Family Adventure in Peru's Colca Canyon

Waterfalls and Culinary Delights

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and local culture of Colca Canyon. After eight days of incredible sights, I was excited to see what today would bring. The plan was ambitious: visit two waterfalls, Catarata Panahua and Catarata Sankillay, indulge in local cuisine for every meal, and maybe snag a souvenir. Traveling with Olivia and Ethan makes every experience richer, and I was eager to share this day with them.


Explore the breathtaking Catarata Panahua, a stunning waterfall in Peru's Andes, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

We kicked off our day with breakfast at Restaurant Urpicha Del Colca. The reviews I'd seen online mentioned a standard breakfast, but I was pleasantly surprised by the charm of the place. The breakfast was simple but satisfying: tea, scrambled eggs, and bread with butter and marmalade. It was a hearty start to a day of exploration. Ethan appreciated that he could charge his phone while we ate.

Fueled up, we set off to Catarata Panahua. The drive itself was an adventure, with winding roads offering stunning views of the Andean landscape. The drive from Chivay took us south, and then along a dirt road towards San Juan de Chuccho. I made sure our vehicle was up for the unpaved roads. When we arrived, the waterfall was a sight to behold, cascading down rocky cliffs amidst vibrant greenery. The kids were in awe, snapping photos from every angle. The cascade was majestic, and the surrounding area was serene. The kids and Olivia enjoyed the picturesque landscape that surrounded us.

The beauty of nature and the warmth of local culture create unforgettable memories.

Next on our list was Catarata Sankillay. The drive to Andagua from Chivay was about 2.5 hours. The journey was long, but the scenery was worth it. This waterfall was equally enchanting, with its unique charm and tranquil atmosphere. The hike to get a good view was manageable, and Ethan, surprisingly, didn't complain too much. Olivia was in her element, capturing the pristine beauty of the waterfall with her camera.


Experience the serene beauty of Catarata Sankillay, a stunning waterfall in Andagua, Peru, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

After a morning of chasing waterfalls, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Colca Restaurant Rumichaca. The restaurant had mixed reviews, but we decided to give it a try. The food was decent, and the experience was authentic. It wasn't the best meal we've had, but it filled us up and gave us a taste of local flavors.

With our bellies full, we made a pit stop at Pintado cool for a little souvenir shopping. I'm not usually one for touristy shops, but Olivia and Ethan insisted. We ended up finding a few interesting trinkets and a lovely hand-painted bowl that Olivia adored. It's always nice to bring back a little piece of our travels with us.

For dinner, we decided to try RESTAURANTE SUMAC MIKUY. The reviews raved about its vibrant atmosphere and traditional Peruvian dishes. We started with some alpaca steak and quinoa salad. Ethan even tried the alpaca, which was a win. The restaurant's decor reflected the local culture, making the experience even more special. The staff was friendly, and the mountain views added to the ambiance.

As the day wound down, we reflected on our adventures. We managed to see two stunning waterfalls, sample local cuisine, and do a little shopping. It was a day of simple pleasures and shared experiences. I’m starting to feel that familiar pang of nostalgia, knowing our trip is nearing its end. It feels like just yesterday we were landing in Lima, wide-eyed and ready for adventure. Now, with only a few days left, I’m cherishing every moment.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Sendero a la Laguna de Chachas and Coporaque. We might even check out Puccq'io Bar in the evening for a nightcap. I'm looking forward to another day of exploration and creating lasting memories with my family. I'm also hoping I can find a power bank, as I forgot to pack one. That's my biggest travel advice: always double-check your packing list!

I think the best part of traveling, besides the sights, is the food. I always love trying new beers and seeing if I can recreate them when I get home to Kelowna. It’s a fun way to keep the memories alive, long after we’ve unpacked our bags. Until tomorrow!