From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Excursion 2D with End in Puno

Experience the Colca Canyon Comfortably and Authentically

Looking for a relaxed way to see some of Peru’s most breathtaking scenery? This 2-day tour from Arequipa to Puno offers just that—an easygoing journey that takes you through the spectacular Colca Canyon, visits to charming towns like Chivay, and stops at natural reserves teeming with vicunas, alpacas, and flamingos. Costing $85 per person, it’s a solid choice for those who want a taste of Peru’s natural beauty without the physical strain of strenuous hiking.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its focus on comfort and authenticity. You get to enjoy the stunning vistas from viewpoints like the Mirador de los Volcanes and the Cruz del Cóndor, with plenty of stops to take in the scenery and snap photos. Plus, staying overnight in Chivay at a cozy hotel with an optional thermal bath makes it feel like a mini getaway rather than just a tour.

A potential consideration is the price of extras—meals, hot springs, and entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly. But this is typical of many tours in the region, and the overall value lies in the well-organized itinerary and scenic highlights.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate comfortable, scenic journeys with cultural touches—perfect for those who want immersive views and local flavor without the challenge of strenuous activity.

Key Points

• Comfortable and relaxed visit to the Colca Canyon with minimal physical effort.
• Highlights include Chivay town, Salinas National Reserve, and the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint.
• Scenic, high-altitude stops like the Mirador de los Volcanes provide incredible landscape views.
• Optional activities such as hot springs and folkloric dances add local flavor.
• The trip ends in Puno, making it a convenient route for continuing your journey around Lake Titicaca.
• The tour is limited to small groups (up to 15) for a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

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

An Overview of the Journey

This tour is designed for travelers who want the beauty of the Colca Canyon without the physical strain of hiking or strenuous sightseeing. For $85, you get a two-day experience filled with stunning vistas, cultural stops, and relaxing moments. The tour begins early in Arequipa, with a pickup around 7:30-8:00 am, and covers substantial ground—about a 4-hour drive to Chivay, with plenty of fascinating stops along the way.

Day 1: From Arequipa to Chivay

The journey starts with a warm welcome from your guide, who will escort you through a scenic drive towards the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Here, we loved the chance to see vicuñas grazing freely—a highlight for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. These delicate, wild relatives of llamas are native to high-altitude regions and are a rare sight in the wild.

Next, there’s a culturally significant stop at Patahuasi for coca tea—a local remedy for altitude sickness that many travelers find vital when visiting high elevations. It’s a simple but helpful gesture, and a chance to connect with local customs.

The drive then takes you to the Mirador de los Volcanes, perched at 4,800 meters above sea level. From here, the views stretch across the mountain range—an impressive panorama that reminds you just how vast and rugged this landscape is. We enjoyed the panoramic perspective, though some might find the altitude a bit challenging, so take your time and hydrate.

After a short descent, you arrive in Chivay, where a delicious lunch awaits (payable separately). The afternoon is yours to relax—perhaps soak in the thermal baths (optional and paid separately), which are well-loved by guests for their soothing, thermo-medicinal waters. Dinner with folkloric dances can cap the day if you choose, adding a cultural flair to your stay.

Day 2: The Spectacle of the Cruz del Cóndor and Return to Puno

The second day is highlighted by the visit to Cruz del Cóndor, the premier viewpoint for watching the majestic flight of the condors. We were captivated by the sight of these enormous birds soaring effortlessly on thermal currents—truly a UNESCO-worthy spectacle. We recommend arriving early to secure a good spot, as the area can get busy, and the best condor sightings are often in the morning.

Following this, the journey takes you through scenic viewpoints like Andenería del Valle and the charming town of Maca. Here, we appreciated the chance to see the traditional terraced agriculture—a testament to the ingenuity of local farmers—while sampling some local drinks like the Colca Sour, which is made with regional ingredients and offers a taste of local flavor.

On the return route, your guide will point out other notable sights, possibly including additional viewpoints or small villages. Lunch in Chivay is optional, and the trip back to Arequipa includes stops to stretch the legs and take in the landscapes.

Finally, the journey concludes around 7:30 pm in Puno, just a five-minute taxi ride from the city’s center, ready for your next adventure near Lake Titicaca.

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Transportation, Group Size, and Practicalities

The tour uses private transportation, which means more comfort and flexibility compared to large bus groups. Limited to 15 participants, it maintains a cozy, friendly atmosphere, allowing more personalized attention from your bilingual guide.

The price of $85 per person reflects a balance of included stops, the guide’s expertise, and the comfortable logistics. Keep in mind that entrance fees (to the canyon, hot springs) and meals are extra, so budget for these if you want a fully covered experience.

Authenticity and Cultural Highlights

While the trip is designed for comfort, it doesn’t skimp on cultural elements. The coca tea stop, the folkloric dance in Chivay, and the chance to see local crafts and architecture in Maca enrich your understanding of the region. We particularly appreciated the small group size, which fosters genuine interactions and allows your guide to tailor explanations and spotting tips.

Scenic Views That Leave an Impression

Throughout the tour, it’s the spectacular views that steal the show. The mountain ranges, the flights of condors, and the alpaca-filled pastures create a visual feast. The high-altitude viewpoints are well chosen, offering sweeping vistas that are hard to forget, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Final Thoughts on Value

At $85, this tour offers an excellent value—covering transportation, guide, and key stops—especially considering the comfort level and scenic highlights. Optional extras like hot springs and folkloric shows add to the experience but aren’t necessary to enjoy the core highlights.

It’s a good choice for travelers who want to experience the best of Colca Canyon without the strenuous effort. It also suits those looking for a relaxed pace, culture, and stunning landscapes in one neat package.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you appreciate breathtaking scenery, cultural authenticity, and comfortable travel, this is a great pick. It’s ideal for those who want to see the highlights of Colca Canyon but prefer to avoid long hikes or physically demanding activities. The small group size and bilingual guides ensure a personable and informative experience, perfect for independent travelers, couples, or small groups.

If you’re traveling on a budget but still want quality, the included stops and scenic views make this tour a solid investment. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value authentic moments—like watching condors soar or relaxing in thermal baths—over adrenaline-fueled adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Chivay?
It takes roughly four hours, including stops at Salinas and the Mirador de los Volcanes, making it a comfortable journey with plenty of scenic viewpoints along the way.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have opportunities to buy lunch and dinner separately, which allows flexibility based on your preferences and budget.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since it’s primarily a scenic, comfortable tour with minimal physical effort, it’s suitable for most travelers who can handle a few steps and a bit of sitting in a vehicle.

What is the best time to see condors at Cruz del Cóndor?
The best sightings usually occur in the morning hours, so arriving early is recommended to experience the condors soaring against the canyon’s backdrop.

Can I enjoy the hot springs during the tour?
Yes, the optional thermal baths in Chivay are highly recommended for relaxation after a day of sightseeing, though entry is paid separately.

How does the trip conclude in Puno?
The return drive ends around 7:30 pm in Puno, a short taxi ride from the city’s center, making it easy to find accommodation or continue your journey around Lake Titicaca.

This 2-day Colca Canyon tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich experience, delivered with comfort and a personal touch. Whether you’re photographing condors, soaking in thermal waters, or simply enjoying the grandeur of the mountains, it’s a memorable way to see a stunning part of Peru without overexerting yourself.

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