If you’re in Peru you’re most likely going to head to Arequipa, one of the country’s most beautiful cities. That means that you will probably trek into the world’s second deepest canyon behind only China’s Tsangpo Canyon. It’s the thing to do if you’re in the south of Peru. For anyone interested in visiting the Colca Canyon needs to go to the city of Arequipa first. It is an approximately 10-hour bus ride or a short 1-hour flight from Cusco away. Arequipa is also known as the “White City” due to its several buildings made out of Sillar, a smooth white volcanic stone.
Almost everyone has heard of the world-famous Grand Canyon located in Arizona in the United States. With around 1,600 m deep, it attracts more than four million visitors each year. But there are more fascinating canyons in the world, among them the impressive Colca Canyon in Peru. It is the third most popular destination in this beautiful country, with about 120,000 visitors annually. It is not only considered the second deepest canyon in the world with 4,160 m. (measured from the lowest to the highest point which is a volcano, though), at the lowest point in the location of Canco, boasting dizzying heights, gorgeous natural scenery and breath-taking views at every turn, but also home to the largest flying bird in the world, the Andean Condor. Other notable bird species present in the Colca include the giant hummingbird, the largest member of the hummingbird family, as well as the Andean goose, Chilean flamingo, and mountain caracara. Animals include vizcacha, a rabbit-sized relative of the chinchilla, zorrino, deer, and fox.
One of the coolest things to see in the canyon are the massive Andean condors, the largest birds in the Americas. Everyone wants a picture of one of these majestic birds, however, they don’t always come out. Some days you’ll see 15 and other times, nothing.
It wouldn’t be a stretch to call the Colca Canyon ‘Peru’s worst-hidden secret’. It stretches a vast area of over 100km, is home to numerous charming traditional villages, and features a fantastic network of hiking paths allowing you to experience the full beauty and diversity of the area. Throw in adrenaline-fuelled adventure sports, magnificent wildlife, thermal springs and a fascinating Andean culture, and you have a destination that never ceases to amaze. Not only is it one of the most impressive sites to visit in the entire Andean Mountain Range in the country but it is also one of the most overlooked by visitors, many of whom bypass it to reach Machu Picchu instead. On the right side, the Colca canyon is flanked by the Cila Cardillera (Bomboya, Serpregrina, Mismi, Queshihna) and on the other by mount Hualca Hualca, Sabancaya, and Ampato. You can see mount Ubinas and beautiful mount Coropuna in the distance.
It won’t be included in any package deal that you book with a company, and, unless you’re lucky, it isn’t talked about until you actually arrive at the canyon. The fee to get into the park is around 70 soles ($22). It’s pretty steep and your tour package usually seems low because the price isn’t included. Make sure to bring some extra cash with you when you head to the canyon. You’re going to wake up bright and early – 3 am early. Regardless, if you want to do a one, two or three day trek into the canyon, you’re going to have to wake up that early. While it might seem too early, you’ll get a chance to sleep on the 4 hour bus ride to the canyon.
Tourists generally arrive in Chivay, a nice and very friendly town at the beginning of the canyon, with plenty of hotels and hostels, and restaurants–as well as La Calera hot springs. Chivay is a good place to look for high-quality, locally-produced crafts, in particular goods hand-knitted from 100% alpaca fiber, and elaborately embroidered goods produced by hand on sewing machines (hats, coin purses, belts, etc.). Such crafts are also available in some of the miradors (scenic overlooks) along the highway, and in surrounding towns, but do not be confused by cheaper, industrially-produced knock-offs.
It is a popular tourist destination for a reason: it’s one of the most beautiful natural wonders in all of Peru. It’s difficult to take in the entire canyon at one lookout point, so you’ll go to many. Even just walking in the canyon, you’ll look up and stare with wonder at its sheer massive size. If you need it, you’ll be given the option of taking a horse in and out of the canyon. If you feel like you’ll have some troubles, do take the horse. It’s a perfect way to see the canyon, perched up on a beautiful horse.
In the dry season (April to October) temperatures usually fall down below zero during the night and reach 15°C to 20°C during daytime. During the rainy season (November to March) temperature changes are less dramatic as the overcast sky prohibits the sun from shining and the atmosphere from heating during the day. Temperatures vary between 5°C to 10°C at night. According to meteorological records, The Colca Canyon receives hard rain during December to April and the rest of the year is dry, sunny and cold. The canyon is home to the Colca River and together with other rivers scattered throughout the wider region, offers some of the most thrilling rafting in the world. December to March is the best season to take to the water.
It is mostly a hot desert as you make your way into the canyon – but not to worry, you’ll eventually find an oasis. It springs upon you at the right time, once you’re hot and sweaty and in need of a break. There are also thermal baths, making a perfect place for you. However, you’ll only make it here if you go on a multi-day hike.
The one day tour doesn’t give you a “feel” of the canyon. You don’t get to hike into it and actually get an idea of its immense depth. You instead ride in a van, touring the canyon from the best look-out locations.
