2-Day Colca Trek – Off the Beaten Path

2-Day Colca Trek – Off the Beaten Path, experience the authentic Colca Canyon on this 2-day trek away from mass tourism. Spend the night in the peaceful village of San Juan de Chuccho, far from the crowded Oasis route, and hike back to Cabanaconde. Perfect for travelers seeking solitude, local culture, and untouched landscapes—no large groups, just raw adventure!"

Day 1: Arequipa to San Juan de Chuccho via Cruz del Cóndor
Your Colca Canyon adventure begins with an early 3:00 AM departure from Arequipa, heading northeast toward one of Peru's most spectacular natural wonders.

Arrive to Chivay and breakfast. The first highlight comes at Cruz del Cóndor, where you'll arrive at the optimal moment to witness the majestic Andean condors soaring on thermal currents above the canyon's 1,200-meter depths.

After observing these magnificent birds and learning about their cultural significance from your guide, continue through the dramatic landscapes of the Colca Valley.

The journey leads to Cabanaconde at 3,287 meters, where your hike into the canyon proper begins. Descend ancient trails past pre-Columbian agricultural terraces, crossing stone bridges over the Colca River until reaching the lush oasis of Sangalle for a well-earned lunch and opportunity to swim in natural pools (3 - hours hike).

The afternoon brings a more secluded 3-hour hike along less-traveled paths to San Juan de Chuccho, where you'll spend the night in a simple family-run lodge, enjoying home-cooked Peruvian dishes and authentic interaction with local residents beneath a spectacular canopy of stars.

Day 2: San Juan de Chuccho to Arequipa via Hot Springs
Wake before dawn to begin your 4-hour ascent from San Juan de Chuccho back to Cabanaconde, watching the first morning light gradually illuminate the canyon's multicolored rock walls.

The challenging uphill hike rewards you with constantly changing perspectives of this geological wonder. After breakfast in Cabanaconde celebrating your accomplishment, the return journey to Arequipa includes several memorable stops.

First visit the hot springs near Yanque, where mineral-rich waters heated to 38°C (100°F) offer perfect relaxation for your trek-weary muscles. Lunch in Chivay and departure to Arequipa.

The route then climbs to Patapampa Pass at 4,910 meters - the highest point of your journey - with panoramic views of the Ampato volcanic group including the snow-capped peaks where the famous Inca mummy "Juanita" was discovered. Descending through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, keep watch for herds of wild vicuñas, the elegant camelids that inspired ancient Andean textiles.

Your Colca Canyon experience concludes with arrival back in Arequipa around 5:00 PM, having explored both the iconic highlights and hidden corners of one of Peru's most breathtaking landscapes.

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