3 Days / 2 Nights Trekking in Cotahuasi Canyon

Meet Colca Canyon’s “big brother” on this breathtaking excursion to Cotahuasi Canyon. At approximately 11,004 feet (3,354 metres) deep, you’re about to stand in awe in front of the world’s deepest canyon. If you’ve been to the Grand Canyon, this is more than twice as deep! On your journey, you’ll enjoy waterfalls, rivers, pleaseant villages, and friendly people. If you need a reason to unplug and become an active participant in your own life, then this is the tour for you! It’s not only off the beaten path, it’s also off the Wi-Fi grid. Prepare to be fully engaged in the moment.

Arepquipa, Peru is a fascinating and beautiful destination — elegant in its simplicity. The city center contains A UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site; many buildings constructed of sillar (white volcanic rock), practically beg you to stop and sketch them. Meanwhile, the city is surrounded by agricultural land which makes it an urban oasis in a sea of green, and also ensures easy access to succulent (and abundant) produce at the local market. During your travels, you can sample avocados, custard apples, grapes (and homemade wine), guavas, passion fruit, prickly pear, and more. Be sure to get a little extra money before your excursion is underway; where you’re going, cash is the only form of payment accepted and there a no ATMs/cash machines available…

Sure You Hike, But Do You Trek?

This incredible multi-day adventure takes you across the Peruvian landscape. You’ll almost feel like you local as you exchange greetings with everyone who crosses your path, and enjoy long conversations with new friends. The 10 hour journey that kicks off your adventure may be daunting, but the pinnacle of your trip is more than worth it — expansive views as far as the eye can see. From snow-capped mountain peaks towering over 19,685 feet (6,000 meters) above sea level, to villages and cactus forests, this visual treat is absolutely breathtaking. Your detailed itinerary includes…

DAY 1: AREQUIPA / COTAHUASI

07:00 a.m. - Depart from Arequipa to the Majes Valley. Along the way, you’ll stop at Toro Muerto (Dead Bull) to observe stones engraved with geometric and anthropomorphic figures of birds, quadrupeds, and reptiles. You will also see “The Castle”, which gets its shape from erosion and wind. Then, your group will continue to venture toward Chuquibamba.

13:00 hrs. - Time for a lunch break. Everyone is free to choose the restaurant that most appeals to them.

14:00 hrs. - Another exciting stop. This time, you’ll see the lovely Pallarcocha Lagoon, which is impressive not only in its humble beauty, but in the fact that it is 15,912 feet (4,850 meters) above sea level.

17:00 hrs. - Your travels have concluded for the day; you have officially arrived in the town of Cotahuasi. Time to check-in to your overnight accommodations in a basic hostel for a good night’s sleep.

DAY 2: COTAHUASI / SIPIA / LUICHO

06:00 a.m - Rise and shine to feast upon a nice, big continental breakfast at your hostel.

07:00 a.m. - Your transport awaits. You’ll be driven to the Bridge of Sipia, located near the Cotahuasi River. Here, your trek officially begins.

You’ll make your way through the Sipia Waterfall; this fall actually has three levels of water and is 492 feet (150 meters). It’s also time for the piece de resistance, the massive Cotahuasi Canyon. Once you’ve had your fill of breathtaking views, it’s time to leave the area for lunch at a restaurant of your choosing.

On your way back to your lodgings, you will pass many amazing things along the way, including charming traditional villages. Stop and see Tomempampa’s traditional church. In Cusco, you will see (and if you’re lucky, hear) the Bell of Sister Maria Angola. Next, a relaxing treat; soothe your muscles in the thermals baths of Luicho before heading on to Alca town, where colonial architecture and traditional customs are still alive and well.

Finally, you’ll return to Cotahuasi for a pleasant dinner and a good night’s sleep at your hostel.

DAY 3: COTAHUASI- AREQUIPA

07:00 a.m. - Time to enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hostel.

08:00 a.m. - Make the voyage back to the city of Arequipa. This time, stops en route include Siqui Chico, located at 14,436 feet (4,400 meters) above sea level; the Armas Bridge, which is 13,566 feet (4,135 meters) above sea level; Huaytapampa, at 14,764 feet (4,500 meters) above sea level; and Vizca Grande — 14,436 feet (4,400 meters) above sea level. Each of these stops has a natural or local feature you’re sure to enjoy.

18:00 hrs. - Approximately the time you will arrive in Arequipa.

Authentic Peru, Destination By Destination

Enjoy the beauty of Peru one excursion at a time when this guide-led tour takes you to several destinations. Return to a simpler way of life when you enjoy adventure and a nice, warm place to rest your head. So unplug from the everyday and focus on history, natural wonder, and friendly faces when you book this 3 Day / 2 Night excursion to Cotahuasi Canyon. Adventure is easy when you let your Anywhere Local Expert manage all of the accommodations, activities, and transportation for the rest of your getaway in Peru.

PLEASE NOTE: This tour does not include the cost of lunch and dinners, the hot spring entrance fee, tips, or personal expenses. Please have additional cash ready for these moments and experiences.