Family Adventure in Peru's Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon's Grand Welcome
After a long journey from Kelowna, touching down in Lima and then Arequipa, the final bus ride into Colca Canyon was nothing short of breathtaking. The anticipation had been building for months, and today, on December 15th, 2025, the adventure truly began. I was eager to share this experience with Olivia and Ethan, hoping they’d find as much wonder in this landscape as I anticipated.

Our day started early, fueled by excitement and a quick bite at Restaurant Turístico Colca in Chivay. The restaurant was bustling with fellow travelers, all eager to start their day exploring the canyon. I opted for a hearty breakfast of eggs and local bread, while Olivia enjoyed some fresh fruit and Ethan devoured a stack of pancakes. It was a simple meal, but it gave us the energy we needed for the day ahead.


Savor authentic Peruvian cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Restaurant Turístico Colca in Chivay.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the Plaza De Armas De Chivay. The square was alive with activity. Locals were setting up their stalls for the day. The air was filled with the sounds of Quechua and Spanish, mingling with the distant music. The Plaza De Armas De Chivay is the heart of this charming town nestled in the Colca Canyon region. The majestic Andes mountains surround the square, serving as a backdrop. We spent some time wandering around, taking in the sights and sounds.


Discover the vibrant Plaza De Armas De Chivay, where culture, architecture, and stunning Andes scenery unite for an unforgettable experience.

Olivia was particularly captivated by the colorful textiles on display, while Ethan was fascinated by a group of children playing a game with a makeshift football. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this vibrant community. The December air was crisp and cool, a welcome change from the warmer temperatures we had left behind in Kelowna.

From the plaza, we made our way to the Galería ARTES DEL COLCA art & souvenirs, hoping to find a few unique mementos of our trip. The gallery was a treasure trove of local crafts, from hand-woven tapestries to intricate wood carvings. I picked up a small, hand-painted ceramic bull as a souvenir, while Olivia chose a beautiful alpaca scarf. Ethan, ever the practical one, opted for a sturdy, hand-carved wooden flute.


Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of the Colca Valley at ARTES DEL COLCA, a premier destination for unique Peruvian art and souvenirs.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

This quote embodies why I love to travel, and why I wanted to bring my family to experience the wonders of Colca Canyon.

The highlight of our day was undoubtedly the visit to Mirador Cruz del Cóndor. As we approached the viewpoint, the anticipation was palpable. The canyon stretched out before us, a vast and awe-inspiring chasm carved over millennia by the Colca River. The sheer scale of the landscape was humbling.


Experience the stunning vistas and majestic condors at Mirador Cruz del Cóndor, a must-visit observation deck in Peru's breathtaking Colca Canyon.

We joined the throng of tourists eagerly awaiting the appearance of the majestic Andean condors. The air was thick with excitement. It wasn't long before the first condor appeared, soaring effortlessly on the thermal currents. Its massive wingspan was truly impressive, and its presence commanded respect.

Ethan was particularly thrilled, his eyes glued to the sky as more and more condors appeared, circling above us in a mesmerizing dance. Olivia was equally captivated, her camera clicking away as she tried to capture the perfect shot. I simply stood in awe, marveling at the beauty and grandeur of nature.

The Mirador Cruz del Cóndor is a stunning lookout located at an elevation of 3270 meters above sea level. From this vantage point, the canyon floor is 1,200 meters below, offering breathtaking views of the landscape. The condors typically make their appearance in the morning, between 8 AM and 10 AM, depending on the weather conditions. Fortunately, we were blessed with clear skies and perfect visibility, making the experience even more magical.

After spending a couple of hours at the Mirador Cruz del Cóndor, soaking in the views and marveling at the condors, we made our way back to Chivay for lunch. We decided to try Sabores Andinos Colca Restaurant. The restaurant was small and unassuming, but the food was fantastic. Olivia and I shared a plate of ceviche, while Ethan opted for a hearty bowl of chicken soup.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine with stunning views at Sabores Andinos Colca Restaurant in Yanque.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at El Balcón de Don Zacarías for dinner. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with live music adding to the ambiance. The restaurant is known for Peruvian cuisine. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local specialties, savoring the flavors of the Andes. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at El Balcón de Don Zacarías in Arequipa's picturesque Plaza de Armas.

The day was more than just seeing condors. It was about experiencing the culture, tasting the flavors, and connecting with the landscape. As we headed back to our accommodation, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share this adventure with my family.

December in Colca Canyon is a unique experience. The weather is generally dry, with sunny days and cool nights. Daytime temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F), but can drop below freezing after sunset. We packed accordingly, bringing warm layers for the evenings and sunscreen for the sunny days.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Uyo Uyo and Mirador Ocolle, continuing our journey through this incredible landscape. I’m particularly excited about visiting Uyo Uyo, an ancient pre-Inca city that promises to offer a glimpse into the region's rich history. We're also planning a stop at Pachamama Home for a relaxing evening.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a day filled with wonder, beauty, and connection. Colca Canyon has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

And as a side note, I really wish I hadn’t forgotten my power bank. It would have been great to have it today, especially while taking so many pictures!