1.- OVERVIEW OF COLCA CANYON
Although many travelers from around the world come to Peru in search of Machu Picchu exclusively, they discover that the country contains a large number of unique destinations and wonderful experiences. This is the case of the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa, which allow travelers to get to know one of the most incredible natural spots in the world, in fact something that characterizes it is that this is the third deepest canyon in the world making visiting it during the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa is also like completing a new challenge.
The Colca Canyon is located in the sector of Chivay 160 km away from the white city of Arequipa, being the closest city as well as Puno, it is for this reason that many people use the Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa to Puno as a connection to continue their trip. This not so wide distance allows the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa to be developed in a normal and accessible way. How to get there has also become super simple since the travel companies constantly offer short versions of 1 or 2 days in the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa, however for more extensive versions of 3 or 4 days the Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa to Puno is used.
2.- Historical importance
The imposing Colca Canyon is not only popular for the size it possesses or for the natural beauty it shows to visitors from all over the world, but also for the historical legacy that has been passed down for generations. Although today we know it as an extensive canyon full of Andean populations, it was once inhabited by the Collaguas and Cabanas who left as a sign of territorial dominion the extensive agricultural terraces that even today are still in function and the funeral enclosures. In fact when you live any of the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa is possible to discover that people still maintain traditional customs so the trip becomes a cultural immersion and also adds the historical aspect that you need to find them even influence of the Inca culture.
The geography that today we can find during the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa is really varied and makes it an essential place to visit during your next visit. From cliffs and deep valleys, the Colca Canyon becomes the ideal place for nature lovers but also for hikers as there is the alternative to descend the canyon and visit some of the nearby towns while hiking, this effort is certainly rewarded with the opportunity to rest the body in the hot springs that are in the vicinity.
3.- BEST TIME TO VISIT THE COLCA CANYON
At any time of the year it is possible to enjoy any of the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa, however the experience varies depending on several factors such as weather, season and of course preference of activities. If on the one hand you enjoy more the natural part then the rainy season that occurs between November and April is ideal for the trip, however if on the other hand you are looking for the hiking experience or plan to live the experience of the Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa to Puno then the dry season that occurs between May and October is better.
4.- NATURAL AND CULTURAL BEAUTY
“The Colca Canyon is not only popular for its impressive depth, it is also known for containing one of the most impressive species of all the Andes, the Andean Condor. It is also the place where you can find an incredible amount of agricultural terraces that are estimated to be over 2000 years old, built by the Collagua and Cabana cultures.”
Generally the weather that is expected during the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa is mild, however temperatures can vary depending on the altitude at which you are, there are those that are much higher as observation points or viewpoints where the thermal sensation of cold is much more present while in places with lower altitude as is the case of the town of Chivay you can have a warmer and more pleasant temperature. Like other places in Peru, there are also two seasons that are clearly marked and have a great influence on the activities that can be done.
- The first is known as the rainy season and occurs from November to April, characterized mainly by the constant presence of rain and have cloudy skies, positively this affects the panoramas can become a more intense color but because of the rains hiking trails become slippery and more dangerous, this season also coincides with the low season in frequency of visitors as many people avoid the season for fear that the weather affects the planning.
- The second season is the favorite of many, known as the dry season, occurs between May and October. Being the season that shows the best weather for outdoor activities, thanks to sunny days and clear skies it is suitable for activities such as hiking, exploring landscapes and especially to appreciate the incredible flight of the condor, this season is also known as high season as many people choose it as their travel date and it is common to see a large influx of visitors during this season.
5.- High season vs low season
- The high season for Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa occurs mainly between the month of June and August, because the weather is better during these months of the year and many of the activities such as hiking or condor flight observations can be better appreciated. However this also represents the presence of many travelers in the area so the demand for lodging, restaurants, transportation and even tour guides is higher and availability is easily exhausted, on the other hand trails and observation points are more crowded. It is recommended that reservations be made at least 3 months in advance.
- The low season mainly occurs between December and February, characterized by the high presence of rain in the area making many of the activities are not enjoyed 100%, however for nature lovers is the right time to know the natural aspect that this place can offer. Even the Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa to Puno is an ideal time as it shows a transition of environments, passing from the high mountains to the highlands which increases its mysticism. The advantage is also that this season does not present many visitors so the trails and observation points are more free for classic photos.
6.- Festivities and cultural events
Remember that the Colca Canyon Tours from Arequipa allow you not only to enjoy the natural beauties that this tourist destination offers, there is also the opportunity to enjoy some cultural heritages such as festivities that are celebrated every year in the interior or in the surroundings. Among the most representative festivities is the celebration of the Virgen de la Candelaria which is one of the most representative festivities of Puno that extends even to the surroundings as Chivay where you can enjoy the celebrations or take advantage of the Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa to Puno to integrate more closely with the festivity. Another is the feast of San Juan Bautista that occurs in June, this celebration is characterized by encompassing music, dance and local cuisine. This festivity is the one that integrates travelers with the communities that to this day live in the Colca Canyon.
7.- TYPES OF COLCA CANYON TOURS
7.1.- 01 day experience
Considered as the most traditional Colca Canyon experience among all the options, the trip starts from Arequipa with a 3 hours transportation, in this way travelers can enjoy incredible views of extensive mountains and valleys that extend around the imposing canyon. This adventure also includes moments of visit to emblematic places such as the Cruz del Condor viewpoint where you can appreciate the majestic flight of the Andean condor and see what its natural habitat is like. After this visit it is also possible to visit nearby towns like Chivay and experience a relaxing time in the hot springs to finally return in the afternoon to Arequipa.
Main attractions
- Cruz del Condor viewpoint
- Chivay hot springs
- Chivay village
This experience is designed for travelers who do not have much time during their stay and are looking for a comfortable experience without so much effort.
7.2.- 02 day experience
This adventure is quite similar to the one day version, since the first day is used the time to leave Arequipa to the popular Cruz del Condor viewpoint where you can appreciate the canyon and observe the flight of the condor, in the afternoon you return to the town of Chivay where you have already considered an accommodation to spend the night and use the second day to visit other emblematic places such as nearby towns or natural viewpoints.
Main attractions
- Cruz del Condor viewpoint
- Hot springs of Chivay
- Chivay and Yanque villages
This experience is intended for travelers looking to enjoy some extra time during their visit to the Colca Canyon. Among the activities are also considered small hiking trails so a certain degree of physical preparation is required. There are also traditional hotel options and exclusive versions to choose from.
7.3.- 03-day experience
This is the alternative that involves more adrenaline for visitors who choose the Colca Canyon as a destination to visit. Unlike the previous versions, this experience, apart from the traditional visit to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, also involves hiking and trekking activities to the deepest part of the Colca Canyon, getting to know places like the Sangalle oasis, San Juan Chuccho and other traditional villages. On the last day there is a final, quieter hike where you will visit viewpoints and different landscapes.
Main attractions
- Hiking experiences
- Cruz del Condor viewpoint
- Chivay Village, Sangale, Juan Chuccho
This experience is designed for travelers who have more experience in hiking and trekking activities, as well as for those who are in good physical condition. Also for those who are looking for a combination of adventure but at the same time want a cultural immersion.
| “Not all who wander are lost, some are just exploring.” |
8.- FAQs
- How deep is Colca Canyon?
The Colca Canyon has a depth of 3200 meters under the sea and is considered the third deepest canyon in the world.
- Is Colca Canyon worth visiting?
Yes, visiting one of the most extreme points of the world is considered one of the things you must do at least once in your life.
- How many days do you need in Colca Canyon?
We recommend 2 days to visit the Colca Canyon in detail, you can use more days if you are looking for a closer and more complete immersion with the traditional communities.
- Can you do Colca Canyon in one day?
The 1 day version allows you to see the essentials and enjoy the most important things but does not give you time to visit it properly.
- What’s the best month to visit Colca Canyon?
Undoubtedly between June and August, these months are considered the favorite by many travelers for the pleasant weather, sunny days and clear skies.
One of the deepest points of the planet is waiting for you, between the incredible natural landscape and the beautiful overflight of the Andean condor you will discover that the Colca Canyon is a dream destination that you can visit during your next vacation. Auri Peru is a travel agency specialized in creating unique travel experiences and now is the time to create yours, contact us now and take the first step in your next adventure.
“Explore. Dream. Discover.”
