Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the COLCA CANYON TOUR – 2 DAYS
day 1
DAY 1: AREQUIPA - PAMPA CAÑAHUAS - PATAHUASI - TOCCRA WETLANDS - CHIVAY
On the way to one of the deepest canyons on the planet.
We leave Arequipa among vicuñas, alpacas and volcanoes to reach Chivay, where hot springs and a night of Colca Valley dances await.
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Pickup in Arequipa
By tourist transport, pickup between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m. · Hotel in Arequipa
We pick you up at your hotel in Arequipa and head for the imposing Colca Canyon, stopping to admire the scenery along the way.
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Pampa Cañahuas
Stop · Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve
Inside the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve we see vicuñas in their natural habitat.
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Patahuasi
Stop · Patahuasi
We try traditional coca tea, ideal for adjusting to the altitude.
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Toccra wetlands
Stop · Toccra wetlands
An Andean wetland that is home to alpacas, llamas and many birds.
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Volcanoes Viewpoint
Stop · Volcanoes Viewpoint (4,910 m a.s.l.)
We take in the mountain range and the snow peaks of Ampato, Sabancaya and Hualca Hualca.
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Chivay, hot springs and folk show
Arrival at midday · Chivay
We reach the charming town of Chivay, where you can have lunch (not included) and check in at the hotel. In the afternoon you can relax in the hot springs (optional), and at night have dinner (not included) at a local restaurant with a show of traditional Colca Valley dances.
Day details
- Distance: Approx. 160 km (5 to 6 hours with stops)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Maximum altitude: 4,910 m (Volcanoes Viewpoint)
- Meals: Not included
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Chivay
day 2
DAY 2: CRUZ DEL CÓNDOR - COLCA VALLEY - AREQUIPA
The flight of the condor over Colca.
Early in the morning we reach the Cruz del Cóndor, then tour the valley among Inca terraces and colonial villages before returning to Arequipa.
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Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint Highlight
By transport, after breakfast · approx. 1 hour at the viewpoint · Chivay → Cruz del Cóndor
Very early, after breakfast, we go to the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, the best lookout over Colca Canyon, to watch the Andean condor in flight and take photos.
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Colca Valley viewpoints and villages
By transport, with stops · Colca Valley
We stop at several natural viewpoints to see the impressive Inca terraces and villages with their colonial churches. In some places you can try local drinks (optional).
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Lunch and return to Arequipa
By transport, arrival between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. · Colca Valley → Arequipa Main Square
Around midday we have lunch (not included) and start the drive back through Andean landscapes to Arequipa’s Main Square.
Day details
- Time at Cruz del Cóndor: Approx. 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
- Return to Arequipa: Between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. approx.
Vicuñas, volcanoes, hot springs and the flight of the condor in 2 days. Staying in Arequipa? Discover the Arequipa City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery.
Includes
Transport and guide
- Round-trip tourist transport from Arequipa.
- Professional bilingual guide.
- Entrance ticket to Colca Canyon.
Lodging and experiences
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Chivay (double or matrimonial room).
- Breakfast on day 2 at the hotel.
- Folk dance show.
Not include
Not included
- Meals not mentioned: breakfast on day 1, lunch on both days and dinner on day 1.
- Hot springs entrance (optional).
- Local drinks (optional).
Prices COLCA CANYON TOUR – 2 DAYS
Rates per person
Traveling soon? We recommend booking early to secure your date, but depending on the date you can also book just a few days ahead. Ask us about availability.
Additional services
- Chivay hot springs: Optional; the entrance fee is paid on site.
- Upgraded hotel: You can upgrade to hotels such as Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs or Aranwa Pueblito Encantado del Colca. Ask us for rates.
- Chivay – Puno tourist transfer: Continue on to Lake Titicaca without returning to Arequipa. Ask about availability and rates.
Need help with your trip?
Our team will help you plan your experience.
Packaging list
- Warm clothing: The weather can change.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
- Camera for the unique views.
- Snacks and mineral water.
Recomendations
- Great for acclimatizing: This tour is recommended to adjust to altitude in Arequipa before a trek in higher areas.
- Altitude: The route reaches 4,910 m a.s.l.; walk calmly, stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary effort at the viewpoints.
- Dress in layers: Mornings and nights in Chivay are cold and temperatures can drop to 0 °C.
- Pack light: Avoid heavy luggage to enjoy the experience more.
- Documents and valuables: Always keep them with you.
F.A.Qs
What time does the tour start and end?
Pickup at your hotel in Arequipa is between 7:30 and 8:00 a.m. on day 1. Return to Arequipa’s Main Square is planned between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. on day 2, depending on traffic and route conditions.
How far is Colca from Arequipa?
The Colca Valley is about 160 km away. The drive takes 5 to 6 hours, including the scheduled stops.
Why choose the 2-day tour?
By spending the night in Chivay you reach the Cruz del Cóndor first thing, the best time to see the condor, without an extremely early start. You also have the afternoon of day 1 to explore the town and the hot springs.
Is the Colca Canyon entrance included?
Yes, the entrance ticket is included, so you won’t need to pay for it during the tour.
How long do we stay at the Cruz del Cóndor?
About 1 hour, enough to enjoy the scenery, watch the Andean condor fly and take photos.
Which hotel is included in Chivay?
One night in a selected 3-star hotel, in a double or matrimonial room. For something more exclusive, you can upgrade to hotels such as Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs or Aranwa Pueblito Encantado del Colca.
Which meals are included?
Breakfast on day 2 at the hotel. Breakfast on day 1, lunches and dinner on day 1 are not included; we stop at local restaurants so you can eat what you like.
Can I visit the hot springs?
Yes, optionally, during the free afternoon of day 1 in Chivay. The entrance fee is paid on site and is not included in the rate.
When is the best time to go?
The dry season, from April to October, with clearer skies and less rain. Even so, the tour runs all year round.
Could I get altitude sickness?
It is possible: the route reaches 4,910 m a.s.l. at the Volcanoes Viewpoint. We recommend acclimatizing first in Arequipa, staying hydrated and resting well.
What if I feel unwell?
Our guides are trained in first aid and carry a first-aid kit and an oxygen tank.
How difficult is it?
It is easy: there are no demanding hikes, as the tour is mostly by tourist transport with stops at viewpoints and villages.
Is it suitable for older adults?
Yes, for anyone in good health. If you have a medical condition related to altitude, check with your doctor before traveling.
How big is the group?
We work with groups of 2 to 18 passengers per vehicle for greater comfort.
Does it work as acclimatization before a trek?
Yes, it is an excellent way to adjust gradually to altitude before hikes in higher areas.
What clothes should I bring?
Dress in layers: a warm jacket for morning and night, light clothing for the day, comfortable shoes, a cap or hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. You will find the full list in the What to bring tab.
Is there phone signal or internet?
It depends on the area and the carrier. Chivay usually has good coverage; in some parts of the valley it may be limited.
Can I continue to Puno after Colca?
Yes, we offer a Chivay – Puno tourist transfer to continue to Lake Titicaca without returning to Arequipa. Ask our team about availability and rates.
How do I book?
1. Availability: Email us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check dates; we will send you a booking form for each participant.
2. Passenger details: As shown in the passport: full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality.
3. Deposit: Once we receive the forms, we ask for a guarantee per person to secure your spot and lodging, especially on holidays and in high season.
4. Final confirmation: You will receive the official invoice and your booking will be 100% guaranteed.
Can I cancel or change the date?
Yes, up to 48 hours before departure. An administrative fee applies, deducted from the total amount as appropriate.
Do you have more questions?
Message us on WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418 or email info@sakuraexpedition.com.
