Embark on a 2-day trek to explore the bottom of the Colca Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world. Enjoy small trekking groups, an overnight stay in Sangalle (Oasis), and a visit to Mirador Cruz del Cóndor to observe condors and admire the Colca Canyon.
Start your trek from the viewpoint of San Miguel and enjoy the night in Sangalle (Oasis). The next day, visit the viewpoints and hot springs.
Itinerary
Start: Day 1 at 03:00 at your hotel in Arequipa.
End: Day 2 at 17:30 in the centre of Arequipa.
Day 1: Cabanaconde – San Juan de Chuccho – Sangalle Oasis (15 km, 7 hours).
We will pick you up at your accommodation to begin the trip outside Arequipa. You will travel for 3 hours to the city of Chivay, where you will have breakfast. Then, you will visit the Cruz del Cóndor, at 3,600 m above sea level, where you will stay for about 40 minutes to tour the place, see condors and take pictures. Then, you will continue the journey by vehicle to San Miguel, at 3,200 m above sea level, where you will have a few minutes to finish organising your backpack and begin the hike. You will begin the descent through the canyon, with views of its depth, as well as the flora and fauna of the place. After 3 hours of descent, you will cross the bridge to go to the community of San Juan de Chuccho, at 2,230 m above sea level, where you will have lunch at the home of a local family. After lunch and a moment's rest, you will walk for 3 more hours until you reach the Oasis of Sangalle, at 1,900 m above sea level, where you can enjoy nature, the pools and rest for the night.
Day 2: Cabanaconde – Chivay – Arequipa (7 km, 3 to 4 hours).
You will wake up very early to begin the day's hike, which will take you up to the highest part of the canyon for a period of 3 to 4 hours. On the way, which you will start at night, you will be able to see the sunrise as you advance the trek. You will see the change with the first light of dawn and how the whole canyon lights up. At the highest part, you will have some time to rest and observe the feat you have just completed. Then, you will walk a little further to Cabanaconde, at 3300 m above sea level, where you can have breakfast. Afterwards, you will take the transport to pass by the Antahuilque viewpoints, from where you will be able to see the cultivation terraces, and visit the thermal baths, where you will be able to relax and rest from the trekking as well. Then, you will continue to Chivay for lunch, after which the return trip will begin, stopping at the volcano viewpoint at 4190 m above sea level, before reaching the city of Arequipa, where the activity ends.