This tour caters to individuals with a specific interest in the natural and cultural landscape of the Colca Valley. The itinerary provides a structured experience for those seeking a preparatory trek for the Inca Trail or acclimation for a subsequent visit to Machu Picchu. The moderate hiking involved aids in altitude adjustment within the Peruvian Andes.
The tour begins at 6:00 AM to mitigate traffic during city departure. The initial stop is at the Sillar quarries, the source of volcanic Sillar stone, a material used in Arequipa’s architectural constructions.
The route proceeds along the Chachani snow-capped mountain, entering the Salinas Aguada Blanca National Reserve. This reserve is habitat to vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas. The vicuña is a national symbol of Peru. A stop at the community of Patahuasi allows for consumption of “TE INKA,” an infusion of Andean medicinal plants, including coca leaf and Andean mint, intended to assist with altitude acclimatization.
Throughout the reserve, stops are made for observation of Andean migratory birds, such as Andean geese, Andean coots, Puna ducks, and occasional Andean flamingos. The highest point of the journey, 4800 meters (15748 feet) above sea level, provides a view of the Central Andean volcanic mountain range and active volcanoes such as Sabancaya, Ampato, and Hualcahualca.
The route descends to the town of Chivay, the capital of the Colca Valley. Time is allocated for a visit to the town and its local market. The tour continues to the town of Coporaque, where lunch is served with a local family. The meal consists of Andean and organic products, including quinoa, trout, and alpaca, accompanied by muña tea. Following lunch, a trek begins to the pre-Inca cemetery of San Antonio de Chiqra, where skulls and skeletal remains of the valley’s early inhabitants are visible.
The trek proceeds to the archaeological complex of Uyu Uyu, a site of early Colca Valley settlements by the Collagua people. An optional visit to the Yanque thermal baths, of volcanic origin and containing medicinal properties from the Sabancaya volcano, is offered.
The journey continues for one hour along the right bank of the Colca River, passing the colonial church of Lari, known as the “Cathedral of the Colca.” The route crosses the valley, arriving at the “La Granja del Colca” eco-lodge. This lodging provides views of the Colca Canyon and surrounding mountains. Overnight stay is provided.
At 6:00 AM, the eco-lodge “La Granja” offers a view of the canyon sunrise and local agricultural activities. Breakfast is provided, with condor sightings possible from the lodge. The tour proceeds to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, a location frequented by travelers observing the Andean condor.
A one-hour period is allocated for condor observation, followed by a two-hour trek along the canyon’s edge towards Cabanaconde. A visit to Cabanaconde’s main square and church is included, along with an optional stop at a local embroidery workshop. The tour continues to the Achachigua viewpoint, providing a panoramic view of the Colca Canyon oasis and the Hualcahualca snow-capped mountain.
The return journey follows the Colca Valley’s left bank, with stops for photographs of Inca and pre-Inca agricultural terraces and hanging tombs. Local fruits, such as sancayo, tuna, passion fruit, and Peruvian tumbo, are available for tasting.
The journey continues to Chivay for lunch. The return trip to Arequipa begins in the afternoon, arriving at approximately 6:00 PM. An option is available for direct transport to Puno, continuing towards Lake Titicaca, or connection with transport from Chivay at 1:00 PM, arriving in Puno at 7:30 PM.
From 1 to 2 people
At Arequipa Andean Explorer, we are passionate about showcasing Arequipa’s natural beauty through responsible tourism. We offer personalized tours—from scenic hikes to classic adventures—designed to match your unique preferences.
