A Complete Day Exploring the Colca Canyon and Heading to Puno

This full-day tour takes you from the bustling streets of Arequipa to the breathtaking vistas of Colca Canyon, one of Peru’s most iconic natural attractions. For $114 per person, you’ll enjoy an early start—being picked up around 3:00 am—and a journey that promises spectacular views, wildlife encounters, and relaxing hot springs. Your day culminates with a transfer to Puno, making this a practical way to see two major sights in one go.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience are two things: First, the chance to witness the majestic flight of the condors at Mirador de la Cruz del Condor, which is truly unforgettable. Second, the opportunity to unwind in soothing thermal baths, offering a perfect break amidst your busy day.

A potential consideration is the early start time—if you’re not an early riser, the 3:00 am pickup might challenge your sleep schedule. Also, since the tour involves a transfer to Puno afterward, it’s best suited for those comfortable with long travel days. This experience fits travelers eager for a comprehensive day of natural beauty and cultural insights, especially if you’re looking to maximize your time in southern Peru.

Key Points

Early Departure: Starts at 3:00 am, ideal for maximizing your day.
Condor Viewing: The highlight is watching condors soar at the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor.
Thermal Baths: Enjoy a relaxing soak in natural hot springs.
Cultural Stops: Visit villages like Maca and Achoma for authentic local flavor.
Transfer to Puno: Conveniently continue your journey without multiple bookings.
Guided Experience: Includes professional guides speaking English and Spanish, enriching your understanding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the Tour

When you sign up for this full-day adventure, you’re signing up for a carefully planned itinerary that balances sightseeing, culture, and relaxation. Starting at 3:00 am with a pick-up from your hotel (or a central location if coordinated), you’ll set off on a roughly 3-hour drive heading south from Arequipa into the Colca Valley. The early start is necessary because the Colca Canyon is best viewed in the morning light, and you want to beat the crowds to see the condors glide effortlessly on the thermals.

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Early Morning Transfer and Breakfast

Your journey begins with a comfortable ride in a tourist transport vehicle, with the promise of being picked up from your hotel or another central spot. The drive itself is scenic, with rolling highland landscapes giving way to the dramatic depths of the canyon. Around 6:00 am, you’ll stop in Chivay for breakfast—an excellent opportunity to fuel up before the main sightseeing. Many travelers find the early morning drive worth it for the tranquility and the chance to see the Andean dawn.

The Condor Viewing at Mirador de la Cruz del Condor

By approximately 7:30 am, you’ll arrive at the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor, the tour’s star attraction. Here, the main event is watching condors—the largest flying bird in the world—perform their slow, graceful circles against the canyon’s sheer walls. Several reviews highlight this as a spectacular experience, with one traveler mentioning, “We loved the way the condors soared so close, and it’s easy to see why this is one of Peru’s top wildlife sights.”

The vantage point offers jaw-dropping views of the depth of the canyon, which can be over 3,000 meters deep. It’s a genuine thrill to see these massive birds riding the thermals effortlessly, especially since the spectacle is often best in the morning when conditions are optimal.

Visiting Villages and Tourist Viewpoints

After the condor stop, your guide will take you on a tour of other village viewpoints such as Maca and Achoma. These small settlements are dotted along the canyon rim, offering glimpses of local life and stunning panoramic views. Expect some time for photos and perhaps a brief chat with local residents if opportunity allows.

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Hot Springs and Relaxation

By around 11:30 am, the group heads to the hot springs—a well-earned break. Entrance costs about S/.15, and travelers often mention how relaxing it is after a morning of sightseeing. The warm waters are believed to have therapeutic benefits, and soaking here can be a delightful way to unwind while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.

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Lunch and Continuing the Journey

Following the baths, a provided lunch at roughly 12:30 pm offers a chance to experience local cuisine. Many reviews note that the meal is satisfying and a welcome energizer before the long transfer to Puno.

Transfer to Puno

The final leg begins around 1:15 pm, where you’ll switch to another vehicle headed towards Puno. The journey generally takes about 6 hours, so prepare for a long but scenic drive through the Peruvian highlands. This transfer is a smart way to connect two major destinations without extra fuss—your guide usually ensures smooth logistics.

Arrival in Puno

You’ll arrive in Puno’s main square around 7:45 pm, completing your day of adventure. The transfer service is convenient, though it means a full day on the road, so pack snacks and patience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s included features—such as transport to Puno, hotel pickup, a professional guide, and breakfast—provide good value for the overall experience. The guide’s bilingual service helps deepen your understanding of local sights and culture.

However, some things aren’t included: entrance fees to the Colca Valley, lunch (besides breakfast), snacks, drinks, or souvenirs. The hot springs cost about S/.15 extra, and this may be worth considering if you want to fully indulge.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re an early riser eager to see the majestic condors and enjoy hot springs in one day, this tour could be perfect. It’s also a good option if you want a comprehensive day that combines wildlife, scenic views, and local culture, especially since it includes transportation to Puno.

Travelers who dislike long drives might find the transfer tiring, but most appreciate the value of seeing so much in one day without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided, worry-free day that maximizes sightseeing.

This Full Day at the Colca Canyon and transfer to Puno offers a practical and well-rounded way to experience one of Peru’s most famous landscapes. The combination of spectacular condor sightings, relaxing thermal baths, and authentic village visits make it a memorable day. The early start might be a challenge, but it’s a small price for the chance to see the canyon in the best light and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Travelers who thrive on a balance of wildlife watching, scenic views, and cultural stops will find this tour delivers good value. It’s best suited for those comfortable with long travel days, curious to see both natural wonders and local life, and eager to continue their journey to Puno with an enriched appreciation of southern Peru’s landscapes.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with a pickup around 3:00 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day at the canyon.

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Colca Canyon?
The transfer takes approximately 3 hours, with scenic views along the way.

Are meals included in the tour?
Breakfast is included, but lunch is not. You’ll have time to enjoy a local meal after visiting the villages and before heading to Puno.

Can I see condors on my own?
The Mirador de la Cruz del Condor is the best and most reliable spot for condor sightings, especially in the morning.

What should I bring for the hot springs?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, and perhaps a change of clothes. Entrance costs about S/.15 if you want to soak.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the early start and long day of travel. Children should be comfortable with early mornings and extended transfers.

How do I transfer to Puno after the tour?
The tour provider offers a tourist transport service that takes you directly to Puno’s main square, simplifying your travel plans.

What’s the overall value of this tour?
For $114, you get a guided experience, transportation, and key sights—all in one packed day—making it good value for travelers wanting an overview of the Colca Canyon and a convenient transfer to Puno.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This tour packs in a lot—nature, wildlife, culture, and scenic drives—making it an excellent choice if you’re looking to make the most of your time in southern Peru without overcomplicating logistics.