From Arequipa: 2-Day Colca Canyon Trekking Tour

From Arequipa: 2-Day Colca Canyon Trekking Tour

This 2-day adventure takes you into the heart of Peru’s Colca Canyon, one of the deepest and most awe-inspiring landscapes in South America. Starting early from Arequipa, you’ll journey through scenic highlands, stop at key viewpoints like Cruz del Condor to watch the majestic condors soar overhead, and hike through rugged terrain with a knowledgeable guide. For just around $30 per person, this tour offers a striking mix of wildlife, stunning vistas, and authentic local life, all capped with an overnight stay at the Sangalle Oasis.

What we love most is the chance to observe the majestic flight of the condors—a once-in-a-lifetime sight—and the chance to walk through spectacular landscapes that change as you descend into the canyon. The guides are consistently praised for their depth of knowledge about flora, fauna, and local traditions, making the experience both informative and engaging.

A possible consideration: the tour involves walking 24 kilometers across steep and uneven terrain, so you’ll want to be in good physical shape. The journey is physically demanding but richly rewarding, especially if you appreciate outdoor adventures and authentic cultural moments.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy hiking, are curious about Peruvian nature and culture, and don’t mind a bit of a workout. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value guided insights and are prepared for a challenging but fulfilling experience. If you’re after a low-key sightseeing trip, this might be more intense than you need—but for those craving an active, immersive journey, it’s hard to beat.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramas of the Colca Canyon and the surrounding landscapes
• Expert guides who share detailed knowledge about local flora, fauna, and culture
• Condor sightings at Cruz del Condor are a highlight, offering breathtaking birdwatching
• Overnight stay at Sangalle Oasis with pools and basic but comfortable accommodations
• Physical challenge: 24 km of walking over two days, requiring good fitness
• Includes stops at hot springs and viewpoints for relaxation and additional sightseeing

You can check availability for your dates here:

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

Starting the Journey at Dawn

Imagine waking up before dawn—around 3:00 or 3:30 a.m.—to be picked up from your hotel in Arequipa. The early start is well worth it, as you’ll head out in a comfortable tourist bus toward the Colca Valley. Along the way, a stop for breakfast sets the tone for the adventure ahead. We found this initial wake-up call manageable, especially knowing the journey promises spectacular sights.

The bus ride itself lasts about 3.5 hours, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and take in the highland scenery. Traveling with a small group (limited to 11 participants), we appreciated the personalized feel and the chance for conversation with fellow travelers. Once arriving at Cruz del Condor, the iconic viewpoint, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views of the deep canyon and the Andean Condors soaring gracefully above.

Cruz del Condor: Nature’s Air Show

This stop is a highlight for many. The flight of the condors is truly something to behold, especially with the rugged canyon backdrop. Guides often share insights about these impressive birds—the largest flying bird in the world—and the ecosystem that sustains them. As one reviewer noted, “Carlos is a unique guide, showed us much more than the trekking path, and explained about local life and plants.” You’ll have around 30 minutes here to soak in the views and snap photos.

Descending into the San Juan Valley

From Cruz del Condor, the group moves towards the trailhead, and at about 9:39 a.m., the descent begins. Over the next three hours, you’ll walk through lush San Juan Valley, along the banks of the Colca River. The terrain varies from rocky paths to more comfortable trails, but the overall experience is a gradual descent that reveals the canyon’s grandeur.

You can expect to see local agriculture, traditional terraced fields, and possibly glimpses of wildlife. The journey down is physically demanding but manageable with proper pacing. We loved the way the landscape opened up, with panoramic vistas that kept us inspired.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Rest at San Juan de Chuccho

Midday, after reaching the valley, a well-deserved lunch awaits. The food is simple but tasty—local ingredients and flavors that reflect the region’s culinary traditions. Afterward, there’s a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery before heading further into the canyon.

Trekking to Sangalle Oasis

The second half of the first day involves a further three-hour walk to Sangalle, a lush oasis famous for its swimming pools and tranquil atmosphere. We loved the contrast—after hours of hiking through rugged terrain, arriving at a verdant retreat felt like reaching a hidden paradise. The accommodation here is basic but comfortable, and the opportunity to unwind with a swim or just relax amid nature is worth the effort.

The evening includes a hearty dinner, and many reviews mention the delicious local cuisine. One guest said, “The food was simple but delicious,” which is typical of this kind of adventure—no luxury, just authentic flavors.

The Challenge of the Second Day

The next morning starts early with a challenging ascent back to the rim of the canyon. The three-hour climb is steep and rigorous but is often described as worth it for the views and the sense of achievement. We appreciated the guides’ encouragement—they help you find your own pace and ensure safety on the ascent.

Once back in Cabanaconde, after a quick breakfast, the tour continues with a scenic bus ride through viewpoints like Antahuilque (pre-Inca terraces) and volcano viewpoints. These stops allow for quick photo ops and a chance to appreciate the region’s geological history.

Relaxation and Wildlife Observations

On the return route, you’ll visit the Chacapi hot springs, a perfect spot to relax your tired legs before heading back to Arequipa. The hot springs are a pleasant way to unwind after the physical effort of the trek, and reviews mention they’re a welcome addition to the itinerary.

Further stops include the salt flats and Aguada Blanca reserve, where you might spot South American camelids—llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas—adding an extra layer of wildlife interest to your day.

Return to Arequipa

The journey ends around 5:30 p.m., with the bus arriving back near the main square. Along the way, the guide points out interesting sights and shares stories, making the return as engaging as the journey there.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The $30 base price offers a significant value for a comprehensive two-day experience. It covers your pickup in Arequipa and the transportation, but you’ll need to budget about $95 for guides’ additional expenses—covering food, entrance fees to the canyon, and thermal baths. This payment is made in cash (soles or dollars). It’s important to note that meals are included in this guide fee, so the $30 covers just the tour itself, not separate meals.

The tour is guided in English and designed for small groups, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible. However, it’s not suitable for children under 15 or those with certain health conditions, given the physical demands and altitude.

Practical Tips

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring layers, as weather can vary quickly.
• Hydrate well and consider bringing a small water bottle.
• The tour involves 24 km of walking, so good physical condition is essential.
• The guides are friendly and knowledgeable but expect to pay an additional fee for food and entrance fees in cash.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge. “Our guide, Rafael, was very enthusiastic and took good care of us,” one said. Others mention the delicious food and the beautiful views, emphasizing that these small touches make the adventure more memorable.

Many hikers highlight the stunning scenery, from the dramatic cliffs and terraced fields to the flight of the condors, which many find genuinely awe-inspiring. The hot springs provide a relaxing end to the trek, with several reviews noting the restorative value after a tough hike.

The Downside?

The main drawback is the physical intensity—the walk is long and involves significant elevation change. Some reviews mention the basic accommodations, which might not suit travelers expecting luxury, but the authenticity and scenery more than compensate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of a workout in exchange for close-up contact with nature and local culture. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a small-group adventure with knowledgeable guides, unforgettable views, and a chance to see wildlife like condors and llamas up close.

If you’re after a relaxed sightseeing trip or have mobility concerns, this might be too demanding. But for those eager to challenge themselves physically and experience the real outdoors of Peru, it’s one of the best options around.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to wake up?
You’ll be picked up between 3:00 and 3:30 a.m., so an early night before is recommended, but the early start allows you to see the canyon in the best light and catch the condors at Cruz del Condor.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 15 due to the physical exertion and altitude.

What should I bring?
Sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, a water bottle, and sun protection. Consider bringing a small snack for breaks, although most meals are included in the guide fee.

How physically demanding is the trek?
Expect to walk about 24 km over two days, with significant elevation changes—so good fitness is required. Reviewers note that it can be intense, but guides help pace the group.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
The overnight stay at Sangalle Oasis is basic but comfortable, with the opportunity to swim and relax. Some reviews mention that rooms have their own toilets and cold showers, but facilities are simple.

Can I pay for everything upfront?
No, the main tour fee is $30, but the guide will request an additional $95 cash payment for food, entrance fees, and thermal baths, payable in soles or dollars.

To sum it up, this 2-day Colca Canyon trek offers a remarkable blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight for active travelers willing to brave a bit of physical challenge. The knowledgeable guides, combined with stunning vistas and close encounters with condors, make it an experience worth considering for those who want to get off the beaten path and see Peru’s iconic landscape in an authentic way. It’s particularly suited for those who value guided expertise, beautiful natural surroundings, and don’t mind a bit of rugged terrain. If you’re prepared for the physical effort, this trek delivers unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after you leave the canyon.

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