Hike Deep into the Second Deepest Canyon in the World in two days.
Forget the traditional bus tours, this is the true way to experience the majesty of the Colca Canyon. Our 2-Day Trek is the perfect blend of challenging adventure and breathtaking reward, plunging you deep into one of the world's deepest canyons and connecting you with the authentic, terraced landscapes of the Andes.
This journey starts before dawn from Arequipa, ensuring we arrive at the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint just as the sun hits the canyon walls. It’s an unforgettable spectacle as the giant Andean Condors with wingspans up to 10 feet, catch the morning thermals and soar right above your head
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Packing List
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
This immersive trek descends into the world’s deepest canyon. Go to witness Andean Condors at Cruz del Cóndor and hike to the remote Oasis of Sangalle for an overnight stay. While challenging, the effort rewards you with spectacular views, ancient terraces, and a powerful sense of accomplishment, making it the ultimate Peruvian hiking experience.
Highlights: Andean Condor & Colca Canyon
Difficulty: Easy, moderate
Considerations: Experience is not required
Season: May through November
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day01
Arequipa - Cruz del Condor - Sangalle
Majestic Andean condors soar above Arequipa’s breathtaking Colca Canyon skies - Day02
Sangalle - Cabanaconde - Chivay - Arequipa
Finish your hike and soak a the thermal baths in the Canyon
Arequipa - Cruz del Condor - Sangalle
Early in the morning 3:00 am, we will pick you up from your hotel in Arequipa, then we drive for 4 hours to reach Chivay where we stop for a breakfast. After we continue hour drive to Cruz del Condor where we will stop to enjoy the magnifique Andean Condors, using the morning thermal currents to soar above the canyon.
Afterward, we drive to the begining of the trail, there we take our time to prepare everything for our hike. This point sits at 3,300 meters above sea level, and the descend will take around 3 or 4 hours until we get deep at 2,100 meters. Our lunch will be a little town San Juan de Chuncho where a local restaurant will prepare for us using the local ingredients.
During the afternoon, we will hike down to the deepest part of the canyon, along this section the weather will start turning warm and you will feel much better if you are not used to the altitude. Later you will arrive to our bungalow, after bit rest relax in our swimming pool, get a deserve dinner and spend the night.
Sunrise Ascent, Hot Springs, and Return to Arequipa
Around 5:00 am we start the second day by hiking up to Cabanaconde, this will take around 2 -3 hours ascending through the norrow path before the sun hits the trail. In Cabaconde 3,280 meters above sea level we will have our buffet breakfast. We celebrate the end of our hike and get deserve rest.
Later, we will board our bus to Chivay, along the way we stop to see different farming terraces, and archaeological sites. The group will stop at the thermal baths where you can soak and relax your muscles. Later we stop at the restaurant for lunch (no included). Then, we drive to Arequipa.
The Travel Agency is transparent telling you what is included and excluded in our Colca Canyon trek. We know this is very important so that you know what exactly to bring and you don’t miss anything. We provide this information to ensure that you have an incredible experience during your trek.
WE INCLUDE
Travel Company Provide
Pre-departure briefing
Once you book the tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure briefing, where you will meet with your trekking guide and the tour group in our office the night before your tour departure. During this briefing, you will receive important details of the trek.
Professional Trekking Guide
All our trekking guidea have a great reputation in customer service. Through to their patience, responsibility, knowledge, passion for trekking and proud to have been born surrounded by mountains, we ensure our guides provide an excellent experience for you when you explore one of the deepest canyon in the world.
Duffel bag
The travel company will provide you with a duffel bag for the two day trek, this will be provided a nigth before the trip.
Transportations
Transport
We included all the transportations during your tour, we will pick you up from your hotel in Arequipa and take you to the trailhead, the bus returning from the end to Arequipa will drop off you at your hotel.
Equipment
Medical First Aid Kit
All tour guides are very well trained in First aid. They received training courses every 6 months how to assist to someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained how to supply a balloon oxygen in the case if someone requires it.
Meals
Meals
We know food is such an important part of any vacation and getting the right fuel on an active holiday is crucial… We include 1 breakfast, 1 lunch and and 1 dinner during this tour, of course we cater to all dietary restrictions Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten free and others just let us know.
WE NOT INCLUDED
Water bottle
Every climber need water during this activity is for that we will stop in a shop where you can purchase some water bottles and snacks
Entrance fees
During the 2-day Colca Canyon trek, every travellers need to pay the entrance fees, this can be pay it directly at the check point, S/ 70 soles per person, only cash is accepted.
Tips for our team
Tips are not included. Tipping the team is usual on any excursion in Arequipa, although we pay good salaries to our entire team, tips are welcome as a token of your appreciation for the team hard work.
In our Travel Agency we focus to make your trip an unforgettable experience and we want to provide all details which you need to know before to leave your country and start your life experience in Peru.
What you need to pack?
Importantn Items
- Passport
- Good backpack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelback is encouraged - but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking pants
INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS:
Daypack can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. If it is larger try to bring it as lighter as possible.
- Sun hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Camera
- Music (iPhone)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
- Earplugs
- Some snacks (Chocolate, fruits, energy bars, etc.)
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Face moisturizer
- Bug spray
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Small towel
- Toothbrush and paste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.
Before you go
Here some frequently asked question about trek in Colca canyon
How difficult is the Colca Canyon 2-Day Trek?
This trek is considered challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness. Day 1 involves a long, steep descent (hard on the knees), and Day 2 features a steep, 1,000 meter climb out of the canyon, which starts very early to avoid the midday sun.
Do I need to be worried about altitude sickness?
You will reach high altitudes (up to approx 3,800 m at the Condor Viewpoint). It is highly recommended to spend at least one or two full days acclimatizing in Arequipa (approx 2,330m) before starting the trek. Drink plenty of water and move slowly.
What is the difference between the 2-Day and 3-Day treks?
The 2-day and 3-day treks cover the same route. The 2-day trek is an accelerated version, condensing the hiking into fewer, longer days, which makes it more physically demanding. The 3-day trek includes more relaxation time in the villages and at the Oasis.
What will I need to carry during the trek?
You only need to carry a small daypack containing essentials for one night: water, snacks, warm layers, sun protection, swimsuit/towel for the Oasis pool, and a headlamp for the early morning climb. You can leave your main luggage securely at your Arequipa accommodation.
What are the accommodations like at the Oasis of Sangalle?
Accommodation in the Oasis is basic and rustic, typically shared bungalows or simple private rooms with basic beds and thick blankets. Most lodges have beautiful common areas and natural swimming pools, providing a unique overnight experience.
Will I definitely see the Andean Condors?
The stop at the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint is timed perfectly (morning hours) for the highest chance of condor sightings, as they rely on the morning thermals. While sightings are highly likely, we cannot guarantee seeing wildlife, but the viewpoint offers spectacular canyon views regardless.
Can I hire a mule for the strenuous sections?
Yes. Mules are available for hire from local villagers, most commonly for the difficult, early morning climb out of the Oasis on Day 2. This is an optional extra cost, paid directly to the mule owners (usually approx 60-90 soles).
What is included and what is not included in the tour price?
Typically Included: Transport from/to Arequipa, guide, basic meals (1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner, plus a final breakfast). Typically Excluded: The mandatory Colca Canyon entrance ticket (Boleto Turístico - approx 70 soles), the optional hot springs fee (approx 15 soles), the final lunch in Chivay, water/snacks, and tips.
What is the best time of year to do the trek?
The dry season (May to November) is considered the best time, offering sunny days, clear skies, and drier trails. The wet season (December to March) brings afternoon rains, which can make the descent slippery.
Can I do the trek without a guide?
Yes, the main trail is generally well-marked. However, taking a guided tour is highly recommended as it handles all challenging logistics, including the $\approx 7$-hour round-trip transportation from Arequipa, timing for the condor viewing, all meals, and accommodation booking.
What kind of footwear is required for this trek?
You must wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good ankle support and reliable grip. The trails are steep, dusty, and uneven, especially during the initial descent and the final ascent. Trainers or sandals are highly discouraged due to the risk of slipping or injury.
Are the trails paved or well-maintained?
No. The trails are natural earthen paths, consisting of gravel, loose dirt, and sometimes stones. They are not paved and can be dusty during the dry season or muddy and slippery during the wet season. They are considered challenging mountain trails.
From: USD 140.00 per person
USD 130.00: from 4 people to more
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Peru Solo Travel. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. Peru Solo Travel will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Feel free to reach us via email at perusolotravel@gmail.com or by calling us directly at +51 951 359 694
Monday - Friday:
09:00 to 18:00 Hrs.
Saturday:
09:00 to 13:00 Hrs.
Prolongacion Av. Grau L-8, Santiago - Cusco
2 Days Tour
Colca Canyon Trek
Colca Canyon 2 Days Tour Map
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
We offer the best service for all our customers and here is what makes us different than others.
-
Small groups: Along our excursion group size is a capped at 12 people. This guarantees that you will enjoy every step of our excursion
-
Local Tour guides: Our team consists of 100% local tour guides, who have expert knowledge in our ancient culture.
-
Best Camping Equipment: We have the state-of-the-art hiking and camping equipment for our excursion. The equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before and after every excursion.
-
Best Travel team: We focus to create the best experience during our excursions. Our team that consists of tour guides, cooks, porters, horse drivers are handpicked. We train our team to offer you the best service. We take care of our team by providing them with good equipment and paying them fairly.
-
Friendly Budget: We know friendly budget means affordable prices, good value, transparent costs, accessible options, and welcoming experiences without sacrificing quality or comfort overall.
Why Travel with us
Start a Conversation
Hi! Click one our members below to chat on WhatsApp ;)
Related Peru Treks
Alternative journeys you may be interested in
Here you have other options that will suit your needs from the journey in Arequipa
