Andean Condors in Colca Canyon
Arequipa is one of the beautiful Historical Colonial Cities now listed by Unesco heritage list. It is built around like all Spanish Cities with the Government Buildings and the Cathedral around the main square. From Arequipa the scenic drive is through the andies Mountains to the Colca Canyon, the breeding place for the mythy Condors. This journey is amazing and highly recommended.
Day 1: Arequipa + half day city tour
Depending on how you are arriving into Arequipa (whether it be a flight from Cusco/Lima or traveling down from Nazca) our guide will meet you on arrival and transfer you to your hotel for the next two nights. This afternoon you will have at leisure, we recommend having a wonder through the town, try local delicacies and soak up the rich Peruvian culture Arequipa is renowned for.
Day 2: Arequipa + Half day city tour
Today is a morning tour of Arequipa, whose historic centre was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, in recognition of its architecture and historic integrity. This morning tour includes the Santa Catalina Monastery built in 1580 and currently home to a small number of nuns. The remainder of the day to explore Arequipa on your own or have a relaxing afternoon and take in some of the historical sights you have witnessed.
A visit to the Museo Santuarios Andinos is recommended here you will find Mummy Juanita, the remarkably preserved teenage Inca Ice Maiden sacrificed between 1450 and 1480. Juanita’s discovery has been chronicled by National Geographic and listed by Time magazine in 1995 as one of the World’s Top Ten Discoveries. [B]
Day 3: Arequipa to Colca Canyon/Chivay
After a relaxing morning your journey continues to the Colca Canyon, this coach trip is stunning as you travel past the spectacular Misti and Chachani volcanoes and hot springs. Once you arrive in Chivay your driver will take you to view the Colca Canyon and then you are able to have a relaxing afternoon in the thermal springs of Chivay, a perfect way to relax and soak up the atmosphere and culture of Peru. Overnight is in Chivay town, there is an upgrade available but this is outside the town. [B]
Day 4: Sightseeing Colca Canyon & Journey Back to Arequipa
This morning is an early departure from your Hotel in Chivay to Cruz del Condor where Andean Condors can often be seen catching thermal uplifts and soaring with graceful ease. The Colca Canyon is the world’s deepest canyon and twice as big as the Grand Canyon, the magnificent sight of the presents amazing photographic landscape opportunities for photographers and even better if you can catch a condor gliding in the skyline.
After the Colca Canyon, you will journey by coach back to Arequipa. Enjoy your evening in Arequipa and taste the local food in the many restaurants surrounding the Plaza Mayor. Overnight in Arequipa [B]
Day 5: Depart Arequipa – Onward Journey Suggestions
Today after breakfast your adventure to Arequipa and the Colca Canyon will come to an end. Transfers are not included as it is depending on your onward journey [B]
For your onward journey from Arequipa, our suggestions are