Colca Canyon Travel Guide

Free Guide: Explore Colca Canyon, Peru's breathtaking natural wonder known for its deep cliffs, rich culture, and stunning landscapes, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

A brief summary of Colca Canyon

Explore Colca Canyon, Peru's breathtaking natural wonder known for its deep cliffs, rich culture, and stunning landscapes, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, offers breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and opportunities for adventure. Experience the beauty of Peru's natural wonders and immerse yourself in the local traditions.

4.7 Excellent · 6,560 Google reviews
Address
Colca Canyon
Phone
Website

Getting there

Car

If you're driving from Arequipa, take Route 34A heading northeast. This will take you through the picturesque town of Chivay, which is the gateway to Colca Canyon. The distance from Arequipa to Chivay is approximately 164 kilometers (about 3-4 hours). After arriving in Chivay, continue on Route 30A for about 20 kilometers to reach the Colca Canyon viewpoint. Ensure your vehicle is well-fueled, as there are limited gas stations along the way.

Public Transportation

From Arequipa, you can take a bus to Chivay. Buses depart frequently from the main bus terminal (Terminal Terrestre). The journey takes around 3-4 hours and costs between 30 to 50 soles (approximately $8 to $14). Once in Chivay, you'll need to take a local taxi or a minivan to reach the Colca Canyon viewpoint, which should cost around 10-15 soles (about $3-$4) for the short drive.

Guided Tour

An alternative option is to book a guided tour from Arequipa, which often includes transportation, a guide, and entrance fees. These tours typically take a full day and can cost between 100 to 200 soles (roughly $28 to $56) depending on the package. This option is ideal for those who prefer a more structured experience and want to learn about the local culture and history.

Discover more about Colca Canyon

Overview

Colca Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonder located in southern Peru, is renowned for being one of the deepest canyons in the world, surpassing even the Grand Canyon. Spanning approximately 100 kilometers, this stunning destination offers dramatic landscapes characterized by its steep cliffs, lush valleys, and the majestic Colca River that winds through its depths. Travelers flock to this picturesque locale not only to witness the awe-inspiring scenery but also to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities that inhabit the area, including the traditional lifestyles of the Collagua and Cabana peoples. Visitors can explore terraced fields, ancient ruins, and vibrant local markets, providing a unique glimpse into the region's history and traditions.Adventure seekers will find a myriad of activities to partake in, ranging from hiking and trekking to birdwatching, where the iconic Andean condor can be spotted soaring above the canyon. Numerous trails cater to all levels of hikers, whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the canyon's rim or a challenging trek into its depths. The best time to visit Colca Canyon is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more predictable and conducive to outdoor activities. Accommodations range from cozy lodges to luxury hotels, ensuring that every traveler can find a suitable place to stay while soaking in the stunning vistas.For those looking to experience the perfect blend of nature and culture, Colca Canyon is an unmissable destination in Peru. Its breathtaking views, rich biodiversity, and the warmth of its local communities make it a must-visit for any traveler seeking adventure and tranquility amidst some of the world's most stunning landscapes.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Colca Canyon on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Colca Canyon, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Colca Canyon, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Unlock the best of Colca Canyon

Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours with entry, and walking tours of the area, booked in a few clicks.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Colca Canyon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

South Coast
More of the region

Explore more of South Coast

Discover Peru's South Coast: From the Paracas National Reserve to the Nazca Lines, explore nature, history, and adventure in one stunning region.

Explore South Coast
Peru
More of the country

Explore more of Peru

Discover the wonders of Peru: ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture that will captivate your heart and soul.

Explore Peru
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to South Coast, Peru

Discover the best of South Coast with Evendo, your 100% free app-based travel guide. From landmarks to nightlife, we cover it all to make your trip unforgettable.

  • Detailed guides on top attractions, landmarks, and activities
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, and local tips
  • Easy hotel, tour, and ticket bookings
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Make the most of your South Coast adventure with Evendo. From detailed info on top attractions to easy bookings, Evendo is your ultimate travel companion.

  • Interactive maps and 'Near me' feature for seamless navigation
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or hidden costs

Planning a trip to South Coast, Peru? Look no further than Evendo, your comprehensive travel guide app designed to ensure you have an unforgettable journey. From the majestic Nazca Lines to the serene Paracas National Reserve, Evendo offers detailed information on all the must-see attractions.

Explore the lively city of Ica, known for its delicious pisco and vibrant nightlife. Savor local cuisine at renowned restaurants like El Cordon y La Rosa and La Olla de Juanita. Discover hidden gems with our curated local tips and enjoy seamless navigation through the city with our easy-to-use maps.

Whether you're looking to book a hotel, reserve a tour, or find the best bars and nightclubs, Evendo has got you covered. Our app provides rich descriptions, images, local tips, and contact details for each location, making it effortless to plan and organize your trip. Plus, the 'Near me' feature helps you discover amazing new spots around you, no matter where you are in South Coast.

Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime. Download Evendo now and unlock the secrets of South Coast, Peru!

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.