From Arequipa: Excursion to Chivay and Colca Canyon

If you’re looking to get a real sense of Peru’s majestic landscapes without straining your budget, this day-long tour from Arequipa to the Colca Valley and Canyon is a fantastic pick. For just $38 per person, you’ll spend about 14 hours exploring some of the most iconic sights in southern Peru, including the world-famous condor flights, picturesque villages like Chivay, and scenic viewpoints such as Mirador Cruz del Cóndor.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural scenery with cultural insights, all while offering a comfortable and organized experience. The trip’s highlights—getting close to soaring condors and marveling at ancient terraces—are genuinely memorable. We also appreciated the inclusion of some free time for a dip in the Chacapi thermal baths, which offers a perfect way to relax after a busy day.

One thing to consider is that, as with many full-day excursions, early mornings and long bus rides are part of the package. If you’re prone to travel fatigue or prefer more flexibility, this might be a bit intense. Nevertheless, for those eager to see the highlights of the Colca Canyon area without the hassle of planning, this tour fits the bill well.

This experience suits travelers who are hungry for spectacular views, want to see condors in flight, and enjoy a mix of nature, history, and local culture—all in one affordable day. It’s ideal for those who want an organized, rundown without sacrificing authenticity.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day guided excursion with transportation and breakfast included.
• Stunning views at Mirador Cruz del Cóndor and other viewpoints, perfect for photography lovers.
• Opportunity to see condors in flight, a highlight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
• Includes a light regional breakfast and free time for relaxing in thermal baths or exploring Chivay.
• Visits to pre-Inca and Inca terraces and hanging tombs provide cultural and archaeological context.
• Crosses the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve, offering majestic mountain scenery, including volcanoes like Misti and Sabancaya.

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Exploring the Full Itinerary: What You Can Expect

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for an adventure through some of the most captivating landscapes around Arequipa. The day starts early—your guide will pick you up from your hotel or designated spot—so expect to hit the road around dawn or mid-morning, depending on your start time.

The Drive to Chivay and First Breaks

The journey takes roughly three hours, but time flies as you pass through dramatic mountain scenery, with glimpses of volcanoes and rugged peaks. Once in Chivay, a charming Andean town sitting at over 3,000 meters above sea level, you’ll have a brief chance to enjoy a light breakfast. The local specialties—perhaps fresh bread, regional cheeses, or traditional sweets—set you up for the day’s adventure.

Mirador Cruz del Cóndor: The Main Event

The highlight of the trip is the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor, about 50 minutes from Chivay. Here, you’ll spend about an hour soaking in panoramic views of the Colca Canyon, which is considered one of the deepest in the world. The impressive cliffs, often cloaked in mists, seem to stretch endlessly below. If you’re lucky, you might witness condors soaring overhead, their massive wingspan making for an unforgettable spectacle.

Many reviews praise this spot—not just for its breathtaking vistas but also for the chance to see condors in their natural flight. A reviewer mentions, “We loved the way condors glided so close, giving us a real sense of their grandeur.” It’s a moment that sticks with many travelers long after the trip ends.

Viewpoints and Archaeological Sites

From Cruz del Cóndor, the tour continues along scenic roads stopping at Wayrapunko and Antahuilque viewpoints. These sites offer views of hanging tombs, litomaquetas, and terraces built during pre-Inca and Inca times—archaeological remnants that underscore the region’s historical importance. The terraces, in particular, reveal how ancient cultures managed agriculture on the steep canyon walls.

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Thermal Baths and Optional Activities

Midday, you’ll arrive at the Chacapi thermal baths, where you can enjoy 45 minutes of soaking in natural mineral waters reputed for healing properties. If relaxing isn’t your thing, some tours offer options like zip lining or kayaking, giving you a chance to get active in a beautiful setting.

Guests often find the thermal baths a perfect break—one reviewer notes, “The warm waters were exactly what we needed after a morning of sightseeing.” If you prefer to skip the baths, you can explore Chivay town or shop for local crafts.

Afternoon Views & Mountain Ranges

After lunch—either in Chivay or nearby—you’ll continue towards the Mirador de los Volcanes. From this vantage point, you’ll see the Chila mountain range, with snow-capped peaks like Ampato and Hualca Hualca. The Sabancaya volcano is also visible, adding a sense of the raw power of this volcanic landscape.

On the way back, you’ll cross the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a vast natural space with striking mountain silhouettes, including Misti and Chachani volcanoes looming in the distance.

Return to Arequipa

As daylight fades, your guide will bring you back to Arequipa, concluding this full 14-hour tour filled with views, culture, and adventure. Most travelers find it a long but highly rewarding day, especially given the value of seeing so much in one trip.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

This tour offers a good balance of organized convenience and authentic sights. The guide, likely bilingual, will share insights into local history, geography, and culture, enriching your understanding of the region.

Travelers should prepare for the high altitude—over 3,000 meters at Chivay—so bringing snacks, staying hydrated, and taking it slow are wise. Also, consider that the entrance to the Colca Canyon and thermal baths are not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly if you want to access these sites.

The transportation is comfortable, and group sizes tend to be manageable, allowing for easier interaction and photo opportunities. The breakfast included provides a taste of local flavors, adding to the experience without extra cost.

Many reviews highlight the stunning vistas as the main draw, emphasizing how the views of the canyon, volcanoes, and soaring condors create lifelong memories. Some mention the timing and pacing being just right, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This excursion is ideal for budget-conscious travelers eager to see the highlight reel of southern Peru in a single day. It’s perfect for those who appreciate spectacular scenery, are comfortable with a long day on the bus, and want a guided, informative experience. If you’re interested in native cultures, ancient ruins, and birdwatching, this tour delivers in all these areas.

However, it might not suit travelers looking for a more flexible or leisurely pace or those wanting to explore off-the-beaten-path sites at their own pace. The focus is on the most iconic sights accessible from Arequipa, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Your tour price covers pick-up and return transfer, bus transportation, a guide, and a continental breakfast.

Are the entrance fees to Colca Canyon included?
No, the entrance to the Colca Canyon natural area is not included**, so you’ll need to pay that separately if you want to access it. The same goes for the thermal baths.

How long is the drive?
The drive from Arequipa to Chivay takes about three hours, offering scenic views along the way.

Can I see condors during the tour?
Yes, the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor is the prime spot for seeing condors in flight, and many visitors find this the most memorable part.

What should I bring?
Bring layers of clothing for high altitude, sunscreen, hat, camera, and water. The tour includes a light breakfast but not lunch, so consider bringing snacks.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers find it manageable, but the high altitude and long day require some stamina. Check with your group or guide if you have concerns.

What is the timing like?
Check availability for specific starting times, but expect a 14-hour day with early pickup and lots of sightseeing.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This Arequipa to Colca Canyon tour offers a well-rounded experience covering spectacular landscapes, wildlife, and archaeological sites at a very reasonable price. The chance to see majestic condors soaring above a canyon that’s among the deepest in the world is truly special. The inclusion of thermal baths and scenic outlooks makes this a full, satisfying day for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.

While it’s a long day—worth noting if you prefer more relaxed travel—it packs in a lot of highlights that make it difficult to beat value-wise. It’s best suited for travelers eager for a rundown that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and history, all guided by knowledgeable local experts.

The Sum Up

If your goal is to see the most iconic sights of the Colca Valley and Canyon without fuss or hefty costs, this tour delivers. The stunning vistas, especially at Cruz del Cóndor, coupled with the chance to spot condors in flight, make it a memorable adventure. The added stops at archaeological sites and thermal baths provide a well-rounded experience that balances nature, culture, and relaxation.

This trip suits active, curious travelers who want to maximize their time and see some of Peru’s most breathtaking landscapes in one go. Be prepared for a full day—bring your camera, some snacks, and an appreciation for awe-inspiring scenery. For those who love stunning views and wildlife, this excursion is hard to beat.

Note: For more options or similar experiences, check out other tours linked in the resources, including full-day and multi-day options for deeper exploration.

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