Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
AREQUIPA → CHIVAY → CRUZ DEL CÓNDOR → PAMPA SAN MIGUEL → SAN JUAN DE CHUCCHO
Your Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa begins with an early hotel pick-up from approximately 2:45 AM. Depending on your accommodation, pick-up can be arranged directly from your hotel or from a designated meeting point near the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa.
We will then begin an approximately 3-hour drive to Chivay, arriving at around 6:30 AM for breakfast.
After breakfast, we continue deeper into the Colca Valley, making scenic stops along the way, including viewpoints such as Antahuilque, where you can appreciate the extensive pre-Inca agricultural terraces and surrounding Andean landscapes.
At approximately 8:30 AM, we arrive at Cruz del Cóndor, one of the most famous viewpoints in the Colca Canyon. Here, we will have time to admire the immense depth of the canyon and, depending on natural conditions, observe Andean condors soaring above the valley.
We then continue to Pampa San Miguel, where the trekking portion of the tour begins. From this point, we start an approximately 4-hour descent into the Colca Canyon, following mountain trails with impressive panoramic views.
Our destination is the community of San Juan de Chuccho, where we will enjoy lunch prepared by a local family. The afternoon is free to rest, explore the surroundings, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere inside the canyon.
In the evening, we will have dinner and spend the night in basic local bungalows.
TREK SUMMARY – DAY 1
- Starting point: Arequipa
- Hotel pick-up: From approximately 2:45 AM
- Main visits: Chivay, Antahuilque Viewpoint, Cruz del Cóndor
- Trekking start: Pampa San Miguel
- Trekking time: Approximately 4 hours
- Trekking type: Mainly downhill
- Overnight: San Juan de Chuccho
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
SAN JUAN DE CHUCCHO → COSÑIRHUA → MALATA → SANGALLE OASIS
After breakfast, we continue our trek through the heart of the Colca Canyon at the time coordinated with the guide.
Today’s route takes us through the traditional Andean communities of Cosñirhua and Malata, where you will have the opportunity to experience rural life inside the canyon and appreciate the agricultural landscapes, local vegetation, and surrounding mountains.
After visiting these communities, we continue hiking toward the famous Sangalle Oasis. The total walking time for the day is approximately 3 to 4 hours, including both uphill and downhill sections.
Upon arrival in Sangalle, we can relax beside its natural-fed swimming pools, where the water temperature is generally pleasant and provides the perfect opportunity to recover after the trek.
We will then enjoy lunch, followed by free time during the afternoon to rest, swim, enjoy the scenery, or simply relax surrounded by the dramatic walls of the Colca Canyon.
At the end of the day, we will share dinner and spend the night in rustic bungalows or small local cabins in Sangalle.
TREK SUMMARY – DAY 2
- Starting point: San Juan de Chuccho
- Main villages: Cosñirhua and Malata
- Destination: Sangalle Oasis
- Trekking time: Approximately 3–4 hours
- Trekking type: Uphill and downhill sections
- Activities: Local village visits and relaxation at the oasis
- Overnight: Sangalle Oasis
- Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
SANGALLE OASIS → CABANACONDE → MACA → YANQUE HOT SPRINGS → CHIVAY → AREQUIPA
After coordinating the departure time with your guide, we will wake up very early, generally at around 4:30 AM, to begin the final and most demanding section of the trek.
From Sangalle Oasis, we start an approximately 3-hour continuous uphill hike to Cabanaconde. The climb is challenging, but the early departure allows us to hike before the strongest heat of the day.
Once we reach Cabanaconde, we will enjoy a well-deserved breakfast and take some time to rest.
We then continue by vehicle through the Colca Valley, passing traditional villages and scenic landscapes. Our journey includes a stop in the Maca area before continuing toward the thermal baths, where travelers will have the opportunity to relax in the warm waters.
After the hot springs, we continue to Chivay, where we will enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, we begin the return journey to Arequipa. Along the way, we will make short stops at high-altitude viewpoints, including the Mirador de los Andes, located at approximately 4,900 meters above sea level, as well as areas within the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve.
During this section, there may be opportunities to observe high-Andean landscapes and native animals such as llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
We expect to arrive in Arequipa at approximately 5:30 PM, with drop-off near the city center, approximately two blocks from the Plaza de Armas, marking the end of your Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa.
TREK SUMMARY – DAY 3
- Starting point: Sangalle Oasis
- Wake-up time: Approximately 4:30 AM
- Trekking time: Approximately 3 hours
- Trekking type: Continuous uphill climb
- Main destination after trek: Cabanaconde
- Additional visits: Maca, hot springs, Chivay, Mirador de los Andes, Salinas y Aguada Blanca
- Return to Arequipa: Approximately 5:30 PM
- Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
- Difficulty: Challenging
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
Pre-Trek Briefing at Our Arequipa Office
A pre-trek briefing is included the evening before departure at 7:00 PM at our office in Arequipa. During this meeting, our team will review the itinerary, explain the trekking conditions, confirm your pick-up details, provide packing recommendations, and answer any final questions before the tour.
Hotel Pick-Up in Central Arequipa
We provide early-morning pick-up from selected hotels located near the historic center of Arequipa. Your exact pick-up time will be confirmed during the briefing according to your hotel location.
Tourist Transportation to the Trek Starting Point
The tour includes tourist transportation from Arequipa to the Colca Valley and the starting point of the trek, with scheduled stops according to the itinerary, including Chivay and Cruz del Cóndor.
Professional Trekking Guide
You will be accompanied by a professional trekking guide throughout the experience. Your guide will assist with route coordination, hiking pace, local information, safety, and the main cultural and natural attractions visited during the trek.
Tourist Transportation During the Tour
All necessary tourist transportation included in the confirmed itinerary is coordinated as part of the service, including transfers before and after the trekking sections.
3 Breakfasts
The tour includes 3 breakfasts, served according to the daily itinerary. Meals are designed to provide sufficient energy for the trekking activities.
2 Lunches
The package includes 2 lunches during the 3-day itinerary, featuring simple local-style meals appropriate for the trekking program.
2 Dinners
The tour includes 2 dinners, one during each overnight stay inside the Colca Canyon.
1 Night Accommodation in San Juan de Chuccho
The first night includes basic shared accommodation in local bungalows in San Juan de Chuccho. Facilities are simple and appropriate for a trekking experience inside the canyon.
1 Night Accommodation in Sangalle Oasis
The second night includes shared accommodation in rustic bungalows or cabins in Sangalle Oasis, allowing you to rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at the bottom of the canyon.
Return Transportation to Arequipa
After completing the trek, the tour includes tourist transportation back to Arequipa, following the scheduled return route through the Colca Valley and high-Andean landscapes.
Drop-Off Near Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas
At the end of the tour, passengers will be dropped off near Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas, generally within a short walking distance of the historic center.
First Aid Kit
Your guide will carry a basic first aid kit during the trek to provide initial assistance in case of minor incidents.
Free Luggage Storage
Travelers may leave unnecessary luggage in free storage before departure, allowing them to carry only the essential items required for the 3-day trek.
Not Included
Colca Canyon Entrance Fee
The Colca Canyon entrance ticket is not included in the standard tour price. The current reference rate is approximately S/70 per person, and this fee must be paid separately. We recommend carrying enough cash in Peruvian soles, as card payments may not always be available at local control points.
Yanque Hot Springs Entrance
Entrance to the Yanque Hot Springs is optional and is not included in the package price. The approximate entrance fee is S/15 per person, paid directly at the site. This activity is a good option for travelers who want to relax in the thermal pools after completing the morning climb out of the canyon.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa. We strongly recommend having suitable insurance that covers trekking activities, medical assistance, accidents, trip interruption, transportation delays, and lost or damaged personal belongings. Because this tour includes demanding hiking and high-altitude travel, travelers should make sure their insurance policy is appropriate for the activities and elevations included in the itinerary.
What to Pack
What to Pack
COLCA CANYON TREK 3 DAYS FROM AREQUIPA – WHAT TO WEAR & WHAT TO PACK
How to Dress
- Trekking shoes or hiking boots: Wear comfortable footwear with good grip and ankle support, as the route includes long descents, steep uphill sections, rocky terrain, and uneven trails.
- Lightweight hiking pants or shorts: Choose breathable, quick-drying clothing suitable for several hours of trekking.
- Warm layers: Bring a fleece, sweater, or light insulated jacket for the early morning, evening, and high-altitude sections of the route.
- Waterproof rain jacket: Recommended, especially during the rainy season or whenever weather conditions are uncertain.
- Sun hat or cap: Important for protection from strong Andean sunlight during exposed sections of the trail.
- Sunglasses: UV-protection sunglasses are strongly recommended.
- Swimwear: Bring a swimsuit for the pools at Sangalle Oasis and the optional hot springs visit.
- Sandals or flip-flops: Useful for relaxing at the accommodation, around the pools, or at the hot springs.
What to Pack in Your Backpack
- Original passport or valid identification: Keep it protected and accessible during the tour.
- Light backpack: A comfortable backpack of approximately 30–45 liters is recommended for carrying your personal belongings during the 3-day trek.
- Drinking water: Carry approximately 1.5 to 2 liters of water for Day 1. Additional water can usually be purchased in local communities along the route.
- High-SPF sunscreen: Essential because sun exposure can be intense inside the Colca Canyon.
- Headlamp or flashlight: Very important for Day 3, when the ascent from Sangalle to Cabanaconde begins before sunrise.
- Energy snacks: Bring energy bars, fruit, nuts, chocolate, or similar snacks, especially for the early-morning climb on the final day before breakfast.
- Insect repellent: Recommended for the warmer lower sections of the canyon, especially around San Juan de Chuccho and Sangalle.
- Personal medication: Bring all prescription medication and any personal medicine you may require during the 3-day trek.
- Basic toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, personal hygiene products, and other essential items.
- Quick-drying towel: Useful for the pools in Sangalle and the optional hot springs.
- Change of clothes: Bring lightweight clothing for the second and third days, including clean socks and underwear.
- Trekking poles: Optional but highly recommended for stability during the long downhill sections and the final uphill climb.
- Cash in Peruvian soles: Carry enough cash for the Colca Canyon entrance fee, optional hot springs, drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and other personal expenses.
- Camera or smartphone: Useful for photographing the canyon, local communities, Andean condors, and landscapes.
- Power bank: Recommended because charging facilities may be limited in San Juan de Chuccho and Sangalle.
- Small waterproof bag or cover: Useful for protecting documents, electronics, and personal belongings from rain or moisture.
Important Recommendation: For the Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa, pack as lightly as possible because you will normally carry your own backpack throughout the trekking sections. Bring only what you need for two nights and three days, especially lightweight clothing, water, sun protection, personal medication, and essential toiletries. Unnecessary luggage can be left in the available free luggage storage before departure. A light backpack will make the long descent into the canyon, the walk between local communities, and the final climb from Sangalle to Cabanaconde considerably more comfortable.
Prices
Pricing
COLCA CANYON TREK 3 DAYS FROM AREQUIPA – PRICES | 2026–2027 SEASONS
We offer competitive rates for the Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa, including hotel pick-up, tourist transportation, professional trekking guide, 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, one night in San Juan de Chuccho, one night in Sangalle Oasis, and return transportation to Arequipa. Returning customers of Machu Picchu Team may qualify for a special discounted rate, subject to verification of their previous booking.
-
STANDARD RATE: $100 USD per person
-
PROMOTIONAL RATE: $90 USD per person
Group Size
The Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa operates in shared groups with travelers booked for the same departure date. Each group is accompanied by a professional trekking guide who coordinates the route, walking pace, rest stops, and assistance throughout the trek.
Guaranteed Departures
The Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa operates regularly throughout the year, subject to availability, weather, trail conditions, road access, accommodation availability, guide availability, and local operations. Travelers may book any available departure date, including last-minute reservations when space is available. We recommend confirming your hotel information in Arequipa in advance so our team can correctly coordinate the early-morning pick-up and departure.
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Team
HOW TO BOOK – COLCA CANYON TREK 3 DAYS FROM AREQUIPA
Booking your Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa with Machu Picchu Team is simple and can be completed online. Click the BOOK NOW button, select your preferred departure date, enter the required passenger information, and complete the corresponding payment. Once your reservation is received, our team will verify availability and send your booking confirmation with the essential details for the trek.
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 accommodation details are important because the tour includes early hotel pick-up on Day 1.
A pre-trek briefing is scheduled at our Arequipa office at 7:00 PM the evening before departure. During the briefing, our team will review the itinerary, confirm your pick-up details, explain the trekking conditions, and provide final packing and safety recommendations.
Because this is a multi-day trekking experience, please inform us in advance about any dietary requirements, medical conditions, allergies, mobility limitations, or special requests that could affect your participation.
For last-minute reservations, private departures, families, or travelers requiring additional assistance, please contact Machu Picchu Team directly before booking so we can verify availability and help organize the most suitable service.
TERMS & CONDITIONS – COLCA CANYON TREK 3 DAYS FROM AREQUIPA
Reservation and Confirmation
Your reservation is confirmed once Machu Picchu Team has received the required passenger information and payment and has issued your booking confirmation. All reservations are subject to availability of transportation, trekking guides, accommodation in San Juan de Chuccho and Sangalle Oasis, meals, trail access, and local operational conditions.
Pre-Trek Briefing
A briefing will be held at our Arequipa office at 7:00 PM the evening before departure. Attendance is strongly recommended because the guide or operations team will explain the itinerary, hiking conditions, luggage recommendations, pick-up details, and other important information.
Hotel Pick-Up
Hotel pick-up is included from selected accommodations located near the historic center of Arequipa. The exact pick-up time will be confirmed during the briefing and may vary according to your hotel location and the order in which passengers are collected. If your accommodation is outside the regular pick-up area, our team may provide a convenient meeting point.
Tour Schedule
All times stated in the itinerary are approximate. The schedule may change depending on traffic, weather, road conditions, hiking pace, trail conditions, local operations, and other circumstances beyond our direct control. Machu Picchu Team may make reasonable adjustments when necessary for safety or operational reasons while making every effort to preserve the main experiences 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 separately. The reference price provided for this program is approximately S/70 per person. Travelers should carry sufficient cash in Peruvian soles, as card payment may not always be available.
Optional Hot Springs
Entrance to the hot springs visited during the itinerary is optional and is not included in the standard tour price. The reference entrance fee is approximately S/15 per person, payable directly at the site and subject to change.
Meals
The Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days includes 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners according to the confirmed itinerary. Meals during the trek are generally simple and suitable for the route. Vegetarian options may be arranged when requested in advance. Additional snacks, bottled drinks, alcoholic beverages, and food not specifically listed as included are considered personal expenses.
Accommodation in San Juan de Chuccho
The first night includes basic shared accommodation in local bungalows in San Juan de Chuccho. Facilities are simple and reflect the remote location inside the Colca Canyon. Travelers should not expect the same level of facilities as a conventional city hotel.
Accommodation in Sangalle Oasis
The second night includes shared accommodation in rustic bungalows or cabins in Sangalle Oasis. Facilities are basic and designed for travelers completing the canyon trek. Room configuration and bathroom facilities may vary according to availability.
Group Service
The Colca Canyon Trek generally operates as a shared group service, with travelers from different countries joining the same departure. Group size may vary according to confirmed reservations. Private departures may also be available upon request and subject to availability.
Physical Condition
The Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa requires a reasonable level of physical fitness. Day 1 includes approximately 4 hours of mainly downhill trekking. Day 2 includes approximately 3 to 4 hours of mixed uphill and downhill hiking, while Day 3 begins with an approximately 3-hour continuous uphill climb from Sangalle Oasis to Cabanaconde. Travelers should be comfortable walking on steep, rocky, and uneven mountain trails.
High Altitude
The road portion of the itinerary passes through high-altitude areas of the Andes, including viewpoints close to 4,900 meters above sea level. Some travelers may experience symptoms such as headache, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath. Anyone with medical concerns related to altitude or strenuous physical activity should consult an appropriate healthcare professional before traveling and carry any required personal medication.
Andean Condor Sightings
The visit to Cruz del Cóndor offers an excellent opportunity to observe Andean condors. However, condors are wild animals and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Their presence depends on weather, wind, season, and natural behavior.
Trail and Weather Conditions
Weather inside the Colca Canyon can change quickly. Strong sun, rain, cold temperatures, heat, fog, landslides, trail deterioration, or road disruptions may occasionally affect the itinerary. When changes are necessary for safety or operational reasons, the guide and operations team will determine the most appropriate alternative.
Changes to Your Travel Date
Requests to change your departure date are subject to availability and should be made as early as possible. Once accommodation, transportation, guides, meals, or other services have been confirmed, changes may generate additional costs or may not be possible. Any additional charge will be communicated 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 costs already paid for transportation, accommodation, guides, meals, local operators, or other services. Travelers should review the cancellation conditions displayed during the booking process before completing payment.
No-Show or Late Arrival
Travelers must be ready at the confirmed hotel or meeting point at the scheduled time. Because the tour departs very early and follows a fixed travel schedule 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 missed service may be non-refundable.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend purchasing appropriate insurance that covers trekking activities, medical emergencies, accidents, evacuation if applicable, trip interruption, transportation delays, and loss or damage of personal belongings.
Personal Belongings and Backpack
Travelers are responsible for their passport or identification, money, cameras, mobile phones, backpacks, and all other personal belongings. Because each traveler normally carries their own backpack during the trek, we recommend taking only the essentials required for the 3-day program. Unnecessary luggage may be left in the available free luggage storage before departure.
Respect for Local Communities and Nature
The Colca Canyon is home to traditional Andean communities, agricultural areas, wildlife, and important natural landscapes. Travelers are expected to respect local customs, private property, trails, wildlife, archaeological remains, and the natural environment throughout the trek.
Return to Arequipa
The estimated arrival in Arequipa on Day 3 is approximately 5:30 PM, with drop-off near the Plaza de Armas. Arrival time may vary depending on road conditions, traffic, weather, group pace, and the duration of scheduled stops.
Acceptance of Terms
By booking the Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa, you confirm that you have reviewed and accepted the itinerary, inclusions, exclusions, physical requirements, accommodation conditions, payment terms, cancellation conditions, and operational policies provided by Machu Picchu Team.
Faqs and Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions COLCA CANYON TREK 3 DAYS FROM AREQUIPA: Explore the Canyon at a Relaxed Pace
1. How difficult is the Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days?
The Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days from Arequipa is considered moderate to challenging. Day 1 includes approximately 4 hours of mostly downhill hiking, Day 2 includes around 3 to 4 hours of mixed uphill and downhill trekking, and Day 3 begins with an approximately 3-hour uphill climb from Sangalle to Cabanaconde.
2. What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up in Arequipa, tourist transportation, professional trekking guide, 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, one night in San Juan de Chuccho, one night in Sangalle Oasis, return transportation to Arequipa, first aid kit, and free luggage storage.
3. Where do we stay during the trek?
The first night is spent in basic shared bungalows in San Juan de Chuccho, and the second night in shared rustic accommodation in Sangalle Oasis. Facilities are simple and appropriate for a trekking experience inside the canyon.
4. Is the Colca Canyon entrance fee included?
No. The Colca Canyon entrance fee is not included in the tour price and must be paid separately. We recommend carrying cash in Peruvian soles for entrance fees and other personal expenses.
5. Do I need to carry my own backpack?
Yes. Travelers normally carry their own personal backpack during the trekking sections. We recommend using a light backpack of approximately 30–45 liters and bringing only the essentials needed for the 3-day trek. Unnecessary luggage can be left in free storage before departure.
6. Can I visit the hot springs during the tour?
Yes. The itinerary includes time for an optional visit to the hot springs during the return journey. The entrance fee is not included and must be paid directly at the site.
7. What time does the tour start and finish?
The tour begins with an early hotel pick-up in Arequipa on Day 1. A pre-trek briefing is held at 7:00 PM the evening before departure. On Day 3, the group normally returns to Arequipa at approximately 5:30 PM, with drop-off near the Plaza de Armas. Exact times may vary depending on weather, road conditions, trail conditions, and group pace.
Travel Guide
Gallery
Photo Gallery
WHY BOOK THE COLCA CANYON TREK 3 DAYS WITH MACHU PICCHU TEAM?
Optional Trips
We offer additional tour options that maintain the same high quality you've come to expect. Explore new possibilities with us without compromising on excellence!"
Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu via Llactapata: All the Highlights in Less Time. The Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu via Llactapata is…
Salkantay Trek 2 Days and Humantay Lake: A Brief Yet Epic Andean Journey. The Salkantay Trek 2 Days and Humantay Lake is a short but unforgettable…
NEW SALKANTAY TREK + INCA JUNGLE TRAIL 5 DAYS: The New Salkantay Trek + Inca Jungle Trail 5 Days is an exciting alternative adventure to Machu…
Machu Picchu 2 day Tour by Train from Cusco is one of the best ways to discover the legendary Inca citadel at a relaxed pace.…
Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 2 Days Tour from Cusco: An Immersive Inca Experience. Discover the best of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in…
Uyuni Salt Flats 3 Day Tour is one of the most complete adventures you can experience in Bolivia, combining the immense white landscapes of the…