Experience one of the deepest canyons in the world on this unforgettable full-day tour to the Colca Canyon, departing from Arequipa in the early morning. The adventure begins with a scenic drive to Chivay, the gateway to the canyon, where you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before continuing to the famous viewpoint “La Cruz del Cóndor.” From here, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring flight of the Andean condor soaring over the dramatic canyon landscape—a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity.
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
Along the route, you’ll explore traditional Andean villages such as Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque, known for their colonial churches, terraced farmlands, and vibrant local culture. You’ll also stop at archaeological lookouts like Antahuilque and Choquetico before relaxing at the Chacapi hot springs (optional). On the return journey to Arequipa, take in breathtaking views of snow-capped volcanoes at the Patapampa viewpoint (4,910 m.a.s.l.) and spot native wildlife in the wetlands of Toccra and the Pampa Cañahuas national reserve.
Home to wild vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas in their natural habitat, this high-altitude landscape is a protected reserve known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty.
This colonial town was founded during the time of Viceroy Toledo as a reduccion—a settlement designed to convert indigenous peoples to Christianity. Its historic layout follows Spanish patterns, with a central square flanked by a church, town hall, and traditional family homes.
In Yanque, you’ll visit the beautiful Church of the Immaculate Conception, a stunning example of Andean baroque architecture dating back to 1690. Maca, located at 3,262 m.a.s.l., is known for its agriculture and pre-Inca terraces, where locals still grow potatoes, corn, barley, and alfalfa.
One of the tour’s main highlights. From this iconic viewpoint, you’ll gaze down into the Colca Canyon, over 1,200 meters deep, while Andean condors soar gracefully above and below. With the canyon wall opposite rising up to 3,100 meters, this is a panoramic experience that visitors call truly “spectacular.”
Located on the Andean plateau behind the Chachani and Misti volcanoes, this reserve spans over 314,000 hectares. It’s a key habitat for the endangered vicuña, prized for its incredibly fine wool. Conservation efforts have been successful in protecting this graceful species from extinction.
At approximately 5:30 PM, we will arrive back in the city of Arequipa, concluding your unforgettable full-day tour of the Colca Canyon.
The “Colca Canyon Full Day Tour” was an incredible experience packed into just one day. I was amazed by the stunning views of the canyon and had the chance to see the famous Andean condors up close. The guide was knowledgeable and made the trip both fun and informative. Although the tour was full, it never felt rushed, and I really enjoyed learning about the local culture and history along the way. Perfect for anyone with limited time but wanting to experience the beauty of Colca Canyon.
