Arequipa in 7 Days and 6 Nights – Experience the Magic of the Colca Canyon

We will start with the pick up from your hotels to go to the meeting point to board our mobility.

Available hours: 09:00 a.m. – 14:00 p.m.

We will visit the picturesque district of Yanahuara, known for its charming colonial architecture. Here we will explore its iconic portals and historic church, while discovering the fascinating history of this place. In addition, we will enjoy a spectacular view of the Misti Volcano, perfect for capturing unforgettable photographs at the famous Yanahuara Portals.

We will continue our tour to the Carmen Alto viewpoint, from where you can admire the impressive terraces of the district and enjoy a panoramic view of the three majestic volcanoes that surround Arequipa: Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu.

Next, we will head to the Incalpaca Minizoo, where admission is free and we will be able to observe the four South American camelids: llama, alpaca, vicuña and guanaco.
Then, we will visit the historic Casona Villa, a colonial mansion converted into a museum that houses valuable relics of Arequipa’s history. Admission is optional, but highly recommended for those who wish to delve into the city’s past.
Our next stop will be the Molino de Sabandia, a unique place where a water mill still operates and another mini zoo is located. In addition, those who wish can enjoy optional activities such as:

• Horseback riding
• ATV ride
• Zipline

In this picturesque place, you will also have the opportunity to taste typical Arequipa dishes.
Finally, we will visit the Menelic Museum, where we will meet the most famous bull of Arequipa, recognized for the numerous medals he won. At the end of the tour, we will return to the city center, leaving you near the Plaza de Armas so you can continue exploring.

01 NIGHT IN AREQUIPA

We will start the tour by picking you up from your hotels in downtown Arequipa at 07:30 a.m. We will take the road to Yura and enter the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a protected area where we will be able to observe the vicuña, one of the most emblematic South American camelids of the region.

We will make a stop in the picturesque village of Patahuasi, where we recommend enjoying the traditional Inca Mate, an essential drink to combat altitude sickness (soroche), made with three natural herbs: coca leaf, muña and chachacoma.
Next, we will make a brief stop at the Bofedales de Toccra, a beautiful landscape where we can observe a large number of alpacas feeding freely in the area.
The next stop will be at the Mirador de los Volcanes, the highest point of our tour, at 4,900 m.a.s.l., from where we can admire the impressive chain of volcanoes, from where we will be able to admire the impressive volcanic chain of the western mountain range. After enjoying this landscape, we will begin a descent of approximately 40 minutes to reach the picturesque village of Chivay.

13:00 p.m. We will arrive in Chivay, where we will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with traditional dishes of the region.
After lunch, we will settle into our hotels, where we can relax before heading to the thermal baths, known for their thermo-medicinal properties, ideal for the skin and bones.
In the evening, we will have a dinner accompanied by a folkloric show, with typical dances of the area that will allow us to learn more about the local traditions.
We will spend the night in the Colca, enjoying a unique experience in the heart of the Valley.

01 NIGHT IN THE COLCA

We will have breakfast at our corresponding hotels. After breakfast we will go to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

TheMirador Cruz del Cóndor is one of the most emblematic and most visited points of theColca Canyon, located in the southern region of Peru. This viewpoint offers a spectacular view of the deep and majestic canyon walls, which extend over 4,000 meters deep.

Andean Condor Observation

The highlight of this lookout point is the opportunity to observe the majesticAndean Condor, one of the most impressive flights in the world. In the early morning hours, the condors emerge from the depths of the canyon, gliding over the thermal currents in search of food. With a wingspan that can reach up to 3 meters, these enormous birds offer a unique spectacle for visitors.

Impressive Landscapes

In addition to condor watching, theMirador Cruz del Condor offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Colca Canyon, the surrounding mountains and nearby towns. The combination of natural landscapes and the presence of condors creates a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression on those who visit.

The viewpoint is well located and easily accessible, which makes it an obligatory stop for those exploring the Colca Canyon. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to connect with the majesty of nature and the Andean fauna.

On our return we will visit the towns ofYanque andMaca, located in the Colca Valley, are two charming destinations that stand out for their rich history, colonial architecture and living traditions. Both towns preserve their Andean essence, fusing the colonial influence with the ancestral customs of the indigenous peoples of the region.

Yanque

Yanque is known for itsmain square, where the church ofSan Juan Bautista, a colonial style construction dating from the 17th century. This town is famous for its colorful landscapes, its pre-Inca agricultural terraces, and its proximity to the Baños Termales de Chacapi, a perfect destination to relax after a day of exploration. In Yanque, visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the place, stroll through its cobblestone streets and experience rural Andean life.

Maca

Maca is another of the most picturesque colonial towns in the Colca Valley. The Maca Church, also of colonial origin, is an outstanding example of the religious architecture of the time, with beautiful frescoes and details that narrate the history of the town. Maca is known for its cultural traditions, such as the typical dances performed during local festivities, and for theirhospitality. Visitors can interact with the locals, who still preserve their ancestral customs.

Cultural Experience

Both towns are ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the region. Through their colonial churches, plazas, local markets and festivities, Yanque and Maca offer a unique glimpse into the legacy of colonial times and Andean traditions that are still alive today.

Visiting these villages is an excellent way to get to know the authentic Andean rural life, while enjoying the impressive landscapes of the Colca Valley.

12:30 p.m. We will have lunch in Chivay and return to the city of Arequipa.

17:30 p.m. We will arrive in the city of Arequipa, and drop you off near the main square.

01 NIGHT IN AREQUIPA

06:00am – 06:30am – We will pick you up from your hotels in the city center.

07:30am – Our first visit will be in theViewpoint of the Volcanoes of the district of Chiguata; to which we will arrive in an average of 45 minutes; from there we will be able to observe our representative volcanoes and we will be able to take pictures. Later we will be arriving to the Village of Chiguata and visit theChiguata’s main square where you will find its traditionalIglesia Espiritu Santo and afterwards we will taste a traditionalbreakfast of the area.

Then we will continue our way and in a journey of 01 hour approx. we will make a stop at the Alto Simbral (4200 m.a.s.l.) where we will be able to observe local plants such as theQueñua, Yareta, Tola, etc.

Continuing our tour we will arrive at theLaguna de Salinas where we will stay between 01 hour to 01 hour and 30 minutes making different stops for bird watching.Flamingos, Parihuanas, water mirrors (from January to March), sightings ofvicuñas, llamas and alpacas (all year round). In dry season (April to December) we will visit the salt extraction centers where imagination is indispensable to take spectacular pictures.

Then, we will continue our tour to the Mini Volcano and the Lojen Hot Springs, where we will have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing bath.

Finally we will return to Chiguata for lunch and then we will start our way back to the city of Arequipa.

17:30pm – Arrival to the city and drop off near the Plaza de Armas.

01 NIGHT IN AREQUIPA

06:00 a.m. We will start the tour with the pick up of each passenger to take the road to Yura and leave the city of Arequipa.

Town of Pampa de Arrieros

Our first stop will be in the village of Pampa de arrieros where we will find one of the old train stations, very important in colonial times, we will take a short walk to see its church and old buildings.

Vicuñas Viewpoint

After visiting the village of Pampa de Arrieros we will enter the Salinas y Aguada Blanca Reserve where we will visit the vicuña lookout point. The Vicuña is an animal that is protected by the state and belongs to the camelid family.

Patahuasi

As a third point we will visit Patahuasi, here we recommend tasting the Inca mate composed of 3 Andean herbs such as Coca leaf, Muña and Chachacoma very good for the altitude, we will also observe the Castles of Patahuasi which are natural rock formations where if you are a good observer you will find different forms of animals.

Pillone Falls and Stone Forest

As a fourth point, we will go to the town of Imata, located on the border with Puno. The mobility will leave us at a starting point, from where we will begin a walk down a ravine and following the river bank until we reach the impressive waterfall of Pillone. Then, we will visit the Imata Stone Forest, a place considered also as an energetic point, where we will be able to observe diverse figures formed in the rocks by the erosive effects of the wind and the rain throughout the time.

17:00 p.m.  We will arrive in the city of Arequipa, and we will drop you off near the main square.

01 NIGHT IN AREQUIPA

04:30am We will start with the pick up from your hotels located at the historic center or meeting point at the main square of the city.

ThePetroglyphs Tour will take you to discover the impressive samples of rock art in theMajes Valley, Arequipa. During this tour, we will explore the famous Petroglyphs of Toro Muerto, an archaeological complex with thousands of pre-Hispanic engravings that offer a unique window to the past. In addition, we will visit the Querulpa Dinosaur Footprints, a fascinating paleontological site where you can observe fossilized footprints of dinosaurs that inhabited the region more than 100 million years ago. To complete the experience, we will also visit a local vineyard, where you can learn about the production process of wines and pisco of the region, with the opportunity to taste some of its best varieties. This tour combines history, nature and tradition, providing a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Majes Valley.

We will visit thePetroglyphs of Toro Muerto are one of the most impressive and enigmatic archeological sites in Peru, located in theMajes Valley, in the Arequipa region. This rock art complex is considered one of the largest in South America and is home to more than 5,000 rock engravings dating back to between the500 and 1000 A.D., belonging to pre-Incan cultures such as theWari.

Main characteristics:

• Rock art: The petroglyphs of Toro Muerto consist of a series of engravings and drawings on large rocks, representing geometric figures, animals, human beings and scenes that could be related to religious beliefs, rituals or the daily life of ancient civilizations.
• Location: The site is located about 80 kilometers from the city of Arequipa, in an arid area of the valley, making it an isolated place but of great interest to archaeologists and tourists.
• Diversity of figures: Among the engravings, there are representations of camelids, snakes, abstract forms and anthropomorphic figures, which have been the object of diverse interpretations. Some studies suggest that they could have had a ceremonial or astronomy-related purpose.
• Cultural heritage: The Toro Muerto Petroglyphs are an invaluable cultural heritage, and their preservation is crucial to understand the beliefs and artistic expressions of the civilizations that inhabited the region.

On-site activities:

• Guided tour: Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the meaning and history behind the engravings, with local guides specialized in petroglyph interpretation.
• Photography: The natural beauty of the surroundings and the impressive collection of engravings make this site an ideal place for photography.
• Exploration: The area is ideal for hiking and exploration, as the engraved rocks are distributed over a wide area, allowing tourists to enjoy a quiet and educational tour.

Visiting the Toro Muerto Petroglyphs is a unique experience for history, archeology and art lovers, allowing them to discover the legacy of ancient Andean cultures in an impressive natural environment.

After visiting the petroglyphs, our next stop will be LasDinosaur footprints of Querulpa. They are one of the main paleontological attractions in the region of Querulpa. Arequipa, specifically in theMajes Valley. This site, which is located near the village of Querulpa, is famous for housing an impressive collection of fossilized footprints of dinosaurs that inhabited the area over100 million years, during the periodCretaceous.

Main characteristics:

• Fossilized footprints: The dinosaur footprints at Querulpa are imprinted in the rocks of the region, and can be observed up close in different areas of the site. These footprints were left by dinosaurs of various species, including herbivores and carnivores, allowing scientists and visitors to learn more about the fauna that inhabited the area in prehistoric times.
• Diversity of footprints: Tracks of different sizes can be found at the site, some of which can be more than 1 meter long. These footprints allow us to understand the behavior of the dinosaurs, such as their movements, size and type of locomotion.
• Geological context: The footprints are found in rock formations that have been preserved over the centuries, making them a valuable testimony to the geological history of the region. The site offers a unique view of what the landscape was like in prehistoric times.
• Accessibility: The Querulpa dinosaur footprints are located in an area that is easily accessible to tourists, and a guided tour is available to explain the importance of the site and its paleontological history.

On-site activities:

• Guided tour: Visitors can take a tour with specialized local guides who provide detailed information about the footprints, the dinosaurs that left them and the geological history of the region.
• Photography: This site is ideal for photography, as the fossilized footprints, combined with the arid and mountainous landscape of the Majes Valley, offer spectacular scenery.
• Exploration: Tourists can walk through the area and explore different areas where footprints are found, allowing them to experience the prehistoric history of the region up close.

Importance:

TheQuerulpa’s Dinosaur Footprints are an invaluable testimony of life on Earth millions of years ago. This paleontological site is not only fascinating for science and history lovers, but also offers a unique experience for those who wish to connect with our planet’s remote past.

After this fascinating visit, we will head to the picturesque village of Corire, where we will have the opportunity to enjoy the delicious local cuisine, savoring traditional dishes that reflect the rich culture and authentic flavor of the region.

We will visit Chancharay a recreational complex  where we can take advantage of the swimming pools and enjoy unique moments with friends and family. TheBalneario de Chancharay is a tourist attraction located in the region ofArequipa, known for its hot springs and relaxing natural environment. This spa is ideal for those seeking to enjoy a moment of rest and wellness, surrounded by the beauty of the Andean landscapes.

Main characteristics:

• Natural environment: The spa is located in a stunning natural environment, surrounded by mountains and vegetation, which offers a quiet and comforting experience. It is a perfect place to disconnect and enjoy the peace of the landscape.
• Facilities: Chancharay has several pools of different temperatures, adapted to offer a comfortable and pleasant experience. In addition, the place offers massage services and other complementary therapies for a complete wellness experience.
• Accessibility: The resort is easily accessible from the city of Arequipa, making it an excellent choice for a day trip or weekend excursion.

Activities in the Chancharay Spa:

• Hiking and exploration: The natural environment offers several options for hiking and exploration, allowing you to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
• Relaxation and wellness: The spa also offers relaxation services, such as massages and facials, for those seeking a more complete wellness experience.

The Balneario de Chancharay is an ideal place for those who wish to relax, enjoy and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature, all while benefiting from the healing properties of the thermal waters.

Finally, we will visit a Wine and Pisco Winery where we will be given a detailed explanation of the winemaking process.wine and pisco, two of the most emblematic beverages of the region. Forming part of the Pisco Route, this experience will allow us to learn about the traditional and modern techniques used in the production of these delicious beverages, from thegrape harvest untilbottling.

Thevisit to the wine and pisco cellar is a unique experience for lovers of traditional Peruvian beverages. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to learn about the process of production of wine and pisco, two of Peru’s most representative beverages.

Main characteristics of the visit:

• Guided tour: A specialized guide will take you through the winery facilities, explaining the stages of production, from harvesting the grapes to bottling the wine and pisco. You will learn about the different grape varieties used and the traditional techniques employed to create these beverages.
• Wine and Pisco Tasting: At the end of the tour, you will enjoy a tasting of some of the winery’s best wines and piscos. You will be able to taste different types of wines, such as red, white and rosé, as well as several varieties of pisco, a distilled spirit that is an integral part of Peruvian culture.
• History and tradition: In addition to learning about the production process, you will learn about the history of the winery and its importance in the winemaking tradition of the region. Local wineries often have centuries of history, passing down knowledge and techniques from generation to generation.
• Landscapes and surroundings: Wineries are often located in beautiful landscapes, surrounded by vineyards offering panoramic views. This picturesque setting makes the visit even more enjoyable and unique.
• Shopping: If you wish, you can purchase bottles of wine and pisco directly from the winery, perfect to take home as a souvenir or to enjoy at home.

A visit to the wine and pisco winery is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy authentic flavors and learn about Peru’s winemaking tradition.

20:30pm We will arrive in the city of Arequipa and drop you off near the Plaza de Armas.

01 NIGHT IN AREQUIPA

08:30 a.m. We will begin the tour by picking up passengers at the hotels in downtown Arequipa, guaranteeing a punctual and comfortable departure for everyone.

09:00 a.m. We begin our journey to the Sillar Route, a tour full of history and culture, where we will explore quarries and key areas in the extraction of sillar.
Our first stop will be at the Añashuayco Quarry, approximately 45 minutes away. Currently in exploitation, here the quarrymen work from early in the morning, extracting the stone that has been fundamental for the architecture of Arequipa.
In this impressive place, we will be able to observe a vast canyon surrounded by cliffs (ignimbrite walls) that reach several meters high, formed by the extraction of sillar over the years.
We will tell you the fascinating history of sillar, its elaboration process and its importance in the construction of the city. In addition, in this quarry you will be able to admire a mega carving representing the Church of the Society of Jesus, a work made by the stonemasons themselves.

Next, we will go to the Quebrada de Culebrillas, located 30 minutes from the Añashuayco Quarry. Upon arrival, we will hike for approximately 20 minutes into this small canyon, formed by the passage of water over the centuries. The walls of the canyon, which reach between 15 and 20 meters high, rise as we advance along the route, creating an impressive landscape. At the end of the hike, we can admire petroglyphs made by the Wari culture more than a thousand years ago, a fascinating example of the ancestral history of the region.

During the tour, we will also have the opportunity to observe the Apachetas, formations of stones placed one on top of the other, which represent a symbol of gratitude towards nature. These structures are an Andean tradition, used as offerings to the Pachamama (Mother Earth) in recognition of favors received.

11:30 a.m. We will start our return trip to the city of Arequipa.
13:30 p.m. We will arrive in downtown Arequipa and drop you off near the Plaza de Armas.

We will coordinate the pick-up time for the transfer to the airport or terrapuerto.

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