Exploring the Depths of Peru: A Colca Canyon Trek Adventure

Finding Serenity in the Depths of Colca Canyon

Today was a day of dramatic contrasts, a journey from the panoramic vistas of the Colca Canyon rim to the secluded serenity of its hidden depths. It was a day that tested our legs, rewarded our eyes, and left us feeling utterly connected to the raw, untamed beauty of Peru.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Incafe in Cabanaconde. Fuelled up on local coffee and fresh bread, Greta and I set out towards the Mirador de San Miguel. The crisp morning air nipped at our cheeks, but the anticipation of the views ahead kept us warm. It was only a short walk from Cabanaconde, and the landscape was already starting to open up.

As we reached the Mirador, the immensity of the Colca Canyon unfolded before us. The scale was simply breathtaking. From this vantage point, the canyon appeared to plunge into the earth, revealing layers upon layers of rock, painted in hues of red, brown, and ochre. The villages dotted along the canyon walls looked like tiny specks clinging to the rugged terrain, a testament to the resilience of the people who call this place home. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly convey the feeling of standing on the edge of such a colossal natural wonder. Greta was busy sketching in her travel journal, trying to capture the essence of the landscape with her artistic eye. I made a mental note to buy extra memory cards; I was already running low after all the pictures I had taken the last few days! I was also reminded of how much I missed my portable solar charger, a silly oversight that I will rectify before our next big hike.

The descent into Sangalle is more than just a physical journey; it’s a passage into a different world, a sanctuary where time seems to slow down and the soul finds respite.

From the Mirador, we began our descent into the canyon, towards Sangalle, the famed 'Oasis'. The trail snaked downwards, a seemingly endless series of switchbacks that tested our knees and our resolve. The landscape transformed as we descended, the arid canyon rim giving way to patches of green vegetation, nourished by the waters of the Colca River far below. The air grew warmer, and the scent of wildflowers filled our nostrils. It was a stark contrast to the cool, dry air of the highlands.

The hike down was challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Every turn revealed a new perspective, a different angle on the canyon's grandeur. We passed fellow trekkers, exchanging smiles and words of encouragement, united by our shared quest to reach the oasis. I thought of my hikes in the Odenwald Forest back home in Germany, but this was an entirely different beast. The sheer scale and ruggedness of the Colca Canyon dwarfed anything I had experienced before.

After what felt like an eternity, we finally reached Sangalle. And what a sight it was! A lush, green valley nestled at the bottom of the canyon, a true oasis in the desert. Palm trees swayed in the breeze, and the sound of running water filled the air. We checked into our simple bungalow, a rustic cabin with a thatched roof and basic amenities. It wasn't luxurious, but it was perfect. There was no electricity, no internet, and no distractions, just the sound of nature and the promise of relaxation. The lack of connectivity was a welcome change. It forced us to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with each other and our surroundings.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Sangalle, the breathtaking oasis in the heart of Colca Canyon, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
We spent the afternoon exploring the oasis, swimming in the tepid pools, and lounging in hammocks. The water was refreshing, and the sun warmed our skin. It was pure bliss. We met other travellers from all corners of the globe, sharing stories and laughter. There was a sense of camaraderie, a shared appreciation for this hidden paradise. It was fascinating to hear about their own adventures and travel experiences. It reminded me why I started this blog in the first place: to connect with like-minded people and inspire them to explore the world.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Las Terrazas for a well-deserved lunch. The restaurant offered stunning views of the oasis, and the food was delicious. We savoured traditional Peruvian dishes, washed down with local beer. The flavours were rich and complex, a reflection of the country's diverse culinary heritage. Greta, ever the architect, was fascinated by the intricate stonework of the restaurant's walls, a testament to the ingenuity of the local builders.

After lunch, we decided to visit the Central Market in Chivay. The market was a vibrant hub of activity, a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and smells. Local vendors sold everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs. We wandered through the stalls, admiring the intricate textiles, the colourful ceramics, and the exotic fruits and vegetables. I picked up a few small gifts for our families back home, while Greta haggled for a hand-woven alpaca scarf. The energy of the market was infectious, a reminder of the vibrancy and resilience of Peruvian culture.

For dinner, we chose Pachamama Home, drawn in by the promise of authentic Peruvian cuisine and a cosy atmosphere. We weren't disappointed. The restaurant was decorated with local art, and the air was filled with the aroma of wood-fired pizza and traditional stews. We feasted on alpaca meat and vegetarian delicacies, swapping stories with fellow travellers. The owner, Ludwig, was a wealth of knowledge about the Colca Canyon, offering tips and advice for exploring the area. His passion for the region was infectious, and it made us appreciate the beauty and wonder of this place even more.

As we walked back to our bungalow under the starlit sky, I felt a deep sense of contentment. Today had been a journey of contrasts, from the vastness of the canyon rim to the intimacy of the oasis. We had challenged ourselves physically, immersed ourselves in the local culture, and connected with nature on a profound level. It was a day I would never forget. We are looking forward to tomorrow, which promises more exploration of Colca Valle del Canipaco and ColcaTrek. We will also be stopping at the Restaurant Turístico Colca for breakfast, Sabores Andinos Colca Restaurant for lunch, and Las Casitas, A Belmond Hotel, Colca Canyon for dinner. And of course, we will be making a stop at Restaurant Urpicha Del Colca for a nightcap.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the Colca Valley, exploring more of its hidden trails and ancient ruins. I'm particularly excited to visit the Colca Valle del Canipaco, a remote region known for its stunning landscapes and traditional villages. Greta, meanwhile, is eager to learn more about the local culture and customs. We are both determined to make the most of our time in this incredible place. As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore the depths of Peru, both literally and figuratively. The Colca Canyon has already left an indelible mark on our hearts, and I know that the adventures that await us tomorrow will only deepen our appreciation for this remarkable corner of the world.

I am so glad Greta and I decided to come to this region. It is vastly different than Heidelberg, and has truly opened my eyes to a whole new world. I have a feeling this trip will be one that I remember for the rest of my life.