canyon

By early afternoon, we arrive in Chivay, which serves as the base for exploring the canyon. The hotel here includes breakfast, and you’re free to explore the town or relax in its famous thermal baths. Many travelers appreciate this downtime, as it offers a chance to unwind after the long morning journey, and some reviews mention that the baths are a perfect way to relax and soothe tired muscles.

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Day Two: The Grandeur of the Cruz del Condor

After breakfast, we head to the Cruz del Condor, the tour’s star viewpoint. Here, you’ll have about two hours of free time to soak in the views and watch for the majestic condors riding the thermal currents overhead. This is often the highlight for visitors, as spotting the condors soaring with wings spanning over 10 feet is truly a sight to behold.

Guides often comment on the best viewing times, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see these enormous birds glide effortlessly across the blue sky — an experience that sticks with you.

Scenic Return through the Canyon

On the way back, the tour passes through picturesque Andean towns like Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque. Walking through these villages offers a glimpse into local life, and the terraced fields carved into the canyon walls are a testament to centuries of agricultural ingenuity.

In Chivay, you’ll have an hour for lunch, giving you the chance to sample local dishes or just relax before the journey back to Arequipa.

Journey to Arequipa

The return trip begins around 1 pm, with arrival in Arequipa expected between 4:30 and 5 pm. The scenic drive back is a perfect time to reflect on all the incredible sights you’ve seen over the past two days.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a good balance of value and convenience. For $132, you get hotel pickup in Puno, transportation by minibus, an English-speaking guide, and one night’s accommodation with breakfast.

However, it’s worth noting that lunches and dinners are not included, so budgeting around $20-25 for meals is advisable. Entry fees to the Colca Canyon (S/70 or about US$19) and thermal baths (S/15 or around US$4) are additional costs, but these are quite reasonable considering the experience.

The tour is well-suited for those who prefer guided transport and small-group settings, with limited to 15 participants. This keeps the experience personal and relaxed, rather than rushed or overcrowded.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love natural beauty with a side of local culture, this tour is a great fit. It’s perfect for travelers who want a rundown of the canyon, wildlife, and Andean towns without the hassle of organizing transportation and guides themselves.

It’s also suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, as most of the walking involves gentle exploration or sightseeing from viewpoints. If you’re a bird lover or fascinated by condors, this is one of the best opportunities to see these incredible birds in their natural habitat.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Colca Canyon 2-Day Tour offers an excellent way to experience Peru’s iconic canyon without spending too much or losing time. The combination of stunning vistas, wildlife sightings, cultural stops, and relaxing thermal baths makes it a well-rounded experience.

The knowledgeable guides and small group size enhance the journey, providing insights and personal attention that large tours often lack. Many reviewers praise the guides’ expertise and the breathtaking views, confirming that this trip delivers on its promises.

If you’re in Puno or Arequipa and craving an authentic adventure into the highlands and canyon, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly appealing if you want a guided, hassle-free experience with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and wildlife encounters.

FAQs

What is the starting time for this tour?
Check availability for specific starting times, but generally, pickups are between 6:15 and 6:30 am from your hotel in Puno.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is by minibus from Puno to Chivay and back, making the journey comfortable and straightforward.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Are meals included?
No, lunches and dinners are not included, but breakfast is provided at the hotel in Chivay on Day 1.

What is the entrance fee for the Colca Canyon?
The entrance fee is S/70 (about US$19) per person and is paid separately.

Can I visit the thermal baths?
Yes, the thermal baths in Chivay cost S/15 (around US$4) and are a popular way to unwind after the day’s sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate pace and scenic nature make it suitable for families with older children or teenagers who can handle a full day of travel and sightseeing.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural experiences at a reasonable price. Its focus on small-group intimacy, expert guides, and authentic locations makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking a genuine taste of Peru’s highlands. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for a deeper exploration, the Colca Canyon will leave a lasting impression.