Arequipa

Overview

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Itinerary

• We start the tour with a 3:00 AM hotel pickup in Arequipa city (7,628 ft / 2,325 m above sea level). Aboard a comfortable tourist bus, we embark on an approximately 3.5-hour journey to the heart of the Colca Valley. Along the way, you can relax or enjoy stunning views of the Andean highlands at sunrise, passing through vast plateaus and quaint rural communities.nAfter enjoying our breakfast in Chivay we will go to the viewpoint of the Cruz del Condor (3,500 meters above sea level), from where we will appreciate the flight of the condors, also we will have the best panoramic view of the Canyon, which has a depth of 1,200 meters, from the viewpoint to the river.

• Around 6:30 AM, we arrive at the charming town of Chivay, the main gateway to the Colca Canyon. Here, youu2019ll enjoy a traditional breakfast designed to help you acclimate to the high altitude before continuing the tour. Chivay is also famous for its vibrant local markets, friendly residents, and its strategic location close to the canyon, making it an essential stop on any Colca Canyon tour.

• Colca Canyon / Watch the Andean Condors at Cruz del Cu00f3ndornnAfter breakfast, we continue with a 2-hour drive to the iconic Cruz del Cu00f3ndor viewpoint, one of the most visited spots in southern Peru. From this vantage point, youu2019ll enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the Colca Canyon, which reaches depths of up to 1,250 meters from the viewpoint and 2,700 meters at its deepest point near Mount Bomboya. Here, you can admire the majestic flight of the Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world, making this stop a unique experience for nature lovers and photographers. After spending about 1 hour and 15 minutes, we head back toward Chivay with stops at traditional villages: Pinchollo, famous for its hanging pre-Inca tombs and petromaquettes; the Antahuilque Viewpoint, offering views of pre-Inca terraces and lagoons; Maca, known for its handicrafts; Achoma, a peaceful rural village; and Yanque, featuring a beautiful mestizo baroque church, perfect for photos and a brief exploration

• After the optional visit to the hot springs, weu2019ll enjoy a traditional lunch (not included; buffet and u00e0 la carte options available). This is a great opportunity to try authentic regional dishes such as chupe de camarones (shrimp chowder), grilled alpaca, or adobo arequipeu00f1ou2014a flavorful pork stew typical of Arequipa.

• At around 1:00 PM, we return to the town of Chivay, where youu2019ll have the option to visit the relaxing La Calera hot springs. These natural thermal baths, with temperatures reaching up to 100u00b0F (38u00b0C), are perfect for soothing sore muscles after a long journey and unwinding in a peaceful setting surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.

• Patapampa Viewpoint (4,910 m / 16,108 ft)nOn the way back to Arequipa, weu2019ll stop at Patapampa, the highest point of the journey, also known as the Mirador de los Andes. From this altitude, youu2019ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of several iconic volcanoes, including Misti, Chachani, Sabancaya, and Ampato. Itu2019s a stunning photo opportunity and a highlight for landscape lovers.

• Salinas and Aguada Blanca National ReservenContinuing the descent, we cross the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a protected area known for its high-altitude ecosystems and dramatic volcanic scenery. This reserve is home to all four South American camelid species: llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and the graceful and highly protected vicuu00f1a. The area is also rich in wildlife and offers a unique glimpse into Peruu2019s natural biodiversity.

• Arrival in Arequipa u2013 5:00 PMnnWe finish the tour with our return to Arequipa around 5:00 PM. Youu2019ll be dropped off at your hotel or in the historic city center. This marks the end of a full-day experience filled with nature, culture, and adventure in one of Peruu2019s most breathtaking landscapesu2014the Colca Canyon.

Good to know

• Infants are required to sit on an adultu2019s lap

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers

• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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