DOS MANOS PERU Travel & tours in Peru
DOS MANOS PERU Travel & tours in Peru

Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights


yes
Meals
small groups or private
Group size
up to 3300 m
Altitude
moderate to challenging
Dificulty

Colca Canyon Trek 3D / 2N: Why Go

Colca Canyon Trek 3D / 2N

The Colca Canyon Trek near Arequipa is one of the most spectacular hiking experiences in southern Peru. This three day adventure takes you deep into one of the deepest canyons in the world, far below the canyon rim where most visitors stay.

Instead of only visiting viewpoints (see: 2 day Tour Colca Canyon), you descend into the canyon itself, walking along ancient trails that connect traditional villages and agricultural terraces that have been cultivated for centuries.

One of the highlights of the trek is the lush Sangalle Oasis, a surprising green valley with palm trees and natural pools surrounded by towering canyon walls.

This trek is perfect if you enjoy hiking and want a more adventurous way to experience the Colca Canyon, combining spectacular landscapes, authentic Andean culture and unforgettable canyon views.

What to Expect

During this three day trek you descend from the canyon rim down into the valley and explore traditional villages along the way. The trail offers spectacular views of steep canyon walls, ancient agricultural terraces and the Colca River far below.

You spend the nights in simple lodges in local villages and the oasis of Sangalle, where you can relax in natural pools surrounded by palm trees.

On the final day you visit Cruz del Condor, the most famous viewpoint in the Colca Canyon, where you have excellent chances of seeing the majestic Andean condor soaring above the canyon.

The trek is challenging due to the steep ascents and descents, but the experience is unforgettable.

Extra Info: Trekking in the Colca Canyon

While many visitors explore the canyon on scenic tours, trekking offers a completely different perspective. The trails follow ancient paths connecting traditional villages that have existed for centuries.

The Colca Valley is also famous for its pre-Inca agricultural terraces, many of which are still used today. Because of the canyon’s depth, hiking involves significant elevation changes. A good level of fitness is recommended.

Colca Canyon Trek 3D / 2N

Photos

Tour Details

Highlights

Hike deep into one of the deepest canyons in the world

Spend the night in the beautiful oasis of Sangalle

Location:
Colca Canyon, approx. 4 hours from Arequipa
Tour type:
multi day group or private trek
Duration:
3 days and 2 nights
Altitude:
up to 3300 m
Difficulty:
moderate to challenging
Best season:
April to November, possible year round

Additional Options:

Tour type: trekking, village visits, nature experience

Total trekking distance is approximately 20–25 km, with steep ascents and descents typical of canyon trekking.

Itinerary

  • Colca Canyon Trek 3 Days
  • Early pickup from your hotel in Arequipa
  • Transfer to the Colca Canyon region
  • Trekking through traditional villages
  • Overnight in Sangalle Oasis
  • Visit to Cruz del Condor viewpoint
  • Return to Arequipa (or travel from here to Puno)
  • Day by Day Overview
  • Day 1: Arequipa – Cruz del Condor – San Juan / Cosñirhua
  • Early morning transfer from Arequipa to the Colca Canyon region (approx. 4 hours). On the way we stop at Cruz del Condor, the famous viewpoint where you may observe the majestic Andean condor soaring above the canyon.
  • After arriving in Cabanaconde, we begin the trek descending into the canyon. The trail offers spectacular views of steep canyon walls, agricultural terraces and the Colca River below.
  • Hiking distance: approx. 8–10 km
  • Hiking time: 4–5 hours
  • Elevation change: descent of approx. 1200 m
  • Overnight in a local lodge in San Juan de Chuccho or Cosñirhua
  • Day 2: San Juan – Sangalle Oasis
  • After breakfast we continue trekking through traditional villages such as Cosñirhua and Malata, following ancient trails and passing agricultural terraces that have been cultivated for centuries.
  • In the afternoon we reach the beautiful Sangalle Oasis, a green valley surrounded by steep canyon walls and palm trees. Here you can relax and enjoy the natural pools.
  • Hiking distance: approx. 7–9 km
  • Hiking time: 3–4 hours
  • Elevation change: moderate ascent and descent within the canyon
  • Overnight in a lodge in Sangalle Oasis
  • Day 3: Sangalle – Cabanaconde – Arequipa
  • Early in the morning we begin the challenging climb out of the canyon toward Cabanaconde. This ascent is the most demanding part of the trek but offers spectacular views of the canyon as the sun rises.
  • After reaching the rim, we have breakfast and begin the return journey to Arequipa, with stops at scenic viewpoints and villages along the way.
  • Hiking distance: approx. 5–6 km
  • Hiking time: 3–4 hours
  • Elevation gain: ascent of approx. 1200 m
  • Afternoon return to Arequipa or travel from here to Puno

Please note that the times provided in the above itinerary are approximate and subject to change. Last-minute adjustments may occur due to weather conditions, political unrest, or other unforeseen factors. We cannot be held responsible for any changes or delays.

Colca Canyon Trek 3D / 2N

Good to Know

  • Trekking involves steep ascents and descents
  • Good physical condition recommended
  • Temperatures inside the canyon can be warm during the days
  • Nights can be cooler at higher altitudes
  • Bring sun protection, water and comfortable hiking shoes
  • There is also a 2 day hike to the Colca Canyon
  • We recommend acclimatizing in Arequipa before the trek
  • Read more: Arequipa: the white City in the Spotlights
Colca Canyon Trek 3D / 2N

Price & Inclusions

Price

 Contact us for updated price information

Included

 Pickup from your accommodation in Arequipa
Round trip transportation
Professional bilingual guide
Accommodation in local lodges
Meals during the trek
Assistance during the tour

Not Included

 Colca Canyon entrance ticket
Personal expenses
Tips
Colca Canyon Trek 3D / 2N
Colca Canyon Trek 3D / 2N

Your booking request is subject to availability and is only confirmed once you receive our written confirmation

Reviews

Leon Sciarone
Peru Classic in 14 Days
It was a marvellous experience!

I recently booked an excursion with Dos Manos to Puno and the Floating Islands on Lake Titicaca. It was a marvelous trip and I really enjoyed it!

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Yves Leclerc
Peru Classic & Amazon in 20 Days
Your team is unbelievable!

When we came to your agency, it was for info on Salkantay trail. My wife and me are bilingual (French & English). We talked to Joseph a guy who speaks Spanish and French.

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Adam Rice
Peru Itinerary Classic & Northern Peru 20 days
We had a great time!

Just wanted to send you a note back from our trip. We had a great time, everything worked out really good,,the service by you and your company was excellent!!!

Read Review
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