From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Day Hike
ID: GYG1038260-1600430
Categoria:
Paese: Peru
Durata:
13:00 ore
Descrizione
Hike across one of the world’s deepest canyons on a full-day adventure from Arequipa. Spot majestic condors, explore stunning landscapes, and discover traditional Andean villages.
Embark on an unforgettable full-day hiking adventure through one of the deepest canyons in the world — the majestic Colca Canyon. Escape the crowds and explore authentic Andean landscapes on a carefully crafted route that blends natural beauty, culture, and adventure.
Start your day early with a hotel pickup in Arequipa, then drive through the Andean highlands to reach the Mirador de los Volcanes "La Bruja", located at an impressive 4,900 meters above sea level. Take in panoramic views of snow-capped volcanoes and puna landscapes before continuing to the AGOTREK Viewpoint, where you'll observe ancient pre-Inca terraces and the source of the Amazon River.
Stop briefly at the Cruz del Cóndor, the most famous viewpoint of the canyon, for a chance to see the majestic Andean condor in flight. Then, enjoy a nutritious picnic breakfast near Tapay Viewpoint, a more peaceful and exclusive spot offering incredible views of the Chila mountain range, the pre-Inca ruins of Qaqa Tapay, and, if lucky, more condors.
Your hiking adventure begins here. Walk over 5 kilometers along a well-preserved section of the Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Inca road network. Over approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, you'll descend along the canyon’s edge, surrounded by dramatic scenery, unique flora, and breathtaking Andean views.
After the hike, relax in the natural hot springs of La Chimpa (optional, entrance not included), then enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at a local countryside family restaurant. On the return to Arequipa, drive through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you can observe wild vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas in their natural habitat.
This tour is designed for small groups (2–10 travelers), prioritizing authenticity, nature, and sustainable travel. It’s a perfect mix of hiking, culture, and Andean wonder — without the mass tourism.
Highlights
Hike more than 5 km on ancient Inca trails (Qhapaq Ñan)
Spot Andean condors and explore breathtaking viewpoints
Enjoy an exclusive picnic breakfast surrounded by nature
Relax in natural thermal baths (optional)
Discover local flavors in a family-run countryside restaurant
Travel in small groups to avoid mass tourism and ensure a personalized experience
Itinerary (Summary)
2:45–3:00 AM: Pickup from hotel or main square in Arequipa
6:20 AM: AGOTREK Viewpoint – terraces and Amazon River source
6:40 AM: Drive to Cruz del Cóndor (short stop)
7:40 AM: Picnic breakfast at Tapay Viewpoint
8:30 AM: Start 5+ km hike (1.5–2 hrs) along Inca trails
10:00 AM: End of hike, drive to Yanque
11:00 AM: Thermal baths at La Chimpa (optional)
12:00 PM: Lunch at a local family restaurant
1:00 PM: Return trip via Salinas & Aguada Blanca Reserve
5:00 PM: Approximate arrival in Arequipa
Punti salienti
- Hike ancient Inca trails, spot condors, and enjoy exclusive viewpoints
- Discover the Colca Canyon on a small-group, non-touristy experience
- Enjoy a picnic breakfast with panoramic views of the Andes
- Explore remote Andean villages far from the tourist crowds
- Relax in natural hot springs after your scenic canyon hike
Lingue guida
INFORMAZIONI IMPORTANTI
Important Information
A moderate fitness level is required. This tour is not suitable for people with heart, respiratory, or mobility issues. The maximum altitude reached is 4,900 m (16,000 ft), so we recommend acclimatizing in Arequipa at least one day before the tour.
Temperatures range from -2 °C (28 °F) in the early morning to 25 °C (77 °F) during the day.
Includes a picnic breakfast. Lunch is optional and not included (vegetarian options available upon request).
The Colca Tourist Ticket is not included:
Foreigners: PEN 70
Latin Americans: PEN 40
Peruvians: PEN 20
Hot springs entrance (optional): PEN 15.
Small group tour, maximum 10 participants.
Tour conducted in English and Spanish.
Your guide carries a first-aid kit.
What to Bring
Comfortable trekking shoes
Warm layered clothing
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
Reusable water bottle
Swimsuit, towel, and sandals (for hot springs)
Cash for entrance fees
Any personal medication
Pickup for the tour is at the Plaza Mayor (Main Square) of Arequipa or at the hotel where you are staying, as long as it is located within the Historic Center
INCLUSO
- Pre-tour orientation (briefing)
- Pickup from hotel or city center
- Authorized private tourist transport
- Official bilingual (English/Spanish) trekking guide
- Certified in first aid (Red Cross Peru)
- Nutritious picnic breakfast
- Guided hike on Qhapaq Ñan trail
- First aid kit and on-route assistance
- Traditional “Pago a la Pachamama” ceremony
NON INCLUSO
- Entry to Colca Canyon (PEN 70 general / PEN 40 Latin American / PEN 20 Peruvian)
- Entry to hot springs (PEN 15)
- Optional buffet lunch (PEN 45 – card accepted)
- Optional activities: horseback riding, zipline, ATVs, etc.
Quando dovrei prenotare?
Per garantire la disponibilità, prenota il prima possibile. La prenotazione anticipata è consigliata soprattutto se stai pianificando il viaggio durante l'alta stagione come le festività pubbliche o i fine settimana.
Cancellazioni
Questa escursione può essere annullata senza costi fino a 24 ore prima dell'inizio del viaggio. Se la annulli dopo 24 ore o non ti presenti all'escursione, ti verrà comunque addebitato il prezzo intero dell'attività. Essere in ritardo al ritiro o alla partenza sarà considerato come non presentarsi.
