Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
Arequipa Hotel Pick-Up → Chivay → Cruz Del Cóndor → Colca Valley → Hot Springs → Patapampa → Return To Arequipa
2:45-3:30 AM – Hotel Pick-Up and Departure from Arequipa
Your Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour begins with an early-morning pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa. We then travel for approximately 3 hours toward Chivay, the main town of the Colca Valley, passing through impressive high-Andean landscapes and areas surrounding the snow-capped Chachani Volcano.
Morning – Breakfast in Chivay
Upon arrival in Chivay, we stop for breakfast and prepare for the next part of the journey. After breakfast, we continue deeper into the Colca Valley toward one of the most famous viewpoints in the region.
Scenic Drive Through the Colca Valley
We continue driving for approximately one hour, making stops at selected natural viewpoints along the way. These stops offer excellent opportunities to admire the valley, traditional agricultural terraces, surrounding mountains, and the dramatic geography of the Colca Canyon.
Cruz del Cóndor – Andean Condor Viewpoint
Our main morning stop is the famous Cruz del Cóndor, one of the most visited viewpoints in the Colca Canyon. Here, you will have approximately one hour to admire the immense scale of the canyon and, when conditions are favorable, observe the majestic Andean condors soaring above the valley. This is one of the highlights of the tour and an excellent location for photography and panoramic views.
Traditional Villages of Maca and Yanque
On the return journey through the valley, we visit traditional villages such as Maca and Yanque. These communities are known for their colonial churches, local traditions, colorful clothing, and surrounding agricultural landscapes. Throughout the valley, you will also see hundreds of pre-Inca agricultural terraces, many of which are still used today to cultivate traditional Andean crops such as corn, quinoa, and kiwicha.
Optional Hot Springs
Before lunch, travelers may have the opportunity to visit the local thermal baths, where naturally heated waters reach approximately 35°C / 95°F. This is an optional activity and a relaxing way to enjoy the Colca Valley before continuing with the tour.
Lunch in the Colca Valley
After the morning visits, we stop for lunch before beginning the return journey toward Arequipa.
Patapampa – Viewpoint of the Volcanoes
On the way back to Arequipa, we stop at Patapampa, one of the highest points of the journey at approximately 4,800 meters / 15,748 feet above sea level. From this impressive viewpoint, you can admire several volcanoes and snow-capped mountains that dominate the high-Andean landscape.
Pampa Cañahuas National Reserve
We also travel through the Pampa Cañahuas National Reserve, where it may be possible to observe native Andean wildlife such as vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas. Depending on the conditions and season, travelers may also see different species of Andean birds, including flamingos, ibis, Andean geese, ducks, and caracaras.
Approximately 5:30 PM – Return to Arequipa
After a full day exploring the Colca Canyon and Colca Valley, we continue back to Arequipa, arriving at approximately 5:30 PM. This full-day itinerary combines Andean landscapes, local villages, wildlife, traditional agriculture, panoramic viewpoints, and the famous Andean condor, making it an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the highlights of the Colca Canyon in just one day.
Trip Summary
- Tour: Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour
- Starting Point: Hotel in Arequipa
- Ending Point: Arequipa
- Pick-Up Time: Approximately 2:45–3:30 AM
- Return Time: Approximately 5:30 PM
Tour Duration: Full Day - Transportation: Tourist transportation
- Main Destinations: Chivay, Colca Valley, Cruz del Cóndor, Maca, Yanque, Patapampa, and Pampa Cañahuas
- Main Activities: Scenic drive, cultural visits, panoramic viewpoints, wildlife observation, and optional hot springs
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch
- Highest Altitude: Approximately 4,800 m / 15,748 ft at Patapampa
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Tour Type: Scenic, Cultural & Nature Experience
- Highlights: Andean condors, Colca Canyon, traditional villages, pre-Inca agricultural terraces, volcano viewpoints, vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, and high-Andean landscapes
- Optional Activity: Visit to the local hot springs
- Recommended For: Travelers with limited time in Arequipa who want to experience the main highlights of the Colca Canyon in one day.
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
Hotel Pick-Up in Arequipa
The Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour includes convenient early-morning pick-up from selected hotels and accommodations located in the central area of Arequipa. Pick-up usually takes place between approximately 2:45 AM and 3:30 AM, depending on your hotel location and the order of passenger collection for that day. Our transportation team will coordinate the exact pick-up time in advance so that you can be ready before departure. After collecting all travelers, we begin the journey toward Chivay and the Colca Canyon, allowing you to start the tour directly from your accommodation without having to arrange additional transportation. If your hotel is located outside the regular pick-up area, our team will provide the nearest convenient meeting point or advise you of any additional transfer options available. We recommend confirming your hotel name and address with Machu Picchu Team before the tour so we can coordinate your pick-up correctly and avoid delays on the day of departure.
Round-Trip Tourist Transportation
The tour includes round-trip tourist transportation from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon and back to Arequipa. Travel comfortably through the high Andes, passing spectacular mountain landscapes, traditional villages, natural viewpoints, and protected areas along the route.
Breakfast in Chivay
A breakfast in Chivay is included after the early-morning journey from Arequipa. This gives you time to recharge before continuing toward the Colca Canyon and the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint.
Buffet Lunch
The tour includes a buffet lunch in the Colca Valley, offering a selection of local and regional dishes. It is a convenient opportunity to rest and enjoy a meal before beginning the return journey to Arequipa.
Professional Bilingual Tour Guide
You will be accompanied by a professional bilingual guide who speaks English and Spanish. Your guide will provide information about the Colca Canyon, local culture, traditional villages, Andean wildlife, agricultural terraces, volcanoes, and the history of the region throughout the day.
First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit is carried during the tour to assist with minor incidents or common discomforts that may occur during the journey. Because the tour reaches elevations of approximately 4,800 meters / 15,748 feet, travelers should also bring any personal medication they may require and inform the guide of relevant medical conditions before departure.
Not Included
Colca Canyon Entrance Fee – S/70
The Colca Canyon tourist entrance fee is not included in the tour price. The current reference price is approximately S/70 per person and is paid directly at the corresponding local control point on the day of the tour. This entrance fee provides access to the main tourist areas of the Colca Valley and Colca Canyon, including the viewpoints and attractions visited during the excursion.
Hot Springs Entrance Fee – S/15
The entrance to the thermal baths or hot springs is optional and is not included in the tour price. Travelers who wish to enjoy this experience should pay approximately S/15 per person directly at the entrance. The hot springs are a relaxing optional activity before lunch and are ideal for travelers who want to rest and enjoy the naturally warm thermal waters after the morning sightseeing activities.
Important Note
Entrance fees are established by local authorities or service providers and may change without prior notice. For this reason, we recommend carrying some additional cash in Peruvian soles on the day of the tour.
What to Pack
What to Pack
What to Wear & What to Pack – Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour
The Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa begins very early in the morning and travels through different elevations, from the city of Arequipa to high-Andean areas reaching approximately 4,800 meters / 15,748 feet. Temperatures can be cold before sunrise and at high-altitude viewpoints, while the Colca Valley can become warmer and sunnier later in the day. For this reason, we strongly recommend dressing in comfortable layers.
What to Wear
Wear a warm base layer or T-shirt, a fleece or sweater, and a windproof or waterproof jacket that you can remove as the temperature rises. Comfortable long pants are recommended, along with walking or trekking shoes with good grip, especially for viewpoint stops and uneven paths. Because the sun can be very strong at high altitude, we also recommend wearing a sun hat or cap, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. During the colder morning hours, a beanie, scarf, or light gloves can also be useful.
What to Pack in Your Daypack
Bring a small and comfortable daypack with the essentials you may need throughout the day:
- Passport or identification
- Warm jacket or fleece
- Windproof or waterproof jacket
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medication
- Camera or mobile phone
- Portable charger or power bank
- Small amount of cash in Peruvian soles for entrance fees, hot springs, drinks, souvenirs, or other personal expenses
- Snacks for the journey
- Rain poncho, especially during the rainy season
- Lip balm and moisturizer
- Swimsuit, towel, and sandals if you plan to visit the optional hot springs
Important Recommendation: The weather in the Colca Canyon and high Andes can change quickly during the same day. Dressing in layers will help you stay comfortable during the cold early-morning drive, the high-altitude stops at Patapampa, and the warmer conditions inside the Colca Valley. We also recommend keeping your daypack light and carrying only what you need for the full-day excursion.
Prices
Pricing
COLCA CANYON FULL-DAY TOUR PRICES | 2026–2027 SEASONS
We offer competitive rates for our Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa, combining spectacular Andean landscapes, traditional villages, wildlife, panoramic viewpoints, and the famous Cruz del Cóndor in one well-organized day. The tour includes round-trip tourist transportation, breakfast, buffet lunch, a professional bilingual guide, and operational support. Travelers who have previously booked with Machu Picchu Team may also qualify for a special returning-customer rate, subject to verification of their previous reservation.
STANDARD RATE: $37 USD per person
PROMOTIONAL RATE: $35 USD per person
Group Size
We operate the Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa regularly throughout the year, subject to availability, weather conditions, road conditions, local regulations, and operational circumstances. Travelers can book any available departure date, including last-minute reservations when space is available. Machu Picchu Team coordinates the transportation, professional guides, meals, hotel pick-up, and other essential logistics required for the tour, allowing us to provide a reliable and well-organized experience from Arequipa. Because the tour begins very early in the morning, approximately between 2:45 AM and 3:30 AM, we recommend confirming your hotel information in advance so our team can correctly coordinate your pick-up and departure to the Colca Canyon.
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Team
How to Book – Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa
Booking your Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa with Machu Picchu Team is simple and can be completed online. Click the BOOK NOW button, select your preferred travel date, enter the required passenger information, and complete the corresponding payment. Once your reservation is received, our team will review the details and send you a booking confirmation with the most important information for your tour.
When booking, please provide your full name, nationality, passport or identification number, date of birth, email address, WhatsApp number, and hotel name and address in Arequipa. Your hotel information is especially important because the tour includes early-morning pick-up, generally between 2:45 AM and 3:30 AM.
For last-minute reservations, private tours, families, larger groups, or travelers with special requirements, we recommend contacting Machu Picchu Team directly before booking. Our reservations team can check availability and help you organize the most appropriate service for your travel plans.
TERMS & CONDITIONS – COLCA CANYON FULL-DAY TOUR
Reservation and Confirmation
Your reservation is considered confirmed once Machu Picchu Team has received the required passenger information and payment and has issued your booking confirmation. All reservations remain subject to availability and operational conditions at the time of booking.
Hotel Pick-Up
Hotel pick-up is included from selected accommodations located within the regular pick-up area in Arequipa. Pick-up generally takes place between 2:45 AM and 3:30 AM, depending on your hotel location and the order in which passengers are collected. Travelers must provide the correct hotel name and address before the tour. If your accommodation is outside the regular pick-up area, our team may provide a convenient meeting point or advise you of available transfer alternatives.
Tour Schedule
The itinerary and times published on our website are approximate. They may vary depending on traffic, weather, road conditions, group pace, local operations, entrance procedures, and other circumstances beyond our direct control. Machu Picchu Team may make reasonable adjustments to the itinerary when necessary for operational or safety reasons while making every effort to preserve the main attractions included in the tour.
Colca Canyon Entrance Fee
The Colca Canyon tourist entrance fee is not included in the tour price and must be paid directly during the excursion. The reference price is approximately S/70 per person, although rates may vary according to nationality, age, or regulations established by the corresponding authorities. Because entrance fees may change without prior notice, travelers should carry sufficient cash in Peruvian soles.
Optional Hot Springs
Entrance to the hot springs is optional and not included in the tour price. Travelers who choose to participate must pay the corresponding entrance fee directly at the site. The current reference price is approximately S/15 per person, subject to change.
Meals
The tour includes the meals specifically indicated in the confirmed itinerary, currently breakfast and buffet lunch. Additional snacks, beverages, alcoholic drinks, and other meals or food not specifically listed are considered personal expenses.
Group Size
Our Colca Canyon Full-Day Group Tour usually operates with approximately 12 to 14 travelers, with a maximum of 18 participants. Group composition may vary depending on reservations for each departure date.
High Altitude
This tour travels through high-altitude areas, reaching approximately 4,800 meters / 15,748 feet at Patapampa. Travelers should be aware that altitude may cause symptoms such as headache, fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Passengers with medical conditions or concerns about traveling at high altitude should consult an appropriate healthcare professional before participating. Travelers are responsible for carrying any personal medication they may require.
Andean Condor Sightings
The visit to Cruz del Cóndor provides an excellent opportunity to observe Andean condors; however, these are wild animals and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Their presence and activity depend on natural conditions such as weather, wind, season, and wildlife behavior.
Weather and Road Conditions
Weather in the Andes can change quickly. Rain, fog, strong winds, road conditions, landslides, traffic disruptions, or other circumstances may occasionally affect the itinerary. If conditions require changes for safety or operational reasons, our guide and operations team will determine the most appropriate course of action.
Changes to Your Travel Date
Requests to change the tour date are subject to availability and should be submitted as early as possible. Date changes cannot always be guaranteed, particularly when services with local suppliers have already been confirmed. If a change results in additional costs, the traveler will be informed before the modification is completed.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Cancellation requests must be submitted through an official Machu Picchu Team communication channel. Refund eligibility will depend on the cancellation conditions applicable to your reservation and any non-recoverable expenses already paid to transportation providers, restaurants, guides, local operators, or other suppliers. Travelers should review the specific cancellation policy displayed during the booking process before completing their reservation.
No-Show or Late Arrival
Travelers must be ready at the confirmed pick-up location at the scheduled time. Due to the early departure and long travel distance to the Colca Canyon, the group cannot normally wait for passengers who arrive late. Failure to appear at the agreed location and time may be considered a no-show, and the tour may become non-refundable.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the tour price. We strongly recommend purchasing appropriate insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, trip interruptions, transportation delays, lost belongings, and other unexpected circumstances during your trip to Peru.
Personal Belongings
Travelers are responsible for their passports, money, cameras, mobile phones, luggage, and other personal belongings throughout the tour. Machu Picchu Team recommends carrying only the essential items needed for the day.
Respect for Local Communities and Nature
The Colca Valley is home to traditional Andean communities and important natural environments. Travelers are expected to respect local customs, archaeological and cultural sites, wildlife, private property, and the natural environment throughout the tour.
Acceptance of Terms
By completing your reservation for the Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa, you acknowledge that you have reviewed and accepted the itinerary, inclusions, exclusions, booking conditions, and applicable terms provided by Machu Picchu Team.
Faqs and Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions COLCA CANYON FULL-DAY TOUR FROM AREQUIPA
1. What time does the Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour start and finish?
Hotel pick-up in Arequipa usually takes place between 2:45 AM and 3:30 AM. The tour returns to Arequipa at approximately 5:30 PM, although times may vary depending on traffic, weather, road conditions, and the pace of the group.
2. Is the Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour difficult?
The tour is considered easy to moderate because most of the day is spent traveling by tourist vehicle and visiting viewpoints and villages. However, the journey reaches high-altitude areas of approximately 4,800 meters / 15,748 feet, so some travelers may feel the effects of altitude.
3. Is the entrance fee to the Colca Canyon included?
No. The Colca Canyon tourist entrance fee is not included and must be paid directly during the tour. The reference price is approximately S/70 per person, although rates may change according to local regulations. We recommend carrying cash in Peruvian soles.
4. Will I definitely see Andean condors at Cruz del Cóndor?
The Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint is one of the best places in the Colca Canyon to observe Andean condors. However, because they are wild animals, sightings cannot be guaranteed. Their activity depends on weather, wind, season, and natural conditions.
5. What should I bring for the Colca Canyon Tour?
We recommend bringing warm layered clothing, a windproof or waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, water, personal medication, and cash in Peruvian soles. If you plan to visit the optional hot springs, also bring a swimsuit, towel, and sandals.
Travel Guide
Gallery
Photo Gallery
WHY BOOK THE COLCA CANYON FULL-DAY TOUR WITH MACHU PICCHU TEAM?
1. Local Tour Operator with Professional Support
Machu Picchu Team is a local tour operator with experience organizing travel services throughout southern Peru. Our reservations, operations, guides, drivers, and support staff work together to provide a reliable and well-coordinated experience from the moment you book until you return to Arequipa.
2. Complete Full-Day Experience
Our Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa is designed to include the most important highlights of the region in a single day. You will visit Chivay, Cruz del Cóndor, traditional villages, scenic viewpoints, Patapampa, and Pampa Cañahuas, while enjoying impressive Andean landscapes and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
3. Professional English- and Spanish-Speaking Guide
Each group is accompanied by a professional bilingual guide who speaks English and Spanish. Your guide will explain the history, culture, geography, traditional communities, agricultural terraces, volcanoes, and wildlife of the Colca Valley, helping you better understand and enjoy every stop along the route.
4. Small and Well-Organized Groups
Our Colca Canyon tours usually operate with 12 to 14 travelers, with a maximum of 18 participants. Keeping the group size controlled allows for better coordination during transportation, viewpoint stops, village visits, meals, and optional activities, creating a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
5. Convenient Hotel Pick-Up and Complete Logistics
The tour includes early-morning hotel pick-up in Arequipa, tourist transportation, breakfast, buffet lunch, professional guiding, and operational support throughout the day. Our team coordinates the main logistics in advance so you can focus on enjoying the Colca Canyon experience.
6. Competitive Local Prices
As a local tour operator, we aim to offer fair and competitive prices based on the local tourism market, while maintaining professional service, reliable transportation, experienced guides, and well-organized itineraries.
7. Special Benefits for Returning Customers
Travelers who have previously booked a tour with Machu Picchu Team may qualify for a special returning-customer rate, subject to verification of their previous reservation. We value travelers who choose to continue exploring Peru with us and are happy to offer special benefits whenever available.
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