Arequipa Colca Canyon Trek: A 2-Day Hiking Review

Considering a trip into the Colca Canyon from Arequipa? That’s exciting, it’s almost a bucket-list contender! So, it’s one of the deepest canyons anywhere, like twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in places. Now, folks flock here, too it’s almost to spot the mighty Andean condor, soak in some hot springs, and honestly, just challenge themselves with some pretty amazing hiking. That said, two days might seem short, still it’s a great introduction to the area.

What to Expect on a 2-Day Colca Canyon Trek

Okay, so what’s involved in a typical 2-day trek? First off, it will likely be a pretty early start. That is that most tours leave from Arequipa between 3:00 and 4:00 AM. So, the drive to the canyon can take around four hours, maybe longer, very it’s pretty winding roads, alright. Still, the reward, it could be spectacular views.

On day one, you, like your likely descend into the canyon, alright. That is that the trail might be steep and rocky, yet, so proper hiking shoes are important. Often, you’ll hike for like, maybe 3-5 hours that day. At the canyon bottom, we basically stayed in a basic lodge, almost like in the village of San Juan de Chuccho, but also could be in Cosñirhua or Malata. We I mean, our group shared a simple meal and relaxed our sore muscles.

Day two starts super early again. Remember you’ll be hiking uphill, a bit often steeply, so a reasonable fitness is kinda handy, and a walking stick to help get you up there. And, you can get an donkey ride to get you up some of the steep areas for 80-90 soles if you like, it helped get us all out together. The aim is to reach Cabanaconde. Typically, the hike up can take, say, around 3 hours, or possibly a little more. You get to get back and maybe go via the Cruz del Condor.

Cruz del Condor: Spotting the Andean Condors

Speaking of Cabanaconde, the bus takes the groups for what’s very often a highlight of the whole Colca experience, almost which is visiting the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where you might see Andean condors soaring, actually it can be spectacular to watch these amazing birds riding the thermal currents. So, the views, it can be really stunning with the vast canyon as a backdrop.

Okay, timing is basically everything. The Condors are generally very visible in the mornings, but it will also, somewhat depends on the weather conditions. You can take pictures but keep your hands held onto, as things can be a little busy when people crowd at the rail. Also, be a bit quiet.

Altitude Sickness: Be Prepared

Let’s be honest, the altitude in Colca Canyon is no joke! Arequipa is already over 7,600 feet (2,300 meters), very while the canyon rim reaches over 12,000 feet (3,600 meters). So, altitude sickness is a possible risk, very especially if you’re arriving from sea level.

To help, alright, spend a couple of days in Arequipa acclimatizing before you, like your trek, okay. I’d even go to a supermarket to see if you can get altitude sickness pills to keep on hand or for taking prophylactically. Another suggestion is to also drink lots of water and avoid alcohol and heavy meals. Coca tea, or mate de coca, it is often offered, yet, to help ease symptoms. That is that chewing coca leaves may assist too. That is that if you experience any severe symptoms, seek medical assistance. Your trekking operator should know a reliable provider to deal with more serious sicknesses.

What to Pack for the Colca Canyon Trek

Now, what should you actually bring along? First off, hiking boots that have basically already been worn-in that are both durable, tough but also very supportive. Multiple thin layers are pretty great because the temperature varies with the altitude.

Also take, sun protection, like, that could include sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, right. That’s handy because the sun at that altitude can be extra harsh. Water, or the like, at least 2-3 liters, okay. Basically, dehydration is going to feel worse up there! Another, flashlight or headlamp in case your lodge electricity drops and when walking at night. Personal medications are always important, and also carry a small first-aid kit containing blister plasters, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes. Snacks are great in-between your food and energy bars to help stave off any hunger between meals and that you don’t like any of the food you eat on the trip.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

When picking an organizer, maybe do a little looking into some of them, eh? Confirm that a particular one actually exists, isn’t going to run off with the money or go bankrupt. Now, does the agency actually hold current permits or certifications, or what they claim may not exist at all.

Also, and it’s important, look up exactly what kind of tour group or team they field out in practice. What are those folks like? Is the agency likely to throw a new group on the street, then tell them they need to buy a heap of tickets? That sometimes happens. You’ll also like the one that has small group tours and can adjust. Very often the big groups of like, 20, 30 people, I am never on that tour. At least get a vibe for one where everyone can work together!