Arequipa

7:30 AM – Departure from Arequipa (2,335 m.a.s.l.) Our journey begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in the city of Arequipa, also known as the "White City," surrounded by majestic volcanoes. Morning temperatures typically range between 10°C and 15°C. From here, we begin our scenic drive toward one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders, the Colca Canyon.

Yura

We travel along the Yura highway, a stunning scenic road offering impressive views of the surrounding volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. As we ascend toward the highlands, the landscape changes dramatically, the air becomes crisper and cooler, and the terrain opens up to vast plains and towering mountains.

Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve

We’ll enter this protected national reserve, a high Andean ecosystem of wetlands and plains. It is home to emblematic South American camelids such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos, as well as high-altitude birds including wild ducks, ibises, and flamingos. This is a great spot to appreciate the quiet beauty of the Altiplano.

Patahuasi

Patahuasi (4,000 m.a.s.l.) – Coca Tea Stop & Rock Formations We stop in Patahuasi, known for its surreal, wind-carved rock formations. Here, we’ll enjoy a traditional hot coca tea, a natural remedy that helps prevent altitude sickness (optional). The area offers fantastic photo opportunities of the landscape shaped by centuries of erosion.

We continue through the wetlands of Tojra Pampa, where small lagoons and grasslands attract migratory birds and grazing alpacas. Morning temperatures here can drop between 0°C and 10°C, so a warm jacket is recommended.

Mirador de los Andes (4,910 m.a.s.l.) – Highest Point At this iconic viewpoint, we reach the highest elevation of our journey. From 4,910 meters above sea level, we enjoy panoramic views of the Andes mountain range and towering volcanoes: Ampato, Sabancaya (active), and Hualca Hualca. It’s the perfect spot to breathe the crisp mountain air, stretch your legs, and take incredible photos of the dramatic highland landscape.

Chivay

Lunch in Chivay (3,632 m.a.s.l.) Around midday, we arrive in Chivay, a charming Andean village nestled in the Colca Valley. We'll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring traditional dishes made with local ingredients such as quinoa, trout, potatoes, cheese, and Andean corn.

Thermal Baths of Chivay (optional visit) In the afternoon, you'll have the option to visit the nearby natural hot springs, where mineral rich waters reach up to 38°C (100°F). Surrounded by scenic mountains and fresh air, this is a great way to relax sore muscles and unwind.

Chivay

After checking into a comfortable 3-star hotel, we’ll enjoy a delightful Andean dinner accompanied by a live cultural show. Local musicians and dancers will perform traditional songs and dances of the Colca region, offering a rich and authentic cultural experience.

Chivay

Morning – Breakfast at the hotel in Chivay (3,632 m.a.s.l.) Start your day with a warm Andean breakfast at the hotel. Morning temperatures in the highlands typically range between 0°C and 5°C, so dress warmly. Enjoy fresh local bread, coca tea, and seasonal fruits as you prepare for one of the most unforgettable experiences of the trip.

Visit to Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint (40 km from Chivay) We drive through beautiful landscapes of pre-Inca terraces, agricultural fields, and rugged mountains. At the viewpoint, we wait for the majestic Andean condors to appear. With wingspans of up to 3 meters, these birds glide effortlessly over the Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest at more than 3,400 meters.

Yanque

Stops in Yanque and Maca Villages On our return, we visit the charming villages of Yanque and Maca. Explore their colonial churches, lively plazas, and local markets where you can buy handmade crafts, honey, textiles, and herbal products like muña.

Chivay

Lunch in Chivay Enjoy your final lunch in the Colca Valley at a local restaurant, featuring Andean cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.

Arequipa

Return to Arequipa – Scenic Route After lunch, we begin our return to Arequipa. We’ll stop at the Volcanoes Viewpoint to admire the peaks of Ampato, Sabancaya, Mismi, and Hualca Hualca, as well as traditional apachetas (stone offerings). We cross again through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve, with a final chance to spot highland wildlife. Arrival in Arequipa is expected in the late afternoon.