Exploring the Depths of Peru: A Colca Canyon Trek Adventure

A Day of Exploration and Awe

Today was nothing short of spectacular. Leaving the familiar landscapes of the Colca Canyon behind, Greta and I ventured into the realm of the Cañón de Cotahuasi and the Reserva Paisajística Subcuenca del Cotahuasi. I have always been fascinated by remote and less-traveled destinations, and Cotahuasi certainly didn't disappoint. It’s a place where the raw beauty of nature intertwines with the rich tapestry of Andean culture.


Explore Cañón de Cotahuasi, one of the world's deepest canyons, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty in the heart of Peru.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Foyer Colca. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and local pastries filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our adventure. After fueling up, we set off to explore the Cañón de Cotahuasi. As we drove, the scenery transformed dramatically. The landscape became more rugged, with towering cliffs and vast expanses of untouched wilderness. It was a stark contrast to the more touristy Colca Canyon, offering a sense of solitude and pristine beauty.

The Cañón de Cotahuasi is known as one of the deepest canyons in the world. Standing at its edge, I felt an overwhelming sense of awe and humility. The sheer scale of the canyon is difficult to put into words. The layers of rock, sculpted by millennia of erosion, told a silent story of time and nature's relentless power. Greta, ever the architect, was particularly fascinated by the geological formations, pointing out the different strata and the effects of wind and water. We spent a good hour simply absorbing the view, snapping photos, and trying to capture the immensity of it all.

The beauty of Cotahuasi lies not only in its dramatic landscapes but also in the resilience and warmth of its people.

Next on our itinerary was the Reserva Paisajística Subcuenca del Cotahuasi. This protected area is a haven for biodiversity, encompassing a range of ecosystems from high Andean grasslands to dry forests. As we hiked through the reserve, we encountered a variety of flora and fauna. The air was filled with the songs of unfamiliar birds, and the ground was dotted with colorful wildflowers. I tried my hand at landscape photography, attempting to capture the unique beauty of the region. Greta, meanwhile, meticulously documented the different plant species in her travel journal.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Reserva Paisajística Subcuenca del Cotahuasi, a must-visit national reserve in Peru.

Exploring the Reserva Paisajística Subcuenca del Cotahuasi also offered a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Andean people. We passed through small villages where locals were engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. The terraced fields, carved into the steep hillsides, were a testament to their ingenuity and hard work. We even had the opportunity to interact with some of the villagers, who greeted us with warm smiles and offered us a taste of their local produce. It was a humbling experience to witness their simple yet fulfilling way of life.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant Urpicha Del Colca. The restaurant served traditional Peruvian cuisine, and we savored every bite. Greta particularly enjoyed the alpaca stew, while I relished the trout ceviche. The flavors were rich and authentic, providing a true taste of the region. As we ate, we chatted with the owner of the restaurant, who shared stories about the history and culture of Cotahuasi. It was fascinating to learn about the local traditions and the challenges faced by the community.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Restaurant Urpicha Del Colca in Yanque, where fresh local ingredients meet breathtaking views.

In the late afternoon, we decided to unwind at El Refugio, a local bar. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with rustic decor and friendly staff. We ordered a couple of local beers and sat back to relax. The bar was filled with locals and a few other tourists, creating a vibrant and convivial atmosphere. We struck up a conversation with a group of Peruvian travelers who were exploring the region. They shared tips about other must-see attractions in Peru and regaled us with stories about their adventures. It was a reminder of the joy of connecting with people from different backgrounds and sharing travel experiences.


Discover tranquility at El Refugio, your cozy hotel in Chivay, Peru, perfectly situated for exploring the breathtaking Colca Canyon.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Tradicion Colca for dinner. This restaurant was known for its traditional Colca Valley dishes, and we were eager to try their specialties. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, with traditional music playing in the background. We ordered a selection of dishes, including the adobo de cordero (lamb stew) and the rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers). The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and discovery.


Experience authentic Peruvian hospitality at Tradicion Colca while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Colca Canyon.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that Cotahuasi is more than just a canyon; it’s a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and human connection. It’s a place where you can escape the crowds, immerse yourself in the wilderness, and discover the true essence of Peru. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this hidden gem and to share it with Greta.

As we prepare for tomorrow, we're excited about visiting the Capua waterfall and the Mirador de San Miguel [If tomorrow's plans are still firm, add a brief anticipation of these attractions]. We'll start the day with breakfast at La Casa de Mamayacchi, followed by lunch at Centro Gastronomico Cultural Peru Andino, and perhaps a relaxing dinner at Las Casitas, A Belmond Hotel, Colca Canyon [If tomorrow's plans are still firm, add a brief anticipation of these attractions]. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Mundo Alpaca [If tomorrow's plans are still firm, add a brief anticipation of these attractions].

I'm also mindful of the few things I forgot to pack – a portable solar charger and extra memory cards for the camera. These would have been incredibly useful today, especially given the number of photos I took and the limited access to electricity. It’s a lesson learned for future adventures.

Back in Heidelberg, I'm already anticipating sharing these photos with friends and family, and perhaps even brewing a batch of my craft beer to celebrate our journey. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration in this remarkable country.

This trip continues to reinforce my belief that the best travel experiences are often found off the beaten path, in places where you can connect with nature, culture, and the human spirit. Cotahuasi is undoubtedly one of those places, and I encourage anyone seeking an authentic adventure to add it to their list.