Colca 3D/2N Llahuar Trekking

Your Colca Canyon adventure begins early in the morning, with a pickup from your accommodation in Arequipa around 3:00 a.m. The drive takes you across the scenic high Andean plateau, where you’ll witness a dramatic change in landscapes—from desert-like plains to snowcapped volcanoes. Along the way, you’ll make a short stop at Patapampa Pass, located at 4,800 meters (15,748 ft), the highest point of the journey. From here, you’ll have panoramic views of the Ampato, Sabancaya, and Hualca Hualca volcanoes.

Around 6:30 a.m., you'll arrive in Chivay (3,635 m / 11,926 ft), the capital of the Colca Valley, where a local breakfast awaits. Afterward, the journey continues along the left bank of the Colca Valley. Keep your eyes open for traditional villages, colonial churches, ancient agricultural terraces, and local farmers working the land in colorful traditional dress.

By approximately 8:30 a.m., you’ll reach one of the highlights of the day: the Cruz del Condor Viewpoint (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). This is one of the best spots in South America to observe the majestic Andean condor as it soars effortlessly above the depths of the canyon.

From here, the journey continues by vehicle for approximately 20 minutes to the town of Cabanaconde (3,280 m / 10,761 ft), the starting point of the trek. After a brief stop to prepare and gather your gear, the hiking portion begins.

You’ll follow a well-marked trail leading toward the Achachihua viewpoint, which offers expansive views of the canyon, including glimpses of the Colca River and the remote Llahuar area far below. The landscape gradually shifts from highland farmland to dramatic canyon cliffs, creating an impressive visual transition.

From Achachihua (approx. 3,100 m / 10,170 ft), the descent begins in earnest. The trail zigzags steeply down for about 6.5 kilometers (4 miles), dropping over 1,200 meters (3,937 ft) in elevation. Expect the hike to take around 3 to 4 hours, depending on pace and trail conditions. Along the way, you’ll pass layers of geological strata, sparse vegetation, and wide canyon views that showcase the immense scale of Colca.

Just before reaching Llahuar, keep an eye out for a unique natural phenomenon: thermal springs emerging directly from the rock along the riverbank, releasing visible jets of hot water that mix with the Colca River. These natural hot water vents are not true geysers, but they create a fascinating and rare geothermal display in the canyon environment.

At the bottom, you’ll reach Llahuar (2,100 m / 6,890 ft) — a tranquil riverside settlement located at the confluence of the Colca and Huaruro rivers. Here you’ll find natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing after the long descent. After soaking your muscles, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and spend the night in a rustic yet comfortable guesthouse, falling asleep to the sound of rushing water under a sky full of stars.

After a restful night in Llahuar (2,100 m / 6,890 ft), the day begins with an early breakfast to energize for the day's trek. Departing around 7:30 a.m., the trail ascends gradually along the right bank of the Colca River, offering panoramic views of the canyon's rugged terrain.

The first segment leads to the small village of Paclla, situated at approximately 2,700 meters (8,858 ft). This stretch covers about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) and typically takes around 2 hours. The path is adorned with native flora, including various species of cacti and shrubs adapted to the arid environment.

From Paclla, the trail continues upward to the Apacheta Viewpoint, reaching an elevation of approximately 2,870 meters (9,416 ft). This ascent adds another 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) and about 1 hour to the journey. The viewpoint offers a stunning perspective of the canyon's depth and the winding Colca River below.

Descending from Apacheta, the path leads to the village of Malata (2,450 m / 8,038 ft), known for its colonial-era church and traditional architecture. This section spans roughly 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) and takes about 1 hour. Malata provides a glimpse into the enduring cultural heritage of the region.

The final leg of the day's trek descends to Sangalle, also known as the Oasis, located at approximately 2,100 meters (6,890 ft). This descent covers about 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) and takes around 1.5 hours. Sangalle is a verdant enclave featuring palm trees, fruit orchards, and natural pools fed by nearby springs.

Upon arrival in Sangalle, a well-deserved lunch awaits, followed by an afternoon of relaxation. The natural pools offer a refreshing respite after the day's hike. Dinner and overnight accommodations are provided at a comfortable lodge, preparing you for the ascent back to Cabanaconde on the following day.

The day begins early, around 4:30 a.m., while the sky is still dark and stars twinkle above the canyon. After a light breakfast, the ascent starts from the Sangalle Oasis (2,100 meters / 6,890 feet above sea level) towards the village of Cabanaconde (3,280 meters / 10,760 feet). This section covers approximately 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) and involves an elevation gain of over 1,100 meters (3,600 feet), usually completed in about 3 hours, depending on your pace and acclimatization. As you climb, the sunrise gradually lights up the canyon walls, offering spectacular views that reward your effort. The trail is steep and winding, demanding determination, but the breathtaking scenery and sense of achievement motivate every step.

Upon reaching Cabanaconde, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved breakfast to refuel. Then, the journey back to Arequipa begins with several stops along the way to make the most of the route and appreciate the region’s natural and cultural richness. The first stop is at the Yanque hot springs, where you can relax in natural thermal waters at around 38°C (100°F), perfect for soothing tired muscles after the hike. This visit lasts approximately one hour and is optional.

Next, you continue to Chivay for a buffet lunch featuring traditional regional dishes, a great opportunity to recharge. The route then climbs to the highest point at the Patapampa Viewpoint (4,800 meters / 15,750 feet), offering panoramic views of the Ampato, Sabancaya, and Hualca Hualca volcanoes.

Further along, you pass through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, where you can spot native Andean camelids such as vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas in their natural habitat. Before reaching Arequipa, there’s a final stop at Patahuasi to use restroom facilities and stretch your legs before continuing the last leg of the trip.

The journey concludes with your arrival in Arequipa around 5:00 p.m., marking the end of an unforgettable experience in one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons in the world.