The Colca Canyon offers a breathtaking combination of scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. On this 3-day trekking adventure, you’ll descend into one of the world’s deepest canyons and experience remote Andean life firsthand. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming colonial villages, interact with locals wearing traditional clothing, and witness vibrant cultural expressions including dance and handicrafts—all against a backdrop of terraced mountains and dramatic landscapes.
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
This trek is ideal for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts, offering impressive trails carved along the canyon’s rugged cliffs. A highlight of the journey is the famed Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where you’ll have the chance to observe the majestic flight of the Andean condor. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline, natural wonder, or cultural immersion, this multi-day hike into the heart of the Colca Canyon promises a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
03:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel in Arequipa and transfer in private transport toward Colca Canyon. After approximately 3 hours, we arrive in Chivay where we enjoy breakfast.
We continue to the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint for about 1 hour to witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor. From there, we proceed to the town of Cabanaconde (3,287 m.a.s.l.), where we begin our trek.
The descent begins at Pampa San Miguel, offering panoramic views of the canyon. After approximately 4 hours of hiking, we reach the Colca River and cross a suspension bridge to arrive at San Juan de Chuccho. Lunch is served upon arrival, followed by free time to rest. Dinner and overnight in a local family guesthouse.
After breakfast, we continue our trek through the canyon, visiting the picturesque villages of Cosñirhua and Malata. These communities, built into the mountainside, preserve unique Andean traditions and history.
We then descend to the lush oasis of Sangalle, arriving after about 2 hours of hiking. Here, we can relax and enjoy the natural pools with water temperatures around 20°C. Lunch will be served, and the rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the surroundings.
Dinner will be served in the evening, and we spend the night in bungalows or rustic cabins surrounded by nature.
05:00 AM: Early morning start for the 3-hour uphill hike back to Cabanaconde. Upon arrival, we enjoy a well-deserved breakfast.
We then board our vehicle and return to Chivay. En route, we make a stop at the La Calera hot springs (38°C), where you can relax in the thermal waters. Afterward, we return to town for a buffet lunch (included).
On the way back to Arequipa, we stop at the Andes Viewpoint (4,910 m.a.s.l.) and pass through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Approximate arrival in Arequipa is at 5:30 PM, concluding this incredible adventure.
The “Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days” was an amazing adventure full of breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. Hiking through the canyon, I was amazed by the dramatic views and the chance to see the majestic Andean condors soaring above. The trek was challenging but well worth it, with comfortable stops and friendly locals along the way. The blend of nature and tradition made this tour truly special. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves trekking and wants to explore one of Peru’s most beautiful natural wonders.
