The town of Chivay is the capital of the province of Caylloma, in Arequipa, located at almost 3635 meters above sea level. Place considered as the entry point to the Colca Valley.
A beautiful typical town of the Peruvian highlands characterized by its old colonial church, beautiful main square, thermal baths, a planetarium, people from the countryside of peaceful life and, how not to mention, the routes that allow us to discover the wonders of the Colca Valley .
Tourism in Chivay also allows you to learn about the history of the Colca Valley, which centuries ago was inhabited by two pre-Inca cultures: the Cabanas and the Collaguas, whose customs, constructions and traditions have left their mark on this district and the province of Caylloma.
Currently, the district is divided into three sectors:
Ccapa: It is considered the main neighborhood of Chivay. His name means power, lucky, powerful, wealthy, among others. An area that houses the main urban spaces of the city and attractions such as the Calera Hot Springs.
Urinsaya: Represents the lower part of this town. Its inhabitants are characterized by their festive spirit, especially during the Chivay Festival. Event that is celebrated on December 8, where its people fill the streets with typical costumes, typical dances and bands of musicians.
Hanansaya: A neighborhood found in the upper part of the district.
Tourist Attractions of Chivay
La Calera Hot Springs Complex
This tourist complex is managed by the District Government of Chivay. It is characterized by having five thermal water pools that come from the Cotallaulli volcano, which can have a temperature of over 80ºC. However, the waters used by visitors have been tempered at about 38ºC. The residents affirm that bathing in these pools can alleviate the symptoms of diseases that affect the skin, rheumatism and muscular problems.
Patapampa
It is one of the tourist attractions of Chivay that is part of the Colca Canyon. It is considered the highest point in the Canyon, as it is at a height of 4,900 meters. This viewpoint formed by nature is ideal to observe the incredible snow-capped mountains and volcanoes.
The route that takes you to Patapampa is an opportunity to observe countless small stones stacked in a pyramidal shape, known locally as apachetas.
These formations have been made by travelers as a tribute to the hills or APUS, deities of pre-Inca times, in order to ask for protection during their trips. Therefore, in respect to the residents and tourists, you should not destroy them as they are part of an ancient ritual that predominates in Chivay.
The Patapampa area is also the perfect place to practice cycling. However, it is important to anticipate that this site can reach temperatures below zero, so it is necessary to bring the ideal equipment and clothing so that the weather does not hinder recreational activities.
Colca Planetarium and Observatory
This tourist place in Chivay presents educational environments to learn more about the universe. The “Colca Planetarium and Observatory” has a state-of-the-art planetarium dome so that visitors can see the moon, the sun, the planets, the galaxies, the star systems, the nebulae, the comets, among others. In this place you will be offered a very didactic exhibition about the appreciated space objects.
There is a waiting room where you can see the best photographs of the stars, planets, galaxies, constellations, etc. However, it is extremely important to go when the sky is clear so you can marvel at the best of the universe. The opening hours of this planetarium are from 18:30 to 21:30.
Colca Extreme Zip-Line
If you travel to Chivay in search of adrenaline then you must go to “COLCA EXTREMO Zip-Line”. A Company that offers tourists the experience of practicing Zip Line, also known as Canopy or zip line, in the Colca Valley. A unique way to fly over this wonderful natural setting. This service is offered in one of the booths that are outside the Calera Hot Springs.
Near Chivay
Although inside the district of Chivay we can find very interesting attractions, outside this town you can enjoy an unparalleled adventure. Unique opportunity to get to know the town of Yanque, with its archaeological complex of Uyo Uyo, the Mirador de la Cruz del Cóndor and its Andean condors, Sibayo and its stone town, the oasis of Sangalle and many other tourist attractions.