The Colca Valley is the perfect combination of nature and tradition. Discover this in Chivay, a town high in the hills, and explore the Apurímac River, where the Amazon River starts. In just two days you'll discover one of the most impressive regions in Peru.
Colca Valley 2 Day Trip
Day 1: Arequipa - Colca Canyon - Chivay
To completely make the most of the first day, we'll come and pick you up from your accommodation in Arequipa at 2:30 am. We'll travel for around three hours through the beautiful Peruvian countryside, and then we'll make a stop in the town of Yanque, where you'll be able to enjoy a typical breakfast.
After another hour and a half travelling, we'll reach one of the most visited places in the Colca Valley: the Condor Cross. From this viewpoint, not only will you see condors flying overhead, but you'll also be able to take in the incredible views of the emblematic Colca Canyon, it's one of the deepest craters in the world!
We'll keep travelling through the Colca Valley and make a stop in Maca. You'll be welcomed to this small town by locals wearing typical outfits. We'll wander around its picturesque streets, finding an interesting colonial-style church along the way.
Next, we'll hit the road again, passing by hundreds of pre-Inca terraces. Do you know what these were used for? Finally, we'll reach the Valley's hot springs, where you can relax in the pools before continuing with our trip.
The final destination today will be Chivay, the capital of the Colca Valley. Once there, you'll have the afternoon free to be able to explore this Andean town at over 9842 feet (3000 metres) above sea level!
Day 2: Chivay - Apurímac River - Arequipa
We'll start the day with breakfast in the hotel, and then we'll leave Chivay behind and head to the Apurímac River, some two and a half hours away. Did you know that this is where the Amazon River starts? At 16,400 feet (5000 metres) above sea level, we'll walk alongside the river, admiring the natural landscapes and Andean birds and llamas that accompany us on the way.
You'll witness how the crystal-clear waters of the Apurímac flow from a rock wall, heading from the Andes towards the Atlantic Ocean. You're sure to be taken away by the natural beauty of this area!
We'll head back to Chivay at midday, and you'll have time to get lunch at your leisure (not included). Next, we'll make a final stop to see the views from the Patapampa mountains and volcano.
After discovering this area, we'll make our way back to Arequipa, where we'll drop you off in the centre (between the streets Zela and Santa Catalina) at around 6 pm.
Accommodation
The tour includes one night's accommodation at Hotel Colca Llaqta, or a similar hotel.
Hotel Pick Up
On the first day, we'll pick you up from your accommodation in Arequipa, providing it is in the city centre. If this is not the case, we'll meet at the Plaza de Armas, opposite the cathedral, at 2:30 am.
Tickets
The tour does not include the tourist ticket to the Colca Canyon (approx. 23 USD), which is needed to enter the Colca Valley, or entrance to the hot springs (approx. 6 USD).
