5 Reasons to visit the Colca Valley

For its rich fauna

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

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

The variety of peoples and cultures of the region

To travel through the Colca Valley, besides appreciating its Andean landscapes, is to experience a pleasant encounter with the inhabitants of towns such as Chivay, Maca, Pinchollo, Madrigal, among others. The union between the traditions of their ancestors Collaguas and the colonial era resulted in a unique architecture in temples and churches, various dances, colorful costumes and elaborate fabrics that adorn the garments of the locals.

The Colca Valley is located approximately 4,150 meters above sea level, due to this high altitude, some tourists may get dizzy or have difficulty breathing. If this happens to you do not worry, drink a delicious coca tea, chew a sweet, or a leaf of this plant, it is perfect to relieve dizziness, helps balance the body and allow you to continue moving forward in this great journey.

Surprising territory surrounded by volcanoes

If there is something that characterizes this valley, it is the amount of volcanoes in its interior. These can be appreciated from different viewpoints and constitute a fundamental piece of arrival to the Colca Canyon. The best known volcano is the Ampato, with an altitude of 6,288 meters above sea level, which can be seen from the Mirador de los Volcanes Nevados, along with its brothers, the Sabancaya and Hualca Hualca, the latter two active.

The Ampato, being inactive, can be climbed through different routes, some longer and more complex than others. If your thing 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.

Pleasant waters and thermal baths

If you like warm temperatures and enjoy relaxing baths in hot springs, 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 scenery offered by the baths, its flora and fauna in a perfect environment for relaxation.

The imposing Colca Canyon

Majestic mountains joined consecutively, irregular, with different shades ranging from browns to shades of green, 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 condor of the Andes.

It is important to highlight that there is a sacred Andean trilogy, represented in handicrafts, monuments, books, and stories that go from generation to generation and that you should know during your visit to Peru. It is the Condor, the puma and the snake. For the Incas, the condor was considered a messenger of the gods; the puma, a symbol of strength and intelligence, and the snake, a symbol of the infinite.

Like this, you will find many stories during your stay in Peru that you can learn about as you move towards the Cruz del Condor, the ideal place for the sighting of this huge bird.

Once you are there, all you have to do is enjoy! You can be sure that you will never have seen anything as incredible as the flight of the condor. Just with the arrival of dawn, it is the perfect time to watch them glide across the mountains and cliffs of the Canyon. As they are wild animals, silence is recommended to avoid disturbing their habitat and to enjoy a better experience.

This is undoubtedly a trip that will fill your soul and spirit. An encounter with nature and a chance to continue feeding your passion for adventure.