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Colca Canyon
The Colca Canyon is reputedly the deepest in the world – 3,182 metres (11,000 feet), which is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. The region is also known for its terracing, thought to be the most extensive in Peru, its picturesque towns, where the traditional clothing is still worn by the majority of women and the spectacular mountain scenery with snow-capped Andean peaks.
Colca also offers a unique opportunity to see the mighty Andean condor, leaving their rocky sanctuary with the early morning currents to soar high into the clouds. This trip is best done with an overnight stay in the valley, which allows you to take in the picturesque towns en-route, rise early to watch the clouds lift out of the canyon, and to hopefully spot the Andean Condor soar overhead.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Below are some options for the Colca Canyon, though some of the below are automatically included in any overnight trip to the canyon.
Yanque. Yanque is a small town with a laid back atmosphere around ten kilometres west of Chivay. There are excellent views and a footbridge to the smaller villages on the other side of the Colca River. The baroque church in the town, Immaculada Conception, has an interesting mestizo-baroque façade adorned with the faces of various saints. Bird watching. The skies of Colca Canyon hold many delights for bird watchers. Numerous species live in the Colca Valley including the largest humming bird in the world (Colibri), eagles and woodpeckers. The Colca Canyon is best known however as the natural habitat of the majestic Condor, the sacred Andean Bird, perhaps the most famous of the indigenous bird life. These huge vultures, with wing spans of up to 3.2 metres are known for their elegant and spectacular flight. Most often seen at the Cruz del Condor, these magnificent birds are a delight to behold.
Horse riding. Meandering through the Colca Canyon on unique Peruvian paso horse back is truly an experience to cherish. As you are carried through the landscape, reminisce to a time when only people and horses traversed the Colca Valley. The horses will transport you to areas of the Colca Canyon which may not otherwise be accessible. Stop alongside the river to rest and allow the horses to drink from the cool waters.
Hot springs at Chivay. Chivay is located at 3633 metres altitude and is the linking point between the two sides of the Colca Canyon, as it has the only bridge over the river. The bridge itself it an interesting visit as it has Inca foundations, there is also has an 18th century church, Nuestra Senora Asuncion in the village. However, the village is best known for the Calera Thermal springs which are located four kilometres outside the town, a 45 minute walk. The five hot pools are a great place to relax after a day’s trekking in the Colca Canyon. The average temperature of the hot springs is between 35 - 40 degrees Celsius, but at the source can be as much as 80 degrees Celsius.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Colca Canyon
Las Casita Del Colca is a luxury lodge, situated in the midst of the Colca valley, between 2 small towns. It is more comfortable than the Colca Lodge, but without the spectacular setting.
Colca Canyon
Colca lodge has been built completely of stone, mud bricks and thatch roofs, which has kept in tune with the local surroundings which is all adobe housing. It is located in the heart of the Valley
Arequipa
Charming and intimate, with 58 rooms, the Sonesta Posada del Inca is located in the centre of Arequipa’s Main Square, with easy access to the city’s major historical treasures, including the monastery of Santa Catalina
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