Colca Canyon Trail 3 days

Colca Canyon Trail Program

Our 3-day Colca Canyon Trail is the most recommended trek through the canyon. The hike is moderately challenging and gives you time to explore traditional villages along the route, spot the Andean condor gliding along the canyon walls, and enjoy the diverse landscapes of the Colca Canyon.

Day 1 – From Arequipa to the Colca Canyon

Your adventure begins early in the morning: between 7:15 and 7:45 AM, we pick you up from your hotel in Arequipa and depart for the impressive Colca Canyon.

Along the way, you’ll visit the fascinating Puruña Stone Forest, where unusual rock formations and panoramic views create an unforgettable experience. We stop at a local restaurant for a cup of traditional coca tea, known to help with altitude sickness, and get an insight into dyeing alpaca wool using natural Andean plants.

Via Alto Sumbay and the highlands of Tocra (approx. 4,400 m) — where you can see llamas, alpacas, and lagoons with various bird species — we reach the highest point of the route: Pata Pampa (4,910 m), also known as the “Andes Viewpoint.” On clear days, you can see several volcanoes and mountain ranges in one breathtaking panorama. Upon arrival in Chivay (3,651 m), the famous terrace fields of the Colca Valley appear. We continue to the traditional village of Coporaque for lunch.

After lunch, under the guidance of your guide, you can take part in cultural activities such as preparing a local dish or exploring the village on a short walk. Optionally, you can relax in the nearby hot springs. At the end of the day, we take you to your hotel, La Casa de Mamayacchi, to rest for your trek through the Colca Canyon. Dinner is also available at the hotel.

Day 2 – Descending into the Canyon to the Oasis of Sangalle

After an early breakfast, we head to the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where you can watch the Andean condor soaring above the canyon. Next, we drive to San Miguel (near Cabanaconde), the starting point of the Trail.

With a local English-speaking guide, you begin the descent via a steep path to the picturesque village of San Juan de Chuccho on the opposite side of the canyon. The descent takes about 3 hours, followed by a lunch break.

The route offers spectacular views as you gradually move deeper into the canyon — a unique experience that truly makes you feel at the heart of the Andes. After lunch, we continue through the villages of Malata and Cosñinhua in the valley, then descend another 3 hours to the Colca River, reaching the tropical oasis of Sangalle.

At your lodge in the oasis, you can relax, enjoy a well-deserved dinner, and take a refreshing dip in the hot springs.

Day 3 – Climb out of the Canyon and Return to Arequipa

Early in the morning before sunrise (around 3:30 AM), the challenging climb begins from the canyon floor toward Cabanaconde. Via a steep zigzag path, you ascend for about 4 hours to reach the canyon rim — a demanding but unforgettable hike.

Upon arrival around 7:30–8:00 AM, your transport is ready. We return to the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, joining another group to continue the tour. On the way back to Chivay, we stop at the panoramic Antahuilque viewpoint, famous for its centuries-old agricultural terraces and authentic Andean villages such as Maca and Yanque.

Around midday, we arrive in Chivay, where you have time for lunch. From Chivay, you can optionally take a bus to Puno to continue your journey through Peru. If you prefer to return to Arequipa, we drive you back, arriving at your hotel around 4:00 PM.