Things to do in Colca Canyon
Discover the best attractions and experiences Colca Canyon has to offer
Historic Monuments
Landmarks and ancient sites around Colca Canyon offer a glimpse into Andean history and spectacular views.
Cruz del Condor
A famous viewpoint on the canyon rim, best in the early morning for condor sightings.
Iglesia de Chivay
Historic colonial church in the main town, reflecting the region's religious heritage.
Mirador de Antahuilque
Terraced viewpoints near Coporaque with ancient stone structures and dramatic valley scenery.
Museums
The Colca region has limited dedicated museums, with local culture best explored through villages and markets.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding museums recommendations for Colca Canyon. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Religious Monuments
Ancient and colonial churches dot the canyon towns, offering a peek into religious traditions.
Iglesia de Yanque
Colonial-style church in Yanque with simple adobe walls and valley views.
Iglesia de Coporaque
Historic church in Coporaque set against a hillside backdrop.
Iglesia de Chivay
Main town church showcasing traditional Peruvian religious architecture.
National & Theme Parks
The Colca region offers dramatic natural landscapes, from canyon walls to high-altitude reserves.
Colca Canyon
A dramatic canyon carved by the Colca River, renowned for deep gorges and condor watching.
Sangalle Oasis
A palm-fringed oasis at the canyon floor, a popular retreat after a hike.
Reserva Nacional Salinas y Aguada Blanca
High-altitude reserve with puna landscapes and Andean wildlife such as vicuñas.
Neighborhoods
Base towns along the canyon rim serve as gateways to treks and local culture.
Chivay
Main gateway town with markets, restaurants, and access to canyon viewpoints.
Yanque
Rim town offering scenic views and traditional plazas.
Cabanaconde
Deeply perched town popular for starting canyon treks.
Coporaque
Quiet village known for its terraces and hillside setting.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the natural scenery and local life without an entry fee.
Cruz del Condor viewpoint (free access)
Watch condors soaring over the canyon from designated overlooks.
Walk along the Colca Canyon rim
Stroll between villages and viewpoints to soak in the scenery.
Visit Chivay Market
Browse local produce, crafts, and everyday life in the town center.
Sunset viewpoints along the canyon
Find a quiet spot to watch colors change over the cliffs.
Gastronomy
Try hearty Andean dishes that showcase regional ingredients.
Cuy chactado
Crispy fried guinea pig, a traditional Andean delicacy.
Trucha a la plancha
Grilled river trout, fresh from the Colca area.
Chupe de camarones
Shrimp chowder-style soup with milk, a classic Arequipa-style dish.
Nightlife
Evenings bring relaxed social scenes in the canyon towns with live music and cafés.
Andean music performances in plazas
Local musicians play traditional tunes in the main squares.
Bars and cafés in Chivay
Small venues offer drinks and relaxed evenings after dinner.
Quiet moonlit strolls after dark
Stroll by the town lights and the rim views under stars.
Entertainment
Cultural experiences and performances reflect Andean traditions.
Traditional dance performances
Villages host folk dances celebrating local heritage.
Cultural evenings in guesthouses
Storytelling and music showcasing regional customs.
Craft demonstrations in markets
Watch artisans demonstrate weaving and pottery techniques.
Sports
Active adventures in the canyon mix scenery with physical exertion.
Hiking Colca Canyon
Trek along rim trails or descend toward the canyon floor.
Mountain biking along canyon trails
Ride winding paths with sweeping views and cliff drops.
Horseback riding through the valley
Horse trips offer a relaxed way to see the terraces and villages.
Off the Track
Seek out lesser-known corners and unique experiences away from the crowds.
Stargazing under clear Andean skies
Sapphire night skies framed by the canyon create perfect stargazing.
Termas de La Calera (hot springs)
Soak in natural hot springs after a day of trekking.
Mule trek to remote terraces
A slower, traditional way to reach hillside terraces and farms.