Discover Arequipa and Colca Canyon

Itinerary

Day 1 Arequipa

Arrive in Arequipa, meet your transfer and enjoy the chance to explore this south coastal city at leisure.Peru’s second most important city after Lima, Arequipa maintains a traditional colonial style and more laid back pace in comparison with the capital. Sitting at 2325 m (7626 ft) above sea level and surrounded by the Andes mountains, this delightful colonial town is well worth a visit. Arequipa was built from a very light coloured volcanic rock called sillar, so older buildings dazzle in the sun, giving the city its nickname, “the White City.” The main plaza with its cafés and nearby cathedral is a top draw for visitors. Those with an interest in history, culture and architecture will enjoy our visit to the Convent of Santa Catalina during our city tour, offering a brief respite from the outside world and a unique view into a by-gone way of life. Spectacular mountains surround Arequipa, the most famous of which is El Misti Volcano, at 5822 m (19096 ft) and with a beautiful snow-capped peak.

Day 2 Arequipa

Dubbed White City for its pearly white volcanic rock, Arequipa boasts over 80 volcanoes and possesses fine colonial-era Spanish architecture. A guided sightseeing tour includes visits to the main plaza with its cafés and cathedral. History buffs can take an optional visit to the working Convent of Santa Catalina for a unique glimpse into convent life. Spectacular mountains surround Arequipa, the most famous of which is El Misti Volcano at 5822 metres.

Day 3 Arequipa/Colca Canyon

Transfer to Colca Canyon one of the deepest canyons in the world. This remarkable drive through Inca and pre-Inca terracing will astound and amaze.Travel a rough, rutted road through high plains flanked by extensive Inca and pre-Inca terracing that goes on for kilometers, en route to the Colca Canyon—the deepest canyon in the world. We stay near Chivay, a picturesque village near the canyon, where you can take an optional dip in the local hot thermal baths, watch live Andean music at a peña or go for a llama steak. Two nights gives us time to take short hikes to acclimatize to the altitude. Take a tour around the canyon, stopping in fascinating villages and at miradors (scenic lookouts), where with a little luck we see Andean Condors soaring over the majestic Andes, while the river flows 1200m (3936 ft) below us

Day 4 Colca Canyon

The canyon is rich with wildlife and stunning scenery. Watch out for the “King of the Andes,” the Andean Condor and be sure to photograph the alpacas and llamas while exploring this geological marvel.

Day 5 Colca Canyon/Arequipa

Transfer to Arequipa for overnight.

Day 6 Arequipa

You'll be picked up at your hotel for your airport transfer.

Trip Details

Accommodation	Superior hotel (5 nts)
Departure	Daily
Group Size	No Minimum
Included Highlights	Guided sightseeing tour of Arequipa and hiking excursions in Colca Canyon
Meals Included	5B
StartFinish	ex Arequipa
Transport	Car, Van, Shuttle, Walking
Brochure Intro	The White City of Peru showcases The Valley of Volcanoes, Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons and Spanish colonial architecture.

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