DAY 1: AREQUIPA – CHIVAY – CRUZ DEL CÓNDOR VIEWPOINT – DESCENT INTO THE CANYON
The adventure starts very early, at 3:00 a.m., with pickup from your hotel. We will embark on a fascinating journey through the Andean landscapes until we reach the picturesque town of Chivay, where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast to recharge our batteries.
We will continue to the iconic Mirador Cruz del Condor, one of the most spectacular points along the route. Here, you will have the unique opportunity to observe the majestic flight of the Andean Condor. The best season to see the largest flying bird in the world, gliding over the depths of the canyon on the morning thermals, is June, July, and August.
We will then begin our trek, descending into the heart of the canyon. Over the course of approximately seven hours of trekking on the first day, we will descend along winding trails surrounded by pre-Inca terraces, native vegetation, and breathtaking panoramic views. We will arrive at our lodging at the bottom of the canyon, where we will spend the night surrounded by nature and tranquility.
DAY 2: ASCENT FROM THE CANYON – THERMAL BATHS – RETURN TO AREQUIPA
We will wake up early to take advantage of the cool morning air and continue exploring the canyon. We will embark on a three-hour hike, climbing an average of 1,100 metres (3,609 feet) from Oasis to Cabanaconde, where we will have breakfast after ascending the canyon.
Afterwards, we will return to Chivay, where you will have free time to relax in the soothing thermal baths with their medicinal waters, perfect for replenishing your energy after the trek.
Your return journey to Arequipa will be equally spectacular. We will make strategic stops at the Volcanoes Viewpoint, where you can take in an impressive chain of snow-capped volcanoes, and we will pass through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca Nature Reserve, home to vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas in their natural habitat.
Finally, we will arrive in Arequipa in the afternoon, with a drop-off point near Plaza de Armas, taking with you unforgettable memories of this adventure in one of the deepest canyons in the world.
