Fortress of Chimpa Experiential

1 Day
  • Tourist Van
  • 2 - 10 persons
  • 4900 meters.
  • Moderate
  • Arequipa
  • March to November
  • Adventure - Cultural
  • English - Spanish
  • Local Food

Overview

🏞️ Chimpa Fortress

Discover the village of Coporaque and live an authentic experience with local families. Then, hike to the imposing Chimpa Fortress, an ancient pre-Inca site with spectacular views of the Colca Canyon.

Recommendations

  • Sun protection.
  • Cash.
  • Wear warm clothing.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Chimpa Fortress: history, nature and Andean tradition

    Beginning of the adventure

    🕒 3:00 AM - Pick up from hotels in Arequipa
    We start very early to make the most of the day. Our transportation will pass by your hotel to start the trip safely and comfortably.

    Typical breakfast and living culture

    🥣 6:00 AM - Breakfast with typical dances
    After a few hours of travel, we arrive at a point where we will enjoy an Andean breakfast. It includes quinoa, traditional breads and coca tea. Meanwhile, local groups perform typical dances with music and colorful costumes.

    Discovering the Colca villages

    🏘️ 6:40 AM - Main square of Chivay
    After breakfast, we visit the main square of Chivay. Here we see how the day begins for the villagers in an atmosphere full of tradition.

    7:10 AM - Coporaque and its ancient chapel
    Further on, we arrive at Coporaque, one of the oldest villages in the valley. There we will see its square and a very old small chapel, a symbol of local history.

    🏛️ 8:40 AM - Colonial church of Lari
    Then, we head to Lari to visit its colonial church. It is a construction of the 18th century, with unique details that tell us about the past of the region.

    Walk to the fortress

    🥾 9:30 AM - Hike to Chimpa Fortress
    We start the hike to this pre-Inca site. Along the way, we will see agricultural terraces, mountains and the great Colca Canyon. It is a route full of landscapes and fresh air.

    🔭 11:00 AM - Descent from the fortress
    After exploring the fortress and taking photos, we begin the descent to the village of Coporaque.

    🏡 11:30 AM - Return to Coporaque
    Back in the village, we take a short break to recover energy before lunch.

    Lunch with local families

    🍲 12:30 PM - Lunch in a local house
    We are welcomed in a local house to share a traditional lunch. Here we taste typical dishes made with fresh products from the valley. In addition, we have a moment to chat with the host family.

    Rural activities and relaxation

    🧑‍🌾 2:00 PM - Rural activities with the community
    After lunch, we participate in farm chores such as planting, harvesting or animal care. We can also wear typical costumes and learn local dances. It is a close way to live the Andean culture.

    ♨️ 3:30 PM - Hot springs
    After the activities, we relax in the hot springs. These natural pools are ideal for resting the body after the hike.

    Return to Arequipa

    🚌 5:30 PM - Return to Arequipa
    We start our way back to the city. During the trip, you can rest or simply enjoy the Andean landscape.

    🌆 8:30 PM - Arrival to Arequipa
    We arrive to the city and end this complete experience, full of history, nature and living culture.

    Do you want to continue your trip to Puno from Chivay? You can add the transfer as an extra service in your reservation.

Includes

  • Tourist transportation.
  • Certified professional guide.
  • Local breakfast in Chivay.
  • Lunch in the village of Coporaque.
  • Cultural activities.
  • Visit to the thermal baths of Sallihua.
  • Personalized assistance throughout the tour.

Does not include

  • Entrance to the thermal baths S/15.00.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How far away is the Colca Valley from Arequipa?

The Colca Valley is located from the city of Arequipa; in a trip of 03 hours approx. you will arrive to the town of Chivay which is the capital of the province of Caylloma, where you will be able to find all the main services such as lodging, restaurants, night entertainment centers and others.

Can I pay by credit card in the Colca Valley?

It is advisable to carry cash since not all establishments offer this service.

What clothes should I bring to the Colca?

In the Colca Valley the weather varies seasonally, it is recommended to bring a warm jacket for the morning and evening as the cold increases; and in the day we can use light clothing; you should also wear sneakers for short hikes, hat or cap, sunscreen and sunglasses. If you plan to visit between December and March it is advisable to bring waterproof clothing since it is the rainy season.