Full Day Colca Canyon

We will pick you up from hotels near Arequipa’s Main Square.

03:00 a.m. Departure from Arequipa to Chivay.

We will arrive at the town of Chivay to enjoy a delicious breakfast. After breakfast we will go to the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor.

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.

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.

TheChacapi Hot Springs, located in the district of Yanque, in the Colca Valley, are a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and connection with nature. These hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties and their privileged natural environment, surrounded by Andean landscapes and the Colca River.

Thermo-Medicinal Properties

The waters of Chacapi have a temperature ranging between 38°C and 45°C and are rich in minerals such as iron, calcium and magnesium, which makes them ideal for relieving muscular ailments, improving circulation and revitalizing the skin.

Infrastructure and Experience

The resort has several natural outdoor pools, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing swim while contemplating the stunning mountain scenery. The experience is complemented by the tranquility of the surroundings, the sound of flowing water and the pure air of the Andes.

Recommendations

• Bring a bathing suit, towel and sandals.
• Hydrate well before and after bathing.
• Do not remain in the water for more than 20 minutes at a time to avoid exhaustion.

The Baños Termales de Chacapi are a mandatory stop for those visiting the Colca Valley, offering a unique experience of wellness and relaxation in one of the most beautiful environments in Peru.

At the end of the tour, we will go to a traditional restaurant to enjoy lunch.

We start our way back to Arequipa and during the trip we will stop at the Mirador de los Volcanes, which is also the highest area of the road (4900 m.a.s.l.), where we will appreciate a great part of the volcanic chain. Then we will make a short stop also in the Bofedales de Toccra Pampa where we will observe a large number of Alpacas grazing freely in the area.

Bordering the snow-capped Chachani towards Pampa Cañahuas we will pass through the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca, home of vicuñas which live freely in this area.

18:00 p.m. We will arrive in the city of Arequipa and we will leave you very close to the main square.