Highlight of the day: Cross the puna arequipeña, observe vicuñas and reach the highest point of the route before spending the night in the Colca Valley.

Pick up from the hotel in Arequipa

The Peceros Agency Travel team will pick up from your hotel during the morning.

We will leave Arequipa to start the ascent to the puna. As we move forward, the urban environment disappears and extensive plains, volcanic areas and small communities appear.

During the first section you can feel how the temperature changes.

Pampa Cañahuas

We will enter the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca.

In Pampa Cañahuas it is possible to observe vicuñas living in freedom. Their fine fur allows them to withstand the low temperatures of the puna, where the wind can feel even when the sky is clear.

The stop depends on the location of the animals and the safety of the road. Sometimes the vicuñas are nearby; at other times they stay away and it will be necessary to observe them from the vehicle.

It is not allowed to feed them, chase them or walk towards them for a photograph.

The National Salinas and Aguada Blanca Reserve protects dry puna ecosystems and maintains a significant population of vicuñas within the Arequipa region. (Sernanp)

Patahuasi

We will continue to Patahuasi for a short break.

Here you can use the hygienic services, buy water, snacks and hot drinks. It is common to find infusions prepared with coca, muña or other herbs of the region.

Drinks and food purchased during this stop are not included.

Drink in moderation and avoid combining too many plants if you use medication. An infusion may be pleasant, but it does not replace medical treatment or eliminate the risks associated with height.

Tocra Slates

The journey continues to a bofedal area.

The slaps are high-altitude wetlands that retain water and offer food for alpacas, llamas, birds and other animals adapted to the puna.

From the road you can see herds grazing and small lagoons formed among the vegetation.

The stop will be short. The terrain may be moist and it is not advisable to walk outside the spaces indicated by the guide.

Patapampa and Viewpoint of the Volcanoes

We will reach the highest point of the route.

Patapampa is approximately 4,900 meters / 16,076 feet. At this point, the body receives less oxygen and walking a few meters can feel more difficult than expected.

It descends from the vehicle slowly. Don’t run or try to upload the small earrings to get a picture.

When the sky is clear you can see volcanoes and mountains such as Ampato, Hualca Hualca and Sabancaya.

Cloud cover, rain, or the presence of ash can reduce visibility.

The cold can feel intense, especially when there is wind. The stop will be short to avoid prolonged exposure.

Descent to Chivay

After Patapampa we will begin to descend towards the Colca Valley.

The vegetation reappears little by little and the air becomes less cold. From some sectors of the road you can see mountains, gorges and fields that announce the proximity of Chivay.

The path includes curves and prolonged descents. Movement-sensitive people should carry the medication prescribed by their doctor.

When we arrive in Chivay we can go directly to the restaurant or the accommodation, depending on the schedule of the day.

Lunch in Chivay

Lunch is in Chivay.

In group service, this consumption is paid directly in the restaurant. There is usually a buffet with soups, salads, rice, potatoes, pasta, vegetables and meats.

Lunch can be included in the private service, depending on the rate contracted.

Vegetarian options should be requested in advance. Vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-related diets require prior coordination.

Due to the buffet system, a cross-contamination-free kitchen cannot always be guaranteed.

Installation in the accommodation

After lunch, the group will move to the accommodation.

The standard category considers a double or double room with private bathroom. Single rooms require a supplement.

The accommodation can be found in Chivay, Yanque or a nearby sector, depending on availability and category contracted.

You will receive the room key and an explanation of the departure time of the next day.

Before you leave again, save important documents, money and items in a safe place.

Hot springs

During the afternoon you can optionally enter a thermal complex.

Depending on the operation, La Calera, Chacapi or other authorized establishment can be used.

The transfer may be included, but the entrance ticket is paid directly.

Swimming pools have different temperatures. Go in gradually and do not stay too long inside the hot water.

People with high blood pressure, heart conditions, pregnancy, or a history of fainting should consult their doctor.

Do not enter if you have a severe headache, dizziness, fever, or severe height-related symptoms.

Free night in Chivay

After the hot springs you will return to the accommodation.

Dinner is not included. You can choose a restaurant in Chivay or request guidance from the guide.

Some establishments present music or dances aimed at travelers. Availability depends on the day and restaurant.

Rest early. The departure of the second day is made during the morning to reach the Cruz del Condor within a suitable strip.

Technical Details

• Transportation: Van, minibus or private vehicle
• Departure: During the morning
• Initial Altitude: 2,335 meters / 7,661 feet
• Road Type: Asphalt
• Walking time: Less than 15 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy for distance and moderate by altitude
• Dinner: Not included