2 Days

Colca Classic from Arequipa 2 Days

Dificulty:
Moderate

Altitude:
2430 m.s.n.m

Our journey begins in Arequipa (2,325 m / 7,628 ft), affectionately known as “La Ciudad Blanca” (The White City), located at the base of the majestic Misti Volcano (5,822 m / 19,101 ft). Famed for its colonial architecture built with white volcanic stone and its eternal sunshine, Arequipa is a cultural gem. One of its main highlights is the Santa Catalina Monastery, a fascinating religious complex where cloistered nuns lived in solitude for over four centuries.

From Arequipa, we head into the breathtaking Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, carved by the Colca River. Here, visitors can witness the magnificent flight of the Andean condor, one of the largest flying birds on Earth, and explore traditional Andean villages surrounded by extensive pre-Inca agricultural terraces. The Colca Valley is a natural and cultural treasure that showcases the dramatic beauty of the Andes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arequipa – Colca Valley – La Calera Hot Springs

Early morning departure from Arequipa in a comfortable tourist vehicle.
Travel across the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you may spot wild vicuñas and alpacas.
Stop at scenic viewpoints such as Patahuasi and Patapampa (4,910 m), the highest point of the journey with panoramic views of snow-capped volcanoes.
Arrive in Chivay, the gateway to the Colca Canyon.
Afternoon visit to La Calera Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural thermal waters surrounded by Andean scenery.
Overnight stay at a hotel or lodge in the Colca Valley.

Included: Tourist transport, bilingual guide, entrance fees, accommodation in Colca Valley, visit to La Calera hot springs.

Day 2: Condor’s Cross – Colca Canyon – Return to Arequipa

Early morning drive to the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint.
Witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors as they rise from the canyon walls with the morning thermals.
Explore the traditional villages of Yanque, Maca, and others along the Colca Valley, observing the colonial churches and extensive Incan and pre-Incan terraces still in use.
After lunch (not included), begin the return journey to Arequipa.
Arrival in Arequipa in the evening.

Included: Tourist transport, bilingual guide, entrance fees, return to Arequipa.