Arequipa, Peru's second largest city is located 1024 km (640 miles) South of Lima. It was founded in 1540 and is one of the country's most attractive cities. Full of Colonial churches and mansions, including Santa Catalina, a restored Convent established in 1579 and now open to the public after being closed for 400 years, Arequipa is known as the White City because much of it is built of ashier, the smooth white building stone cut from volcanic lava quarries.

Three volcanoes dominate the skyline: Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu. North of Arequipa lies the spectacular Colca Valley, a picturesque Andean valley dotted with little towns founded in Colonial times.

The Canyon is one of the deepest in the World and home of the majestic Condor. Arequipa's mild climate and altitude (2.300 meter above sea level - 7500 ft.) make it the perfect place to acclimatise before continuing your trip to Cusco or Puno.

Early in the morning, after breakfast, start your trip to the Colca Canyon, visiting on the way Pampas Cañahuas, the Mirador of the Andes, the Crater of Chucura, the Mirador of Chivay, where pre-Inca Cultivation terraces may be appreciated. Arrival to the Town of Chivay at 13:00hrs. approx. Transfer to your selected Lodge. Box lunch (light meals in the altitude).

In the afternoon free time to visit Hot Spring Thermal and Medicinal Baths.

After breakfast, very early in the morning, drive to the Condor's Cross, a natural observation point from where the magnitude of the Colca Canyon and the spectacular flight of the majestic Condor can be appreciated. On the way back to Chivay, visit to the Mirador of Chinina, where we will find the famous cliffside Tombs and the Hanging Bridge of Sifón that joins the Town of Yanque with Coporaque. When at the Town of Yanque, visit its beautiful church and its characteristic cobbled streets among other attractions. To have spectacular views of the Colca Valley, we will drive to the Lookout points of Choquetipo and Artahuilque and also to the Town of Maca.

In the afternoon, return to the City of Arequipa, arriving at 18:00hrs. approx. Overnight at selected hotel.

* min. 2 participants, max 10 participants. Pool Service.
Available discounts: SAE: US$ 10.00 (valid South American Explorers Club membership card required).