Fullday Colca Canyon With Lunch From Arequipa

The full-day Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa is a well-rounded excursion that allows travelers to enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of the Andean region. With a hearty breakfast and lunch, as well as the opportunity to relax in natural thermal waters, this 16-hour journey offers an unforgettable experience. Highlights include breathtaking views and encounters with the majestic Andean condors at the La Cruz del Condor lookout. Knowledgeable guides and chances for bird watching further enhance this comprehensive exploration of the Colca Canyon. What awaits those who embark on this adventure might just surprise you.

Good To Know

• A full-day trip from Arequipa to Colca Canyon, including observations of condors at the La Cruz del Condor lookout point and a visit to La Calera hot springs.
• The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a professional guide, breakfast and lunch in Chivay, and entrance fees for the hot springs and Colca Canyon.
• The itinerary highlights an early 3 AM pickup, condor viewing, and an optional visit to the thermal hot springs with temperatures between 35°C and 38°C.
• Travelers have reported successful condor sightings as a key highlight, with some noting limited bird watching opportunities in Pampa Cañahuas.
• The tour has an overall rating of 3.5 out of 15 reviews, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guide and tasty food, but some timing issues experienced by some travelers.

Overview of the Tour

This full-day trip to Colca Canyon and Chivay from Arequipa is ideal for nature lovers and first-time visitors.

Travelers will observe condors and enjoy panoramic views from the La Cruz del Condor lookout point. An optional visit to the La Calera hot springs in the afternoon is available.

The tour also includes bird watching in Pampa Cañahuas, home to flamingoes and Andean geese.

The package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a professional guide, breakfast and lunch in Chivay, and entrance fees for the hot springs and Colca Canyon.

The tour duration is approximately 16 hours, with an early morning pickup around 3:00 AM from accommodations in Arequipa.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Arequipa, as well as a professional guide who can provide assistance in either English or Spanish.

Breakfast and lunch in Chivay are also included, along with entrance fees for the hot springs and Colca Canyon.

Travellers are allowed a baggage allowance of 5 kg (11 pounds), with the option to store additional luggage at the hotel.

The tour provides a full-day experience, lasting approximately 16 hours, ensuring ample time to explore the natural wonders of Colca Canyon and witness the impressive condors.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an early pickup around 03:00 AM from travellers’ accommodations in Arequipa.

After breakfast in Chivay, the group heads to the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor, a prime spot for observing the majestic Andean condors.

Following the condor viewing, the tour returns to Chivay for lunch.

In the afternoon, participants have the option to visit the nearby La Calera hot springs, where they can soak in the thermal waters ranging from 35°C to 38°C.

The full-day excursion to Colca Canyon from Arequipa typically lasts around 16 hours, providing ample time to immerse in the stunning natural scenery and wildlife of this remarkable destination.

Traveler Feedback

Fifteen reviews contribute an overall 3.5 rating for this Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa. Positive comments highlight the knowledgeable local guide, tasty food, and successful condor sightings. However, some travelers experienced timing issues and were disappointed by limited bird watching opportunities. The feedback is summarized in the table below:

Aspect	Positive	Negative	Neutral
Guide	Knowledgeable	–	–
Food	High quality	–	–
Wildlife	Condor sightings	Limited bird watching	–
Logistics	–	Timing issues	–

Important Information

What else should travelers know about this Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa?

First, travelers will receive confirmation immediately after booking. They’ll also need to bring their original travel document on the day of the tour.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Travelers should also be aware of the free cancellation policy – they can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts without any penalties.

With these key details in mind, travelers can feel prepared and confident in their Colca Canyon excursion from Arequipa.

Observing Condors

One of the highlights of the Colca Canyon tour is the chance to observe the majestic Andean condors.

These massive birds, with wingspans of up to 10 feet, can be seen soaring effortlessly over the canyon’s dramatic landscapes.

The tour includes a stop at the famous La Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, which offers prime opportunities to witness the condors in their natural habitat:

• Spot the condors as they glide on the thermal updrafts, showcasing their impressive size and agility
• Observe their distinctive black and white plumage and distinctive hooked beak
• Learn about the ecological importance of the condor, a symbol of the Andes
• Capture breathtaking photos of the condors in flight against the stunning Colca Canyon backdrop

Visiting Hot Springs

The tour also offers an optional visit to the La Calera hot springs in Chivay following the main Colca Canyon activities.

The hot springs feature natural thermal pools with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 38°C, providing a relaxing experience after a day of exploring the canyon.

Visitors can enjoy soaking in the mineral-rich waters, which are believed to have therapeutic benefits.

The hot springs are located a short distance from the town of Chivay, where the group enjoys lunch.

This optional activity allows travelers to further enjoy the natural wonders of the Colca region before returning to Arequipa.

Bird Watching Opportunities

Though the tour promises bird watching opportunities in Pampa Cańahuas, some travelers have expressed disappointment in the limited sightings. The birdlife in this region can be elusive, with sightings of flamingoes and Andean geese not always guaranteed.

The tour offers:

• A chance to spot a variety of Andean bird species, if you’re lucky
• Scenic landscapes that provide a beautiful backdrop for birdwatching
• The guidance of a knowledgeable local guide who can point out any birds observed
• The opportunity to explore the Pampa Cańahuas area, home to a diverse array of wildlife

While the bird watching may not be the main highlight, it can still be an enjoyable component of the Colca Canyon tour for nature enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Group Size?

The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, according to the important information provided in the overview.

Are There Any Health Requirements for the Tour?

The tour has no specific health requirements, but travelers should be able to handle high altitudes and moderate hikes. Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are recommended to enjoy the outdoor experiences.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the Colca Canyon tour, but they should be aware that lunch is provided. Any additional items should be packed in the 5kg baggage allowance.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography?

There are no stated restrictions on photography during the Colca Canyon tour. Travelers are generally free to take photos throughout the day, though they should be respectful of others and any designated no-photography areas.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. However, travelers can inquire with the tour operator about the possibility of adding extra time or activities, which may incur additional costs. The standard tour lasts approximately 16 hours.

The Sum Up

The Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the stunning landscapes and wildlife of the region. With hearty meals, opportunities to observe majestic condors, and the chance to relax in natural hot springs, this 16-hour excursion provides an immersive journey that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on travelers.