Amazing trip, thoughtful logistics, and a guide who made Machu Picchu unforgettable.
Thi W TripadvisorSignature Peru Tour
Colca Canyon Trekking 2 Days & Transfer to Puno
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StartsCusco
Duration2 Days
Physical LevelEasy
SitesCusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu
Trip Overview
This two-day one-night trip places you directly within the Colca Canyon. It’s a journey into one of the world’s deepest canyons, a place where the landscape changes dramatically and the culture remains distinct.
You will not find a typical tourist experience here. The tour emphasizes direct interaction with the environment and local communities. Observe Andean condors in their natural habitat a sight that conveys the scale of the canyon.
Trek along paths used for generations connecting remote villages that maintain traditional Andean life. You’ll have the chance to experience local food and understand the daily routines of the people who live within the canyon.
The terrain offers varied views: steep canyon walls agricultural terraces and expansive Andean skies. After trekking, the thermal springs in Chivay provide a chance to relax. This trip is for individuals who want to engage with the environment and culture of the Colca Canyon without the distractions of typical tourist amenities.
Day by Day Schedule
The journey starts very early, between 3:00 AM and 3:30 AM, with pickup from your lodging in Arequipa. From there, you’re transferred to Chivay town, located in the heart of the Colca Canyon. Once there, breakfast is served, and then the group heads to the “Cruz Del Condor viewpoint.” This point is key for observing the flight of the condors, an impressive natural spectacle.
After enjoying the condor view, the group moves to the Mirador de San Miguel, which is the starting point of the trek. Around 10:00 AM, the descent to San Juan de Chucchu village begins. This hike lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Upon reaching the village, a pause is made for lunch.
In the afternoon, the hike continues, this time uphill, passing through Cosnirhua and Malata villages. The final destination of the day is Sangalle, which is reached in the late afternoon. Here, travelers have the opportunity to relax in the swimming pool. The night is spent in rustic bungalows.
The second day also starts early, at 5:00 AM. A 3-hour uphill trek begins towards Cabanaconde town, where breakfast is served. After breakfast, the group takes a bus to Chivay village, making some short stops along the way, including Maca village and various tourist viewpoints.
Upon arrival in Chivay, the local thermal springs are visited, where travelers can relax their tired muscles for 30-40 minutes. Then, lunch is served, and afterwards, the group is transferred to the bus that will take them to Puno, which departs at 1:00 PM.
The trip to Puno offers panoramic views of the volcanoes and the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, weather permitting. Arrival in Puno is scheduled for around 7:30 PM.
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Professional English-speaking guide.
- One night lodging in a rustic guesthouse.
- Tourist transport and transfers.
- 2 breakfasts 1 lunch 1 dinner.
What’s Not Included
- Day 2 lunch in Chivay.
- Entrance fee Colca National Park (23 USD).
- Entrance to thermal springs (5 USD) (prices subject to change).
- Mule transport if needed.
More Tour Information
Highlights:
- Trek one of the world’s deepest canyons.
- Observe Andean condors in flight.
- Visit remote Andean villages and see local culture.
Travel Style: Group Adventures
Sunscreen mosquito repellent trekking clothes and shoes (rain and cold) flashlight swimsuit small trekking backpack snacks water bottle towel toilet paper.
Note:
Passengers carry personal belongings during trek. Small backpack recommended. Glad I packed light. Trekking poles are highly recommended.
Additional Details:
- Colca Canyon altitude can cause altitude sickness. Acclimatize in Arequipa before tour.
- Temperatures vary significantly between day and night. Bring warm clothing.
- Chivay thermal springs are excellent for relaxing muscles after hiking.
- Chivay to Puno trip offers scenic volcano and Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve views.
- It is important to respect the customs and traditions of the Andean villages visited.
- The trekking routes can be rocky, and uneven, so good hiking boots are a must.
Colca Canyon Travel Guide: Tips for a Smooth Trip
The Colca Canyon is an incredible place, but it takes some preparation to make the most of it. Here’s a guide to help you have a good experience:
Before You Go:
Acclimatization:
The canyon is high up. Spend a day or two in Arequipa (7,661 feet or 2,335 meters) before your tour. This helps your body adjust to the altitude.
Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals and alcohol.
Packing:
Layers are key. The weather changes a lot. Bring warm clothes for the nights and light clothes for the days.
Good hiking boots are a must. The trails can be rough.
Don’t forget sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
A small backpack for day hikes is useful.
Bring a swim suit, for the hot springs.
Health:
If you have any health concerns, talk to your doctor before you go.
Bring any medications you need.
Bring some pain relievers, for sore muscles.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty. Altitude can dehydrate you.
Pace Yourself:
The treks can be challenging. Take your time and rest when you need to.
Don’t push yourself too hard, especially on the uphill treks.
Respect Local Customs:
The Colca Canyon is home to traditional communities. Be respectful of their customs and way of life.
Ask before taking pictures of local people.
Enjoy the Experience:
The Colca Canyon is a unique and beautiful place. Take the time to appreciate the views and the culture.
Talk to the local people and learn about their traditions.
About the food:
The food is prepared by local people, and is very good. If you have any food allergies, tell your guide before the tour.
About the money:
Bring cash, because many places don’t accept credit cards.
Important Notes:
Condor Sightings: While the Condor Cross offers a good chance to see condors, sightings are not guaranteed.
Entrance Fee: The entrance fee to the Colca Canyon is not included in the tour price.
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is limited in the canyon. Don’t rely on it.
“How hard is the hiking, really?”
Look, it’s not a walk in the park. You’ll be going uphill and downhill, sometimes on rocky paths. If you’re used to walking a lot, you’ll probably be okay. But if you don’t move much, you might find it tough.
“Will I actually see condors?”
Most of the time, yes. The Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint is where they hang out. But they’re wild animals, so nobody can promise anything.
“What should I wear? I’m not sure about the weather.”
Think layers. It can be sunny and warm during the day, but cold at night. Bring a jacket, and maybe a rain jacket too, just in case. And good hiking shoes are a must.
“Is it true I can get sick from the altitude?”
Yeah, that’s a thing. The canyon’s pretty high up. Take it easy the first day, drink lots of water, and maybe chew some coca leaves.
“What’s the food like?”
It’s local food, mostly. You’ll get things like quinoa soup, potatoes, and maybe some alpaca meat. It’s simple, but it’s good.
“Where do we sleep?”
The first night, you’ll be in these little bungalows in Sangalle. They’re basic, but they’re fine for one night.
“Do I need to bring a lot of money?”
Some. The entrance fee to the canyon and the hot springs isn’t included. And you might want to buy some souvenirs or snacks. Cash is best, because not everyone takes cards.
“Are the hot springs worth it?”
After a day of hiking? Definitely. They’re a great way to relax your sore muscles.
“What if I can’t finish the hike?”
There are mules you can rent if you get too tired. But it’s better to try and walk if you can.
“Is the tour guide helpful?”
Yeah, they know their stuff. They’ll tell you about the history of the place and the local culture. And they can help you if you have any problems.
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