Tips For Visiting the Colca Canyon in Arequipa

What to pack for the Colca Canyon?

We have prepared this packing list so you don't forget the most important things to bring for your adventure. Be sure to include these items on your Colca Canyon packing list:

• Trekking poles. For long and demanding hikes, be sure to bring them.
• A waterproof backpack. This might be more useful during the rainy season, although it is advisable to use one as the cloud forest has scattered rainfall all year round.
• Raincoat or Poncho. A must-have item in every hiker's backpack.
• Sun protection. Be sure to bring a high SPF sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for this adventure.
• A reusable water bottle. Stay hydrated throughout the hike. Don't forget to drink enough water to combat the symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Warm clothing. Especially for cold nights, since you will be camping in the mountains.
• Passport. Always carry your personal identification.
• Insect repellent and After-bite. These and sunscreen will be your best friends during the trek.
• Medicine for altitude sickness. Be sure to carry diamox or soroche pills just in case.
• Camera. Please don't forget this. Please note that professional cameras need a special permit for use at the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

Tour operators include camping and cooking equipment in their packages. The muleteers and porters will take care of this, as well as your luggage bag so that you can travel light and with only the essentials.

High Altitude Sickness: How to Prevent and Treat Symptoms

The altitude in the Colca Canyon varies, but usually exceeds 3,000 m.a.s.l., so it is usual for travelers to experience dizziness, tiredness, headaches and difficulty breathing. Follow these recommendations that will surely help you avoid and deal with altitude sickness.

• Stay hydrated. Water is the best ally to combat and prevent this condition.
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco at all costs. Alcohol is a dehydrator and smoking can worsen or cause shortness of breath.
• Eat a light but high-calorie diet. High altitude increases our need for 'fuel' as it dehydrates you and burns calories much faster.
• Drink coca tea or chew coca leaves. This medicinal plant from the Andes is known to alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness and improve the acclimatization process.
• Take it easy. Don't push yourself too hard in the first 2-3 days after your arrival, leave the strenuous hikes for later.

There are medicines that can help with any symptoms of altitude sickness. You can find Diamox or Soroche Pills in almost any pharmacy in Peru, however, we recommend that you consult your doctor before taking these medications.

Plan your trip according to your interests

As we mentioned before, this natural wonder is one of the most popular travel destinations in Peru, so it is advisable to plan your trip in advance so you can do as many things as you want without any eventuality.

However, you should know in which travel season you are coming so you can have an optimal experience in our country.

• High Season: It takes place between May and October, basically during the dry winter in Peru. Lodging options, excursions, hikes and other activities tend to sell out quickly, so we invite you to take precautions and organize everything in advance.
• Low Season: Starts in December and ends around April. It takes place during the rainiest months of the year. However, due to the low demand, you will be able to find more comfortable prices in hotels and excursions.

If you are thinking of visiting the attractions of this route without crowds and with a flourishing green landscape, then the low season is the one for you. On the other hand, the weather will not be a problem if you travel between May and October.

We are aware that there is a lot to take into account while traveling abroad, but if you want to make things even easier then hiring a tour operator can be the solution. Leave your trip in the hands of specialists who are willing to take care of the smallest detail in your itinerary. A travel agency will certainly lift a weight off your shoulders. We are here to provide everything you need to have an authentic experience throughout Peru. We will help you organize the perfect travel itinerary so you don't have to worry about anything else, except having fun.