2026 Caylloma Province Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

#falladventures #stunningview #attractive Location: Arequipa Region, southern Peru Famous For: Depth, Andean condors, dramatic landscapes, ancient terraces 🌄 Why It’s Special Cañón del Colca is one of the deepest canyons on Earth—over 3,200 m (10,500 ft) at its deepest point, even deeper than the Grand Canyon. Surrounded by snow-capped volcanoes, terraced valleys, and huge cliff walls, it’s one of Peru’s most breathtaking natural wonders. 🦅 Top Highlights Mirador Cruz del Cóndor: The best viewpoint to see the giant Andean Condor glide right over your head. Terraced Valleys: Ancient Inca and pre-Inca agricultural terraces still used today. Hot Springs: Natural thermal pools in Chivay and Yanque. Colca River: Runs through the canyon with rafting and scenic views. Traditional Villages: Explore small Andean towns like Cabanaconde and Chivay. 🚶 Things to Do Hike down into the canyon (1–2 days) Enjoy sunrise views from viewpoints Relax in hot springs Spot wildlife: condors, alpacas, llamas, vicuñas Explore ancient terraces and local culture 📸 Perfect For Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, adventure seekers, and anyone who wants to see one of Peru’s most iconic landscapes.

#wecreate Arequipa is a hidden gem in all of Latin America! It is such an amazing and charming city located in the south of Peru. It is Known as the "White City" as it's named for the beautiful white volcanic stone, sillar, used to construct its colonial buildings. There is an amazing historic city center and definitely you should marvel at the impressive architecture, including the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery! Arequipa is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Overall, Arequipa is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Peru.

Colca Canyon is another destination in Peru! It is a few hours away from Arequipa and the scenery is AMAZING 🌟 Join a 2-day trek to Colca Canyon! The trek offers a chance to explore the Andean culture and wildlife. The trek can be challenging, with steep descents and ascents, but the stunning views of the canyon, the Colca River, and the Andean mountains make it SO worth the effort. Along the way, you can spot the Andean Condor, the world's largest flying bird, and witness the traditional way of life of the local communities. Since the trek takes 2 days, I would highly suggest booking a tour through a tour operator you can find at the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa! #peru #Colcacanyon

♨️Baños Termales de Chacapi •Temperature: Around 38-40°C •Water Quality: Rich in Minerals (with a Sulfurous Taste) •Admission Fee: 15 soles per person Natural hot springs located along the river near the village of Yanque in the Colca Canyon, about a 15-20 minute drive from Chivay! It's often included in tour packages to Colca Canyon. 🎒What to Bring •Swimsuit (changing area available) •Towel •Sandals •Something to put on after you get out Other activities available include walking across the river and cycling across it, so why not give those a try? 🙆♀️

⛰️What is Colca Canyon? Located near Arequipa in southern Peru, this canyon boasts one of the deepest depths in the world. It's a whopping 3,400m deep (said to be deeper than the Grand Canyon). Terraced fields can be seen here and there, as well as small villages like Chivay and Yanque. It's also famous for being a place where you can see condors. ✨ 🦅What is a condor? With a wingspan of over 3m, it's one of the largest flying birds in the world. Its lifespan is said to be over 50 years. ♂ Males are large, with a large crest on their heads and a distinct white fluffy collar around their necks. ♀ Females lack a crest, have less white on their necks, and are generally smaller. 🐣Young birds are generally brown or grayish in color and lack the white collar around their necks. If you're lucky, you'll have a better chance of seeing condors up close between May and October!

Colca Canyon is the second deepest canyon on Earth. Though it is not exactly close, it is a popular long day trip from Arequipa. I didn’t do that but decided to rent a car for an overnight trip to the canyon - best decision ever. I didn’t have to get up super early to join a tour and be tried throughout the day. And staying a night meant that I had the Canyon viewpoints to myself as all the tours, and the vendors as well, had already left. The road from Arequipa passes through some awesome sparse papa landscape and the Zona de Vicuñas and Zona de Alpacas🦙. Both domesticated lamas and alpacas as well as wild vicuñas are abundant and can easily be seen and photographed from the road. The landscape is wild and harsh. Stop at ⚑ Mirador de los Andes; in good weather you can see huge mountains in the distance all around. I didn’t because the clouds were so low, but this still made for an interesting and ver eerie stop. Upon reaching the Canyon, you get your ticket from the tourist office just after entering 📍Chivay. Here you can also fill up on petrol. And there are restaurants and a few hostels here. I had my lunch at 🥩 Sabores Andinos Colca Restaurant in 📍Yanque, though. A friendly little place that does not feel overrun with day-trippers. In the village you can also see 🕍 Iglesia Inmaculada Concepción, one of a collection of small colonial churches, few of which can be entered. From here you enter the real canyon. The road gets surprisingly bad, but the views get better and better. There are many viewpoints along the road through the canyon, I would say these are not to be missed: ⚑ Mirador de Antahuilque - nice views of the terrassed Inca fields ⚑ Mirador de Wayrac Punku ⚑ Mirador Cruz del Condor - THE viewpoint from where to see the condors 🦅 in the morning, it is also one of the deepest spots along the canyon And some of the best views can be had at my accommodation, 🏩 La Granja del Colca. I arrived late, but in time for some spectacular sunset views. But canyon views are not all. In the morning, conders🦅 soured so close it felt like you could touch them. And all the time there are cuddly dogs🐕, cats🐈 and even alpacas🦙, since this is also a working farm. Definitely one of the best places I have ever stayed at, La Granja del Colca itself is with the overnight trip! #peru #colcacanyon #realphoto #noAI #travel #naturalwonders #myitinerary #independenttraveller

#falladventures #naturalwonders The place may be crowded, but come early and you are virtually certain to see these magnificent birds. Come late and be prepared to be disappointed. We arrived about 9.00 and could see condors from our coach as we approached. We stayed about an hour and a half but it was only for 20 minutes or so that condors were flying. The crowds built whilst we were there but most of those arriving after 9.30 will have missed them. Whether you see them or not, this is a beautiful location so you can simply enjoy the scenery. We went about 8.30AM since we were told that you don't need to go very early. The place was absolutely packed but we walked away from the main area and stood next to the edge for the view down the valley and saw multiple Condors soaring from the Valley and circling above us. Spent about an hour and saw lots of Condors.

#hellohalloween #stunningview #ColcaCanyon #PeruAdventures #AndesMountains #NaturalWonder #TravelPeru Marvel at the breathtaking Colca Canyon Terraces, one of Peru’s most spectacular landscapes! 🏞️ Carved by ancient civilizations, these terraced slopes cascade down the canyon walls — a masterpiece of Incan engineering and natural beauty combined. 🌾 🌿 Top Highlights: Majestic Views: Witness the dramatic depth of one of the world’s deepest canyons 🌍 Terraced Hillsides: Over 80 terraces built centuries ago still flourish today 🌾 Cultural Heritage: Explore local villages preserving Incan traditions 🧺 Condor Watching: Spot the mighty Andean condor soaring above the cliffs 🦅 ✨ A journey to Colca Canyon is more than sightseeing — it’s a walk through living history, surrounded by mountains, mystery, and mesmerizing beauty.

#hellohalloween Cañón del Colca, located in Arequipa, Peru, continues to captivate with its mix of dramatic landscapes and vibrant local culture. Hiking along less-traveled trails reveals hidden viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and the rugged terrain that makes the canyon so awe inspiring. Observing the Andean condors gliding effortlessly above the cliffs is a highlight, offering a rare glimpse into the life of these majestic birds. The surrounding villages invite visitors to experience daily life, from traditional farming practices to colorful markets where handmade textiles and crafts are sold. Sunrise over the canyon transforms the landscape into a palette of golden hues, making early mornings unforgettable. Whether exploring its natural wonders, engaging with local communities, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Cañón del Colca provides a rich, immersive experience that embodies the heart of Peru’s southern highlands.

#hellohalloween Cañon del Colca in Arequipa is an awe inspiring destination that leaves visitors speechless. The canyon is one of the deepest in the world, with dramatic cliffs plunging over a thousand meters into the valley below. From viewpoints near Chivay, the vast landscape stretches endlessly, dotted with traditional villages and terraced farmland. The area is famous for condors, and seeing these majestic birds glide effortlessly above the canyon is a truly unforgettable experience. Hiking trails along the rim and into the canyon offer immersive opportunities to explore the rugged terrain, while hot springs nearby provide a relaxing contrast after a day of adventure. The combination of natural grandeur, wildlife, and local culture makes Cañon del Colca a must visit for travelers seeking both beauty and authenticity in Peru.

#holidayitinerary Exploring Colca Canyon is an adventure that combines raw natural beauty with moments of peaceful awe. The vast canyon stretches out in dramatic layers, its rugged cliffs and terraced hillsides telling stories of both geology and generations of farming. Early in the morning, the air is crisp and the light is golden, perfect for spotting the famous Andean condors gliding effortlessly above the canyon walls. Wandering along the trails, you pass small villages where locals greet you warmly, and colorful fields of quinoa and potatoes add a gentle charm to the landscape. The views change constantly, from deep, shadowed valleys to bright slopes touched by sunlight. Hot springs tucked along the way invite you to soak and relax while taking in the scenery. Every step in Colca Canyon feels like a connection to nature’s grandeur and the quiet traditions of the people who live here. It is a place that leaves you both humbled and inspired by its scale and beauty.

| Take the photo of your life in the Andes! . In the peaceful Colca Valley, there are steaming volcanoes, vast meadows and off-the-beaten-path paths🌋 - Find a vacation, quit your job, go to the sparsely populated mountains, and find true freedom! - Hotel name: PUQIO Geographical location: Yanque sin numero, Yanque, Peru Free airport shuttle service is available - Highlights: PUQIO is located in the heart of the Colca Valley, close to nature! It redefines country charm and a relaxing getaway! The canvas tents harken back to a distant age of exploration, while the adobe houses blend harmoniously into the surrounding high desert landscape! - 【Equipment and Facilities】 From the hot tub to the bedding, every detail has been carefully designed to ensure a good night's sleep! 🦅 Here, I finally have time to slow down and rediscover the charm of simple life, whether it's picking up a pen to write or identifying the unique birdsong. - 【Special Food】 🍛 Dishes cooked in earth ovens and open fires have original Andean flavor and tradition. The taste of the land is the root of the dishes! 🍷 Ceramic pots sit over an open flame, steam from hearty stews billowing in the breeze. Handmade cornbread, fresh cheese, and a sip of chicha 🌽 The corn is harvested by local people themselves, and we use the freshest local agricultural products! - 【Accommodation Features】 The canvas tent accommodation brings back memories of childhood longings, while the outdoor shower and bathtub allow you to revive your tired muscles and reawaken your instinct to explore! There are three different room categories – Pirca, Carpa and Carpa Refugio⛰ Different ways to experience the valley and enjoy different views of the surrounding terrain, the views are simply amazing! - 【Explore the Valley】 Explore the Colca Valley beyond the canyon! Get off the beaten path, see bald eagles soaring in the sky, and get back to nature with the guidance of a naturalist and local expert! With a carefully selected fully customizable journey! Experiences include high-altitude hikes, exploring ancient plant wisdom with a natural herbalist, soaking in thermal spas, visiting the Andes’ finest weavers, and more. From a few hours to a full day of guided exploration, each experience is different!

| The volcanic white city of Arequipa - a guide to its popularity. 🎈Itinerary: Day 1 Colca Canyon Take a day trip with a local travel agency (about 70sol, canyon entrance fee and lunch are not included). Depart from your downtown Arequipa hotel at 3am and return to your hotel at 6pm. The itinerary includes: breakfast in Chivay town → Maca town (see the white church and take photos with cute alpacas) → Wayraq punkun viewpoint → Cruz del Condor (ticket price 70sol, enjoy the Colca Canyon and condors) → buffet lunch (38sol) → choose to go to hot springs at your own expense or rest on the spot → Andes Volcano Viewpoint → Wild Alpaca Reserve. The town is very lively at night, so be sure to visit the Plaza de Armas and the street shops. Day 2 First visit Santa Catalina Monastery (worth spending 2-3 hours to appreciate it slowly), then go to Plaza de Armas, have lunch, and then go to Yanahuara Viewpoint (overlooking Misti Volcano) for a romantic afternoon tea, watch the sunset and snow-capped mountains, and finally enjoy a delicious dinner. 🎈Personal feelings: 🌟Santa Karina Monastery: Highly recommended! This colorful city within a city is so photogenic! Tickets are 50sol and can be purchased on site. After entering, it is strongly recommended to spend 10sol to hire a tour guide to learn more about the history of the monastery and the purpose of each building. 🌟Colca Canyon: Maybe it was the weather, or maybe it was just the norm, the air was dusty and the scenery of the entire trip was a bit desolate and failed to bring a sense of surprise. Personally, I think a 1-day trip is enough and there is no need to choose a 2-day tour. 🌟 Plaza de Armas: The scenery of the square is different during the day and at night, and there are many cozy street shops around the square. If you have time, you must go shopping. 🌟Yanahuara Observation Deck: Although you can see the volcano from a distance, the scenery is really average. 🌟Museo Santuarios Andinos: Be sure to check the opening hours in advance, as it is only open until 2pm on Sundays. Because the monastery was so fascinating, I visited it twice that day and unfortunately missed the museum. 🎈Food recommendations: The space is limited, please see the next article for details🍲 🎈Other suggestions 💡Temperature: In early July, the temperature difference between morning and night in Arequipa is huge. It is warm and pleasant during the day, so wear a light coat and sunscreen; the temperature drops sharply at night, so you need to wear a down jacket. During the Colca Canyon trip, when we stopped in the town of Chivay for breakfast at 6 a.m., the temperature dropped to several degrees below zero, so be sure to keep warm. 💡Altitude sickness: Arequipa’s altitude is not high, and the overall feeling is comfortable. However, during the trip to Colca Canyon, you will pass through a mountainous area with an altitude of nearly 5,000 meters. In addition, the long car ride may cause altitude sickness, so remember to prepare appropriate medicine.