COLCA CANYON
Colca Canyon is the world’s second-deepest canyon, carved by the Colca River through the Peruvian Andes. It is an awe-inspiring natural wonder and the ancestral home of Andean cultures.
This region is famous for its dramatic, terraced landscapes, pre-Inca history, and the majestic flight of the Andean condor. It is a stunning blend of nature and ancient human endeavor.
Most Popular Attractions
Colca Canyon Natural & Scenic Vistas:
Mirador Cruz del Cóndor: The most famous viewpoint, offering a spectacular chance to see the Andean Condor soaring on thermal currents, typically in the early morning.
Mirador de Tapay: A less-visited viewpoint with incredible panoramic views into the deepest part of the canyon and the distant Tapay village.
Volcán Ampato: The dormant volcano where the famous “Ice Maiden,” Juanita, was discovered. It dominates the landscape and is visible from many points.
Nevado Mismi: The peak identified as the most distant source of the Amazon River, offering challenging treks and beautiful views.
Valle de los Volcanes (Valley of the Volcanoes): A region featuring numerous small, cone-shaped extinct volcanoes and hardened lava flows, a unique geological sight.
Mirador de Antahuilque: Offers excellent views of the pre-Inca agricultural terraces (Andenes) and the towns of Pinchollo and Maca.
Colca Canyon Pre-Inca & Colonial Heritage:
Chivay: The main town and gateway to the canyon, known for its lively daily market, central Plaza de Armas, and as a base for excursions.
Yanque: A charming village famous for its ornate Colonial Church (Inmaculada Concepción) and the daily traditional dances performed in the square.
Maca: A small, picturesque town with a beautiful, earthquake-damaged Baroque church that has been carefully restored.
Pinchollo: A village with a prominent location and access to the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor.
Lari: Known for having one of the most elaborate and beautiful Colonial Churches in the valley, featuring twin bell towers.
Sibayo: A small, traditional stone village with an ancient stone bridge and a focus on keeping Colca traditions alive.
Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site: Located near Yanque, this site features well-preserved pre-Inca ruins and a small colonial settlement.
Fortaleza de Chimpa: Pre-Inca ruins and a fortress located high above the town of Cabanaconde, offering excellent views.
Choquetico Tombs: Ancient pre-Inca funeral tombs carved into the cliff face, visible from the road between Yanque and Maca.
Colca Canyon Trekking & Wellness:
Oasis de Sangalle: A popular, lush resting point at the bottom of the canyon, featuring swimming pools and basic lodging, often the endpoint of a two-day trek.
Cabanaconde: The starting point for many multi-day treks into the canyon, offering spectacular views and a quiet, authentic village atmosphere.
La Calera Hot Springs (Baños Termales de la Calera): Natural thermal baths near Chivay, popular for relaxation after a day of sightseeing or travel.
Chacapi Hot Springs (Baños Termales de Chacapi): Smaller, more rustic hot springs located closer to Yanque, situated right on the riverbank.
Colca River Trekking Routes: Various multi-day treks, such as the one to Malata and Cosñirhua villages, offering immersion in the canyon’s depth.
Geysers de Pinacollo: A lesser-known area with small, active geysers and bubbling mud pits, showcasing the valley’s geothermal activity.
Activities & Experiences
Condor Viewing at Mirador Cruz del Cóndor: Arrive early (before 8:30 AM) to witness the magnificent Andean Condors soaring and circling on the thermal currents rising from the canyon—a truly unforgettable spectacle.
Trek the Canyon Floor: Embark on a multi-day hike (typically 2–3 days) down into the canyon, spending a night in the valley oasis of Sangalle (nicknamed ‘Sangalle Oasis’ or ‘The Oasis’) or the village of Malata.
Soak in the La Calera Hot Springs: Relax your muscles after a long day of hiking or sightseeing in the therapeutic thermal waters of La Calera, just outside the main town of Chivay.
Visit the Traditional Villages: Explore the charming, less-visited traditional villages scattered along the rim, such as Yanque, Maca, and Pinchollo, known for their colonial churches and local markets.
Watch a Cultural Dance Performance: Attend a peña (folk show) in Chivay, often held in conjunction with dinner, to see the traditional Wititi dance, which is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
Go Mountain Biking: Rent a bike in Chivay or Yanque and explore the surrounding trails, enjoying stunning canyon views while cycling past pre-Inca terraces.
Explore the Pre-Inca Terraces: Hike among the thousands of years old agricultural terraces carved into the canyon slopes, a remarkable feat of engineering that is still in use today.
Shop at the Chivay Market: Visit the bustling central market in Chivay to purchase local crafts, alpaca wool products, and sample traditional high-Andean foods.
River Rafting on the Colca River: For the adventurous, arrange a whitewater rafting trip on the upper stretches of the Colca River (seasonal, usually available from December to March).
Hike to Waterfalls: Take a short, scenic hike from the town of Yanque to the Uchuccho or Toccallo waterfalls for a beautiful and refreshing outdoor experience.
Spot Wildlife on the Pampa: Keep an eye out for high-altitude Andean wildlife like vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, and vizcachas while traveling between Arequipa and the canyon.
Local Tips & Transport
Tour Bus/Shuttle is Common: The most popular way to get from Arequipa (the nearest major city) to the Colca Canyon area is via a shared tourist shuttle or a guided tour bus. These are safe, reliable, and typically include stops at viewpoints along the way.
Public Bus: Budget travelers can take a public bus from Arequipa’s main bus terminal (Terminal Terrestre) directly to Chivay. Companies like Transportes Reyna or Crucero Express offer regular service. It is significantly cheaper but slower and less comfortable than a tourist shuttle.
Getting Around the Canyon: Once in Chivay or Yanque, you can hire local taxis (colectivos) for short hops between villages, or take small local buses (combis). For the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, the tourist buses or pre-arranged transport are the most practical option.
Private Taxi: A private car/taxi hire from Arequipa is the most flexible option but also the most expensive. It allows you to set your own pace and stop exactly where you want.
Acclimatize for Altitude: Chivay sits at approximately 3,650 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level, and the highest point on the drive is over 4,900 meters. It is highly recommended to spend a day or two acclimatizing in Arequipa (which is lower) before traveling to the canyon to avoid altitude sickness (soroche).
Pay the Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico): All visitors must purchase the official Boleto Turístico from the Autocolca office or at the first control point. This pass covers entrance to the villages and viewpoints (including Cruz del Cóndor). Keep it with you at all times.
Condor Viewing Timing: The Andean Condors typically take flight when the sun warms the air, creating thermal drafts. The best viewing time is generally between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. After that, they may disperse.
Respect Local Culture: The Colca Valley is home to the pre-Inca Collaguas and Cabanas communities, who still wear traditional clothing. Always ask permission before taking a photo of a local person, and consider offering a small tip for their time.
Tipping for Guides: If you use a guide for trekking or a bus tour, tipping is customary, especially for excellent service. A standard amount is usually 10 – 20 soles per person per day for the guide, and a smaller amount for the driver.
Hidden Gems:
- Mirador de Antahuilque: Located near Yanque, this viewpoint offers a stunning, less-crowded perspective of the pre-Inca terraces and the river winding through the canyon.
- The Yanque Sunday Market: A great alternative to the Chivay market, known for its small-town charm and authentic display of local produce and traditional clothing.
- The Colca Geyser (Pampa de Pulpera): A geyser/fumarole located in a less-visited area of the canyon, showcasing the region’s volcanic activity. It requires a detour but is a unique natural phenomenon.
- The Lost Lagoon (Laguna Encantada): A small, high-altitude lagoon where you can often spot high-Andean birds like Andean geese and flamingos, offering a different kind of natural beauty.
Top Restaurants
Mikuna Wassi [$10-$20] – A genuine, small restaurant in Cabanaconde, highly recommended by trekkers for its large portions of traditional Peruvian and local dishes, perfect for fueling up before or after a hike.
Restaurante Urinsaya [$15-$25] – Located right in the heart of Chivay, this is a local favorite offering classic Peruvian and Arequipeñan cuisine, including fresh trout and hearty stews, often with a pleasant, casual atmosphere.
La Lucila [$10-$20] – A well-regarded local spot, especially in Yanque, known for its excellent preparations of fresh Colca River trout and other regional specialties, served with an authentic, friendly flair.
Tradiciones de Colca [$15-$25] – Found in one of the valley towns (often cited in Chivay), this spot is known for its heartwarming, hearty alpaca stews and other traditional Andean fare, ideal for the high-altitude climate.
Colca Restaurant Rumichaca [$15-$25] – A popular, non-touristic choice in Chivay that focuses on authentic local flavors and often has a strong local following for its traditional soups and main courses.
Pachamama Home [$15-$25] – A cozy establishment in Cabanaconde offering home-cooked local meals and a welcoming environment, often providing a simple but delicious retreat for hikers.
RESTAURANTE SUMAC MIKUY [$10-$20] – Found in Chivay, this small, unpretentious spot serves up excellent and affordable menus (set lunches), popular with locals seeking authentic daily meals.
Curiña Restaurant [$15-$25] – Located in Yanque, this restaurant is known for its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients in traditional Andean recipes, set against the backdrop of the stunning valley.
Sabores Andinos Colca Restaurant [$15-$25] – This spot in Yanque offers a menu dedicated to the flavors of the Andes, often featuring alpaca, quinoa, and native potato varieties in a warm setting.
Restaurant Turístico Misti Wasi [$15-$25] – Despite the name, this small, well-liked spot in Chivay is praised by visitors for its simple, tasty, and well-priced meals, avoiding the large buffet tourist crowds.
Restaurant Incafe [$15-$25] – A simple, authentic eatery in one of the canyon villages (like Yanque), focusing on traditional Andean soups and home-style Peruvian dishes.
Polleria Tiznao [$10-$20] – A highly-rated local Pollería (rotisserie chicken) in Chivay, famous for its delicious Peruvian-style Pollo a la Brasa served with generous portions of fries and rice.
Yanque’s Market Food Stalls [$5-$10] – Not a single restaurant, but a collection of stalls in the Yanque market where you can savor quick, vibrant, and authentic local street food like savory empanadas and fresh Andean corn beverages.
Chivay Market Food Stalls [$5-$10] – A great local experience in Chivay where you can find quick bites, prepared foods, and savory local favorites like trout or alpaca skewers from small vendors.
Centro Gastronomico Cultural Peru Andino [$15-$25] – Located in Chivay, this cultural center often includes a restaurant that showcases traditional cooking methods and local products in a casual environment.
Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs Restaurant [$30-$50] – While part of a lodge near Yanque, this restaurant is worth visiting for its gourmet cuisine that incorporates local ingredients (like quinoa and alpaca) with a refined, modern presentation and is accessible to non-guests.
Las Casitas, A Belmond Hotel Restaurant [$50-$80] – Located outside Yanque, this luxury hotel features a fine-dining experience using ingredients from their own vegetable garden and farm, offering a creative and high-end take on Andean cuisine in a stunning setting.
El Refugio [$30-$50] – A charming and well-designed restaurant (often associated with a higher-end lodge near Chivay or Yanque) known for elevating classic Peruvian dishes with modern techniques and fresh, local ingredients.
La Granja del Colca Restaurant [$25-$45] – This restaurant at the La Granja lodge near Cabanaconde is celebrated for its incredible homemade food and warm hospitality, with many guests praising the alpaca lomo saltado and generous portions.
Colca Buffet Restaurant [$20-$35] – A good option in Chivay for a guaranteed taste of many local dishes in one sitting, offering a spread of Andean specialties like rocoto relleno and chupe de camarones, though it caters heavily to tour groups.
d’colca [$25-$45] – A modern spot in Chivay known for its inventive take on traditional Andean ingredients, blending local flavors with a contemporary style.
The Thermal Baths Cafe/Restaurant [$10-$20] – Many of the thermal bath sites around Chivay and Yanque have simple restaurants offering hot, hearty soups and basic meals, a perfectly timed local tradition for warming up after the baths.
Restaurant Turístico Colca [$20-$35] – Located in Chivay, this restaurant focuses on a wide range of regional cuisine but aims for a slightly more polished presentation than the smaller, more basic local eateries.
REST Los Arcos [$20-$35] – A clean, bright, and popular restaurant in Chivay often praised for its excellent grilled trout and solid service, popular with both locals and independent travelers.
Pachamanka Experience [$25-$45] – Seek out a local tour operator or a high-end lodge that offers a Pachamanca meal, a traditional Inca feast where meat, potatoes, and corn are cooked underground with hot stones, providing a truly unique and authentic regional experience.
Luxury Picnic in the Andes [$70-$150] – Exclusive travel companies offer curated, high-end picnics amidst the Colca Canyon landscape, often featuring multi-course meals of Peruvian and Nikkei cuisine with luxury service in a breathtaking natural setting (booking required).
El Balcon de Chivay [$20-$35] – Located near the main square in Chivay, this spot offers a good mix of traditional and international dishes, often with a balcony view overlooking the plaza.
La Casona de Chivay [$20-$35] – A restaurant in Chivay set in a traditional building, offering a nice atmosphere for sampling local Andean and classic Peruvian food.
Yuraq Wasi [$20-$35] – A restaurant in Chivay that attempts a more refined setting while still serving the regional staples, like alpaca steak and corn-based dishes.
Restaurant Misk’i [$15-$25] – A small, cozy spot in Chivay praised for its warm service and comforting Andean soups and stews.
Warmi Wasi [$15-$25] – Located in one of the smaller villages, this local spot offers simple and delicious home-cooked meals, often focusing on the native potatoes and quinoa of the area.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Puccq’io Bar: Found in the heart of the village of Yanque, this delightful spot offers a retreat for travelers with a blend of local flavors, including cocktails featuring local mountain fruits, and scenic canyon views.
ARCAS RESTOBAR: A vibrant gastropub located centrally in Chivay, known for its lively atmosphere, delicious Peruvian dishes, and a good selection of drinks to unwind after a day of exploring.
McELROY’S Irish pub: Situated right in Chivay, this pub brings a taste of Ireland to the Andes. It’s famous for its friendly, eclectic ambiance where nearly every surface is covered in traveler signatures and drawings.
Bar HAKUNA MATATA: Discover the lively essence of Chivay at this bar, which offers a vibrant nightlife experience with refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere, located centrally in town.
Yuyary Restobar Folklórico: Located in Chivay, this restobar offers a taste of the Andes’ vibrant culture and flavors, often featuring folkloric music and dancing in addition to its drinks menu.
Muspay Quilla: A lively bar centrally located in Chivay, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a delightful selection of drinks, making it a good place to experience local culture and connect with other travelers.
COLCA CANYON HOTEL BY PERU HTL Bar: Situated within the hotel in Chivay, this is a perfect retreat for comfort and a convenient spot to enjoy a drink on-site after a day of adventure.
Olimpus Open Bar: This spot in Chivay offers a lively ambiance, often featuring live piano music and a delightful array of drinks, promising an enjoyable night out near the main plaza.
papachoauca bar: Located in the town of Pinchollo, a bit further into the canyon, this bar offers a lively spirit with local culture and sometimes live music, making for an unforgettable experience outside the main hub.
Bar/Lounge at Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs: A tranquil and luxurious option located near Yanque, this bar allows guests to relax and enjoy a drink after a soak in the thermal pools, surrounded by the beautiful Colca Valley.
Puccq’io Bar at Belmond Las Casitas: While often considered part of the hotel, this scenic bar offers an extensive wine list and freshly mixed cocktails, providing a luxurious, sophisticated evening on the terrace with views into the valley.
Curiña Restaurant Bar (Belmond Las Casitas): Another elegant bar at the Belmond Las Casitas, known for its ambient interior and often offering a welcome cocktail as part of its dining experience near Yanque.
Restaurante Turístico Wayra Lounge Bar: A common stop in Chivay that caters to tourists, offering a lounge-like setting for a relaxing drink and local fare.
Bar at Casa Andina Standard Colca: Located within the hotel in Chivay, this is a popular and convenient place for travelers to socialize and enjoy a drink, including a traditional Pisco Sour.
La Casa de Mamayacchi Bar: Situated in Coporaque, a short distance from Chivay, this bar is part of a charming lodge offering a cozy spot to enjoy local culture and Peruvian spirits.
Discoteca Olympian: Located in the heart of Chivay, this premier gastropub and disco club is a must-visit for travelers seeking the ultimate nightlife experience, offering great food, dancing, and vibrant local culture.
Rustika Resto Bar Disco: A lively spot in Chivay that transitions from serving delicious Peruvian cuisine to vibrant nightlife, making it a dual-purpose venue for dinner and dancing.
La Catedral Music Hall: Located in Chivay, this venue combines a delicious grill restaurant with vibrant local music, often featuring folkloric performances and a dance floor for an unforgettable cultural night.
Moon Disco: Discover the pulse of Chivay’s nightlife at this central disco club, where music, dance, and camaraderie come together for an energetic experience on the dance floor.
Discoteca Muya: Another prominent disco club and gastropub in Chivay, known for driving the pulse of the local nightlife and providing unforgettable nights filled with music and dance.
La Casona del Colca: Often hosting live music or folkloric shows, this central Chivay venue combines dining with entertainment, sometimes creating a late-night atmosphere for dancing.
El Ayllu: A local spot in Chivay that occasionally hosts cultural events and serves as a place for locals and tourists to gather, sometimes featuring live music and a dance atmosphere late into the night.
Discoteca El Padrino: A smaller, more local-oriented club in Chivay that is known for playing popular Peruvian and Latin music and offers a genuine local party vibe.
Discoteca El Mirador: Situated near the main tourist areas of Chivay, this club provides a lively setting for dancing with a mix of contemporary and Latin hits.
Tambo Disco-Bar: Located in Chivay, this bar often features a small dance floor and music, making it a laid-back option that caters to both a casual drink and a late-night boogie.