The Colca Canyon is one of the most recognized tourist destinations in Peru. Located to the northeast of Arequipa, this deep valley has a depth of 4,160 meters, making it the deepest canyon in the world. As attractive as the Colca Canyon may be, its not a great place to visit year round. Below we share when is the best time to visit the Colca Canyon.
Best Time to Trek the Colca Canyon
Although it is possible to visit the Colca Canyon any time of year, it’s advisable to go between March and June when the condors are most active and the trails are in good condition. The rainy season ends in March, making it an ideal time to begin visiting. During this period, you can expect sunny days and cool nights, especially during the months of June through August where temperatures can drop to the negative degrees (Celsius).
Trek Recommendations
Before trekking the Colca Canyon, we recommend you spend a day in Arequipa to acclimatize to the changes in climate and altitude. Another recommendation is to carry light luggage. Unlike other treks in Peru, there aren’t porters or mules to carry your luggage for you. What should you take with you? We recommend you bring: sun block, trekking boots, and lots of water. It’s best to pack enough water to consume 1.5 – 3 liters daily.
Destinations Outside of the Colca Canyon
Before or after you trek in the Colca Canyon, you can visit the several other tourist destinations nearby, including:
The Cruz del Condor Viewpoint
From this natural viewpoint, it’s possible to see the entire canyon. The viewpoint is located at 3,287 m.a.s.l. and is a must-visit before or after your trek in the Colca Canyon. The best time to spot condors is between the hours of 10 and noon.
The Colca Window
The first of the attractions that you’ll see during your drive into the Colca Valley is the Colca Window, a curious geological formation that takes the shape of a window. It’s located at 4,300 m.a.s.l.
A trek in Colca Canyon should be top of your list if you’ll be visiting Arequipa. Not to mention, the other nearby tourist attractions to the valley. For more information, please contact us.
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