Colca Canyon is one of the great natural sights of southern Peru, a vast gorge cut by the Colca River, more than three thousand meters deep in places and lined with ancient agricultural terraces. Two-day tours leave Puno in the morning, cross a high pass near 4,900 meters, stop for views of volcanoes and vicunas, and reach the town of Chivay in the afternoon. The evening is for soaking in hot springs and the next morning begins early at Cruz del Condor, a viewpoint where Andean condors ride the morning thermals along the canyon wall. Tours usually end in Arequipa, which makes the trip a convenient way to continue your journey after Lake Titicaca.
Day one
The road climbs across the altiplano, with views of lagoons, flamingos in some seasons, and herds of llama and alpaca. At the high pass, often called Patapampa, a viewpoint looks over a ring of volcanoes. After the pass the road descends to Chivay, a small town in the valley with a market, restaurants and access to hot springs.
Many tours include a buffet lunch, an evening of folk music and a night in a simple hotel. The first day is long, and the altitude is real, so drink coca tea, eat lightly and rest.
Day two
You rise early to reach Cruz del Condor, where the canyon drops away dramatically and condors often appear between about eight and nine in the morning, gliding at eye level. The villages along the way, such as Yanque and Maca, have colonial churches and women in embroidered hats and dresses, and terraces that have been farmed since before the Inca. After the viewpoint, the tour returns through Chivay and continues to Arequipa, arriving in the afternoon. Some options include a short walk or a visit to a viewpoint of the terraces.
Planning
Choose a two-day tour, since a single day is too rushed. Bring warm layers, sun protection, a swimsuit for the hot springs and cash for entry fees, as there is a separate Colca tourist ticket. Check whether the tour ends in Arequipa or returns to Puno, and whether lodging is included. The best months are the dry season from May to October, when skies are clear, but condor sightings are possible year-round.
If you suffer from altitude sickness, be aware that the trip involves higher passes than Puno itself. Colca fits best for travelers who are continuing to Arequipa and want to cover the canyon on the way, and it pairs naturally with a lake stay.
Prepare for the trip as you would for a mountain journey. Pack layers for temperatures that swing from cold mornings to warm afternoons, bring a swimsuit and towel for the hot springs and keep your passport and cash handy for the entry ticket. Take any altitude medication your doctor recommends, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol on the first night.
A good camera helps with the condors, which can fly close, but keep a respectful distance from the viewpoint edge and listen to the guide about safety. Ask whether the tour continues to Arequipa so that you can plan your luggage and onward travel.
What to expect
The experience
A two-day tour from Puno across the high plateau to Chivay and Colca Canyon, with hot springs, the Cruz del Condor viewpoint and an end point in Arequipa.
Best time
The dry season from May to October for clear skies, with condors most active in the morning.
How long
Two days, with an early start on day two.
Tips
Bring warm layers, a swimsuit and cash, take altitude seriously and confirm whether the tour ends in Arequipa.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travelers moving on to Arequipa who want to see the canyon on the way.
- Families
- Possible for older children, but the road days are long.
- Couples
- Hot springs, volcano views and condors make a memorable trip.
- Pair with
- Arequipa after the tour, or a lake stay before it.
- Time needed
- Two days.
Good questions
How deep is Colca Canyon?+
It is more than three thousand meters deep in places, making it one of the deepest canyons in the world.
When do condors fly?+
Usually in the morning, around eight to nine, when warm air starts to rise.
Does the tour end in Arequipa?+
Many do. Check the details when you book.
Is two days enough?+
Yes, it is the usual minimum. A single day is too rushed.
Is altitude a problem?+
The route crosses a pass near 4,900 meters, so take it seriously and talk to a doctor if you have concerns.
