Is Colca Canyon the deepest canyon in the world?

Colca Canyon reaches approximately 3,270m at its deepest measured point, making it approximately twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. However, the nearby Cotahuasi Canyon (also in the Arequipa region) measures slightly deeper at approximately 3,535m at its deepest. Both are significantly deeper than the Grand Canyon (1,857m). The debate over which is 'deepest' depends on measurement method.

How do I see condors at Colca Canyon?

The Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint on the canyon rim is the most reliable location in Peru for Andean condor sightings. Condors catch thermal air currents to soar from the canyon floor — they are most active between 07:00 and 09:30 in the morning. Most 2-day tours from Arequipa are timed to reach Cruz del Cóndor before 09:00.

How difficult is the Colca Canyon trek?

The standard 2-day trek descending to the oasis at Sangalle (approximately 1,200m below the canyon rim) and ascending back the following morning is moderately difficult. The descent is steep and hard on knees; the ascent back to the rim (approximately 4 hours) is the hardest part. Good fitness is required. The altitude at the canyon rim (approximately 3,400m) requires prior acclimatisation.

Colca Canyon Trek: Descend One of the World's Deepest Gorges

Colca Canyon is one of the world’s most spectacular trekking destinations — a vast gorge flanked by pre-Inca terracing, traditional Colca Valley villages, and vertical rock walls that drop over 3,000m to the river below. At the canyon’s Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, Andean condors (the world’s largest flying bird by wingspan, at up to 3.3m) soar reliably on morning thermals. For most visitors, Colca Canyon combines a 2-day trek to the canyon oasis with condor watching — one of Peru’s most rewarding short adventures.

Getting to Colca Canyon

Colca Canyon is approximately 160km northwest of Arequipa (3.5–4 hours by road). The standard approach passes through the Mirador de los Volcanes (a viewpoint over the valley of volcanoes) and the altiplano at approximately 4,910m before descending to the canyon villages at approximately 3,600m.

Tour from Arequipa: Most visitors join a guided 2-day/1-night tour from Arequipa. Tours depart at approximately 03:00–04:00 from Arequipa to reach Cruz del Cóndor before 09:00. 2-day tours cost approximately USD 45–USD 80 per person from Arequipa as of 2026, not including the canyon entry fee.

Canyon entry fee: The Boleto Turístico del Colca (BTC) costs approximately S/40 as of 2026 and is valid for multiple days. Purchased at checkpoints on entry to the canyon zone.

Independent transport: Buses from Arequipa’s Terminal Terrestre to Chivay (the main canyon town) depart throughout the morning; approximately S/12–S/18, journey 3–4 hours. From Chivay, taxis and colectivos connect to the canyon viewpoints and trailheads.

The 2-Day Trek to Sangalle Oasis

The classic Colca Canyon trek descends from the canyon rim to the oasis at Sangalle (2,150m) — a cluster of pool-side lodges on the canyon floor — and returns the following morning.

Day 1: Cabanaconde to Sangalle (3–4 hours descent) The trek begins from the village of Cabanaconde (3,287m), one of the last villages on the canyon rim. A marked trail descends steeply to the canyon floor, passing the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint en route (if not already visited on arrival day). The Sangalle oasis has three small lodgeries with outdoor pools fed by natural springs. Accommodation approximately S/40–S/80 per person per night including basic meals as of 2026. Very basic facilities; no electricity until generator hours in the evening.

Day 2: Sangalle to Cabanaconde (3.5–4 hours ascent) The ascent back to the rim begins before dawn — most trekkers start at 04:00–05:00 to avoid the midday heat that makes the canyon floor suffocating in dry season. The path is relentlessly steep, gaining approximately 1,200m altitude. Allow 3.5–4.5 hours depending on fitness; rest frequently and carry at least 2 litres of water.

Condor Watching at Cruz del Cóndor

The Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint sits on the canyon rim at approximately 3,287m, approximately 45 minutes drive from Chivay. Andean condors launch from roosting ledges on the opposite canyon wall and catch rising thermal currents between approximately 07:00 and 09:30. In the peak months (May–October), 10–15 condors may be visible simultaneously.

The viewpoint is free (included in the Colca Canyon entry ticket). A small handicraft market operates at the site. The area can be crowded on busy days — arriving before 07:30 gives the best position.

Recommended Operators

Colca Trek (Arequipa) — Specialist Colca Canyon trekking operator with deep local knowledge. 2-day/1-night guided treks with the condor viewing from approximately USD 60–USD 80 per person as of 2026, including transport, guide, and lodgings in the oasis.

Naturaleza Activa (Arequipa) — Well-reviewed Arequipa operator offering 2-day and 3-day Colca packages including extensions to the deeper canyon floor and alternative trails. Tours from approximately USD 55–USD 75 per person as of 2026.

Browse Colca Canyon tours to compare operators and find availability for your dates.

Canyon Villages

Chivay is the main town in the Colca Valley (3,631m, approximately 100km from Arequipa). It has several decent hotels (approximately USD 40–USD 80 per night), restaurants, and a natural hot spring (La Calera, approximately S/15–S/20 entry) ideal for soaking after the canyon descent. Most overnight Colca tours stay in Chivay.

Cabanaconde is the furthest and most atmospheric canyon village (3,287m). Smaller, quieter, and the best base for the canyon descent. Accommodation approximately USD 20–USD 50 per night.

What to Bring

Plenty of water (3 litres minimum for the ascent day)
Trekking poles (strongly recommended for the steep descent and ascent)
Sun protection (the canyon floor gets intense afternoon heat)
Warm layers for the canyon rim and early morning starts (3,400m)
Light clothing for the canyon floor (warm at mid-day)
Snacks and energy food (the oasis stores charge significant premiums)
Head torch for the 04:00 ascent start

Best Season

May–October: Dry season. Best conditions for trekking and condor sightings. Mornings are clear; condors most active. November–April: Wet season. Some trails can be affected by rain and rockfall. Condors still present but afternoon views more cloud-affected.

The canyon is accessible year-round; the trek to Sangalle is manageable in wet season with appropriate gear, though some trails become slippery. For a comparable high-altitude trekking challenge closer to Cusco, see the Salkantay Trek guide.