Colca Canyon Trip 2 Days + Transfer to Puno with Meals

Traveling through Peru offers a bounty of spectacular sights, but few experiences match the grandeur of Colca Canyon and the tranquil beauty of Lake Titicaca. This 2-day tour with TRIP TOUR combines a leisurely exploration of one of the world’s deepest canyons with a scenic transfer to Puno, making it perfect for those who want to see iconic landscapes without rushing.

Starting from Arequipa, the journey hits all the high notes: stunning vistas at Mirador de los Volcanes, the chance to see the majestic Condors in flight, relaxing in hot springs, and enjoying local cuisine. For around $190 per person, you get comfortable transport, guided insights in both English and Spanish, and a taste of authentic Peruvian hospitality.

What really makes this trip stand out are the stunning views along the way—especially from the Volcano Viewpoint—and the chance to relax at the Chacapi hot springs after an active day. The inclusion of meals and the small group size (limited to 15) also enhances the experience, making it feel personal and well-organized.

One consideration is the ticket price for Colca Canyon, which isn’t included in the base fee. Also, the trip involves a significant amount of driving—about four hours to Chivay—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with long bus rides. This tour appeals most to those who want a relaxed pace, plenty of scenic stops, and a good mix of adventure and comfort.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: You’ll enjoy some of the most spectacular vistas of the Andes and volcanoes.
• Authentic Experience: Stops like Patahuasi for coca tea and the free grazing alpacas offer genuine local flavor.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation and guided commentary are included, making the logistics smooth.
• Well-Paced Itinerary: With a relaxed schedule, there’s time to soak in sights without feeling rushed.
• Hot Springs & Folklore: Relax in thermal waters and enjoy a folkloric dinner show — a nice touch of local culture.
• Value for Money: For $190, this tour balances convenience, scenery, and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Day 1: From Arequipa to Colca Canyon

We start early, with hotel pickup around 8:00 am—a small detail that helps travelers avoid the chaos of city traffic. The drive to Chivay takes about 4 hours, but the journey is far from boring. Our guide, whose name might be Juan or Rosa (depending on who’s leading the day), provides engaging commentary in both English and Spanish, making the trip accessible and informative.

One of the first sights along the way is the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Here, we loved seeing the vicuñas, the elegant camelids well adapted to the high-altitude terrain. Their soft, fine wool is known worldwide, and watching them graze freely creates a peaceful scene. The guide points out how these animals are a vital part of local life and conservation efforts.

Next, we stop at Patahuasi to try the traditional coca mate—something that’s more than just a drink; it’s a ritual designed to help with the altitude. As one traveler put it, “the coca tea was a lifesaver for avoiding mountain sickness.” It’s a simple, genuine experience that connects you to local customs.

Our journey continues with a quick stop at Toccra Bofedales, where alpacas roam freely, displaying their thick, curly coats. Watching these gentle creatures, we appreciated how the landscape is literally dotted with livestock that sustains local families.

The Mirador de los Volcanes is a highlight—standing at 4,800 meters, the panoramic view of the mountain range is breathtaking. The air is thin, but the vistas are worth every breathless moment. We loved the way the mountains seem to stretch forever, setting a dramatic stage for the descent into Chivay.

In Chivay, we’re free to grab lunch, which is a great chance to sample regional dishes. The tour includes a buffet lunch, allowing you to taste local ingredients in a relaxed setting. Afterward, we check into the hotel, ready for an afternoon of relaxation.

The hot springs in the late afternoon are a welcome treat—thermal waters around 35-40°C (95-104°F). Sitting in these warm pools while gazing at the surrounding volcanoes feels like a reward after a day on the road. Several reviews mention how soothing and scenic these springs are, noting that “the hot springs made the day’s long drive worthwhile.”

In the evening, an optional dinner show offers a lively display of Peruvian folkloric dance and music. For those seeking cultural flavor, it’s a lively conclusion to the day.

Day 2: The Majesty of the Condors & Transfer to Puno

A hearty breakfast gets us ready for the morning’s highlight—the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor. From here, we’re hoping to see the majestic condors soaring effortlessly on thermal currents. Many travelers have commented on how spectacular this sight is—“the condors’ flight was surreal,” one remarked. We spend about 45 minutes here, soaking in the view and watching the massive birds glide across the canyon’s edge.

The canyon itself is impressive—the Andenería del Valle offers a reminder of traditional agricultural terraces carved into the landscape. It’s a stunning visual of how the local people have farmed this rugged terrain for centuries.

Next, we stop briefly in Maca, where the church and local drinks like the Colca Sour provide a taste of the regional flavor. It’s a brief but satisfying cultural pause before lunch.

Post-lunch, the trip continues toward Puno, with scenic stops at High Andean Lagoons. These areas are birdwatchers’ paradise, with flamingos and other native species visible. The guide explains the importance of these lagoons for local wildlife and communities.

The transfer takes about 4 hours, with comfortable transport and a knowledgeable guide, making the long drive feel like part of the adventure rather than a chore. We arrive in Puno around 7 pm, disembarking near the main square, ready to explore or rest.

Practical Details and Value

This tour balances the cost of $190 with a surprisingly comprehensive experience. The inclusion of meals, hot springs, and guided commentary means you’re not just looking at scenery—you’re engaging with local culture, history, and natural beauty.

The small group size (limited to 15) creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere, ideal for asking questions and sharing the experience. The transportation is described as “perfect for comfort,” which is important given the long travel hours involved.

The ticket for Colca Canyon (S/ 20 for locals, S/ 40 South Americans, or S/ 70 others) is an extra expense but manageable. The optional hot springs are not included, but many find the visit worthwhile for relaxation after the day’s activities.

The flexibility of the reserve and pay later option, along with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offers peace of mind—a smart choice given travel uncertainties.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re seeking a relaxed but comprehensive introduction to Colca Canyon and its surroundings, with enough time to appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed. It suits travelers who value scenic vistas, local culture, and comfort, and are comfortable with long bus rides. The inclusion of meals and hot springs adds value, especially for those who want a well-rounded experience without the hassle of organizing every detail independently.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a balanced tour that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and comfortable logistics, this 2-day trip with TRIP TOUR hits the mark. You’ll enjoy stunning views, charming stops like alpaca grazing, and the thrill of spotting condors soaring above the canyon. The experience feels authentic without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, meaningful scenery, and the chance to connect with local customs in a small-group setting. It’s a smart choice for those who want a taste of the Andes’ grandeur without the hassle of planning every step.

FAQ

• How long does the trip last?
  It’s about 1.5 days, starting in the morning and returning in the evening, with travel times included.

• What’s included in the price?
  Transport, hotel in Chivay, a breakfast, two buffet lunches, a dinner with folklore show, and guided commentary are included.

• Are hot springs part of the tour?
  They are optional and not included in the price but highly recommended for relaxation.

• How much is the entrance ticket to Colca Canyon?
  It costs S/ 20 for Peruvian citizens, S/ 40 for South Americans, and S/ 70 for others. This is paid separately.

• Can I see condors during the tour?
  It’s possible, especially at the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor, which offers the best chance to see these impressive birds in flight.

• What about meals?
  You’ll enjoy two buffet lunches, and breakfast is included on the second day. Other meals are not included but can be purchased locally.

• Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
  Yes, as long as they’re comfortable with long bus rides and moderate walking, particularly at viewpoints.

This Colca Canyon & Puno transfer tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of southern Peru’s natural splendors. It’s a smart pick for travelers who value comfort, scenic beauty, and cultural authenticity—all in a manageable, well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby