Arequipa to Colca Canyon Day Trip: Is it Worth it? (Review)

Alright, so you’re thinking about squeezing a trip to Colca Canyon into just one day from Arequipa? It is a popular choice, especially if your travel time is super limited. But seriously, is rushing through one of the world’s deepest canyons really the best move? This review tells you absolutely everything you should consider before you decide to commit. I mean, we will break down the pros, the cons, and just about everything in between so that you know just what you’re getting into.

What to Expect From a Whirlwind Tour

First, just know this adventure gets started very, very early – we are talking like, 3:00 AM early. Like, so early it feels like the middle of the night! Anyway, this is because of the pretty lengthy drive from Arequipa up to the Colca Canyon area. Keep in mind, too, this isn’t just a simple drive; the landscape does change dramatically as you rise in elevation. So, you might pass by vast plains inhabited by vicuñas (relatives of llamas) before climbing toward dramatic volcanic landscapes. Then there are small villages dotted along the road too, giving you a peek into local life. In a way, the drive is an experience on its own.

Once you get there, the main goal is, of course, the Cruz del Condor – or the Condor Cross. This specific viewpoint is precisely where people gather to see those incredible Andean condors soaring above the canyon. Actually, seeing these amazing birds take flight on the morning thermals is pretty awe-inspiring. So, plan on waiting patiently with all of the other visitors. Depending on the tour you opt for, the schedule might also incorporate a quick stop in the village of Chivay, arguably, where you could browse local crafts and maybe sip on some coca tea to combat altitude sickness.

The Upsides of a Lightning-Fast Visit

Alright, so why consider packing all this into just a single day? Well, one big reason is quite simple – lack of time. We, or maybe you, might only have one free day in the Arequipa area, and this honestly gives you at least a taste of the Colca Canyon. So, it’s good for seeing a small glimpse of a major South American wonder. You, or someone like you, will see condors, a fantastic sight, really. Plus, many tours are quite affordable, especially compared to multi-day treks. So, in some respects, you could say it’s a budget-friendly approach. You also can skip a lot of more strenuous hiking, especially if you’re really just not up for it.

The Clear Drawbacks of a Rushed Schedule

Though, really, cramming the entire canyon experience into a single day absolutely has its downside. To be honest, the travel time is pretty brutal. It may be several hours each way. It makes for a really, really long day. What is more, you do spend a great deal of that time in a bus, possibly not the ideal way to really soak in the scenery. A single day trip also tends to just scratch the surface, barely affording you time to appreciate the culture and the fantastic scenery. Altitude can actually become a huge factor, as well. The rapid increase in elevation during this specific day trip could certainly cause altitude sickness. Then, in that case, your enjoyment of the whole day might actually be reduced.

Is This Right for You? Considerations

Okay, so now we are down to the big question: Is a one-day Colca Canyon trip from Arequipa really worth your time and money? Here are a couple of factors you should take into account. If you usually deal with altitude well and are super short on time, then this might just be your only option. That said, if you like a less rushed experience and you have at least two days to spare, you should definitely think about a longer tour. A longer visit means, basically, you can hike a bit, connect with local communities in a more meaningful way, and truly take your time absorbing all that canyon goodness.

Making the Most of a Short Trip (If You Choose It)

Still thinking of making it a single day trip? Alright then. Make absolutely certain you’re ready for a seriously early start. Bring layers. Actually, the temperature could potentially fluctuate quite a bit. At the very least, pack some snacks and water. Honestly, you will want them for that long drive. And consider taking something for altitude sickness, especially if you already are prone to it. You should, in a way, lower your expectations about seeing every single thing. Basically, it is physically impossible in a day! Really consider what experiences are essential to you, so that you, at least, feel pleased with what you accomplished during your limited visit.