Tour Description
For active and adventurous travelers, trekking into the Colca Canyon is an unforgettable physical challenge rewarded by stunning natural beauty. This 2-day guided trek descends into one of the deepest canyons on Earth, taking you through rugged landscapes, hanging bridges, and remote local villages completely isolated from the modern world.
After watching the majestic Andean Condors at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, the real adventure begins. You will hike down the canyon walls for several hours until you reach the Oasis of Sangalle, a lush, tropical paradise nestled at the very bottom of the gorge. Here, you can relax in natural swimming pools and spend the night in rustic lodges beneath a spectacular starry sky. The next morning, a demanding pre-dawn hike brings you back to the rim, concluding an epic Andean adventure.
Highlights
- Canyon Descent & Ascent: Challenge yourself physically by hiking deep into and out of the massive canyon.
- Sangalle Oasis: Relax in tropical swimming pools surrounded by towering canyon walls.
- Cruz del Condor: Observe the majestic Andean condor in flight before beginning your trek.
- Stargazing: Enjoy incredibly clear night skies free from light pollution at the bottom of the canyon.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Condors and Descent into the Oasis
- 03:00 AMEarly pick up from your Arequipa hotel and drive to Chivay for breakfast.
- 08:00 AMStop at the Cruz del Condor to watch the condors fly.
- 10:00 AMArrive at San Miguel viewpoint in Cabanaconde to begin the descent into the canyon.
- 01:00 PMArrive at the village of San Juan de Chuccho for lunch.
- 03:00 PMContinue hiking through Cosñirhua and Malata villages.
- 05:00 PMArrive at the Sangalle Oasis. Relax in the pools, have dinner, and sleep in basic bungalows.
Day 2: The Challenge of the Ascent
- 04:30 AMBegin the steep zigzag hike up to Cabanaconde to avoid the harsh sun.
- 07:30 AMArrive in Cabanaconde and enjoy a well-deserved breakfast.
- 10:00 AMReturn transport towards Chivay, stopping at viewpoints along the way.
- 12:00 PMOptional stop at La Calera hot springs to soothe your muscles.
- 01:00 PMLunch in Chivay (not included).
- 05:30 PMArrive back in Arequipa.
Included
- Pick up and transport from Arequipa
- Official bilingual trekking guide
- 1 Night accommodation in a basic bungalow in Sangalle Oasis
- Meals during the trek: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Not included
- Colca Canyon Tourist Ticket (BTC): S/ 70 for foreigners
- Entrance to La Calera Hot Springs (approx S/ 15)
- Final lunch in Chivay on Day 2
- Mule hire (optional, for those who cannot make the ascent)
- Gratuities
What to bring
- Good quality hiking boots
- Headlamp or flashlight (essential for the early morning ascent)
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
- Swimsuit and towel for the oasis and hot springs
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle (water can be bought along the trail)
- Cash in Soles
Expert Tips
- This is a physically demanding trek. You should be in good physical condition and properly acclimatized to the altitude.
- If you find the ascent too difficult, mules can be rented at the oasis for an additional cost (approx. 70-80 Soles).
