Colca Canyon 2d / 1n and landing in Puno

Discovering the Colca Canyon: A Two-Day Adventure from Arequipa to Puno

If you’re after a true Peruvian experience that combines breathtaking scenery, cultural stops, and natural wonders, this Colca Canyon 2-day tour could be just your ticket. Starting in Arequipa and ending in Puno, this trip gives you a taste of the high Andes, including the famous Condor flight, traditional villages, and the chance to unwind in natural hot springs. Priced at around $123.08 per person, it’s a moderate investment for an experience that packs a lot into just two days.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the way it balances panoramic vistas with cultural insights. The stops at Abra Patapampa, with its snow-capped volcano views, and Maca, a charming village known for crafts and local drinks, add depth to your journey. Plus, the chance to see Condors soaring over the canyon—especially between June and August—is unforgettable. On the downside, the accommodation at Chivay has received some mixed reviews, with some travelers finding it less than ideal. Still, for those who love scenic journeys and natural beauty, this trip offers a very authentic taste of the region.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with early mornings, bus rides, and altitude changes. If you’re keen on stunning landscapes and cultural stops, but don’t mind modest hotels, this trip delivers good value for a quick, immersive experience.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: The tour offers some of the best vantage points over the Colca Canyon and surrounding volcanoes.
• Condor Sightings: Depending on the season, you’ll have a good chance to see the majestic condors in flight.
• Cultural Stops: Small villages like Maca provide insight into local traditions and crafts.
• Natural Hot Springs: Optional visit to Chacapi hot springs offers relaxation amidst stunning scenery.
• Authentic Experience: The tour includes visits to natural reserves and viewpoints that are less commercialized.
• Variable Accommodation: Some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with hostels; expect basic, functional lodging.

A Full Breakdown of the Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Arequipa to Chivay

The adventure begins early—around 8:00 am—with a pickup from your hotel in Arequipa. The journey takes you along one of the city’s busiest roads, giving a glimpse of local life before heading into the highlands. Your first stop is Patahuasi, behind the volcano Misti, where you can stretch, buy souvenirs, and sip a warm Coca tea—a small but appreciated gesture to help with altitude adjustment.

Next, you’ll visit the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to camelids such as llamas and alpacas. Here, spotting these animals is often a highlight, with some travelers noting how close they can get if luck is on your side. The reserve provides a quick but impressive look at the high plateau’s wildlife.

The journey continues to Abra Patapampa, at nearly 4,900 meters, where snow and volcanoes dominate the horizon. The views here are truly striking, giving you a sense of the ruggedness and scale of the Andean landscape. It’s a brief stop, but one that’s worth every photo.

Arriving in Chivay, you’ll have time for a leisurely lunch—perhaps a traditional buffet—before settling into your basic but comfortable accommodation. Some reviews mention the rooms are quite simple, with minimal comforts, so pack accordingly if you prefer more plush lodgings. Afterward, you can visit Chacapi hot springs for a relaxing dip in natural waters, with the landscape providing a perfect backdrop.

For those interested, an optional dinner and dance show showcases local music and dance, giving a lively end to your first day. It isn’t included in the base price but can be a fun way to experience local culture.

Day 2: Into the Depths of Colca Canyon and onward to Puno

Early again, with breakfast around 5:30 am, as the main event awaits: the view of the Condor flight at Cruz del Cóndor. This spot offers the best chance to see these giant birds soaring overhead, especially between June and August. The canyon itself is impressive, with its steep walls and rugged terrain—perfect for photography and appreciation of nature’s scale.

From here, the tour takes you to Mirador Antahuilque, where ancient terraces and platforms carved into the landscape tell stories of old civilizations. It’s a quiet moment to reflect on the human history intertwined with this dramatic scenery.

Next, you’ll visit Maca, a small traditional town famous for its handicrafts and local drinks based on sancayo. The town’s charm lies in its simplicity and authentic atmosphere, giving you a glimpse into rural life.

After lunch in Chivay again, you’ll change to a different vehicle to continue your trip towards Puno. En route, you’ll stop at Lagunillas, a high-altitude lagoon teeming with native birdlife, providing a final natural highlight before reaching the lakeside city of Puno around 7:30 pm.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned buses, ensuring some comfort during the long drives. With a maximum of 25 travelers, the group isn’t too large, allowing for a more intimate experience. The timing is quite packed—early mornings, scenic stops, and several on-foot visits—so travelers should be prepared for long days.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Considerations

While the tour offers incredible scenery and cultural insights, some elements require attention. The lodging quality at Chivay has been a point of criticism, with some describing rooms as cold and basic. If comfort is a priority, consider bringing a sleeping bag liner or extra layers. The hot springs are optional and cost extra, but many travelers find them a worthwhile treat after a day of sightseeing.

Transportation is smooth, but expect long bus rides—roughly 4-5 hours each way—so bring snacks and entertainment. The seasonality of condor sightings means that if your trip is outside June-August, your chances of spotting these birds are lower, but the scenery alone remains stunning.

The cost of the tourist ticket to the Colca (around $6-23 USD depending on nationality) is not included, so plan for that additional expense. Meals not specified are also extra, but ample options exist at lunch and dinner stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to experience the natural grandeur of Peru’s highlands without spending too much time or money. It suits those who are comfortable with early mornings and basic accommodations, and who want to see the best viewpoints of Colca Canyon. If you’re a bird enthusiast, the chance to see condors soaring overhead makes this especially appealing. But if luxury lodging or more relaxed pacing are priorities, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers an affordable, action-packed introduction to one of Peru’s most spectacular natural sights. You’ll witness sweeping views, learn about local traditions, and enjoy a sense of adventure as you traverse high-altitude roads. The highlight—the Condor flight—is genuinely special, and the stops at Maca and the viewpoints provide authentic encounters away from tourist traps.

However, expect basic accommodation and some long hours on the bus. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize scenic splendor and cultural authenticity over comfort but still want a manageable itinerary. The tour’s value lies in its ability to show you key highlights of the region in just two days, making it a worthwhile addition to your Peru trip if time is limited.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking at various viewpoints and some uneven terrain, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

What is the best season to see condors in flight?
Condors are most visible between June and August, when the weather is clearer and the birds are more active.

Are meals included during the tour?
Meals are not included except for breakfast on the second day. You’ll have opportunities to buy lunch and dinner at stops.

How comfortable are the accommodations in Chivay?
Some travelers found the hostel basic—rooms are functional but might lack amenities or insulation, so pack accordingly if comfort is a priority.

What is the transportation like?
Travel is in air-conditioned buses, with some segments in different vehicles for the onward journey to Puno.

Is the hot springs visit included?
No, this optional stop has an extra cost and is not included in the base price.

How long is the journey from Arequipa to Chivay?
It takes approximately 4-5 hours, with scenic stops along the way.

Will I see the canyon’s depths?
Yes, the main viewpoint at Cruz del Cóndor offers a dramatic perspective of the canyon’s depth.

What kind of clothing should I bring?
Layered clothing is best—warm layers for high-altitude stops, and lighter clothes for lower elevations. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunblock.

Can I do this tour if I only have one day?
No, the tour is designed as a two-day experience; a one-day trip would not cover all highlights.

This 2-day Colca Canyon tour offers a genuine and engaging way to witness some of Peru’s most stunning landscapes and traditional villages. While accommodations may be modest, the scenery and cultural stops make it a memorable journey for travelers eager for adventure and natural beauty.