Full Day · Arequipa · Colca

Colca Canyon Full Day — 1 Day (~14 hours)

In a single day, witness the flight of the condors in the Colca Canyon—one of the deepest in the world—and explore the route of the volcanoes.

Duration1 Day (~14 h)
DifficultyModerate
Max Altitude4,910 m (Patapampa)
Guide LanguageEN · ES
About the experience

The flight of the condor in the Colca Canyon.

The Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and the natural sanctuary of the majestic Andean condor.

A one-day itinerary for those on a tight schedule: from the Condor's Cross viewpoint, watch the world's largest flying birds soar up from the depths of the canyon.

The route also passes through colonial villages, pre-Inca terraces, the vicuña reserve, and the Patapampa viewpoint at 4,910 m, offering stunning views of the volcanic mountain range.

Trip highlights

What makes this itinerary unique.

The flight of the Andean condor at the Condor's Cross viewpoint.

Patapampa viewpoint (4,910 m), overlooking the volcanic mountain range.

Colonial villages of Pinchollo, Maca, and Yanque.

Vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas in the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

Pre-Inca agricultural terraces still in use today.

Detailed itinerary

Day by day.

Early morning departure (03:00 AM) towards the Colca Valley, with breakfast in Chivay.

Morning at the Condor's Cross viewpoint, stops at colonial villages and scenic viewpoints, and return to Arequipa via the volcano route and Patapampa (4,910 m).

MealsBreakfast in Chivay
AccommodationReturn to Arequipa
DistanceLong road trip
DifficultyModerate — due to altitude
What's included

Everything we take care of for you.

Inclusions

  • Colca Tourist Ticket (BTC)
  • Tourist transportation with heating, emergency oxygen, and a professional driver
  • Professional bilingual guide specializing in the valley
  • Continental breakfast in Chivay
  • Assistance and route monitoring

Not included

  • Buffet lunch (available in Chivay)
  • Hot springs entrance fee (optional, paid on-site)
  • Personal expenses and tips
What to bring

Essential packing list.

  • Original ID or passport
  • Warm jacket, beanie, and gloves — mornings and high altitudes are cold
  • Layered clothing for temperature changes throughout the day
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap or hat
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Cash in soles (ATMs are scarce)

Important information

  • Prior acclimatization is recommended — the route crosses points above 4,000 m.
  • Bring cash in soles: ATMs and card payments have limited coverage in the region.
  • Original ID or passport is mandatory for road checkpoints and tickets.
  • Early morning temperatures can drop near 0 °C — bring warm clothing.
  • Booking policy: 50% deposit and 50% balance due 15 days before the trip.
  • Do not take this tour on your first day in southern Peru — the route reaches nearly 5,000 m; allow at least 1 prior day for acclimatization in Arequipa.
Availability & booking

The Colca in a single day, for those short on time.

It is a long day at high altitude — for greater comfort, consider the 2-day version with an overnight stay in the valley.

There are daily departures from Arequipa. Contact our team via WhatsApp to confirm your date.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this itinerary.

Condors are spotted on most mornings, especially early when they ride the thermal currents. However, as they are wild birds, sightings are never 100% guaranteed.

Yes. The route climbs to nearly 5,000 m at Patapampa — we recommend spending at least 1 prior day in Arequipa before the tour.

The full day is great for those short on time; the 2-day version is more comfortable and also includes the hot springs and village visits.

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Ready to live this experience?

Watch the condor soar over the abyss.

Tell us your preferred date and the number of travelers. Our local team replies on WhatsApp, in English, with plenty of patience for you to decide well.

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