Discover the grandeur of the Colca Canyon on a full-day tour from Arequipa for just $30 per person. This accessible adventure takes you through some of Peru’s most stunning landscapes, with stops at scenic viewpoints, charming villages, and relaxing thermal waters. Led by friendly guides, you’ll have a chance to marvel at soaring condors, explore ancient terraces, and unwind in natural hot springs—all in one day.

What we love about this tour is its combination of awe-inspiring scenery and authentic local flavor. First, the Cruz del Condor viewpoint offers some of the most dramatic views of the canyon and a front-row seat to condors soaring overhead. Second, the visit to the Chacapi hot springs provides genuine relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

A possible consideration is that the day is quite packed, meaning early starts and a fair amount of bus time—about 3 hours of travel each way. If you’re not fond of long bus rides, this might feel a bit tiring. Still, for those eager to see the highlights in just one day, it’s a worthwhile journey.

This tour suits travelers who want a cost-effective, full-day exploration of the Colca Canyon, with a good mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and local culture. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive experience that hits the main sights.

Key Points

Affordable Price: At $30, this tour offers excellent value for a comprehensive day trip.
Spectacular Views: From the canyon vistas to volcano silhouettes, every stop is picture-worthy.
Wildlife Viewing: The chance to see soaring condors at Cruz del Condor is unforgettable.
Hot Springs Relaxation: The Chacapi thermal waters provide a welcome break and a chance to unwind.
Cultural Insights: Viewpoints like Wayrapunko and Antahuilque reveal ancient terraces and tombs.
Guided Experience: An English/Spanish speaking guide ensures you don’t miss important details.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Colca Canyon Full Day Tour

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Starting Out: From Arequipa to Chivay

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Arequipa, a seamless way to start without the hassle of organizing transport yourself. The bus ride to Chivay takes approximately three hours, giving you a chance to enjoy changing landscapes—from city streets to expansive highland plains. The journey itself is part of the experience, as you get glimpses of the volcanoes and Andean scenery that make this region so captivating.

In Chivay, the tour typically includes a light breakfast of local specialties—think fresh bread, fruit, and perhaps some Andean cheese—before heading further into the canyon. It’s a good opportunity to stretch your legs and get ready for a day of sightseeing.

The Magnificent Cruz del Condor

The highlight for many travelers is the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Here, you’ll spend around an hour soaking in the views of the imposing canyon walls, which plunge steeply into the depths, and watching condors glide gracefully on thermal currents. Many reviewers mention how majestic and peaceful the birds are, making this one of those “wow” moments you’ll remember long after the day ends.

The guide often shares insights into condor behavior and local conservation efforts, enriching the experience. Given that condors are the stars here, arriving early is recommended if you want the best chance to see them soaring overhead.

Panoramic Viewpoints: Wayrapunko and Antahuilque

Next, the tour takes you to Wayrapunko and Antahuilque viewpoints. These sites offer more stunning vistas, but what’s particularly fascinating are the hanging tombs, lithic models, and pre-Inca terraces you’ll see from these vantage points. It’s a chance to walk through ancient agricultural terraces and get a real sense of how the Incas and their predecessors utilized the challenging landscape.

Multiple reviews highlight the visual contrast between the lush green terraces and the rugged canyon walls. One visitor noted, “It’s like stepping back in time—these terraces are still so well preserved, and you can almost imagine how life was centuries ago.”

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Soaking in the Chacapi Hot Springs

After a morning of breathtaking views and cultural exploration, the tour offers a well-earned stop at the Chacapi hot springs. Here, you can relax in natural thermal waters, which many find both soothing and invigorating. It’s a great way to unwind, especially after the bumpy bus ride and outdoor activities.

If you’re feeling adventurous, some travelers have taken the opportunity to try ziplining or kayaking on their own, though these activities are not included in the tour. The springs are also praised for their beautiful setting—surrounded by mountains, with a peaceful atmosphere.

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A Scenic Drive Through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve

In the afternoon, the journey continues through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Here, you’ll see the imposing silhouettes of the Misti and Chachani volcanoes, along with views of Sabancaya and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. The landscape is desolate yet striking, with volcanic ash plains and mountain backdrops that photograph beautifully.

Traveling through this reserve adds a sense of scale and grandeur to your trip—these volcanoes are the giants watching over the canyon and the valley below.

Returning to Arequipa

After a full day, the bus returns to Arequipa, arriving at your hotel or central plaza. The entire experience typically lasts around 12 hours, so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.

Practical Aspects and Tips

Transport and group size: The small group atmosphere and comfortable coach make the long drives manageable.
Timing: Tours start early, usually around 8 or 9 am, with pickups from your hotel. Check availability for exact times.
Cost considerations: The tour price covers transportation, a guide, and breakfast. Entrance fees to the canyon (70 S/), hot springs (15 S/), and optional activities are extra—so budget around $18.60 for canyon entry and $4 for the hot springs.
What to bring: Pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing (as mornings can be cool), a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water.
Limitations: The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems, given the long bus rides and outdoor activities.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Many visitors praise the spectacular views and informative guides. One reviewer said, “The condors were incredible—so close I felt like I could reach out and touch them.” Others appreciated the cultural insights at viewpoints, remarking on the ancient terraces and tombs that add depth to the natural beauty.

A common comment is that the hot springs are a highlight, providing a relaxing break after hours of sightseeing. Several travelers also appreciated the value—for just $30, they found this tour to be a comprehensive and memorable introduction to the region.

Some note that the bus ride can be tiring, but most agree it’s a small price to pay for access to such awe-inspiring sights.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon offers an impressive combination of scenery, wildlife, and culture at an accessible price point. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see the famous condor flight, explore ancient terraces, and soak in thermal waters—all in one well-organized day. The journey’s length and early start require some stamina, but the payoff is well worth it for the unforgettable views and authentic experiences.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, immersive, and beautiful adventure that takes in some of Peru’s most iconic sights, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but a big appetite for natural beauty and local history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $30 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and breakfast. Entrance fees to the canyon and hot springs are extra.

How long is the bus ride?
The journey takes about 3 hours each way, making it a total of roughly 6 hours of travel time plus stops.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended. Pack light but include essentials for outdoor activities.

Are meals included?
A continental breakfast is included, but lunch is not. You’ll have the chance to buy food during the day, especially in Chivay.

Can I see condors at the Cruz del Condor?
Yes, the viewpoint is famous for condor sightings. Arriving early improves your chances of seeing these majestic birds soaring overhead.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally suitable, the long bus rides and outdoor activities mean you should assess personal health and stamina. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with certain health issues.

What activities can I do at the hot springs?
You can relax in the thermal waters, and some travelers choose to try ziplining or kayaking (not included in the package).

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect to see spectacular canyon views, majestic condors, ancient terraces and tombs, and enjoy thermal waters in a beautiful setting.

How flexible is the tour schedule?
The itinerary is fixed, but you can discuss optional activities like ziplining or additional stops with your guide. Be prepared for an early start and a full day.

This tour offers a solid, authentic taste of the Colca Canyon, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking stunning views, it’s a day that will leave you with lasting memories of Peru’s incredible landscapes.