Exploring the Depths of Peru: A Colca Canyon Trek Adventure

Chasing Waterfalls and Valley Views

Today was all about embracing the diverse beauty of the Colca Valley. From the refreshing spray of hidden waterfalls to panoramic viewpoints that stretched as far as the eye could see, and even a delightful encounter with some furry friends, the day was packed with unforgettable experiences. It was a day of exploration that reminded me why Greta and I love to travel – the unexpected discoveries and the sheer joy of immersing ourselves in a new place.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Casa de Mamayacchi, where we enjoyed a traditional Peruvian spread. The buffet was quite extensive, and I made sure to sample everything from the fresh local bread to the assortment of fruits. Greta, of course, opted for the strong coffee to kickstart her morning. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the Capua waterfall.


Explore the breathtaking Capua Waterfall in Yura Viejo, Peru—a hidden gem surrounded by lush nature and stunning landscapes ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
The drive to Yura, where the trailhead is located, was scenic in itself, winding through the rugged landscape outside of Colca Canyon. Once we arrived, the hike to the waterfall was an adventure. The path led us through a small canyon carved by the very water we were chasing. At some points, we had to take off our shoes and wade through the cool stream, which was a welcome respite from the midday sun. I was glad I had packed my water shoes, a lesson learned from forgetting the portable solar charger – always be prepared!

The canyon walls were fascinating, with unique rock formations sculpted by centuries of flowing water. Along the way, we passed a couple of smaller cascades, each adding to the anticipation of the main event. Finally, we reached the Capua waterfall, a 30-meter cascade of refreshing water. The spray created a cool mist, and we spent a good half hour just enjoying the view and snapping photos. I even managed to capture a faint rainbow in one of my shots.

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

After our refreshing waterfall visit, we drove back towards the Colca Canyon to visit the Mirador de San Miguel.


Experience breathtaking views of Colca Canyon at Mirador de San Miguel, a must-visit hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
This viewpoint offered a breathtaking panorama of the canyon, with its terraced slopes and tiny villages clinging to the mountainsides. The sheer scale of the canyon was awe-inspiring, and we spent a long time just soaking in the view. I tried to capture the vastness with my camera, but some things just can't be adequately conveyed in a photograph. You have to be there to truly appreciate it.

Lunch was at Centro Gastronomico Cultural Peru Andino, where we tried some traditional Peruvian dishes.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Centro Gastronomico Cultural Peru Andino in Chivay – A must-visit for culinary enthusiasts!
The restaurant had a rustic charm, and the food was hearty and flavorful. I opted for the trout, while Greta tried a local meat dish. While some online reviews mention mixed experiences, we found the service to be friendly and the food satisfying.

With the afternoon still stretching ahead, we decided to indulge in a bit of souvenir shopping. We made our way to Mundo Alpaca, a place I'd read about that's part petting zoo and part museum dedicated to alpaca clothing.


Explore the beauty of alpaca textiles at Mundo Alpaca, a cultural gem in Arequipa offering exquisite clothing and authentic artisan crafts.
I was expecting a farm, but Mundo Alpaca was more like a mini-museum with a small yard where they keep a few alpacas and llamas. It was still a fun experience, though. We learned about the different types of camelids and the process of making alpaca wool. The highlight, of course, was feeding the alpacas. They were incredibly soft, and their gentle demeanor was quite endearing. Greta couldn't resist buying a soft alpaca scarf.

As the day drew to a close, we returned to Las Casitas, A Belmond Hotel, Colca Canyon, where we were staying.


Discover luxury and nature at Las Casitas, A Belmond Hotel in breathtaking Colca Canyon – an unforgettable retreat for discerning travelers.
This hotel is something special, a collection of luxurious villas nestled in the heart of the canyon. The setting is stunning, with views of the valley from every angle. Our casita was beautifully decorated, with a private terrace and even a heated plunge pool. After a long day of exploring, it was the perfect place to relax.

Dinner at Las Casitas was an experience in itself. The restaurant, Curiña, sources many of its ingredients from its own gardens, and the dishes were a creative blend of Peruvian and international flavors. I started with a solterita salad with Andean cheese and local beans, followed by seared alpaca loin. Greta enjoyed quinoa pasta. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was both elegant and cozy.

After dinner, we sat on our terrace, gazing at the stars and listening to the sounds of the canyon. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. I felt a sense of contentment, knowing that we were experiencing something truly special. The Colca Valley had exceeded all my expectations, and I was excited for what tomorrow would bring.

Tomorrow, we're embarking on a trek, venturing deeper into the Colca Canyon with Trek The Colca and Colca Trekking Edgar [If DayNumber is not last day of trip]! I’m looking forward to the challenge and the opportunity to see even more of this incredible landscape. And perhaps we'll celebrate with a drink at Rest LOS PORTALES DE CHIVAY in the evening [If DayNumber is not last day of trip].

As I reflect on today, I'm reminded of something my grandfather used to say:

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

And that’s exactly what this trip has been so far – a journey of unexpected discoveries and profound experiences. I can't wait to see what else the Colca Canyon has in store for us.