Family Adventure in Peru's Colca Canyon

A Christmas Eve to Remember

Christmas Eve in Colca Canyon turned out to be a day of unexpected discoveries and quiet reflection. Leaving the familiar comforts of home in Kelowna for this Peruvian adventure with Olivia and Ethan has been a remarkable experience, and today was no exception. The crisp mountain air and the stunning landscapes provided a unique backdrop to the holiday spirit.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Colca in Chivay. It’s always interesting to see how different cultures approach familiar celebrations, and even though it's Christmas Eve, life here continues at its own pace. Fuelling up with local fare was essential as we had a hike planned to Laguna de Chachas. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back home – Olivia would certainly appreciate a touch of Peruvian zest in our regular meals!

The drive to the trailhead was breathtaking. The vastness of the Colca Canyon is simply awe-inspiring; it dwarfs anything we have in the Okanagan Valley. As we ascended, Ethan, ever the observant one, pointed out the unique flora and fauna. He’s developing quite an eye for photography, a hobby I wholeheartedly encourage. Maybe I should let him take some landscape photos, he may even teach me a thing or two! The hike itself was moderately challenging, the altitude definitely making its presence felt. I had forgotten to pack the portable water filter – a rookie mistake, considering how crucial hydration is at this altitude. Luckily, Olivia had packed enough water for the three of us.

Reaching Laguna de Chachas was like stepping into another world. The stillness of the water, reflecting the surrounding mountains, was incredibly peaceful. It was a perfect spot for some quiet contemplation. I found myself thinking about Christmases past, the warmth of family gatherings, and the simple joys of the season. Ethan was busy snapping photos, while Olivia sketched in her notebook, capturing the essence of the landscape. I must admit, I felt a pang of longing for a good old British pint. Perhaps Puccq'io Bar later might offer something close enough to satisfy the craving!


Explore the breathtaking Sendero a la Laguna de Chachas, a hidden gem in Peru offering stunning landscapes and serene waters for nature lovers.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are not about conquering mountains, but about discovering the quiet beauty within ourselves and the world around us.

After our hike, we made our way to Coporaque. This small Andean village exudes a charm that’s hard to put into words. The architecture, a blend of traditional and colonial styles, tells a story of resilience and adaptation. We wandered through the streets, observing the daily life of the locals. It was fascinating to see children playing traditional games, women weaving intricate textiles, and farmers tending to their fields. We even stumbled upon a small church, its bells ringing out a melodic call to evening prayers. I felt a sense of connection to this community, a feeling of being part of something larger than myself.


Experience the enchanting beauty and rich culture of Coporaque, a hidden gem in the heart of Peru, perfect for adventurous travelers and culture enthusiasts.

Lunch was at Rest LOS PORTALES DE CHIVAY. The reviews I read online mentioned their excellent service and traditional dishes. They weren't wrong! I had the chicharrón de trucha (fried trout) which was absolutely delicious, and Olivia enjoyed a hearty quinoa soup. Ethan, of course, opted for the most adventurous item on the menu – alpaca steak! He declared it “not bad”, which, in teenage speak, translates to “amazing”. The staff were incredibly friendly, even offering us some local tips for exploring the area tomorrow.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Los Portales de Chivay – where every dish tells a story from the Andes.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we decided to visit Puccq'io Bar for a pre-dinner drink. While it wasn’t quite the British pub I was yearning for, the local beer was surprisingly good. We chatted with some fellow travellers, sharing stories and experiences. It’s always fascinating to meet people from different walks of life, united by a common desire to explore the world.


Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and scenic views at Puccq'io Bar in the heart of Yanque, Colca Canyon.

For dinner, we chose Pachamama Home, drawn in by its reputation for authentic Peruvian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant lived up to its name, feeling more like a welcoming home than a formal establishment. We sat by the fireplace, enjoying the warmth and the aroma of wood smoke. The food was exceptional, each dish bursting with flavour and local ingredients. Olivia was particularly impressed with the vegetarian options, while Ethan devoured a plate of lomo saltado (stir-fried beef). I opted for the cuy (guinea pig), a local delicacy. It was certainly an experience, and while I can’t say it’s my new favourite dish, I’m glad I tried it. The owner, Ludwig, was incredibly hospitable. He told us about the history of the restaurant and his passion for promoting sustainable tourism in the Colca Canyon.


Discover comfort and local flavors at Pachamama Home in Cabanaconde—your gateway to Colca Canyon adventures.

As we walked back to our accommodation under the starlit sky, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this unique Christmas Eve experience. It wasn’t the traditional celebration we were accustomed to, but it was special in its own way. We were immersed in a different culture, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and most importantly, together as a family. It also made me think of how Giardino Tours brought Christmas to Coporaque in 2024, which I think is great.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the MIRADOR WAYRACPUNKU and the Tumbas de Yuraq Qaqa. I’m particularly excited about the MIRADOR WAYRACPUNKU, which promises panoramic views of the canyon. We'll also grab breakfast at Curiña Restaurant, lunch at Restaurant Turístico Colca, and dinner at Restaurant Incafe. Ethan is keen on visiting Colca llacta, a local shop. I'm sure Olivia will find something interesting there too. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I can’t help but wonder what other hidden gems the Colca Canyon has in store for us.

Back in our room, I realized I'd forgotten sunscreen, another essential item for this trip. Note to self: always double-check the essentials! Despite the minor setbacks, today was a resounding success. It was a day of discovery, reflection, and connection – a Christmas Eve to remember.

As I sit here writing, with the sounds of the Andes lulling me to sleep, I feel a deep sense of contentment. This journey is not just about seeing new places; it’s about experiencing new perspectives and creating lasting memories with my loved ones. And that, I believe, is the true spirit of Christmas.