Colca Canyon is one of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders, but not all experiences are equal. We planned to do the three-day trek but felt under the weather, so we chose a day trip instead – a decision we quickly regretted. If you’re heading to Colca Canyon, here’s what not to do and better alternatives
Don’t: Take a Day Tour to Colca Canyon
On paper, a day trip sounded like the perfect way to explore the canyon without committing too much time and effort. However, in hindsight I wouldn’t do it again. In fact, I’d go as far as to say this was one of the worst days of our entire trip and here’s why:
- The Distance
The drive from Arequipa to Colca Canyon takes 3.5 to 4 hours each way. That meant spending over seven hours in a cramped minivan with minimal stops and barely any time to enjoy the canyon itself. - It’s Too Touristy
Instead of an enriching experience, we were shuttled from one overcrowded viewpoint to another. The stops felt rushed, and we barely had time for more than a quick photo. The famous ‘condor lookout’ was packed, and so unsurprisingly we didn’t see a single condor. - Hidden Fees
The tour price seemed reasonable at first, but extra costs kept appearing. A hefty ‘park entrance fee’ was mandatory, though none of our friends who hiked the canyon had to pay it. Lunch was overpriced, and we had no choice but to eat there since the restaurant was in the middle of nowhere.
What to Do Instead
If you want to experience what the canyon has to offer in a much more authentic way, here are some better alternatives:
1. Take a Multi-Day Hiking Tour
Hiking is the best way to appreciate the canyon’s scale and beauty. The trek takes you past remote villages, thermal springs, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a moderate hike and far more rewarding than a rushed bus tour. We heard great reviews about the Oasis Palmeras 3-day, 2-night tour, our friends thought it was perfectly paced.
2. Hike Independently
For those who prefer to go at their own pace, hiking the canyon independently is a great option. The trails are well-marked, and many accommodations in Cabanaconde (the gateway town to the canyon) provide support for hikers. If you choose this route, here are some key tips:
- Base yourself in Cabanaconde the night before to get an early start.
- Plan your route: the classic descent to Sangalle (the ‘Oasis’) and back is a popular choice for a shorter trek, while the full loop through Llahuar, Sangalle, and Tapay offers a more complete experience.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
3. Stay Overnight in the Canyon
Not everyone enjoys hiking, but that doesn’t mean you should skip Colca Canyon entirely. Instead of a rushed day trip, consider spending a night or two in one of the charming villages near the canyon, such as Yanque or Cabanaconde. Here’s how you can enjoy the area without hiking:
- Stay in a lodge with canyon views – There are some fantastic eco-lodges and hotels with terraces overlooking the canyon, allowing you to soak in the scenery without breaking a sweat.
- Visit the hot springs – The La Calera thermal baths near Chivay are a relaxing way to experience the region.
- Take a cultural tour – Many local communities offer tours where you can learn about traditional farming, weaving, and even try local dishes.
Colca Canyon is spectacular, but how you visit makes all the difference. Skip the standard day trip and choose an option that lets you truly appreciate its beauty – whether by hiking, exploring at your own pace, or staying overnight. Trust us, it’s worth the effort!