Family Adventure in Peru's Colca Canyon

Reaching for the Stars in Colca Canyon

Today was a day of reaching new heights, both literally and figuratively, here in the Colca Canyon. We started with a hearty breakfast and ended under a sky full of stars, with plenty of breathtaking views and local flavors in between. It's days like these that remind me why I love traveling with Olivia and Ethan, creating memories that we'll cherish long after we've returned to Kelowna.

Our day began at Restaurant Alpaca Chef in Colca. I must say, starting the day with a hearty breakfast was essential for the adventures that lay ahead. The restaurant was inspired by Andean culture, and we could tell that they were committed to providing a unique experience that honors the legacy of Peru. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, while Olivia enjoyed some fresh fruit and yogurt, and Ethan, of course, went straight for the pancakes. Fuelled up and ready to go, we set off for our first destination: the Planetarium and Observatory Colca.


Experience the magic of the cosmos at the Planetarium and Observatory Colca in Chivay, where stargazing meets education in a breathtaking setting.
The Planetarium and Observatory Colca was an experience I was particularly excited about. Living in Kelowna, we have our share of clear nights, but there's something special about stargazing in a place with such a rich history and culture. As someone who enjoys local history, I was intrigued by the prospect of learning about the Andean constellations and how they differ from what we see back home.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the planetarium staff, who were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about astronomy. The planetarium itself was small but well-equipped, with a surprisingly clear projection system. We settled in, and the show began. The presenter took us on a journey through the night sky, pointing out the constellations and explaining their significance in Andean mythology. Ethan, who's been increasingly interested in science lately, was particularly engaged, peppering the presenter with questions about black holes and distant galaxies. I found myself equally captivated, learning about constellations I'd never heard of before and gaining a new appreciation for the way different cultures interpret the cosmos. Olivia, ever the librarian, was fascinated by the stories and legends associated with each constellation.

After the planetarium show, we headed outside to the observatory. The telescope was impressive, and the views were even more so. With minimal light pollution, the Milky Way stretched across the sky like a river of stars. We took turns peering through the telescope, marveling at the craters on the moon and the rings of Saturn. It was a humbling experience, reminding us of our place in the vastness of the universe. Ethan was thrilled to get a close-up view of Saturn, and Olivia was moved by the sheer beauty of the cosmos.

Sometimes, the best views are not on Earth, but from it, looking up.

Leaving the planetarium, we made our way to Ventana Del Colca, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the canyon.


Explore the breathtaking Ventana Del Colca, where stunning canyon views and rich cultural experiences await in the heart of Peru.
The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads and dramatic landscapes at every turn. As we ascended, the air grew crisper, and the vegetation changed, adapting to the higher altitude. I was glad I'd packed my warm clothing, as the temperature was noticeably cooler than in the town below. December in Colca Canyon offers daily high temperatures around 71°F, but the low temperatures are around 49°F.

Arriving at Ventana Del Colca, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale of the canyon. It stretched out before us, a vast and awe-inspiring abyss carved by the relentless forces of nature. The canyon walls were a tapestry of colors, from deep reds and oranges to pale yellows and browns, each layer telling a story of geological history. The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, and standing on the edge, it was easy to feel both humbled and exhilarated.

We spent a good hour at Ventana Del Colca, simply taking in the views and snapping photos. Ethan, who's developing a keen eye for photography, was in his element, experimenting with different angles and compositions. Olivia and I, meanwhile, were content to simply soak up the beauty of the landscape, marveling at the condors soaring overhead. Seeing those majestic birds in flight, with their impressive wingspans and effortless grace, was a truly unforgettable experience.

For lunch, we stopped at Colca Restaurant Rumichaca.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Colca Restaurant Rumichaca in Chivay, where every dish celebrates local traditions and fresh ingredients.
I had read some good things about it, and we were all hungry after our morning of exploring. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that perfectly complemented the surrounding landscape. We ordered a variety of dishes, including some local specialties, and everything was delicious. Ethan was particularly fond of the alpaca steak, while Olivia enjoyed a hearty quinoa soup. As a brewery tour guide, I appreciated the local beer selection, and I sampled a couple of different brews, each with its unique flavor and character.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at Made In Colca.


Explore the essence of Andean culture at Made In Colca, a unique clothing store in Chivay offering artisanal fashion and accessories.
As someone who appreciates local craftsmanship, I was eager to see what the shop had to offer. We weren't disappointed. The shop was filled with a variety of handmade goods, from textiles and ceramics to jewelry and wood carvings. Olivia was particularly drawn to the colorful textiles, while Ethan was fascinated by the intricate wood carvings. I ended up buying a hand-knitted alpaca sweater, which will be perfect for those chilly Kelowna evenings.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to RestoBar international for dinner.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at RestoBar International in Cabanaconde.
We shared stories and laughed about our adventures throughout the day. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and convivial. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to visit Mirador Morro de Capellan and Piedra Intihuatana. I'm excited to see what new perspectives and insights these locations will offer. We'll start our day with breakfast at RESTAURANT URINSAYA, followed by lunch at Restaurant del Colca, and dinner at Mikuna Wassi. And, if we're feeling adventurous, we might even check out Yuyary Restobar Folklórico for a nightcap.

Before I sign off, I wanted to share a quick thought. As much as I love planning our itineraries and checking off the must-see sights, I've come to realize that the real magic of travel lies in the unexpected moments, the chance encounters, and the spontaneous detours. It's about embracing the unknown and allowing yourself to be surprised by the world around you. And it's about sharing those experiences with the people you love, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As we continue our journey through the Colca Canyon, I'm committed to staying open to those moments, to embracing the unexpected, and to savoring every moment with Olivia and Ethan. After all, that's what travel is all about, isn't it?

The weather in Colca Canyon is usually dry in December, with warm days and cool nights, so we're well-prepared for whatever adventures tomorrow may bring. As I sit here, writing this blog post under a sky full of stars, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. The Colca Canyon has exceeded all of my expectations, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings. Until then, cheers from Peru!

I almost forgot to mention an interesting fact I learned today. The Colca Canyon is not only one of the deepest canyons in the world, but it's also home to a unique microclimate that supports a wide variety of plant and animal life. From the towering cacti on the canyon walls to the colorful birds flitting through the trees, the canyon is a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with life and wonder. It's just another reminder of the incredible beauty and complexity of our planet, and it's something I'll carry with me long after we've left the Colca Canyon behind.