Most first-time visitors to Peru make a beeline for the ruins of Machu Picchu, without
realizing that they are passing within a bus ride of the epic Colca Canyon.
Slicing through the High Andes like a giant fissure for more than 100km, Colca is the
world’s second deepest canyon, approximately 3,400m at its deepest point -- a shade
shallower that the nearby Cotahuasi Canyon and nearly twice as deep as the
US’ Grand Canyon. More impressive than the statistics are the region’s emblematic
attractions, including soaring condors, endless trekking routes and unshakeable
Spanish, Inca and Pre-Inca traditions little altered since the conquistadors first arrived in
the 1570s.
With a few days to spare and minimal planning, it is easy to shoehorn Colca Canyon
into a wider Peruvian trip. The area is best accessed via Arequipa, Peru’s second
largest city, where you can hire a car or hop onto one of many public buses that run
daily to various villages in Colca.
Colca is more than accessible and the highlight of anyone’s trip to
Arequipa. Here are the top things to do and see in the world’s third
deepest canyon and one of Peru’s most famous natural wonders.
Condor watch
Stop by the Cruz del Condor viewpoint at 3320 meters (10,892 ft), which
offers dizzying views of the canyon’s depths, and do some bird watching. The
prized sight is a glimpse of the famous Andean Condor, the largest bird in the
Americas. The best time to see them is the morning when they begin their
breakfast hunt.
White water raft
The Colca River, depending on the season, can be fun and intense. You’ll
splash down class iii, iv and v rapids on your way through the canyon. This is
one of the best rivers to raft on in all of Peru, and while you’re doing it, you’re
seeing the canyon from the very bottom, a view point not many people can
say they’ve seen. This is one of the best ways to really see all the canyon has
to offer – which is a lot.
Mountain biking
For the adrenalin junkies amongst us, this is for you – especially if you’ve
done this before. You’ll be charging down the third deepest canyon in the
world, so it is best recommended for those with some experience (although
there are trails for beginners). The best thing about this is that you won’t be
walking down the steep canyon – trust me, your knees will thank you.
Hike
Hike and hike and then hike some more – and after that, hike again. It is a
massive canyon and the only way to truly get into it and explore it all is to hike
your way through. The canyon is steep and big so you’ll be getting a workout
in and, luckily, there are cool places to stop along the way and enjoy the
views.
Thermal baths
Can you imagine a better way to spend the end of a long and painful day of
hiking than soaking in some thermal baths? Well you’ll be able to do that after
your first day if you choose one of the overnight tours. It is one of the more
popular spots so expect some crowds – every tour group comes here.
Hang out in an oasis
Sangalle – or the desert oasis – is a welcomed sight after traversing your way
through the canyon. You’ll find some good and fairly priced food here and
cocktails, too – because what’s a desert oasis without cocktails, right? This is
also a great place to stop and spend the night if you’re doing the canyon solo.
Horse back riding
Not for the budget traveler as this will set you back a bit, but it is the easiest
on your body for getting around the canyon. If you have had lower body
injuries but still want to enjoy the beauty of the canyon this is by far your best
bet. You’ll have the best seat in the park and other hikers will look on you
enviously as they drip with sweat from their hike.
