Understand

Prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring Colca Canyon, located in the stunning Arequipa region of southern Peru. Famous for being one of the deepest canyons in the world, reaching a mind-boggling depth of 4,160 meters (13,640'), the Colca Canyon offers breathtaking scenic beauty that will leave you speechless. The best spot to marvel at its vastness is the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where you can witness the majestic Andean Condors soaring through the skies on most days of the year. But the Colca Canyon is more than just its natural wonders. Immerse yourself in the vibrant indigenous culture, explore high-quality handicrafts, and indulge in a variety of activities ranging from thrilling adventure sports to mystical tourism and even tourist home-stays. As you journey through the valley, you'll encounter an incredible display of Inca and pre-Inca agricultural terraces and ingenious irrigation systems. Chivay, the lively hub of the valley, is a must-visit destination, located 160 km from the regional capital, Arequipa. Don't miss the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate at the La Calera hot springs, just 3 km from town. Along the route from Arequipa to Chivay, you'll venture through diverse ecological zones, ranging from desert to altiplano to dry tundra. Keep an eye out for vicuas, a wild relative of llamas and alpacas, as well as a variety of birds, including the magnificent giant hummingbird, eagles, Andean geese, and flamingos (from September to March). And of course, you can't forget about the mighty Andean Condor, a sight that awaits you at the awe-inspiring "Cruz del Condor." A journey to the Colca Valley usually takes around 3-1/2 hours via public bus, crossing the high Andean plateau and reaching a breathtaking altitude of 4800 meters (15,800') at the "Mirador de los Volcanes." From this vantage point, feast your eyes on several volcanoes that tower over 6,000 meters (20,600'). Your adventure begins in Chivay, a welcoming and friendly town that marks the beginning of your journey into the canyon. Here, you'll find plenty of hotels, hostels, and restaurants, providing a comfortable base for exploration. Be sure to check out the high-quality, locally-produced crafts available in Chivay, such as beautifully hand-knitted goods made from 100% alpaca fiber and elaborately embroidered items crafted using sewing machines. Throughout the highway's scenic overlooks and surrounding towns, you can also find these unique crafts, but beware of cheaper, mass-produced imitations. Take the opportunity to explore the valley's other towns, each offering a diverse range of cultural, adventure sports, archaeological, and other activities. From Callalli, situated at the upper end of the Colca Valley, to Tapay, nestled in the depths of the Colca Canyon, you'll encounter a variety of accommodations, activities, and microclimates that vary with altitude. Whether you're admiring alpacas and llamas in the cold highlands, experiencing agricultural life and diverse crops in the middle zone, or enjoying fruit production in the warmer canyon climate, the Colca Valley promises a truly unforgettable experience.

Get in

If you're in Arequipa and want to visit Cabanaconde, you can easily buy a bus ticket at the bus station. The ticket costs 17 sol (as of January 2016) and the bus journey takes about 5 to 7 hours. The bus makes a stop halfway in Chivay, which might be a cheaper option for you. However, you can also ask the bus driver to stop anywhere you want along the way, except for these two towns. Buses to Cabanaconde depart multiple times a day, with the earliest one at 01.00 AM, followed by 03.00 AM and then at 11.00 AM. The latest bus leaves at 2 PM. Just keep in mind that the bus will arrive after dark, so it's not recommended to travel through the mountains at night. It's always a good idea to check the bus schedules in advance, especially when you arrive in Arequipa. You can find most bus companies that offer trips to Colca Canyon in the middle of the bus station, on the right side of puerta 2.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Ceviche - A classic Peruvian dish consisting of fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices, typically lime or lemon. It's usually served with red onions, cilantro, and spiced with chili peppers. Often accompanied by corn kernels and sweet potato.

Lomo Saltado - A stir-fried beef dish inspired by Japanese cuisine, marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. It's sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and peppers, then traditionally served with rice and French fries.

Ajiaco Soup - A traditional Peruvian soup made primarily with chicken, cooked in a broth with potatoes, avocados, and corn. Sometimes, it includes other ingredients like guascas (a type of herb), milk, eggs, and capers. Served hot, often garnished with cream, cheese, and culantro.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing