Exploring the Colca Canyon: A 2-Day Journey from Puno to Arequipa

This 2-day tour takes you across some of Peru’s most striking scenery, starting in Puno and wrapping up in Arequipa. For $130 per person, you’ll travel through the rugged Altiplano, witness the impressive Colca Canyon, and stand in awe at the Cruz del Condor, where you might spot the majestic condors soaring overhead.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the spectacular views of the canyon and the chance to connect with local Andean villages. The tour’s highlights—like seeing condors up close and passing through remote, traditional towns—make it well worth the journey. On the flip side, the long bus rides and some optional activities (like thermal baths) might not appeal to everyone looking for a more relaxed pace.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and culture without sacrificing comfort. If you’re eager for a small-group experience with a knowledgeable guide, this trip will give you authentic moments and great value for your money.

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Key Points

Stunning Landscapes: Experience panoramic views of lakes, wetlands, and the expansive Altiplano.
Wildlife Viewing: Spot vicuñas, llamas, alpacas, flamingos, and possibly soaring condors.
Cultural Touchstones: Visit traditional villages like Pinchollo, Maca, Yanque, and archaeological sites.
Unique Route: Drive through the Western Cordillera and past the crater of the extinct Chucura volcano.
Authentic Contact: Enjoy local cuisine during free time and relax in thermal baths if you choose.
Small Group: Limited to 15 participants, offering a more personalized experience.

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Discovering the Beauty of the Colca Canyon: A Detailed Review

Starting the Adventure: Puno to Chivay

The journey begins early, with a hotel pickup in Puno around 6:15 to 6:30 a.m.. We appreciated the punctuality and the comfort of traveling by minibus, which felt cozy and manageable for a group of just 15 people. Our guide, who spoke both English and Spanish, was friendly, well-informed, and keen to share stories about the scenery and local culture.

As we left the city behind, the landscape transformed into the Altiplano, a vast, rugged highland plateau dotted with wetlands, lagoons, streams, and plains. We loved the way the landscape constantly changed—one moment we saw flamingos wading in lagoons, and the next, towering volcanic craters loomed in the distance. Seeing vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas grazing freely was a real highlight, and we could tell from others’ reviews that spotting wildlife was often a memorable part of the trip.

Crossing the Altiplano and the Volcanoes Viewpoint

Our route took us through Patahuasi, where we entered the Colca Canyon region. The highlight of this section is the stop at the volcanoes viewpoint, perched at 4,910 meters, offering sweeping views of the Western Cordillera. It’s a high-altitude stop, so some travelers might want to prepare for the thin air, but the vistas are worth it. The crater of the extinct Chucura volcano adds a dramatic touch to the landscape.

We arrived in Chivay around 1 p.m., where we checked into a local hostal. The included breakfast was simple but satisfying, and we had some free time in the afternoon to explore Chivay. Many travelers enjoy visiting the town’s thermal baths, and while this isn’t included, it’s a popular way to unwind after the bus ride.

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Day Two: The Iconic Cruz del Condor and Village Visits

Breakfast was at the hotel before heading to Cruz del Condor, the tour’s centerpiece. Here we had two hours of free time, which allowed us to soak in the dramatic views of the canyon and, if lucky, see the majestic condors gliding on the thermals. Multiple reviews mentioned that guides often spot condors and help visitors get the best view, making it an unforgettable experience.

On the way back, we traveled through picturesque Andean villages—Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque—each with its own charm. Passing through the terraces and archaeological remains gave us a glimpse into the region’s ancient farming traditions. The deep, narrow Colca Canyon—one of the deepest in the world—is truly impressive when viewed from the viewpoints along the route.

We had an hour for lunch in Chivay—an opportunity to try local dishes or simply relax before heading back to Arequipa. The return journey usually takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, arriving in the late afternoon, around 4:30 to 5 p.m..

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Accommodation and Included Elements

The one-night stay in Chivay includes breakfast, offering a comfortable base to relax after a long day of sightseeing. The small group size enhances the experience, making it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention from your guide.

What’s Included — And What’s Not

The tour covers hotel pickup in Puno, transportation, a guide, and one night’s accommodation with breakfast. However, it doesn’t include the return transfer from Arequipa to Puno, so plan your logistics accordingly. It also involves some optional costs: entrance to the canyon (around S/70, or $18.10 US) and thermal baths (about S/15, or $3.90 US), which you might find worthwhile for the relaxation they offer.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who share stories and facts in both English and Spanish, making the journey informative as well as scenic. The small group size tends to foster camaraderie and personalized attention, which many reviews highlight as a big plus.

While the long bus rides (about 6 hours total over two days) might seem daunting, the scenery and stops make it more bearable. The tour’s value lies in the rich combination of nature, culture, and wildlife viewing, all at a reasonable price.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor beauty, wildlife, and authentic villages, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a bit of travel time in exchange for spectacular views and unique wildlife encounters. For those seeking luxury or a slow-paced experience, you might prefer a shorter or more relaxed activity. But for a comprehensive taste of Peru’s natural splendor and cultural richness, this trip is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Colca Canyon tour offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, wildlife spotting, and culture. The highlight for many is the chance to see condors soar overhead at Cruz del Condor, a truly memorable sight. Traveling with a small group and knowledgeable guide means you’ll get more personal attention and richer insights into the region’s geology and traditions.

The price point of $130 provides good value, considering the included hotel stay, transportation, and guided commentary. It’s a fantastic way to see the depths of the canyon, explore charming villages, and relax in thermal baths if you wish. The experience would suit adventurous travelers eager to combine nature with cultural touches, and who appreciate well-organized, authentic itineraries.

If you’re after a full, immersive experience that showcases some of Peru’s most dramatic landscapes and wildlife, this tour delivers. Just be ready for a couple of early mornings and some bus time, and you’ll come away with stories and views that last.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves some walking at viewpoints and a bus ride over varied terrain, but it’s generally manageable for most travelers in good health. Be prepared for high-altitude stops and bring layers.

What should I bring on this trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing for early mornings and high-altitude stops, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A camera or binoculars might enhance your wildlife viewing.

How much does the entrance fee to the canyon cost?
The entrance fee is 70 S/ (about $18.10 US). This is paid separately and is not included in the tour price.

Can I visit the thermal baths in Chivay?
Yes, many travelers take time to visit the thermal baths, which cost around 15 S/ (about $3.90 US). It’s a relaxing way to unwind after the bus ride.

Will I see condors on this tour?
There’s a good chance you’ll see condors at Cruz del Condor, especially in the early morning hours when they are most active. Guides often help spot them.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a hostal in Chivay, which provides basic but comfortable lodging with breakfast included. It’s a practical base for exploring the area.

Is transportation comfortable?
The minibus is small and cozy, suitable for a group of 15. It’s designed for comfort during the scenic drive but isn’t luxury-class.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, generally it suits families, especially those with older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing and some travel.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s advisable to reserve at least a few weeks ahead, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and confirm starting times.

This tour offers an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich experience for those eager to explore the depths of Peru’s natural beauty, all while traveling comfortably in a small group. Perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure with a touch of local flavor, it’s a memorable way to see the famous condors, the grand Colca Canyon, and vibrant Andean villages.