5 reasons to visit the Colca Valley, Arequipa

Surely when you think of Peru, the first thing that comes to mind is the traditional image of Machu Picchu that has been around the world, also considered one of the 7 wonders that we should all visit.

This beautiful Inca citadel is part of a magical journey through ancient places that we can enjoy and that house surprising stories of Latin American culture. But also, if you deviate a bit towards the north, you will find a very special tourist attraction: the Colca Valley.

Located near the white city, Arequipa Tours, this one of the most touristic places in the country that receives thousands of travelers from all over the world throughout the year. Why should you visit it? Here are 5 reasons:

1. Rich fauna:

Alpacas, vicuñas, guanacos, llamas, vizcachas and condors, are part of the magnificent species that you will be able to see on this tour of the Andean landscape. It should be noted that one of the most valuable things in Peru is the sense of belonging that its inhabitants have for the conservation and respect of the territory of these species.

These specimens that inhabit this region of the country are special thanks to the fact that they have adapted to the climatic conditions of the Valley. A place that is also characterized by its aridity.

Vicuñas for example, are species considered endangered, so measures have been taken for their protection so that these beautiful camelids can continue to inhabit the Colca Valley.

2. The variety of peoples and cultures of the región:

To visit the Colca Canyon, in addition to appreciating its Andean landscapes, is to live a pleasant encounter with the inhabitants of towns such as Chivay, Maca, Pinchollo, Madrigal, among others.

The union between the traditions of their Collaguas ancestors and the colonial era resulted in a unique architecture in temples and churches, various dances, colorful costumes and with elaborate fabrics that adorn the clothes of the local people.

The Yanque Carnival, a dance that is celebrated between the months of February and March as a cult of love and fertility, is one of the customs of the inhabitants of the Valley. In the Maquicentro, Sibayo-Away Wasi or in Sumaq llankay, different garments made with Alpaca wool are woven and embroidered.

The Colca Valley is located approximately 4,150 m.a.s.l. due to this high altitude, some tourists may become dizzy or have difficulty breathing. If this happens to you, don´t worry, take a delicious coca tea, chew a sweet, or a leaf of this plant, it is perfect to relieve dizziness, it helps to balance the body and will allow you to continue advancing on this great journey.

3. Surprising territory surrounded by volcanoes:

If there is something that characterizes this valley, it is the amount of volcanoes that are inside it. These can be seen from different viewpoints and constitute a fundamental arrival piece to the Colca Canyon.

The best known volcano is Ampato, it has an altitude of 6,288 meters above sea level which can be seen at the Mirador de los Volcanes Nevados along with its brothers, Sabancaya and Hualca Hualca, these last two assets.

The Ampato, being inactive, can be scaled through different routes, some longer and more complex than others. If yours is adventure and more than enjoying a landscape, you like to climb to appreciate it, we recommend this plan of approximately 3 days where you will live an unforgettable adventure.

4. Thermal baths:

If you like warm temperatures and enjoy relaxing baths in thermal waters, in the Valley you will find different places to do it. Chacapi, Puye I, Puye II, Puye III and Salliua, are some of them.

The hot springs are located on the banks of the Colca River, thanks to this you can enjoy the landscape offered by the baths, its flora and fauna in a perfect environment for relaxation.

5. The Colca Canyon

Majestic mountains joined consecutively, irregular, with different shades ranging from brown to green ranges, are contemplated in the immensity of this unforgettable landscape. One of the deepest in the world with 3,191 meters and home to a unique species: the Andean condor.

It is important to highlight that there is an Andean sacred trilogy, represented in crafts, monuments, books, and stories that go from generation to generation and that you must know on your visit to Peru.

It is about the Condor, the Cougar and the snake. For the Incas, the condor was considered a messenger from the gods; the puma, symbol of strength and intelligence, and the serpent, as symbol of infinity.

Like this, you will find many stories during your stay in Peru and that you will be able to know as you go towards the Cruz del Cóndor, the ideal place for the sighting of this enormous bird.

Once you are there, all you have to do is enjoy! You can be sure that you have never seen something as incredible as the flight of the condor. Just as dawn comes, it's the perfect time to watch them glide through the mountains and precipices of the Canyon. Being wild animals, it is recommended to remain silent to avoid disturbing their habitat and to enjoy a better experience.

This is undoubtedly a journey that will fill your soul and spirit. An encounter with nature and a chance to continue fueling your adventurous passion. So prepare your itinerary, find a good hotel and get ready to enjoy this tour.

Time to pack our suitcases!