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Colca Canyon to Puno (3 days)

overview

Visit the Colca Canyon and end in Puno

This three-day journey begins in Arequipa, the stunning “White City” framed by towering volcanoes, before descending into the dramatic depths of the Colca Canyon. On the first day, you travel through breathtaking Andean scenery en route to one of the world’s deepest canyons, home to soaring condors and vibrant local culture. The day ends with a relaxing stay at Colca Lodge, the only accommodation in the area with private hot springs, where dinner and a peaceful night’s rest await.

On the second day, your private guide and vehicle allow you to explore the canyon at your own pace. An early visit to Cruz del Condor offers an unforgettable chance to watch condors gliding above the immense gorge. The rest of the day can be spent photographing villages, hiking to pre-Inca ruins, visiting local museums, or unwinding in the lodge’s thermal pools and spa. Meals at the lodge are included, adding comfort to the day’s adventures.

The final day takes you across sweeping high-Andean landscapes toward Puno and Lake Titicaca. Along the way, you stop at the remarkable Sillustani archaeological complex, known for its ancient circular burial towers that predate the Inca Empire. After a scenic drive and a boxed lunch, the journey concludes at a tranquil lakeside hotel, bringing a memorable Andean expedition to a close.

Did you know: We plant two trees per person, per day that you travel with us- making us the sustainable choice.

Trip Highlights
  • Explore the dramatic Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest, with stunning Andean scenery and traditional villages.
  • Witness condors in flight at Cruz del Condor
  • Hot springs in a serene canyon setting.
  • Travel through the high Andes to Lake Titicaca, including a visit to the ancient Sillustani burial towers.
Included
  • English-speaking private guide (throughout the itinerary)
  • Private transport for all transfers and excursions
  • Entrance fees to Colca Canyon and Sillustani
  • Two nights at Colca Lodge
  • Daily breakfast at the lodge, Boxed lunch every day and dinners at Colca Lodge
NOT Included
  • Personal insurance (strongly recommended)
  • International or domestic flights

Enjoy spectacular views of the volcanoes surrounding the city, as you drive out of Arequipa before descending into the amazing Colca Canyon. One of the world’s deepest canyons it is home to condors and fascinating local culture, very different from other places you visit. You stay overnight in the charming Colca Lodge, the only lodge with private hot springs.

Summary
  • Explore views of beautiful volcanoes and high andean passes

The private guide and minibus are at your disposal for the day. We recommend an early morning drive to Cruz del Condor to see condors, soaring in the thermals created by the deep gorge where they nest. From here you head back towards the lodge stopping to visit local towns and make the most of the many beautiful photo opportunities.

 

After lunch, you can either hike to the nearby pre-Inca ruins, visit the Yanque Museum, hike to Uyo Uyo ruins or discover the unique native culture and weaving of the area. Or you could relax and enjoy the private hot springs and Spa facilities at the lodge.

Summary
  • Look out for Condor’s, Vicuñas, Vizcachas and more
  • Enjoy a pleseant swim in hot springs.

Today you take a spectacular drive through the high Andes, passing beautiful lakes and huge vistas. En route you can visit Silustani ruins, whose circular stone burial chambers pre-date the Incas.

Summary
  • Depart from the Colca Canyon and head towards the shores of Titicaca lake
  • Visit Silustrani ruins.
Colca Lodge Hot pools

Equipment & Packing List

Cultural day trips kitlist

Important Trip Details

Dates
All year Round
Pickup
Arequipa Hotel/ Airport
TRIP LENGTH
3 days
Difficulty
Easy
Peak Altitude
~3780m

See What Past Travelers Have to Say

Peru EXPERTS

I’m not sure anyone knows more about having adventures in the Cusco area of Peru (and beyond) than Amazonas Explorer. Guides are properly trained, itineraries are well-thought-out; the emphasis is on safety but also on FUN! They do the classic trips brilliantly but also have lots of ideas for more offbeat escapades. And they’re a B Corporation, too, so have excellent environmental credentials. Check out Sarah’s adventure, our in depth Sacred Valley Explorer, here.
Recommendations

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