Exploring the Depths of Peru: A Colca Canyon Trek Adventure

Echoes of the Ancients

Today was a day of deep immersion into the heart of Colca Canyon. As we traversed the rugged terrain, I felt a profound connection to the generations of people who have called this place home. The blend of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history made for an unforgettable experience, one that I'm eager to share.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Killawasi Lodge. The lodge is nestled in the tranquil village of Yanque, and the panoramic views of the surrounding green landscapes were the perfect way to start the day. After fueling up, Greta and I set out to explore the trails, eager to discover the hidden gems of the Colca Canyon. October in Colca Canyon brings moderate temperatures, with highs around 71°F, making it ideal for trekking. The skies were partly cloudy, adding a dramatic flair to the already stunning scenery.


Discover tranquility and adventure at Killawasi Lodge in Peru's breathtaking Colca Canyon—your perfect base for exploration.

Our first stop was with Trek The Colca, where we met our guide, who was incredibly knowledgeable about the local flora, fauna, and history. He shared fascinating insights into the ancient cultures that once thrived in this region. As we walked, he pointed out the ingenious agricultural terraces, called *andenes*, that the Collagua and Cabana peoples developed long before the arrival of the Spanish. It was amazing to see how these ancient farming techniques are still in use today.


Explore the breathtaking Colca Canyon with Trek The Colca, where adventure meets stunning nature and rich Andean culture.

The landscape itself is breathtaking. Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, with depths ranging from 3,300 to 6,600 feet. The scale of the canyon is truly awe-inspiring, and every turn in the trail revealed a new and stunning vista. The rugged cliffs, the winding Colca River below, and the vast expanse of the Andean sky created a sense of wonder that's hard to describe.

We continued our trek with Peruvian Colca Trails, passing through small villages where life seems to move at a slower pace. We saw locals dressed in traditional clothing, tending to their fields and animals. It was a privilege to witness their way of life and to learn about their customs and traditions. The people of the Colca Valley have a deep connection to the land, and their resilience and resourcefulness are truly inspiring.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Colca Canyon with tailored tours from Peruvian Colca Trails, your trusted travel agency in Arequipa.

The Colca Canyon is more than just a place; it's a living testament to the enduring spirit of the Andean people and the breathtaking beauty of nature.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant Turístico Misti Wasi in Chivay. While some reviews online are mixed, we found the food to be quite satisfying after a morning of hiking. I had the trout, which was fresh and flavorful, and Greta enjoyed the *rocoto relleno*, a traditional Peruvian dish made with stuffed peppers. The restaurant itself was simple but clean, and the staff were friendly and welcoming.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Restaurant Turístico Misti Wasi in Chivay - A culinary journey through local flavors awaits!

In the late afternoon, we treated ourselves to a relaxing experience at the Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs. After a long day of trekking, soaking in the thermal waters was the perfect way to soothe our tired muscles. The lodge has several outdoor pools with varying temperatures, and the views of the surrounding canyon were simply stunning. Greta and I spent a couple of hours unwinding in the hot springs, chatting and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs, where relaxation meets adventure in the heart of Peru's breathtaking Valle del Colca.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Tradicion Colca in Yanque for dinner. This charming restaurant is known for its authentic Peruvian cuisine and warm hospitality. We started with a couple of *pisco sours*, the national drink of Peru, and then ordered a selection of local specialties to share. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was cozy and inviting.


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

One of the highlights of the evening was meeting Omar, who works at Tradicion Colca and is passionate about astronomy. He has a large telescope and offers guests the opportunity to observe the stars. Although we didn't get a chance to use the telescope ourselves due to the cloudy skies, Omar shared fascinating stories about the constellations and the Andean cosmovision. It was a reminder that the Colca Canyon is not just a place of natural beauty but also a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the incredible diversity of experiences that the Colca Canyon has to offer. From the stunning landscapes to the rich cultural heritage to the warm hospitality of the local people, this place has something for everyone. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore this remarkable corner of the world and to share my experiences with you.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Sangalle and the Mirador de San Miguel. I've heard that Sangalle, also known as the Oasis, is a lush, green paradise at the bottom of the canyon. I'm looking forward to hiking down there and spending some time relaxing by the natural pools. The Mirador de San Miguel offers panoramic views of the canyon, and I'm excited to capture some stunning photos. We'll also be stopping by the Central Market in Chivay to pick up some souvenirs. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. The Colca Canyon has exceeded all of my expectations, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings.

And, of course, I am grateful to be sharing this experience with my wonderful wife, Greta. Her enthusiasm and curiosity make every adventure even more special. Whether we're hiking through rugged terrain or relaxing in hot springs, I cherish every moment we spend together.

Before I sign off, I must share a funny moment from today. As we were hiking, I realized that I had forgotten to pack extra memory cards for my camera! Luckily, Greta had a spare one in her backpack, but it was a close call. Lesson learned: always double-check your gear before heading out on a trek!

Until tomorrow, dear readers. May your own adventures be filled with wonder and discovery.

P.S. I almost forgot to mention one of the most iconic sights of the Colca Canyon: the Andean condors. While we didn't have the opportunity to see them today, I'm hoping that we'll catch a glimpse of these majestic birds soaring through the sky tomorrow. The Cruz del Condor viewpoint is one of the best places in the world to see condors, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we'll get lucky.