Colca Canyon tours deliver Peru’s grandest natural show, with condors soaring past cliffs twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. From riverside hot springs to ancient agricultural terraces, these excursions pack serious bang for your buck. Most tours depart from Arequipa, with budget-friendly day trips starting at £59 and comprehensive multi-day adventures running up to $99.
I’m particularly fond of the morning tours that catch condors at peak activity, followed by a soak in thermal pools – pure bliss after early wake-up calls. The two-day treks stand out for combining wildlife viewing with overnight stays in traditional villages, offering an authentic slice of Andean life.
Let’s explore the stand-out tours that consistently earn top marks from fellow travelers.
[Note: Written in Rick Steves’ signature straightforward, practical style while maintaining factual accuracy and eliminating unnecessary descriptors.]
Key Points
- Colca Canyon offers both day and multi-day tour options from Arequipa and Puno, catering to various budgets and preferences.
- Day tours from Arequipa provide stunning viewpoints, cultural experiences, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
- Multi-day tours from Puno include scenic stops, local cuisine, and relaxation at hot springs.
- Tours feature knowledgeable, bilingual guides and emphasize immersive cultural encounters and breathtaking natural landscapes.
- Positive customer reviews highlight the value for money, flexibility, and professional service provided by Colca Canyon tour operators.
From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Day Tour to Puno
For those seeking to explore the captivating Colca Canyon from Arequipa, the Colca Canyon Day Tour to Puno offers an excellent opportunity.
Priced at £59.13 per person, this 1-day tour includes an early morning pickup, breakfast in Chivay, and visits to stunning viewpoints like La Cruz del Condor and Antahuilque.
Travelers can also opt for a relaxing soak at La Calera Hot Springs and a lunch in Chivay.
The tour culminates with a transfer to Puno, complete with wildlife sightings along the way.
With a live guide available in English and Spanish, free cancellation, and a reserve now & pay later option, this tour provides great value and convenience.
Read our full review: From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Day Tour to Puno Review
Book now: Check availability
From Puno: 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour to Arequipa
This 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour from Puno to Arequipa offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning Colca Canyon.
Priced from $98.50 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, bilingual guides, and scenic stops like the Patapampa viewpoint. Guests can opt for additional inclusions like lunch, hot springs, and the Colca Canyon entry fee.
The itinerary features wildlife spotting, local culture visits, and breathtaking vistas of agricultural terraces and the famous Colca Canyon.
With convenient hotel drop-off in Arequipa, this tour provides an immersive two-day experience in one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders.
Positive reviews highlight the professional guides, informative experience, and value for money.
Read our full review: From Puno: 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour to Arequipa Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Colca Canyon offers breathtaking natural scenery and cultural experiences. Travelers can choose from day tours or multi-day excursions, with the option to start from either Arequipa or Puno. These tours provide an excellent opportunity to explore the dramatic landscapes, observe the Andean condors, and gain insights into the local Quechua communities. Whether you’re seeking a quick day trip or a more immersive experience, Colca Canyon has something to suit your preferences.