OVERVIEW
Nestled deep in the Andes Mountains of southern Peru, Colca Canyon is one of the world’s deepest canyons and a dream destination for hikers and adventure seekers. Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, the Colca Canyon offers breathtaking scenery, traditional villages, terraced farmland, and the chance to spot the majestic Andean condor soaring overhead.
Hiking through the canyon is not just about the dramatic landscapes—it’s a journey into Peru’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient pre-Incan terraces still used by local farmers, remote lodges tucked into the canyon walls, and stunning viewpoints that reveal the vastness of the gorge.
Whether you choose a challenging multi-day trek or a shorter day hike, exploring Colca Canyon promises an unforgettable experience. Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover one of South America’s true hidden gems.
STATISTICS AND MAP
- Total Distance: 12.7 miles (20.4 km)
- Total Elevation Gain: 5,480 feet (1,670 meters)
- Highest Point: Cabanaconde – ~10,760 feet (3,280 meters)
- Lowest Point: Colca River near Sangalle – ~7,200 feet (2,195 meters)
- Trek Duration: Typically 2–3 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (due to steep descent/ascent and altitude)
GETTING THERE
Most travelers begin their journey to Colca Canyon in Arequipa, the “White City” famed for its colonial charm and striking white volcanic stone architecture. If time allows, explore the beautifully preserved Santa Catalina Monastery, visit the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries to see the famous Inca mummy Juanita, and stroll through the elegant Plaza de Armas.
From Arequipa, you can take a public bus, book a guided tour, or hire a private driver. We opted for a private driver to take us from Arequipa to Cabanaconde for about $200 round trip, which allowed for flexibility with stops, including a lunch break in Chivay.
The drive from Arequipa to Chivay takes approximately 3–4 hours, passing through the Andean foothills with scenic views of snow-capped peaks like Mount Ampato. On the way, you’ll pass Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to wildlife like vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas.
The Pampa de Cañahuas area is particularly known for its striking high-altitude desert landscapes and herds of llamas grazing by lakes. Chachani Volcano provides a dramatic backdrop along the route.
In Chivay, enjoy a traditional Andean lunch featuring dishes like rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers) and trucha (trout), often served with potatoes or corn. Afterward, continue your journey to Cabanaconde, which takes 1.5 to 2 hours over 30 kilometers.
The drive from Chivay to Cabanaconde winds through dramatic Andean landscapes, passing terraced hillsides, tiny villages, and several breathtaking canyon viewpoints. The journey is bumpy but beautiful, gradually climbing to over 10,000 feet as you near Cabanaconde.
Cabanaconde is a quiet mountain village perched on the edge of Colca Canyon and serves as the main starting point for treks into the canyon. The town is rustic and peaceful, with simple accommodations, friendly locals, and breathtaking views in every direction. It’s recommended to arrive in Cabanaconde the day before your trek to acclimate and prepare for an early start.
WHERE TO STAY
When hiking Colca Canyon, where you stay can really shape your experience. Most trekkers begin in Cabanaconde, a convenient starting point with several good accommodation options.
Hotel Kuntur Wassi offers cozy rooms and easy access to the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint. We opted for a more budget-friendly stay at the Pachamama Hostel, popular among hikers for its welcoming atmosphere, hearty meals, and helpful trekking tips.
Once you begin the trek, you’ll descend into the canyon, with San Juan de Chuccho serving as a natural and convenient spot to spend your first night. This quiet village offers rustic lodges like Colibrí Lodge and Posada Gloria, where simple rooms and home-cooked meals provide a refreshing break after a day of hiking. The local hospitality here is a highlight for many travelers. Unfortunately there’s no way to make reservations at these lodges, but the staff at Pachamama Hostel assured us there would be plenty of availability.
On the second day of the trek, you’ll arrive in Sangalle—often referred to as the Oasis—a lush, palm-lined valley that offers the perfect place to unwind after a challenging day of hiking. Accommodations like Oasis Paraiso Ecolodge and Sangalle Cielo Lodge offer basic but charming rooms, swimming pools, and stunning views of the surrounding canyon walls.
WHAT TO PACK
Packing smart is essential for trekking Colca Canyon, where temperatures can swing from hot daytime sun to chilly nights. Lightweight, breathable layers are key, along with sturdy gear to handle the steep, rocky trails.
Since you’ll be staying in remote villages, bring only essentials to keep your backpack manageable. Comfort, sun protection, and basic first aid are especially important for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Packing Essentials for Colca Canyon:
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support (already broken-in)
- Comfortable hiking socks (preferably moisture-wicking, 2–3 pairs)
- Breathable hiking clothes (quick-dry shirts, hiking pants/shorts)
- Warm fleece or down jacket (it gets cold at night)
- Lightweight rain jacket (weather can change suddenly)
- Sun hat and polarized sunglasses
- High SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Reusable water bottle (1–2 liters) or hydration bladder
- Water purification tablets or a filter (safe drinking water isn’t guaranteed)
- Energy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars)
- Basic first aid kit (band-aids, blister treatment, painkillers, altitude sickness meds if sensitive)
- Trekking poles (optional, but very useful for steep descents)
- Swimsuit (for relaxing at the Oasis in Sangalle)
- Compact quick-dry towel
- Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Toiletries (toothbrush, small toothpaste, biodegradable soap, toilet paper)
- Small daypack (20–30 liters capacity)
- Cash (small denominations for food, water, lodging, and tips)
- Copy of your passport (or your actual passport if necessary)
- Light sleeping bag (optional, some lodges provide blankets but not all)
- Lightweight sandals or flip-flops (for relaxing after hiking)
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Day 1 – Cabanaconde to San Juan de Chuccho (5 miles)
Head out from Cabanaconde early in the morning to take advantage of cooler temperatures. Follow signs along the southern rim of Colca Canyon toward the Mirador San Miguel, a stunning viewpoint offering expansive views of the Colca Canyon’s rugged landscape.
From here, begin your descent into the canyon. The trail is well-marked but can be steep and rocky, so take your time and use trekking poles if you have them. As you descend, you’ll pass through dry, cacti-dotted terrain, all while enjoying uninterrupted views of the vast canyon and the town of Sangalle situated on the canyon floor.
After about two hours of steady downhill hiking, you’ll reach the Colca River at the bottom of the canyon. This is a great spot to pause, refill your water, and enjoy the incredible landscapes.
Once across the bridge, the trail climbs gently uphill for another 20–30 minutes through greener, cultivated areas. Soon you’ll arrive at San Juan de Chuccho, a peaceful village nestled among gardens and fruit trees. Here, several family-run lodges offer simple accommodations, hearty meals, and a chance to rest before continuing deeper into the canyon.
In total, expect the hike to take around 3 to 4 hours, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Day 2 – San Juan de Chuccho to Sangalle (4.5 miles)
After a restful night in San Juan de Chuccho, set out early again for your hike to Sangalle, often called “the Oasis.” The trail gently undulates at first, passing through small settlements and terraced gardens. You’ll walk alongside fruit trees, cactus groves, and streams, with occasional glimpses back toward the steep canyon walls you descended the day before.
About halfway through, you’ll reach two small villages, Cosñirhua and Malata, where you can pause for a snack or refill your water. These villages are modest but offer insight into the traditional lifestyle of the canyon’s residents.
The path then descends more steeply toward Sangalle, a lush, green oasis set against the canyon’s dry, rocky backdrop. After nearly 5 miles of hiking and about 4 to 5 hours, you’ll arrive at the bottom where palm trees, gardens, and natural pools await.
Sangalle is a favorite resting spot for trekkers. Several rustic lodges here offer basic rooms or cabins and swimming pools fed by natural springs — a refreshing reward after a hot day of hiking. Though amenities are simple, the serene atmosphere, dramatic scenery, and chance to relax poolside under towering cliffs make it a memorable stay.
Evening in Sangalle is quiet and beautiful. Enjoy a hearty meal under the stars, get plenty of rest, and prepare for an early start the next day for the challenging climb back out of the canyon toward Cabanaconde.
Day 3 – Sangalle to Cabanaconde (3.5 miles)
The final stretch of the Colca Canyon Trek is the most demanding: the steep ascent from Sangalle back to Cabanaconde. Most hikers start very early, often around 4:30 AM, to avoid the intense heat that builds in the canyon later in the morning. Bring a headlamp or flashlight for the first part of the climb, as it will still be dark when you begin.
The trail is steep and relentless, rising nearly 1,200 meters (4,000 feet) over a few kilometers of sharp switchbacks. It’s important to pace yourself—this section can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours depending on your fitness and how many breaks you take. Fortunately, as the sun rises, the views over the canyon are spectacular, rewarding your hard effort with breathtaking scenery.
There are a few small stalls along the way where locals sell water, Gatorade, and light snacks. However, it’s best to carry enough supplies with you. You also have the option to hire a mule to carry you and your gear out of the canyon.
Once you finally reach the rim at Cabanaconde, you’ll be tired but exhilarated. Celebrate with a hearty breakfast in town and reflect on the unforgettable landscapes and communities you experienced deep in the heart of Colca Canyon.
FINAL IMPRESSIONS
The Colca Canyon trek is a truly unforgettable adventure, offering a mix of stunning natural beauty and cultural immersion. From Cabanaconde to San Juan de Chuccho, the trail offers a dynamic landscape, descending into the canyon’s depths where you’ll encounter rustic villages, terraced fields, and spectacular views.
The journey continues to Sangalle, where you can unwind in a peaceful oasis after the challenging descent. Staying in these remote areas provides a unique glimpse into rural Peruvian life. The ascent from Sangalle back to Cabanaconde is undoubtedly the toughest part of the trek, demanding both physical stamina and determination, but the early start and rewarding vistas make it worth every step.
Throughout the hike, you’ll experience breathtaking scenery, rich cultural history, and a true sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-timer, the Colca Canyon trek offers an unparalleled adventure that should not be missed.
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