From Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon ending in Puno

From Arequipa: Excursion to the Colca Canyon ending in Puno offers an excellent chance to see some of Peru’s most breathtaking landscapes in just one day. For $72 per person, you’ll start very early—around 3:15 a.m.—and spend about six hours traveling through southern Peru, visiting dramatic viewpoints, charming towns, and relaxing hot springs before arriving in Puno by evening. Led by bilingual guides, this tour combines nature, culture, and a touch of adventure, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to experience Peru’s iconic scenery without overextending their schedule.

What we love about this trip is how it balances the grandeur of Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, with smaller, authentic stops like the towns of Wayrapunko and Antahuillque. The inclusion of a hot springs visit at Chacapi is a real highlight, offering a relaxing break after the morning’s exploration. Plus, the scenic stops at Patapampa and the Salinas and Lagunillas Reserve provide opportunities for impressive photos and a chance to see some of Peru’s native camelids and birdlife.

A possible consideration is the early start—being picked up at 3:15 a.m. means a very early morning for most travelers, which could impact how rested you feel for the day. Also, the entrance fees to Colca Canyon and hot springs are paid separately, so be prepared for additional costs. This tour is best suited for those with a sense of adventure who want a packed, scenic day that covers a lot of ground with minimal hassle.

This trip suits travelers who value value for money and want a rundown of the region in a single day. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want to experience the highlights of Arequipa’s surroundings, especially if you’re heading to Puno afterward.

Key Points

• Impressive scenery: The tour features one of the deepest canyons in the world with spectacular viewpoints.
• Wildlife spotting: The area is great for condors and native camelids, with stops at reserves increasing your chances.
• Relaxation break: The Chacapi hot springs offer a welcomed rest and a chance to unwind.
• Bilingual guides: Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible.
• Early start, long day: Be prepared for an early pickup and a full day’s travel.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees to the canyon and hot springs are extra, so budget accordingly.

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The Experience in Detail

Early Morning Pickup and Journey Begins

The adventure kicks off at 3:15 a.m., a stunningly early start that reflects how much ground you’ll cover in just one day. While waking up before dawn might not sound appealing, it’s worth it for the chance to beat some of the crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures. The comfortable bus ride lasts about three hours, giving you time to wake up, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the desert scenery that gradually morphs into mountain views.

Chivay and Breakfast

Your first real stop is in Chivay, a town at over 3,000 meters altitude. Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast of bread with butter and jam, along with fresh juice and coffee or tea. This simple yet satisfying meal sets you up for the day, and it’s a good opportunity to acclimate to the altitude, which can sometimes cause mild dizziness or fatigue. Many reviews mention the breakfast as “delicious,” with some appreciating the local touch and warm hospitality.

Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint

From Chivay, the tour heads to Cruz del Cóndor, the star attraction. This viewpoint is renowned for the soaring flights of condors—massive Andean vultures with wingspans that can reach up to 10 feet. We loved the way the guide explained that this area is “perfect for the flight of this species,” making it a real highlight. Depending on the season and luck, you might see a few condors gliding effortlessly in the sky, a moment that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring. The panoramic view of the Colca Canyon, with its terraced cliffs and rugged beauty, is equally breathtaking.

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Exploring the Canyon and Small Towns

After taking in the views, the tour continues to smaller towns like Wayrapunko and Antahuillque, which offer a glimpse into rural Andean life with their traditional architecture and local markets. These stops are more than just photo opportunities—they provide a sense of the region’s cultural roots.

Chacapi Hot Springs

By late morning, you’ll arrive at the Chacapi hot springs. Here, you’ll spend about an hour relaxing in natural pools fed by mineral-rich waters. Many travelers find this part especially enjoyable, as it’s a chance to unwind after the early start and long drive. Reviews note the hot springs as “a pleasant moment,” though the water’s temperature and cleanliness might vary depending on the day.

Return to Chivay and Lunch

Back in Chivay, you have the flexibility to explore local eateries for lunch on your own. While the tour doesn’t include a meal here, it’s an opportunity to try local dishes, often with ingredients from the surrounding farms. Many reviews appreciate having free time for lunch, as it allows customization and the chance to support small businesses.

Scenic Stops on the Way to Puno

The journey from Chivay to Puno is filled with scenic stops at Patapampa, where you can admire the volcanic peaks of Ampato and Sabancaya, and at the Salinas and Lagunillas Reserve, home to native camelids and diverse birdlife. These stops are brief but impactful, giving you a window into the region’s natural beauty and wildlife. Travelers often mention their surprise at the amount of wildlife we could spot, including wild birds and herds of camelids—adding an authentic touch to the trip.

Arrival in Puno

The tour concludes around 7:30 p.m. at the Puno Terminal, ready for your onward journey. Though long, the day is packed with memorable sights and experiences, providing a well-rounded introduction to southern Peru’s landscapes and culture.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers many highlights, keep in mind that entrance fees to the canyon (S/70) and hot springs (S/15) are not included. Budgeting for these extras, plus any meals you choose on your own, ensures no surprises. Also, the early start means you’ll need to rest well the night before—this isn’t a tour for late risers or those wanting a leisurely morning.

Authenticity and Value

Many travelers commend the bilingual guides for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging and accessible for non-Spanish speakers. The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive approach: combining scenic viewpoints, wildlife, cultural stops, and relaxation in one day. For around $72, you’re getting a lot of sights and experiences that would be difficult to organize independently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers eager to see Colca Canyon’s grandeur without committing to multiple days or extensive travel. It’s suited for those comfortable with early mornings and long bus rides, and who appreciate a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. If you’re heading to Puno afterward and want a taste of southern Peru’s best sights in one day, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

• How early does the tour start?
  The pickup is at 3:15 a.m., so prepare for a very early morning—necessary for fitting everything into one day.

• What is included in the price?
  The cost covers bus transportation, a bilingual guide, and a continental breakfast. Entrance fees to the canyon and hot springs are extra.

• How long is the entire trip?
  Expect about six hours of travel and sightseeing, with the tour ending around 7:30 p.m. in Puno.

• Are there opportunities for wildlife viewing?
  Yes, stops at the Salinas and Lagunillas Reserve give chances to see camelids and wild birds.

• Is there free time at any point?
  Yes, after visiting the hot springs and before heading to Puno, you have free time in Chivay for lunch or exploring.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible should your plans shift.

This tour balances adventure, comfort, and cultural discovery, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Peru’s iconic landscapes in a single, well-organized day. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply curious about the stunning natural features of the Andes, this trip offers enough variety to keep you engaged without feeling rushed. Just remember to bring your camera, some extra cash for entrance fees, and a sense of adventure.

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