Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa
Traveler rating
4.2/5
Based on 10 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa worth booking?
Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa is a 15-hour experience in Arequipa, Peru, from $49 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.2/5 rating across 10 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 60 / 100
- Rating
- 4.2/5 (10)
- Duration
- 15 hours
- From
- $49 per person
What Makes the Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa Unforgettable? Discover the stunning Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest, on this full-day guided tour from Arequipa. Enjoy panoramic views from the famous Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, where you can witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor, the largest flying bird on Earth. Explore traditional Andean villages like Chivay, Maca, Yanque, and Pinchollo, known for their colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Learn about pre-Inca history at Choquetico and Antahuilque. Relax in the optional La Calera hot springs, surrounded by mountain views, and enjoy an included traditional lunch in Chivay. On the way back, stop at Patapampa Viewpoint (4,910 m), and take in breathtaking vistas of snow-capped volcanoes. Then, travel through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and unique Andean wildlife Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guide, breakfast, and lunch
What you get
About this experience
What Makes the Colca Canyon Full-Day Tour from Arequipa Unforgettable? Discover the stunning Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest, on this full-day guided tour from Arequipa. Enjoy panoramic views from the famous Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint, where you can witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor, the largest flying bird on Earth. Explore traditional Andean villages like Chivay, Maca, Yanque, and Pinchollo, known for their colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Learn about pre-Inca history at Choquetico and Antahuilque. Relax in the optional La Calera hot springs, surrounded by mountain views, and enjoy an included traditional lunch in Chivay. On the way back, stop at Patapampa Viewpoint (4,910 m), and take in breathtaking vistas of snow-capped volcanoes. Then, travel through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and unique Andean wildlife Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guide, breakfast, and lunch
What's included
Included
- Lunch
- Tourist Transportation.
- Breakfast
- Official Tour Guide (English / Spanish).
- Hotel pick up.
Not included
- Colca Canyon entrance fee.
- Entrance to La Calera Hot Springs.
What you'll see and do
Arequipa
We start the tour with a 3:00 AM hotel pickup in Arequipa city (7,628 ft / 2,325 m above sea level). Aboard a comfortable tourist bus, we embark on an approximately 3.5-hour journey to the heart of the Colca Valley. Along the way, you can relax or enjoy stunning views of the Andean highlands at sunrise, passing through vast plateaus and quaint rural communities. After enjoying our breakfast in Chivay we will go to the viewpoint of the Cruz del Condor (3,500 meters above sea level), from where we will appreciate the flight of the condors, also we will have the best panoramic view of the Canyon, which has a depth of 1,200 meters, from the viewpoint to the river.
180 minutes here
Chivay
Around 6:30 AM, we arrive at the charming town of Chivay, the main gateway to the Colca Canyon. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional breakfast designed to help you acclimate to the high altitude before continuing the tour. Chivay is also famous for its vibrant local markets, friendly residents, and its strategic location close to the canyon, making it an essential stop on any Colca Canyon tour.
60 minutes here
Colca Canyon
Colca Canyon / Watch the Andean Condors at Cruz del Cóndor After breakfast, we continue with a 2-hour drive to the iconic Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, one of the most visited spots in southern Peru. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the Colca Canyon, which reaches depths of up to 1,250 meters from the viewpoint and 2,700 meters at its deepest point near Mount Bomboya. Here, you can admire the majestic flight of the Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world, making this stop a unique experience for nature lovers and photographers. After spending about 1 hour and 15 minutes, we head back toward Chivay with stops at traditional villages: Pinchollo, famous for its hanging pre-Inca tombs and petromaquettes; the Antahuilque Viewpoint, offering views of pre-Inca terraces and lagoons; Maca, known for its handicrafts; Achoma, a peaceful rural village; and Yanque, featuring a beautiful mestizo baroque church, perfect for photos and a brief exploration
120 minutes here · Admission not included
La Calera Thermal Waters
After the optional visit to the hot springs, we’ll enjoy a traditional lunch (not included; buffet and à la carte options available). This is a great opportunity to try authentic regional dishes such as chupe de camarones (shrimp chowder), grilled alpaca, or adobo arequipeño—a flavorful pork stew typical of Arequipa.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Chivay
At around 1:00 PM, we return to the town of Chivay, where you’ll have the option to visit the relaxing La Calera hot springs. These natural thermal baths, with temperatures reaching up to 100°F (38°C), are perfect for soothing sore muscles after a long journey and unwinding in a peaceful setting surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.
60 minutes here
Abra Patapampa
Patapampa Viewpoint (4,910 m / 16,108 ft) On the way back to Arequipa, we’ll stop at Patapampa, the highest point of the journey, also known as the Mirador de los Andes. From this altitude, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of several iconic volcanoes, including Misti, Chachani, Sabancaya, and Ampato. It’s a stunning photo opportunity and a highlight for landscape lovers.
30 minutes here
Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve
Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve Continuing the descent, we cross the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, a protected area known for its high-altitude ecosystems and dramatic volcanic scenery. This reserve is home to all four South American camelid species: llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and the graceful and highly protected vicuña. The area is also rich in wildlife and offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s natural biodiversity.
30 minutes here
Arequipa
Arrival in Arequipa – 5:00 PM We finish the tour with our return to Arequipa around 5:00 PM. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or in the historic city center. This marks the end of a full-day experience filled with nature, culture, and adventure in one of Peru’s most breathtaking landscapes—the Colca Canyon.
180 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Aremika Travel
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 10 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
6 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
3 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
10 verified traveler reviews for Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
The tour was fine in...
The tour was fine in itself, but the bus arrived an hour late and they did not contacted us. I had to contact two different persons before I was able to talk to someone.
via Viator
Unforgettable experience.
The trip is heavy and long but it is worth it. Check well if your reservation includes lunch because they charge you for it. In my case it included lunch and the restaurant charged for it again. It is better to bring something to eat and have lunch at the restaurant. The guide was very professional although they should have a microphone so that it can be heard better.
via Viator (translated)
Booked and confirmed the...
Booked and confirmed the tour, the operator said they would reach out the day before the tour which didn’t happen. I still went to the meeting spot at the correct time as stated on the itinerary. I waited two hours for the bus which never came. I tried to contact the tour guide multiple times. When I finally got to talk to an operator they said no tour was scheduled on the day I had booked and to work with Viator to get a refund.
Response from the operator: Dear Jonathan, Thank you for taking the time to share this feedback, and please accept our sincere apologies for what happened. The experience you describe is completely understandable, and we're truly sorry for the frustration and the two hours you spent waiting at the meeting point. After reviewing your case internally, we confirmed that this was our responsibility: an error in verifying our booking system meant your departure was never properly scheduled, which is why the bus never arrived. This should not have happened, and we take full accountability for it. We wish we could have resolved this in real time; unfortunately, by the time we were able to reach you it was 4:30 AM, and this particular tour departs at 3:00 AM, so it was no longer possible to place you on another departure that same day. As a gesture of accountability, we offered a complimentary tour, since we understand that no apology fully makes up for the time lost. Your experience has been a valuable lesson for us, and we are already reinforcing the checks in our reservation system to make sure this doesn't happen again. We're committed to improving with every situation, and feedback like yours is exactly what helps us do that. We remain available to coordinate your complimentary tour or to assist with anything else you may need. Kind regards,
via Viator
Amazing experience
The tour was amazing. The communication with tour operator was easy - we had all information in WhatsApp. Our tour guide was excellent. She told us many interesting information and she took care about us carefully. We visited amazing places and the best views in Colca Canyon. We saw many condors during our trip. The hot springs was great place for relax before delicious lunch. We really recommend this tour!
Response from the operator: Dear Customer, Thank you so much for this fantastic review! We're delighted to hear you had such an amazing experience on our Colca Canyon full-day tour, from the easy WhatsApp communication to the wonderful care and insights provided by your guide. It's great to know you got to enjoy the breathtaking viewpoints, spot so many condors, and unwind at the hot springs before a delicious lunch. Thank you for recommending the tour, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Peru soon! Warm regards,
via Viator
Long day trip
Its a long day...but fun....the canyon may be deeper than the Grand Canyon, but not as spectacular...good meals..v attentive guide...Driver v good. Spa site also fun. Had v good company too.
Response from the operator: Dear Customer Thank you for sharing your feedback on our Colca Canyon full-day tour! We're glad to hear you enjoyed the good meals, attentive guide, and skilled driver, and that the hot springs and good company made for a fun day overall. Colca Canyon certainly has its own unique charm and depth, and we appreciate you taking the time to experience it with us despite the long journey. We hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Peru soon! Warm regards,
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 15 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Aremika Travel, who run 5 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 55.5.
See everything Aremika Travel runsWhy this scores 60
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Arequipa.
How much does Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa cost?
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Prices start at $49 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Arequipa usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa take?
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Plan for about 15 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Arequipa is not rushed.
Is Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.2/5 across 10 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Arequipa, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 15-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa?
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Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Arequipa can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Arequipa and add a light layer if any part of the 15-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Arequipa within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Arequipa?
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On Outty we rank every Arequipa experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Arequipa Rafting on the Chili river free pick-up,snack., 2 Day 1 Night Trek Colca Canyon, Chili River White Water Rafting Adventure with Pickup. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Arequipa?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Arequipa?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa?
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Included: Lunch; Tourist Transportation; Breakfast; Official Tour Guide (English / Spanish); and Hotel pick up. Not included: Colca Canyon entrance fee; and Entrance to La Calera Hot Springs. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 106 listed pickup locations in and around Arequipa. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Colca Canyon Full Day Tour from Arequipa?
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Across 10 reviews averaging 4.2 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
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