Why visit the Colca Canyon?
The Colca Canyon from Arequipa is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world – twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and surrounded by majestic Andean mountains and snowcapped volcanoes. Its dramatic scenery is only made more unforgettable by the iconic Andean condors that soar overhead. As you explore, you’ll also see centuries-old Inca and pre-Inca agricultural terraces, still cultivated by traditional communities today. Be prepared for high altitudes: the tour begins in Arequipa (2,335 m / 7,660 ft), continues to Chivay (3,635 m / 11,925 ft), and reaches up to Condor Pass Viewpoint (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). If you’re eager to experience Peru’s incredible wildlife and immerse yourself in breathtaking Andean landscapes, this tour is an absolute must.
What Are Our Colca Canyon Bus Tours?
We offer two carefully curated Colca Canyon tours departing from Arequipa, each showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural charm:
Colca Canyon Tour from Arequipa: Your Hassle-Free 2-Day Journey
Perfect for travelers seeking a seamless roundtrip journey that returns to Arequipa.
Colca Canyon to Puno: 2 Day Tour for Nature Lovers
Ideal for travelers continuing their journey to Puno to visit the iconic Lake Titicaca.
Both tours begin with a hotel pick-up in Arequipa (if your hotel is outside of our pick-up zone we offer a convenient centrally located meeting point), heading toward the snowcapped Chachani Volcano and the scenic Pampa Cañahuas in the Aguada Blanca and Salinas National Reserve, home to wild vicuñas.
At the Tocra wetlands, look for flamingos and migratory birds before arriving in the charming mountain town of Chivay, the gateway to the canyon. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and centuries-old terraces, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties and relax in the La Calera thermal baths before checking into your hotel.
On Day 2, we’ll take you to the famed Condor Cross Viewpoint, where you’ll witness the majestic Andean condors gliding effortlessly across the canyon. With wingspans of up to 10–12 feet (over 3 meters), these birds are truly a highlight of the experience. You’ll also visit the traditional villages of Maca and Yanque, known for their colonial churches, artisan markets, and warm Andean hospitality. From here, you can choose to either return to Arequipa, or continue on to Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Best Time to Visit
The Colca Canyon is a year-round destination, but the experience can vary based on the season. Condors are visible throughout the year, but weather and trail conditions shift with the climate.
The Dry Season (April to October)
Enjoy clear skies, dry trails, and sunny days, ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Nights can be very cold, especially in June and July, so pack accordingly.
Rainy Season (November to March)
Expect lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and peaceful trails. Afternoon showers are common, and some trails may be muddy or slippery, but the scenery is still beautiful.
Type of Transport
For round-trip tours from Arequipa, you’ll travel in a comfortable tourist van. If you continue to Puno, you’ll transfer to a tourist coach bus from Chivay, passing through the scenic Altiplano, with views of serene lakes, mountain lagoons, and Andean flamingos along the way.
Next Stop: Machu Picchu
Another of Peru’s must-see wonders is Machu Picchu.
- From Arequipa, you can take a direct flight to Cusco, the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
- From Puno, fly to Cusco via Lima, or take a tourist coach bus with scenic stops along the way. For a premium experience, consider the luxury train journey across the Altiplano, offering panoramic views of Peru’s dramatic highlands en route to Cusco.
What to Pack:
If you’re continuing on to Puno, be sure to pack all of your belongings when we pick you up from Arequipa. For those returning to Arequipa, we recommend packing light, just the essentials for the overnight trip, and leaving your larger luggage with your hotel.
Bring local currency (PEN/Soles) for snacks, meals, and souvenirs along the way. Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes with good tread are a must, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season.
Weather in the canyon can change quickly, so pack in layers, mornings and nights can be cold, especially during the dry season, while days are often warm and sunny. If traveling from November to March, don’t forget a rain jacket. We also suggest bringing a refillable water bottle, and for extra enjoyment, consider packing binoculars, a camera, and a swimsuit for the thermal baths in Chivay.
Next Steps: How to Book
Ready to turn your dream Peru trip into reality?
Click on your preferred Colca Canyon tour to begin the booking process. Still have questions? Visit our Contact Us page, our expert travel planners are happy to assist, personalize your itinerary, and even help you add food tours in Lima, guided treks to Machu Picchu, or Amazon rainforest extensions.