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Colca Canyon tour 1 day from Arequipa

Tour Overview

Colca Canyon tour 1 day from Arequipa

Discover one of the deepest canyons in the world on this unforgettable Colca Canyon 1 Day Tour from Arequipa. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this full-day adventure takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, traditional villages, volcanic viewpoints, and the famous Cruz del Condor, where you can watch the majestic Andean condor soaring above the canyon.

Experience breathtaking scenery, local culture, wildlife, and natural hot springs — all in one incredible day.

Your adventure begins very early, between 3:00 am and 3:30 am, with hotel pick-up in Arequipa. We travel north toward the Colca Valley, passing through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas.

After approximately 3 hours, we arrive in Chivay, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast.

We then continue toward the highlight of the tour — Cruz del Condor Viewpoint. From here, you’ll admire the immensity of the Colca Canyon and, with luck, witness the flight of the Andean condor, one of the largest flying birds in the world.

On the way back, we visit charming colonial villages such as Maca and Yanque, known for their white stone churches and local traditions.

You’ll have optional time to relax in the La Calera hot springs before returning to Chivay for lunch (not included).

In the afternoon, we begin the return journey to Arequipa, stopping at the Patapampa Volcano Viewpoint, the highest point of the tour at 4,910 meters above sea level, where you can see several volcanoes including Misti and Chachani.

Arrival in Arequipa is around 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm.

Included

Includes

  • Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off in Arequipa City CenterWe provide convenient early-morning pick-up directly from your hotel in downtown Arequipa, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your adventure. After the tour, we return you safely to the city center.
  • Professional Bilingual Guide (English / Spanish)Our experienced local guides are knowledgeable about the history, culture, wildlife, and geography of the Colca Valley. They will enrich your experience with detailed explanations and ensure your comfort throughout the day.
  • Comfortable Tourist TransportationTravel in modern, safe, and fully authorized tourist vehicles equipped for high-altitude roads, offering a comfortable journey through the Andean landscapes.
  • Traditional Breakfast in ChivayEnjoy a light Andean breakfast in the town of Chivay before continuing toward the main viewpoints. This is the perfect way to recharge before exploring the canyon.
  • Visit to Cruz del Condor ViewpointSpend time at the most iconic viewpoint in Colca Canyon, where you can admire the impressive depth of the canyon and observe the majestic Andean condors flying overhead.
  • Stops at Traditional Villages (Maca & Yanque)Explore charming colonial villages known for their historic churches, local handicrafts, and authentic Andean culture.
  • Photo Stop at Patapampa Volcano Viewpoint (4,910 m / 16,109 ft)Reach the highest point of the tour and enjoy panoramic views of surrounding volcanoes such as Misti, Chachani, and Ampato.
  • Free Time at Hot Springs (Optional Visit)Enjoy free time to relax at the famous La Calera hot springs (entrance not included), surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.
Not included

Excludes

  • Colca Canyon Tourist Entrance TicketThis government-issued entrance ticket is mandatory and must be purchased separately in the valley.
  • Entrance to Hot SpringsIf you choose to visit La Calera hot springs, the entrance fee is paid directly at the site.
  • Lunch in ChivayLunch is not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose from various local restaurants according to your preferences.
  • Tips and Personal ExpensesGratuities for guides and drivers, souvenirs, snacks, and additional purchases are not included.
Yes, the tour does not include hiking. However, due to the high altitude and early departure, it is recommended for travelers in good general health.
The canyon reaches depths of more than 3,200 meters, making it one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Yes, especially during high season (May to September), as availability may be limited.
Yes, the visit to La Calera hot springs is optional and requires an additional entrance fee.
Morning hours between 9:00 am and 11:00 am offer the best chances to see condors flying.
Most travelers do not experience severe symptoms, but mild effects such as headache or shortness of breath may occur due to the high altitude.

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