Cotahuasi Canyon is the deepest canyon in the world, situated in the northern of Arequipa, in the Union province. The Cotahuasi canyon, which extends from the foothills of the Solimana snowcapped mountain until the confluence of the Ocoņa River, has 3535m deep in the Marpa sector, being the deepest part of a wonderful trip where you can enjoy revitalizing thermo medicinal waters, white glaciers and a great variety of flora and fauna. The canyon is full of a great variety of sceneries that increase its beauty thanks to the vigilant presence of the Snow-capped Coropuna and Solimana Mountains.
The weather diversity in this region has helped creating the adequate habitats for a variegated flora and fauna. Species such as the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), the vicuņa (Vicugna) and the millenarian natural treasures have found in the depths of the Canyon, which added to the archaeological and cultural attractions in the zone, collaborated on it being declared National Tourist Reserved Zone in 1988.
The Cascade of Sipia is an impacting waterfall 150 meters high. Thanks to it you will be able to appreciate the power of the River and the depth of the Canyon. The water drops jumping everywhere form a constant rainbow that fills the place with magic colors. The place is ideal for the practice of mountain biking, canoing, rafting, rock scaling, trekking, fishing, horseback riding, etc.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arequipa / Majes Valley / Cotahuasi. 8am - pick up from your hotel and we leave from Arequipa. We will visit Toro Muerto Petroglyphs and Pre-Inca tombs. Next we will explore the Majes valley, Andamayo Canyon and the geological natural formation called the Castilla Castle, spending the daytime at Majes Valley. 7pm - continue traveling to Cotahuasi Canyon by bus.
Day 2: Cotahuasi / Sipia Waterfall. At 4am we arrive at Cotahuasi town, followed by a short rest at the hotel. We then trek, descending 4 hours, to the valley of Piro, Cuyao bridge, Toro bridge and finally arriving at the valley and Sipia waterfall. We will observe geological walls of the deepest canyon in the world, a spectacular large river going to the Pacific Ocean that can be appreciated in this beautiful place with a variety of contrasting colors. This is a lovely place of wild canyon geography. We then return to Cotahuasi town.
Day 3: Cotahuasi / Puica / Luicho Hot Spring. At 6am we travel by bus 3 hours to a highland village, called Puica (3600m). This is a typical village with several habitants dedicated to agriculture and domesticated animals.
From here we start to do a small hike, approximately 2 hours, to Jatun Llaqta archaeological site. This is well-connected with the Wari culture and Inca times, and was used as an administrative center by the Inca army for this zone. After lunch we will descend the canyon and to Alca valley. This walk is a light 4 hour hike, with impressive sights of agricultural terraces (over 1400 years old) and many varieties of flora and fauna. 2pm - we arrive at Alca town and visit / swim in the medicinal hot springs of Luicho that are 45š C. We will dine and rest at this charming village.
Day 4: Cotahuasi / Arequipa. After our breakfast, at 8am we begin walking to the left of the Cotahuasi river. Today we will hike 6 hours to the Cotahuasi town, going through terraced areas, small towns, suspension bridges, little rivers that flow into the canyon. We will stop briefly in villages and observe the local people in their uncorrupted lives. At 2pm we travel by bus 10 hours back to Arequipa, ending our trip.
Price Includes:
- Official English speaking Guide
- Round trip public bus tickets or private van, according your request
- All meals according the program
- Tea time (hot drink, biscuit, pop corn)
- Overnight in a family lodge (private or shared room) or camping gear (4 season tents and mattresses)
- Canyon entrance
- Colca canyon map
- Trekking gear such as poles, backpacks and head lamp (without batteries)
- Trekking price include government taxes
- Present from us
Price Excludes:
- Binoculars
- Breakfast on the first day
- Tips for guide and camp staff
- Personal horse for ride, can be hired for US$20 per day including a horseman and his food and accommodation
What You Need to Bring/Carry:
- Small backpack (45lt)
- Rain jacket or poncho, plastic ponchos can be purchased in Arequipa (just in the rain season Dec - April)
- Strong comfortable and waterproof footwear
- Sweater and jacket (something warm)
- Bottle of water
- Flashlight and batteries
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun
- Sun block (sun protection cream)
- Insect repellent
- Toiletries, towel and toilet paper
- Selection of small snacks, chocolate, dried fruit, biscuits etc,
- Camera, plenty of film and spare batteries
- Swimsuit (you can swim in the hot springs - Chivay)
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Backpacker service (public bus):
1 to more participants US$285 each
Private VIP service (private van):
2 participants US$425 each
3-4 participants US$400 each
5 to more participants US$385 each
Discount 5%: South American Explorers Club Members
Discount 10%: Tour Operators or Travel Agencies Only
Students: US$5 discount only with valid green ISIC card
Organized Groups: We offer private and any time departure
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Peru
Hiking & Trekking
Mountain/Rock Climbing
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