COST: S/. 230.00 (approx. $64.00 USD)
Day 1: AREQUIPA – CHIVAY – YANQUE
We will begin our tour at 7:00 a.m., picking you up from the prearranged meeting point with our tourist transport. After a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, we will reach the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where we will make several guided stops to observe local wildlife, including vicuñas, llamas, alpacas, and various wetland bird species. The first stop will focus on observing vicuñas in their natural habitat. We will then head to the Puruña Stone Forest, a stunning location little known to traditional tourists. Here, we will take a 1.5-hour walk to explore its unique rock formations.
We will continue our journey toward the Colca Canyon, passing panoramic viewpoints ideal for birdwatching, and making a brief stop at the famous Volcanoes Viewpoint, located at an altitude of about 4,900 m.a.s.l. Then we will descend to Chivay (3,600 m.a.s.l.), and from there to the picturesque village of Yanque, where we will enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we will take a walk to the hanging tombs of Shininea and the natural amphitheater of Oscolle.
We will finish the day with a relaxing soak in the thermal baths, during sunset or early evening, outside regular tourist hours, for a more peaceful and immersive experience. Finally, dinner will conclude the day’s activities.
Day 2: YANQUE – CRUZ DEL CONDOR – AREQUIPA
We will begin the day early, waking up at 6:00 a.m. to have breakfast and then head to the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, about 40 minutes away. We will spend about an hour here to witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), the largest flying bird in the world, with a wingspan of up to 3.2 meters. After an explanation from the guide about the ecological and cultural significance of this emblematic location, you will have time to explore and enjoy the attractions of the viewpoint area.
At 10:00 a.m., we will begin the return journey to Chivay, stopping at various points of interest such as the Wayrapunku and Antahuilque viewpoints, from where you can see pre-Inca terraces and breathtaking Andean landscapes.
We will then visit the traditional and charming village of Maca, known for its rich culture and religious syncretism, embodied in the Church of Santa Ana of Maca. Here, we will also taste a typical local beverage made from the sancayo cactus fruit, and admire or purchase handicrafts representing the Qollaguas and Cabanas cultures, along with Andean textile products.
At around 12:30 p.m., we will enjoy a buffet lunch, featuring a variety of dishes showcasing the best of local cuisine. After lunch, we will begin our return to Arequipa, making additional stops along the way to view wildlife and appreciate the high Andean landscapes. Arrival in Arequipa is expected around 5:00 p.m.
COST: S/. 230.00 (approx. $64.00 USD)
INCLUDES:
– Comfortable, modern tourist
transportation
– Official bilingual tour guide
– 1 night in a 2-star hotel
– 1 Andean buffet breakfast
NOT INCLUDED:
– Entrance fee to Colca Canyon:
– Foreigners in general: S/. 70.00
– Latin American foreigners: S/. 40.00
– Peruvian citizens: S/. 20.00
– Bottled water, soft drinks, beer, chocolates
– Buffet lunch in Chivay: S/. 40.00
– Dinner show: S/. 30.00
– Entrance to Yanque hot springs: S/. 15.00
WHAT TO BRING:
– Lightweight backpack (max. recommended: 3L)
– Hat or cap for sun protection
– Headlamp
– Sunglasses / sunscreen
– Warm jacket
– Long-sleeve shirt or T-shirt
– Gloves/mittens (optional)
– Complete change of clothes
– Swimsuit
– Strong and comfortable hiking shoes
– Sandals
– Insect repellent
– Cash / snacks / toilet paper
Service provided by Tito Palma Adventours, Tour Operator.