From Arequipa: Fullday Tour of Colca Canyon + Transfer to Puno
Location: Arequipa Region, Peru
Price: $59 per person
Duration: Approximately 16 hours
Rating: 4.2/5 (9 reviews)

This all-day journey takes you deep into the heart of Peru’s spectacular Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest. Starting early in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Arequipa and head across rugged landscapes dotted with terraced fields and traditional villages. The tour culminates with a transfer to Puno, stopping along the way at various viewpoints and attractions.

What we love about this experience are two key aspects: first, the chance to see majestic condors soaring close at Cruz del Condor, and second, the opportunity to relax in natural thermal springs at Chacapi — a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

A possible consideration is that, being a full-day, the trip is quite packed, and those with limited stamina might find it a bit intense. Lunch isn’t included in the tour price, which could mean extra expense and planning on your part.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Colca Canyon in a single day, especially if you’re short on time but still want to soak in the breathtaking scenery and local culture.

Key Points

Comprehensive Day Trip: Covers key viewpoints, towns, and natural attractions in Colca Canyon.
Condor Viewing: The highlight for many, with close encounters that make the trip memorable.
Thermal Baths: A relaxing stop at Chacapi wells for a natural soak.
Cultural Stops: Visits include colonial churches and pre-Inca tombs, adding depth to the landscape.
Transfer to Puno: Conveniently ends the day with a transfer, saving you effort and time.
Guide Quality: Tour guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

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A Deep Dive Into the Experience

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The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off very early — around 2:30 to 3:00 AM — to make the most of the daylight hours. The first leg involves a roughly three-hour drive through Yura, where you’ll begin to feel the anticipation building as the valleys and mountains unfold outside the window. The early start is necessary to reach the famous Cruz del Condor by around 8:30 AM, which is the key highlight. Here, you’ll witness the impressive flight of condors and stand at one of the deepest points in the canyon. The viewpoint provides a dramatic perspective of steep cliffs and rugged terrain, making it a photographer’s paradise.

After spending approximately 1.5 hours exploring the canyon and taking photos, you’ll visit the charming towns of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque. These towns are dotted with well-preserved colonial churches, giving you a taste of local architecture and history. At Antahuilque and Choquetico Viewpoints, you’ll see pre-Inca tombs and models set against stunning landscape vistas. These stops are perfect for stretching your legs and snapping some memorable pictures.

The tour then proceeds to Chivay for lunch — a good chance to try local dishes or grab a quick snack before heading to the thermal baths at Chacapi. The baths are a natural highlight, offering a relaxing dip with impressive natural views of the surrounding mountains.

In the afternoon, the journey continues with a transfer to Puno, passing through high-altitude landscapes. Stops include volcano viewpoints, the Tocrapampa wetlands, and the Pampa Cañahuas, where you can observe herds of alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. These encounters give travelers a real feel for Andean wildlife and livestock.

The final leg arrives in Puno around 7:00 PM, where you’ll have the chance to explore Lake Titicaca afterward, if your schedule allows.

Transportation and Group Size

Using a touristic van, the trip is relatively comfortable, considering the long hours. The group size is not specified, but given the nature of the tour, it’s likely moderate, which helps with personal interaction and flexibility. The transportation is included in the cost, which means you won’t need to worry about additional transfers or taxis during the day.

Guides and Local Insights

The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with some reviews highlighting guides like Mike as excellent storytellers and helpers. Expect to learn about the geology, ecology, and local culture along the way, making the journey more than just sightseeing — it’s an educational experience too.

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What’s the Value?

At $59 per person, this tour offers an ambitious itinerary packed with spectacular vistas and cultural stops. While it does not include entrance fees (which are about S/.70 for foreigners), the price remains competitive given the long travel hours and included transfers. The fact that you’re transported directly from Arequipa and then to Puno simplifies what could otherwise be a logistical headache, making it a convenient option — especially if you’re eager to maximize your sightseeing time.

The tour’s highlights like condor sightings and thermal baths are especially memorable, and most travelers feel they get good value for the price, despite the long hours. The guided component adds educational richness, and the stops in towns with colonial architecture provide authentic glimpses into local life.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers with a full day to spare, eager to see one of the most impressive natural wonders in Peru without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s an excellent choice if you’re limited on time but still want a taste of the magnificent landscapes and wildlife around Colca Canyon. Those interested in bird-watching, especially condors, will find this particularly rewarding.

Keep in mind, it’s a long day, so travelers with limited stamina or who prefer a more relaxed pace might consider a two-day tour instead, which allows more time at each stop.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Arequipa to Colca Canyon ending in Puno offers a comprehensive and scenic experience packed into a single day. The highlights — condor sightings at Cruz del Condor, visits to colonial villages, natural thermal baths, and wildlife viewing — make it a memorable adventure. The tour’s value lies in its convenience, guided insights, and the chance to see diverse landscapes and local culture in one seamless trip.

While the schedule is tight and lunch isn’t included in the base price, the overall experience provides a solid overview of this stunning region at a fair price. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a full day of exploration without multiple bookings and who enjoy learning about local traditions and natural phenomena.

If you’re after a well-organized, energetic excursion that hits all the main sights of Colca Canyon and then continues onward to Puno, this trip ticks many boxes.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The pickup begins around 2:30 to 3:00 AM to ensure you arrive at Cruz del Condor early enough to see the condors in flight.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most stops are accessible, the long hours and early start may be tiring for some. The tour involves walking at viewpoints and some standing, but it’s manageable for most.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price. You’ll need to budget for meals in Chivay, which offers local options.

What about entrance fees?
Entrance tickets to the canyon (about S/.70 for foreigners) and thermal baths (S/.15) are not included but can be purchased on-site.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, a tourist van with air conditioning and enough space for a full day’s journey. The group size is moderate, aiding interaction and comfort.

Can I see condors flying close?
Yes, Cruz del Condor is renowned for its close condor sightings, making it a highlight of the day.

What’s the best season for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, clear weather is ideal for sightseeing and condor spotting, which tends to be better during dry seasons (May to October).

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Travelers eager to see the highlights of Colca Canyon in one day, wildlife enthusiasts, and those short on time but wanting an authentic, guided experience.