COST: S/. 270.00 (approx. $75.00 USD)
A beautiful medium-high level hike to the deepest part of the Colca Canyon.
Day 1: AREQUIPA – SAN MIGUEL – SAN JUAN DE CHUCCHO – OASIS
At 3:00 a.m., we will pick you up from the designated meeting point in the city center to begin the journey to Chivay, where we will enjoy a traditional breakfast before continuing the route.
Our next stop will be the impressive Cruz del Cóndor, where we can witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor, symbol of the Andes, and enjoy a spectacular view of one of the deepest canyons in the world.
Then, we will head about 20 minutes to the San Miguel viewpoint, which offers an unmatched panoramic view of the Colca Canyon. From there, we will begin a descent of approximately 4 hours along a zigzagging trail until we reach the community of San Juan de Chucchu (2,200 m.a.s.l.), where we will have a well-deserved and restorative lunch.
After a short rest, we will continue walking towards the picturesque villages of Cosñirhua and Malata, surrounded by nature and tradition. Along the way, we will observe local flora and fauna, including native fruits and medicinal plants, and we will have the opportunity to interact with local inhabitants who still speak Quechua, the ancient Incan language. This will allow us to learn more about the living culture of the Colca Canyon, and we will also get to try chicha, the ancestral fermented drink known as the ‘Inca beer.’
Finally, we will descend to the Sangalle Oasis (1,160 m.a.s.l.), a natural paradise where we can relax in its refreshing pools. Dinner will be served here, and we will spend the night surrounded by peace and breathtaking landscapes.
Day 2: SANGALLE (OASIS) – CABANACONDE – AREQUIPA
Around 5:00 a.m., we will begin our ascent back to the village of Cabanaconde, a climb that takes about 3 hours and covers a vertical distance of approximately 1,200 meters. Breakfast will be served upon arrival.
At 9:30 a.m., we will visit the viewpoints of Antahuilque, Choquetico, and the traditional town of Maca, known for its cultural richness and religious syncretism, reflected in the Church of Santa Ana of Maca. Here, we will also have the chance to taste a typical local beverage made from the sancayo cactus, and to appreciate and purchase handicrafts from the Qollaguas and Cabanas cultures, as well as Andean textile products.
Next, we will head to the medicinal hot springs in the beautiful town of Yanque, with waters at 38°C, where we will stay for about an hour.
After that, we return to Chivay to enjoy a buffet lunch, featuring a variety of dishes highlighting the best of the local gastronomy. Following lunch, we will travel back to the city of Arequipa, making a few stops along the way to observe alpacas, vicuñas, llamas, and the Misti and Chachani volcanoes. Arrival in Arequipa is estimated at 6:00 p.m.
COST: S/. 270.00 (approx. $75.00 USD)
INCLUDES:
– Tourist transportation: Arequipa – Chivay – Cruz del Cóndor – San Miguel
– 1 lunch, 1 dinner, 2 breakfasts
– Guided hike through the Colca Canyon
– 1 night in basic lodging (cabins at Sangalle Oasis)
– Professional bilingual guide for 2 days
– Return transport: Cabanaconde – Chivay – Arequipa
– Vegetarian food option available
NOT INCLUDED:
– Entrance fee to Colca Canyon:
– Foreigners: S/. 70.00
– South American foreigners: S/. 40.00
– Peruvian citizens: S/. 20.00
– Mule service (optional, Sangalle – Cabanaconde): S/. 60.00
– Bottled water, soft drinks, beer, chocolates
– Buffet lunch in Chivay: S/. 40.00
– Entrance to the Yanque hot springs: S/. 15.00
WHAT TO BRING:
– Lightweight backpack (max. recommended: 3L)
– Sun hat or cap
– 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.