From Puno: 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour To Arequipa

When planning a trip from Puno to Arequipa, the 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour stands out as an efficient choice for those wanting to experience Peru’s natural beauty. Travelers appreciate the seamless logistics, including hotel pickups and knowledgeable guides who enhance the journey. Many have shared stories about witnessing majestic condors soaring at Cruz del Condor, while others enjoyed the soothing waters of La Calera Hot Springs. With various highlights and optional activities, it’s essential to consider what to expect. But what really makes this tour special?

Key Points

The tour starts from Puno, offering a 2-day exploration of Colca Canyon with stunning views and cultural experiences.
Pickup is included from accommodations in Puno’s historic center, with no upfront payment required for booking.
Highlights include visiting Salinas and Aguada Blanca reserve, Patapampa viewpoint, and Cruz del Condor for condor sightings.
Optional add-ons include lunch and entry to La Calera Hot Springs, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Tour prices start at $98.50 per person, with all essential transfers included and drop-off at your hotel in Arequipa.

Tour Overview and Pricing

Wondering about an unforgettable adventure? The 2-Day Colca Canyon Tour from Puno to Arequipa offers an incredible experience starting at just $98.50 per person, with the added benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Travelers can easily reserve their spot without upfront payment, making planning stress-free. The tour includes a live bilingual guide, ensuring everyone enjoys the insights shared in English or Spanish.

Guests rave about the breathtaking scenery and the knowledgeable guides, often highlighting their love for the stunning views at Cruz del Condor.

While meals and accommodation in Chivay need separate arrangements, the overall value of this tour remains exceptional, providing a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

Day 1 Itinerary Details

On Day 1 of the Colca Canyon Tour, travelers will be picked up from their accommodation in Puno and embark on a scenic journey to Chivay, the gateway to the stunning canyon.

Along the way, they’ll stop at the Salinas and Aguada Blanca reserve to see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, perfect for those Instagram shots. A visit to the Patapampa viewpoint at 4,900 meters provides breathtaking views of the Andean volcanoes.

Once in Chivay, lunch is offered for those who selected it, and travelers can unwind at the La Calera Hot Springs if they choose. Dinner in Chivay is also available for those who booked it, making for a relaxing end to an adventurous day.

Day 2 Itinerary Highlights

Early in the morning, guests are picked up from Chivay to embark on a memorable exploration of Colca Canyon, starting with a breathtaking view at La Cruz del Condor. Here, they can witness majestic condors soaring overhead, a sight that leaves many in awe.

After soaking in the views, the tour continues to the charming towns of Coporaque and Maca, where guests experience authentic local culture and can interact with friendly villagers. It’s a great opportunity to snap photos and grab a souvenir.

After returning to Chivay for a leisurely lunch, guests prepare for the scenic transfer to Arequipa, arriving around 5:00 PM, filled with incredible memories from their Colca Canyon adventure.

Inclusions of the Tour

The tour typically includes convenient hotel pickup in Puno, ensuring a smooth start to the adventure. Participants can expect a well-organized experience, with a bilingual guide leading the way. Essential transfers throughout the journey are also part of the package, making logistics hassle-free.

Inclusions	Details	Notes
Hotel Pickup	Convenient collection from Puno	Limited to historic center
Bilingual Guide	English and Spanish available	Enhances cultural insights
Transfers During Activities	Smooth travel between sites	Included in the tour price
Drop-off in Arequipa	End of the tour at your hotel	Perfect for convenience
Optional Add-ons	Lunch, hot springs entry fees	Customize your experience

With these inclusions, travelers can focus on soaking in the stunning landscapes.

Exclusions to Consider

Travelers should be aware that the tour doesn’t include accommodation in Chivay, which must be arranged separately. Many travelers have found that booking a local hotel in advance can enhance their experience, especially after a long day of exploring.

Plus, the entry fee to Colca Canyon isn’t included, so consider budgeting for that if you want to enjoy the breathtaking views. If you’re planning to unwind, entry fees to La Calera Hot Springs are also extra.

Meals on both days are optional add-ons, so be sure to decide if you want lunch provided. Keeping these exclusions in mind can help travelers prepare effectively and avoid any surprises during their adventure.

Important Travel Information

When planning for the Colca Canyon tour, it’s essential to note that hotel pickups are only available for accommodations located in Puno’s historic center. Those staying elsewhere will need to arrange a meeting point.

To ensure a smooth experience, travelers should keep the following in mind:

Confirm your pickup location to avoid confusion.
Bring snacks and water for the journey; it can get long.
Dress in layers; temperatures can vary dramatically.
Download WhatsApp for quick communication regarding changes.
Plan for additional costs for meals and entry fees.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Frequently, participants praise the tour for its breathtaking views and knowledgeable guides, highlighting the experience at Cruz del Condor as a standout moment. Many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to observe majestic condors soaring above the canyon, making it a memorable highlight of the trip.

While the overall rating stands at 4.3/5, some travelers mention minor discomfort in the van seating, which could be improved. Feedback often notes that the guides provide valuable insights about the region, enriching the experience.

However, a few participants feel that certain stops felt repetitive. Those looking for stunning landscapes and cultural experiences will likely find this tour worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Pack for the Colca Canyon Tour?

For the Colca Canyon tour, she should pack layers for varying temperatures, sturdy hiking shoes, a hat for sun protection, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and snacks. Binoculars for wildlife viewing can enhance the experience too.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Elderly Participants?

The tour’s suitable for families, including children and elderly participants. Many have enjoyed the leisurely pace and accessible viewpoints, but they should consider their physical condition when participating in activities like hiking or hot springs visits.

Are Meals Provided During the Tour, and What Are the Options?

Meals aren’t fully provided during the tour. Participants can opt for lunch on both days, and dinner in Chivay if selected. Many appreciated the flexibility but wished for more included meal options.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions, but it’s essential to inform the provider in advance. Past travelers appreciated the effort to meet their needs, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable experience during the trip.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Colca Canyon?

The best time to visit Colca Canyon is between May and September. During these months, the weather’s drier, making hiking enjoyable. Many travelers have shared stunning views and memorable experiences during this peak season.

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