Full Day Tour to Colca including Transfer to Puno

Discovering the Depths of the Colca Valley and Beyond: A Complete Guide to the Full Day Tour from Arequipa to Puno

Traveling through southern Peru offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and authentic cultural experiences. This full-day tour to the Colca Valley, priced at $60 per person, packs an impressive itinerary into approximately 17 hours, starting early from Arequipa and finishing in Puno at night. Led by knowledgeable guides, the trip covers iconic spots like the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, charming traditional towns, natural reserves, and relaxing thermal baths. Plus, it includes scenic stops with stunning views of the high Andes—truly a long but rewarding day.

What we love about this tour are the stunning vistas of the canyon, especially when watching condors soar at Cruz del Condor, and the opportunity to relax in the Chacapi hot springs, which many travelers find a perfect way to unwind after a busy morning. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize sightseeing while allowing some leisure time. However, a key consideration is the long travel time—about 6 hours from Chivay to Puno—so patience and a good attitude are essential.

This tour suits those who don’t mind a full day on the road but want to see a lot in one go. If you’re keen on exploring the Colca Canyon, appreciating local culture, and enjoying scenic high-altitude landscapes, this experience offers solid value. Just be prepared for early mornings, winding roads, and the suggestion to bring layers, as temperatures can vary.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary including the Cruz del Condor, thermal baths, and scenic viewpoints.
• Professional guides and comfortable transportation make the long day manageable.
• Authentic experiences in traditional towns and markets, plus chances to see condors in flight.
• Good value for the price, with many highlights included, though some entrance fees are extra.
• Travel from Arequipa to Puno via scenic, mountainous routes with beautiful natural reserves.

Exploring the Route: What to Expect at Each Stop

The Journey Begins: Arequipa to Chivay

Starting bright and early at 3:00 am, we meet our guide and board an air-conditioned vehicle for the roughly 3-hour drive to Chivay, the heart of the Colca Valley. This early start is necessary to beat the crowds and catch the best light for photography, especially at the Cruz del Condor. The route itself is quite scenic, with patrols of volcanic landscapes and distant snow-capped peaks.

Chivay: The Warm Heart of the Valley

We arrive in Chivay, the main town of the valley, where breakfast awaits. As one reviewer noted, “The warmth and beauty of the place” make breakfast a delightful start. You’ll have about 30 minutes here—ample time to stretch your legs, browse local markets, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this small, lively town.

Cruz del Condor: The Grand Viewpoint

A 45-minute drive from Chivay takes us to the Cruz del Condor, arguably the most iconic spot. With about 1.5 hours allocated, this stop offers a chance to witness the majestic flight of the condors against the canyon’s edge—an unforgettable moment. The views are breathtaking, revealing the depth of the canyon, which is one of the deepest in the world. We loved the way the soaring birds seemed to glide effortlessly, a sight described vividly in reviews as “thrilling” and “memorable.”

Colca Canyon and Maca Town

Next, we visit the traditional town of Maca, known for its craft markets and local customs. Here, you can snap photos with trained falcons and camelids. If you’re curious about local drinks, traditional beverages like Colca sour are available for purchase. This stop, lasting about 30 minutes, provides a glimpse into rural life and local craftsmanship.

Mirador Antahuilque: The Terraced Viewpoint

At Mirador Antahuilque, we stop to admire the ancient terraces used for agriculture. The scenery is charming, and the view of the valley’s old traditional terraces offers a tangible connection to the land’s history. It’s a peaceful spot to take photos and appreciate the ingenuity of early Andean farmers.

Relaxation at the Hot Springs of Chacapi

A highlight for many is the hot springs in Yanque, where waters from the Chucura volcano reach temperatures of up to 36°C. For about an hour, we soak in the warm, medicinal waters—something reviewers consistently praise as “a perfect way to unwind.” Entrance fees for the springs are not included, but at around 15 soles, many find it well worth the cost for the relaxation.

Returning to Chivay for Lunch and Final Exploration

Back in Chivay, you’ll have time to grab lunch at your leisure—many opt for local eateries offering traditional dishes. Afterward, we hop onto a bus bound for Puno, guided again by a local expert. This leg is about 6 hours long, with scenic stops that make the trip more enjoyable.

Scenic Stops en Route to Puno

• Abra Patapampa: Offers views of snow-capped volcanoes like Coropuna, Ampato, and Hualca Hualca. The panoramic vistas here are worth the 25-minute stop.
• Patahuasi: A brief stop to see camelids and buy coca leaves, giving you a taste of local commerce.
• Laguna Lagunillas: A natural reserve where, depending on the season, you can spot native flora and birdlife.

Arrival in Puno

By approximately 7:30 pm, we arrive in Puno, conveniently close to the city center. The tour ends here, and travelers are free to check into their hotels—an ideal way to relax after a day packed with sights.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

This tour offers a genuine taste of Peru’s highland culture. The stops at traditional towns, markets, and scenic viewpoints give you an authentic window into local life and natural beauty. The knowledgeable guides, like the praised David, enhance the experience by sharing insights about the landscape, culture, and history, making the long hours on the road more engaging.

While the price of $60 covers the transportation, guide, and some meals, note that entrance fees to certain viewpoints and the hot springs are extra. This can add around 20-25 soles if you choose to visit the hot springs and pay for the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Many reviews mention that these additional costs are reasonable for the value of the experience.

The transportation is comfortable and air-conditioned, which is a welcome relief during the early morning start and the long drive. Group size is limited to 24 travelers, fostering a more personal experience, and the small group setting helps you get better interaction with the guide.

Considerations for Travelers

The main drawback for some is the long travel time, especially from Chivay to Puno. If you’re not used to high-altitude travel or windy mountain roads, it might be a bit tiring. The early start and the full schedule also mean you’ll need to be prepared for a day of active sightseeing and variable weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of the Colca Valley without multiple separate excursions. It’s perfect for those who appreciate stunning natural scenery, wildlife viewing (like condors), and culture in small towns and markets. If you’re comfortable with long days and are eager for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic drives, you’ll find this tour offers excellent value for its price.

It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer guided experiences that handle logistics smoothly and include insightful commentary. Also, if you’re on a tight schedule and want to combine the best of southern Peru in one day, this trip efficiently covers many must-see spots.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Arequipa to Puno via the Colca Valley offers a well-rounded experience filled with stunning vistas, authentic local culture, and opportunities for relaxation. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and the scenic stops deliver some of the most memorable views in southern Peru. While the lengthy travel time might test your patience, the effort is rewarded by the diversity of sights—especially the flight of the condors and the beauty of the high-altitude landscapes.

For those who want an affordable, all-in-one adventure that combines nature, culture, and scenic drives, this tour provides considerable value. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road but want to see as much as possible. If your goal is to experience the majestic colossus of the canyon, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy breathtaking mountain views, this trip is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 3:00 am, so be prepared for an early morning pickup and the long day ahead.

How long is the drive from Arequipa to Chivay?
It takes approximately 3 hours to reach Chivay from Arequipa.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some attractions like the Cruz del Condor viewpoint and the hot springs require separate entrance fees, which are payable on-site.

What should I bring for the hot springs?
Swimwear, a towel, and some cash for the entrance fee (around 15 soles) are recommended.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time in Chivay to choose a local restaurant.

How long is the trip from Chivay to Puno?
The journey takes about 6 hours, with scenic stops along the way to break up the drive.

This tour balances scenic beauty, culture, and comfort, making it a memorable way to experience southern Peru’s highlights in a single day. It’s a splendid choice for those eager to see the spectacular depths of the Colca Canyon, the flight of the condors, and the rugged beauty of the high Andes.