How long does this tour last?

This tour lasts approximately 2-Day, 1-Night.

What is the difficulty level?

The difficulty level is Moderate.

What is the base price?

The base price starts from USD 135.

Colca Canyon Tour 2 Days 1 Night from Arequipa to Puno

Colca Canyon tour Peru

Day 01: Arequipa – Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve – Chivay (Colca)

We'll start the day by picking you up between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM from your hotel located in the historic heart of Arequipa. We'll embark on a journey to one of the deepest canyons in the world. The tour begins along the charming Yura route. As we enter Pampa Cañahuas, part of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, we'll cross the majestic snow-capped Chachani volcano. Here, you'll be able to observe the vicuña, the South American camelid renowned for having one of the world's finest fibers.

Continuing our ascent, we'll reach the Tocra Wetlands (Bofedales), where you can observe migratory birds, including the famous flamingos. We'll stop at the astonishing Mirador de los Volcanes (Volcanoes Viewpoint). This is the highest peak of our journey, at 16,108 feet (4,910 meters) above sea level, providing impressive panoramic views of the imposing Western Mountain Range.

We'll arrive in Chivay, the capital of the Colca Canyon, where you'll have time for lunch (lunch not included), and then we'll take you to your hotel. Enjoy a well-deserved rest. You'll have the option to relax in the revitalizing La Calera Hot Springs. With temperatures ranging from 95°F (35°C) to 100°F (38°C), they are ideal for soothing muscles and enjoying yourself (entrance not included).

The night concludes with dinner (not included) in Chivay, accompanied by a vibrant folkloric show that will give you the opportunity to delve into the local culture. Overnight accommodation in Chivay – Colca.

Day 02: Chivay – Cruz del Cóndor – Scenic Route to Puno

A day full of stunning landscapes and a scenic journey to Lake Titicaca. Around 6:00 AM - 6:45 AM, your guide and transport will pick you up from the hotel to begin the adventure towards the Colca Canyon.

During our journey, we'll make a short stop in the town of Yanque, where sometimes local children can be seen dancing the traditional Wititi dance near the Main Square, before going to school. You'll have 10 to 15 minutes of free time to explore the square, take photos, or buy snacks. We'll then head to the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor (Condor Cross Viewpoint), located at the top of the canyon. Upon arrival, our guide will give us time to enjoy two activities. This is one of the most impressive points of the Colca Canyon. From here, at dawn, it's possible to observe the majestic flight of the Andean condor, one of the world's largest birds, gliding on the canyon's thermal currents. It offers a spectacular panoramic view of its imposing walls and the Colca River winding at the bottom. The Andean landscape surrounding the viewpoint is marked by ancient agricultural terraces in this mountainous area of southern Peru. There are more opportunities to spot condors in Colca during the dry season and fewer opportunities during the rainy season.

During the journey, we'll make stops at various viewpoints and in Maca for those who want to purchase handicrafts. At midday, we'll arrive back in Chivay to enjoy a buffet lunch at a tourist restaurant.

The connection from Colca (Chivay) to Puno takes approximately 6.5 hours and is done in a specialized minibus or bus for tourists. After lunch in Chivay, tourists who are concluding their journey in Puno will be transferred to board the bus or minibus, which offers an onboard guide and makes multiple stops to appreciate the scenery.

We'll make the first stop at 16,108 feet (4,910 meters) above sea level, where we can enjoy panoramic views of the mountain range. Next, we'll visit Patahuasi, where tourists will have the opportunity to taste traditional drinks such as coca tea, muña, chachacoma, and Inca tea, which help mitigate the effects of altitude.

Finally, our last destination will be at Laguna de Lagunillas, a perfect spot to enjoy a spectacular landscape and appreciate the native flora and fauna. Then, we'll transfer you to your hotel located in the historic heart of Puno, arriving between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, thus concluding this 2-day, 1-night tour.

Included / Not Included

The Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa to Puno (2 days) includes:

Tourist Transportation.
Official Guide.
1 Night Accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Chivay.
Breakfast on day 2.
Tourist Transportation CHIVAY – PUNO.
Lunches (2).
Permanent Assistance.

The Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa to Puno (2 days) does not include:

Breakfast on day 1.
Tourist Ticket (BTC):
Peruvian citizens: S/20.00
Foreigners: S/70.00
South American citizens: S/40.00
National Students: S/5.00
Dinner (1).
Thermal Baths (optional): S/15.00.

What to bring

Colca Canyon tour from Arequipa to Puno 2 days

Identification Document or Passport: Absolutely essential for identification and for the control of the Colca Tourist Ticket (BTCC).

Cash (Peruvian Soles): This is crucial. The Colca Tourist Ticket (BTCC) costs approximately S/ 70 for foreign visitors and is paid directly upon entering the area. You'll also need cash for your lunches and dinners, entrance to the La Calera Hot Springs (if you choose to go, approximately S/ 15 - S/ 20), and optionally, tips for your guide and driver.

Thermal Base Layers: Clothing made with quick-drying synthetic material. This helps regulate your body temperature and keeps moisture away from your skin.

Thick Wool Sweater (alpaca is perfect for warmth and lightness) or a Fleece Layer: This layer will provide the necessary warmth.

Windproof and Waterproof Jacket (Windbreaker): Essential to protect you from the cold puna wind and any unexpected, though rare, rain or hail.

Pants: Choose comfortable and warm pants. Hiking pants are ideal.

Hat or Chullo (Andean Knit Hat): Fundamental for protecting your head and ears from the intense cold, especially at dawn at the viewpoints. It will also protect you from the sun.

Gloves: It's essential to have a pair of warm gloves to keep your hands warm.

Scarf or Neck Gaiter (Buff): Very beneficial for protecting your neck and face from cold wind and dust.

Trekking Shoes or Comfortable Boots: They need to be closed-toe, durable, with good support for uneven terrain, and, if possible, waterproof.

Thermal or Wool Socks: To keep your feet warm and dry. Bring at least two pairs.

Sunscreen (SPF 50+): Apply generously to all exposed skin and reapply regularly, even on cloudy days.

Sunglasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from the powerful sun glare and reflections off the landscape.

Lip Balm with SPF: Important to prevent chapped and dry lips caused by the cold and sun.

Personal Medications: If you take any medication regularly, ensure you have an adequate supply.

Altitude Sickness Medication (Soroche): If you're prone to soroche (altitude sickness), consider bringing pills like Sorojchi Pills (available in Peruvian pharmacies) or consult your doctor for other options. Coca candies or coca tea are also highly effective traditional remedies for alleviating mild symptoms.

Water: Bring a good amount of water for both days. Staying hydrated is essential to help your body adapt to the altitude.

Energy Snacks: Cereal bars, nuts, chocolate, or any snack that provides energy and is easy to carry. These are perfect for maintaining your energy between meals, especially in the early morning or during stops.

Small Daypack: To comfortably carry all your personal items (water, snacks, clothing layers, camera, etc.) during daily excursions.

Medium Backpack or Suitcase: For your main luggage that will go in the transport and to your hotel in Chivay for the night.

Camera: The Colca Canyon offers incredible opportunities to photograph the majestic flight of the condors.

Portable Charger (Power Bank): Ideal for recharging your cell phone or camera, as cold weather can quickly drain batteries.

Tour Price

Shared Tour Service

This group service means you'll do the tour with other people. This standard service operates with a group of 12 to 16 persons. We have confirmed departures every day, so if you're traveling alone or with just one other person, don't worry; you can join one of our existing groups.

Starting from: $ 135 USD.

Private Tour Service

This service offers an exclusive way to experience the trip, where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary based on the number of people in your group. Please inquire at info@ausangateadventure.com or WhatsApp +51 914201334.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour start in Arequipa and end in Puno?

Yes, the tour starts very early in Arequipa and concludes in Puno on the evening of the second day, with direct tourist transport from Chivay.

What places are visited during the tour?

Day 1: Departure from Arequipa, visit to the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve (vicuña observation), Patahuasi, Patapampa (volcano observation), arrival in Chivay, and overnight stay.
Day 2: Tour of the Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, visits to towns like Yanque and Maca, spectacular views of the Colca Canyon, and in the afternoon, departure by bus to Puno.

Is transfer to Puno included?

Yes, tourist transportation from Chivay to Puno is included. The journey lasts about 6 hours and concludes at your hotel or the bus terminal in Puno.

What time do we arrive in Puno?

Generally between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM, depending on traffic and the route taken.

Where do we sleep the intermediate night?

You'll stay at a hotel or lodging in Chivay (or Yanque), depending on the package you select. You can choose between economy, standard, or superior options.

Does the tour include meals?

Yes, it includes breakfast on the second day (at your accommodation).
Typically, lunch or dinner is not included, but your guide will recommend places to eat. Some packages may include an optional buffet lunch.

What altitude is reached during the tour?

Highest point: Patapampa (16,108 ft / 4,910 m.a.s.l.)
Chivay: 11,926 ft (3,635 m.a.s.l.)
Cruz del Cóndor: 12,467 ft (3,800 m.a.s.l.)

Altitude can cause soroche (altitude sickness), particularly if you're not acclimatized.

Is it better to take this tour than to return to Arequipa?

Yes, if your next destination is Lake Titicaca, this tour saves you time and travel, as it maximizes your journey and avoids having to return to Arequipa.

Prices

SHARED SERVICE

$$135USD USD per person

Daily departures subject to availability.
Reference price for this service.
Final availability is confirmed by our travel team.

Private Service

On request

Flexible schedule.
Recommended for families or private groups.
Custom pace and private logistics.

2-Day Arequipa to Puno via Colca Canyon Tour