At 3191m, Colca Canyon is twice the size of the Grand Canyon and the second largest in Peru. The 100km-long canyon is a sight to behold, with a backdrop of high volcanoes, Ampatao (6310m) and Coropuna (6613m) being the tallest. Condors can often been seen soaring over the canyon as well as birds drinking nectar from the cacti that grow in the rocks. Trekking Colca canyon is very popular as well as hikes to nearby villages that have Inca ruins to explore. There are also the nearby petroglyphs at Toro Muerto, and the El Valle de los Volcanes.

Situated at the head of the Colca Canyon is Chivay, a small transportation hub that also has famous hot springs, which would be a relaxing respite in between hikes. Located 3.5km from the town, the water is even believed to have healing properties. There are also several short hikes that can be made around the tiny village. Just past the hot springs and lush agricultural fields is Corporaque, which has a colonial-era plaza. Beyond that are some small ruins and a bridge over the river that leads to the hanging cliff tombs. This can be an all-day hike or a shorter mountain biking excursion.

Known locally as Chaglla, this famous viewpoint is a main highlight for many visitors to Colca Canyon because of the chance to see the Andean condors gliding effortlessly over the canyon on thermal air currents that rise from below. The view is a spectacular 1200m drop to the river. The best time to see the condors is the early morning or late afternoon.

This quiet rural village is an excellent base for hiking in Colca Canyon. A popular short trek is a steep 2-hour hike down to Sangalle, also known as the Oasis, at the bottom of the canyon. Visitors can enjoy a dip in the two natural pools and can stay overnight in a basic bungalow or campground. There are also 4 and 5 day hikes down to the canyon bottom that passes through the village of Tapay and goes back up to the other side of the canyon to the village of Choco before descending to the town of Chacas and El Valle los Volcanes.

Located 7km from Chivay, this peaceful village has a beautiful 18th century church in the main plaza and the Museo Yanque, which displays relics of traditional canyon life. There is also an herbal garden in the central courtyard that contains ancient natural remedies, some dating pre-Inca times.

El Valley los Volcanes is a large valley set east of Colca Canyon and at the foot of Nevado Coropuna (6613m), which is known for its unusual geological formations. The valley floor is covered in lava flows that rise out of many small cinder cones.

The Toro Muerto Petroglyphs consist of thousands of black volcanic boulders carved with stylized animals, people, and birds. Situated in the high desert, the origins of the site are still a mystery to archeologists.

Arequipa

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