Colca Canyon and Condor’s Cross from Arequipa

Includes:

1. Tourist transport
2. Professional guide

Not Included:

1. Colca tourist ticket (BTC)
2. Lunch
3. Entrance to hot springs

Prepare for an early departure, a long travel day and high-Andean conditions; the tour reaches up to 4,910 m.a.s.l., so it is important to rest well and plan your essentials in advance.

1. Altitude: If you are sensitive to altitude, consider arriving in Arequipa with time to acclimatize and avoid heavy meals or alcohol the night before.
2. Schedule: Departure is confirmed for 04:00 AM from Arequipa, so organize your wake-up time, breakfast plans and meeting details in advance.
3. Included services: The tour includes tourist transport and a professional guide.
4. Not included: The Colca tourist ticket (BTC), lunch and entrance to the hot springs are not included, so bring cash for these expenses.
5. Hot springs: The visit is optional and depends on your preference during the itinerary; entrance is paid separately.
6. Weather: Expect cold temperatures early in the morning and stronger sun during the day, so dressing in layers is highly recommended.

Pack light but strategically for a full-day route with early morning cold, high-altitude sun, scenic stops and optional time at the hot springs.

1. Passport or ID: Carry valid identification and any booking details requested for the tour.
2. Cash in local currency: Essential for the Colca tourist ticket (BTC), lunch, hot springs entrance and personal purchases.
3. Layered clothing: Bring a warm jacket for the early departure and lighter layers for midday in the valley.
4. Comfortable shoes: Use stable walking shoes for viewpoints, stops and short walks during the route.
5. Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat are strongly recommended due to high Andean UV exposure.
6. Water and snacks: Carry enough water and small snacks for the road, especially because it is a long full-day tour.
7. Swimsuit and towel: Bring them if you plan to enjoy the optional hot springs.
8. Small daypack: Useful for keeping documents, layers, camera, water and personal items accessible.
9. Camera or phone: The Condor’s Cross and canyon viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities.

What is included in the Colca Canyon Tour 1 Day?

The tour includes tourist transport and a professional guide. The Colca tourist ticket (BTC), lunch and entrance to the hot springs are not included.

What time does the tour start and finish?

The confirmed itinerary starts with departure from Arequipa at 04:00 AM. The return to Arequipa is scheduled for approximately 06:00 PM, depending on the day’s route conditions.

Do we visit the Condor’s Cross viewpoint?

Yes. The itinerary includes the Condor’s Cross Viewpoint at around 09:30 AM, one of the most important stops of the tour. It is the main place on the route to appreciate the canyon and look for Andean condors.

Are condor sightings guaranteed?

The tour visits the Condor’s Cross, a famous viewpoint for observing condors, but sightings depend on natural conditions. Because condors are wild birds, their flight cannot be guaranteed.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

No. Lunch is not included in the confirmed inclusions. The itinerary includes a lunch stop in Chivay at around 12:30 PM, so you should bring cash for your meal.

Are the hot springs included?

The itinerary includes time for optional hot springs at around 03:00 PM. The entrance fee is not included and must be paid separately if you decide to enter.

How high does the tour go?

The maximum altitude indicated for this tour is 4,910 m.a.s.l.. Travelers should be prepared for high-altitude conditions, especially if they are not acclimatized.

Is this tour suitable if I have limited time in Arequipa?

Yes. This is a Full Day Colca Canyon tour, designed to cover the main highlights in one day from Arequipa. It is a practical option if you want to visit the canyon without staying overnight.

What should I bring for the Colca Canyon full-day tour?

Bring warm layers, sun protection, comfortable shoes, water, snacks, ID and cash for expenses not included. If you plan to use the hot springs, bring a swimsuit and towel.