FROM AREQUIPA: 2-DAY EXCURSION TO COLCA CANYON WITH TRANSFER TO PUNO

Embark on an unforgettable two-day excursion from Arequipa to Puno, beginning with the enchanting landscapes of the Colca Canyon. Marvel at the graceful llamas and alpacas along the way, then be captivated by the breathtaking panorama from the Volcanoes Viewpoint. Relax in soothing thermal waters before witnessing the majestic flight of the condors from the famous Cruz del Cóndor. Conclude your journey in grand style as you arrive at the vibrant city of Puno on the second day.

Type of Excursion

Wildlife, Nature

Transport

Van

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

2 Days

Service

Group Tour (18 max.)

Schedule

7:30 AM

Day 1

07:45 AM – Hotel Pick-up in Arequipa
- Guests will be collected directly from their hotel and transferred to Chivay, with scenic stops along the way.
09:30 AM – Salinas & Aguada Blanca Reserve
- Pause for photographs at this remarkable natural sanctuary, home to elegant vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas grazing freely in their native environment. A captivating glimpse of Andean wildlife.
11:00 AM – Patapampa Pass (4,900 m / 16,000 ft)
- Reach the highest point of the route at Patapampa, where you will admire the majestic volcanic chain—including Misti, Chachani, and Ampato—towering above the horizon.
12:30 PM – Arrival in Chivay
- Arrive in Chivay and settle in amidst breathtaking Andean scenery.
01:00 PM – Lunch in Chivay
- Optional lunch at a local restaurant before hotel check-in.
02:00 PM – Hotel Check-in
- Time to rest and prepare for the afternoon activities. Accommodation in Chivay is arranged separately and not included in the tour price.
03:45 PM – Optional Visit to the Hot Springs
- Unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by Andean peaks—a rejuvenating experience after a day of travel.
07:00 PM – Optional Dinner & Folkloric Show
- Delight in a traditional meal accompanied by vibrant music and dances that celebrate the rich culture of the Colca Valley.
09:00 PM – Overnight in Chivay
- After dinner, you will be comfortably transferred to your accommodation in Chivay to rest and prepare for the early start the following morning.

Day 2

06:30 AM – Departure from Chivay to Colca Canyon
- Begin the day early to witness condors in flight. Enjoy spectacular views along the canyon’s edge, passing traditional villages and dramatic landscapes.
07:00 AM – Maca Village
- Explore this picturesque town, visit its colonial church, and browse handicrafts created by local artisans. A wonderful opportunity to support the community and acquire a unique souvenir.
07:45 AM – Antahuilque Viewpoint
- Admire ancient pre-Inca terraces carved into the canyon slopes—an enduring testament to Andean agricultural ingenuity.
08:30 AM – Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint
- The highlight of the tour: marvel at the majestic Andean condor soaring above the canyon’s cliffs. An unforgettable sight, especially in the morning when thermal currents lift these giant birds into flight.
09:30 AM – Return to Chivay
- Journey back with scenic stops along the way. Keep your camera ready for more stunning views of the valley.
11:30 AM – Arrival in Chivay and Lunch
- Optional lunch at a local restaurant (not included), where you may savour traditional Andean cuisine before continuing.
01:00 PM – Departure to Puno
- Relax on the drive to Puno, passing through high-altitude landscapes, volcanoes, and wildlife-rich plains.
03:30 PM – Lagunillas Viewpoint
- Enjoy sweeping views of the altiplano and a tranquil lagoon dotted with birds. Depending on the season (May–August), Andean flamingos may be spotted.
07:00 PM – Estimated Arrival in Puno
- The tour concludes upon arrival in Puno City.

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

Hotel pick-up in Arequipa on Day 1 (only accommodations located in downtown)
Drop-off in Puno downtown on Day 2 (drop-off will take place near the main square)
Bilingual tour guide: English / Spanish

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:

Accommodation in Chivay on Day 1
Entrance Ticket to Colca Canyon (can be added as an additional service at the moment of booking)
Entrance Ticket to the Hot Springs (can be added as an additional service at the moment of booking)
Lunch on Day 1 and 2 (can be added as an additional service at the moment of booking)
Dinner on Day 1 (can be added as an additional service at the moment of booking)

FRECUENT QUESTIONS

ABOUT ACCOMMODATION IN CHIVAY ON DAY 1

You must book your accommodation in Chivay independently.
Drop-off service on Day 1 is available only within the village of Chivay. Locations outside the village—such as Colca Lodge, Casitas del Colca, El Refugio, or other remote accommodations—are not included, but can be arranged at an additional cost.
Please note: To participate in Day 1 activities such as the visit to the hot springs and the dinner with folkloric show, your accommodation must be located in Chivay.

ABOUT DROP OFF FOR ACCOMMODATIONS LOCATED OUTSIDE PUNO CITY ON DAY 2

Drop off service to hotels located outside the city of Puno, such as GHL Libertador, Casa Andina Premium, Sonesta Posadas del Inca, Lake Titicaca Hotel, Jose Antonio Hotels, or other remote accommodations or location as Kalapajra port can be arranged for an additional cost.

ABOUT THE COLCA CANYON ENTRANCE TICKET

This ticket is required for all visitors participating in the 2-day Colca Canyon tour. The proceeds help support the maintenance of roads and the preservation of the natural environment within the Reserve.

ABOUT MEALS

Lunch on both days will be served buffet-style, while dinner will feature à la carte options.

CHANGES, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUND POLICIES

Change of Travel Date

Requests to change the travel date will be accepted up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled activity.

Cancellations

Cancellations submitted at least 24 hours before the scheduled activity are eligible for a full refund.
Cancellations submitted within 24 hours of the scheduled activity are non-refundable.
Cancellations due to circumstances beyond the control of either the company or the client (such as strikes, social conflicts, or natural disasters) may be refundable; however, the amount to be refunded will be subject to evaluation.

Refunds

For payments made via PayPal, refunds are processed immediately.
For payments made by credit or debit card, refunds may take several days depending on the policies of the issuing bank.