Most people who visit Arequipa take a tour out to the Cañon de Colca, one of the worlds deepest canyons formed by an enormous seismic fault between the Coropuna (6425m) and Ampato (6325m) volcanoes. (actually the worlds deepest canyon is the nearby Cotahuasi Canyon). The tour can be arranged on arrival in Arequipa at one of the several tour operators or travel agents around the Plaza. Many hotels can also arrange this activity. Although a tour can be fit into one day, it’s best to go for at least 2 days, staying the night at the village of Chivay (3633m) the first village on the edge of the canyon.
Remember to bring a swimming costume and towel for a visit to the thermal springs on the outskirts of Chivay. (Open 0600 – 1900. Entrance $1.50)
Beautiful unspoiled Andean villages line both sides of the canyon. In addition you’ll have great views of the smoking Sabancaya volcano, one of the America’s most active volcanoes, as well seeing the many traditional pre-Inca agricultural terraces which line the steep valley sides.
The high point of the tour is an early morning visit to La Cruz del Cóndor (3320m), a 1½ hours drive from Chivay. From this natural observatory you can see into the deepest part of the canyon, and witness the majestic flight of the Andean Condor, rising on the morning thermals (at around 9am.)
Tags: Colca Canyon trips, tours to Colca Canyon, travel to Colca Canyon, trips to Colca Canyon