Overview
Unlike Macchu Picchu in Cuzco, the Valle de los Volcanes and Colca Canyon of Arequipa are two underrated pockets of undiscovered beauty. Our ambitious journey encompasses the world’s second deepest canyon plus a wealth of culture and nature, taking in traditional Andean villages, snow-capped volcanic peaks, lush valley landscapes and a fascinating colonial history.
Highlights
- Explore remote, Andean countryside between Cusco and Arequipa
- Hike along Andean lagoons, scenic mountains and rock gardens
- Discover the secret Valley of the Volcanoes Geopark and its waterfalls, pristine lagoons and more than 86 extinct volcanoes
- View and learn about native wildlife such as vicuñas, flamingos, vizcachas and more
- Marvel at the majestic Condor of the Andes in the Colca Canyon
- Arrive in Peru’s “White City” Arequipa at the end of the trip.
Itinerary
DAY 1 - TRADITIONAL COUNTRYSIDE IN THE HIGHLANDS
Our tour begins this morning from your accommodation in Cusco. Making our way south, we travel easy on a paved road past traditional villages and beautiful countryside. Along the way, enjoy the opportunity to get to know more about Peruvian culture and history by visiting a few interesting sites such as the Tipon Inca archaeological site.
Continuing our drive, our journey takes us across lands blanketed in terraces and scattered villages and, as we make our way south, the road leads us to a breathtaking lake where our scenic lunch will surely not be easily forgotten for years to come.
The rest of the day is spent visiting natural sites such as rock gardens and Andean wetlands where it is highly likely to view native wildlife. Arrive at our simple but comfy accommodation at the end of the day.
- Meals: Lunch, dinner (L-D). Vegetarian options available
- Accommodation: Basic and Standard grade available.(click/tap here for more info)
DAY 2 - VALLEY OF THE VOLCANOES
We’ll leave early this morning heading for the Valley of the Volcanoes. Descend from the Altiplano highlands with a drive into the spectacular Suyckutambo geological site made up of impressive canyons where the great Apurimac River is born. Stop at this wonder of nature caused by erosion, famous for its surreal rocky formations, for a 1.5 hour hike in the area.
Continue heading toward the Valle de los Volcanes while the landscape changes; from barren, high-altitude desert to deep canyon country as we approach the valley floor. The fertile valley produces a perfect environment for farming as it enjoys warmer, mild climate. On the way, view plenty of native Andean wildlife such as vicuñas, flamingos, vizcachas, birds and also the cute llamas and alpacas. Upon arrival at our accommodation, take some free time to explore independently before enjoying sunset nearby.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D). Vegetarian options available
- Accommodation: Basic grade available only (local homestay)(click/tap here for more info)
DAY 3 - FULL DAY VALLEY OF THE VOLCANOES
Today is fully dedicated to exploring the Valley of the Volcanoes. For those seeking pure grassroots travel, local farming and lifestyle activities are highly recommended in the morning. Alternatively, you might prefer to go on trekking (or horse riding) trips to the waterfalls of Shankillay, the Twin Volcanoes or the Antaymarka viewpoint. Whatever you choose today, you can be certain that this is your playground where activities/options are plentiful and time too little.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D). Vegetarian options available
- Accommodation: Basic grade available only (local homestay)(click/tap here for more info)
DAY 4 - MAMACOCHA LAGOON & COLCA CANYON
Continuing southwards this morning, we descend through a huge region of canyon country before reaching the idyllic Mamacocha Lagoon, locally known as the world’s largest freshwater spring. Whether the title is apt or not, there is no doubt that you will find no other place like it in the world thanks to its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings amid barren, canyon landscape.
In the afternoon, we make our way to Colca Canyon. We have the opportunity to travel through dramatic countryside, winding through the mountains of the Colca Canyon on small dirt tracks skillfully and safely. Passing by impressive cliffs and travelling through lush farming plantation country, we are likely to encounter colourfully-dressed and friendly locals on the way. Time-permitting, we may end the day soaking up the last few hours of the day in natural hot springs (or next day).
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D). Vegetarian options available
- Accommodation: Basic, Standard, Plus or Premium grade available (click/tap here for more info)
DAY 5 - MIRADOR CRUZ DEL CONDOR - AREQUIPA
A full morning dedicated to Colca Canyon affords us the opportunity to take in its highlights. The major highlight of today is watching the majestic Condor of the Andes gliding above us at Mirador Cruz del Condor viewpoint. Being there early will give us an advantage over the several people who travel from Arequipa for the day, so you can just focus on enjoying the show.
After our bird watching experience, make our way to the natural hot springs pools in the area (if not visited the day before) before a great lunch at a traditional restaurant in town. Then, embark on our drive into the city of Arequipa where we arrive in the late afternoon/early evening.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (B, L). Vegetarian options available
- Accommodation: None
What's included
- Meals
5 lunches, 4 dinner, 4 breakfasts (vegetarian available) - Accommodation
4 nights in Basic, Standard, Plus or Premium grade - Transportation
Private off road vehicle (no local buses) from accommodation in Cusco to Arequipa - Activities
All places and activities as indicated in the itinerary - Staff & experts
Certified bilingual guide (English-Spanish)
What's not included
- Soft/fizzy and alcoholic drinks
- Optional tips/gratuities (suggested)
- Anything not mentioned under What’s included
- All admission fees to sites and protected areas
Is this trip right for you?
- This is an off road, overland trip from Cusco to Arequipa with a fair amount of driving done on bumpy dirt tracks and another amount on modern, paved roads (60/40 respectively)
- Our vehicle is very comfortable and suitable for the harsh roads in this region
- The trip takes place in high altitude (~3500m) so it is suggested to be acclimatized (spend a few days in Cusco previously)
- While temperatures are mostly pleasant year-round during the day (~14C) it can drop significantly at night and morning as this is high-altitude desert climate. Pack accordingly
- Sun is stronger at high altitude so protection is very important
- This trip is enjoyed the most if you enjoy the outdoors, road trips, off road driving, hiking and dramatic scenery