Exploring the Colca Canyon, Peru

If you thought the Grand Canyon was deep, a visit to the Colca Canyon in Peru will blow your mind.

Colca measures 3,400 meters deep, placing it second on the list of the world’s deepest canyons. Nearby Cotahuasi Canyon takes first place, but the greater accessibility of Colca makes it a more attractive choice for visitors. The canyon is easily reached by bus from Arequipa, which is just 154 kilometers away.

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The journey takes in the spectacular winding roads and climbs over the 4,910-meter Patopampa Pass. From here a steep descent brings you to Chivay, at the head of the canyon. As you continue your drive further into the canyon, the sides become far steeper, and the traditional terraced fields become more apparent.

Make a stop at the must-see Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where huge Andean condors can be seen wheeling around and floating on the updrafts from the canyon floor some 1,200 meters below. Continue down the canyon to the village of Cabanaconde, from which you can descend to the hamlet of Sangalle on the canyon floor.

After hiking down the narrow, rocky trail, reward yourself with a dip in one of the natural swimming pools as you consider the height of the canyon walls from below. If you can’t face the grueling hike back up, spend the night in one of the small cabins.

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Many people head back to Chivay from Cabanaconde, but others prefer to take in some of the distinctive local culture in the small villages on the other side of the canyon. The communities live such an isolated existence that locals can tell where others are from based on the shape of their hats.

If you’ve no time to take in the relaxed pace of local life, make your way back to Arequipa. On your way out, don’t forget to relax your weary limbs at the Calera hot springs.