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Cotahuasi Canyon traditional 4 days

  • Discover the Cotahuasi Canyon, the deepest canyon on Earth. Enjoy a breathtaking 4-day expedition that will guide you through untamed landscapes, roaring waterfalls, therapeutic hot springs, and colonial villages frozen in time. Embark on an unforgettable journey full of mysticism and pure nature with Inca World Travel!
  • 4 days / 3 nights

    Culture/History, Trekking/Hiking

    Departures: On request

    Physical level:  

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Cotahuasi Canyon traditional 4 days


Our 4-day Cotahuasi Canyon tour is the ultimate route for trekkers, geology buffs, and cultural travelers. Known as the "Canyon of Wonders" due to its overwhelming natural beauty, this remote destination is twice as deep as the USA's Grand Canyon, offering an authentic experience completely free from mass tourism.

Throughout this trek, you will traverse 12 different ecosystems, climbing from warm, fruit-bearing valleys to dramatic viewpoints guarded by towering volcanoes. You will witness the raw power of the Sipia Waterfall, soothe your muscles in the medicinal thermal baths of Luicho, and hike amidst the giant cacti of Judiopampa. Furthermore, you will marvel at ancient Andean agricultural engineering as you walk past massive pre-Inca terraces where native crops like quinoa, kiwicha, and corn are still harvested today.

Immerse yourself in the deepest and most spectacular landscape on the planet with the safety, expert guides, and flawless logistics that only Inca World Travel can guarantee.

 


Day 1: Arequipa – Majes Valley – Cotahuasi Town

05:00 AM – Hotel Pick-up and Departure: We will pick you up from your hotel in Arequipa to begin our trip in private transport toward the province of La Unión.

Majes Valley & Toro Muerto Route: Along the way, we will cross the fertile Majes Valley, where we will stop for lunch and take a close look at the famous Toro Muerto petroglyphs. We will then continue climbing winding Andean roads featuring spectacular views of the snow-capped volcanoes.

Arrival in Cotahuasi: By late afternoon, we will arrive at the picturesque town of Cotahuasi (2,680 m s. n. m). Dinner and overnight stay at a local hotel.

Exploring Traditional Villages: After breakfast, we depart for the village of Taurisma, crossing the Cotahuasi River over an exciting suspension bridge surrounded by ancient cedar trees. Next, we will visit Tomepampa and Alca, beautiful towns renowned for their colonial architecture, sillar arches, and intact agricultural customs.

Inca Trail Hike in Cahuana: We will hike up an ancient Inca stone staircase toward the community of Cahuana, an exceptional viewpoint surrounded by majestic pre-Inca terraces.

Relaxation at Luicho Hot Springs: We will transfer to the thermal baths of Luicho to enjoy a delicious local lunch and soak in its relaxing, mineral-rich medicinal pools—ideal for restoring your energy. Return and overnight stay in Cotahuasi.

The Canyon's Gorge & Sipia Waterfall: Breakfast and departure to the deepest section of the Cotahuasi Canyon, passing through the beautiful countrysides of Colcan and Piro. We will arrive at the stunning Sipia Waterfall, a spectacular $150\text{-meter}$ ($492\text{ ft}$) free-falling drop of water that breaks forcefully against the canyon walls.

Judiopampa Cactus Forest: We will begin a downhill hike toward the Judiopampa Cactus Forest, home to giant cardon cacti reaching up to 12 meters in height and a rich habitat for local wildlife.

Cultural Afternoon in Velinga: Arrival at the warm village of Velinga for lunch. We will spend the afternoon exploring the mystical ruins of Ayahuasi, the valley's fruit orchards, and the local eco-museum. To wrap up the day, we will visit the "Valle Bello" winery to enjoy a tasting of artisan organic wine. Overnight stay at a homestay in Velinga.

Hike and Final Views of Cotahuasi: After breakfast, we take a short 30-minute walk to board our transport back to Cotahuasi for a farewell lunch.

Chaquicocha Lagoon and Bell Tower: Before leaving, we will tour Cotahuasi’s best-kept secrets: the Chaquicocha Lagoon, colonial churches, historic manors, and the ancient Santa Ana Bell Tower.

06:00 PM – Journey Back: We will begin our drive back to the White City of Arequipa, arriving at approximately 03:00 AM the following morning (direct drop-off at your hotel).

  PREMIUM SERVICE

  • Private tourist transportation
  • Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
  • Specialized trekking guide (Spanish and/or English)
  • 3 nights of accommodation
  • First aid kit
  • Entrance to Cotahuasi Canyon
  • Camping and cooking equipment
  • Water and snacks
  • Tips
  • Meals not specified
  • Entrance to the Luicho hot springs

  Recommendations

  • Prepare for High Altitudes: While the town of Cotahuasi sits at a very comfortable altitude ($2,680\text{ m}$), the mountain pass on the road from Arequipa peaks at over $4,500\text{ m}$ ($14,760\text{ ft}$). We highly recommend drinking hot coca tea or taking soroche (altitude) pills before departing.

  • Pack for Two Seasons: The weather here features extreme contrasts. During the day, the canyon sun is intense (bring short-sleeve shirts, a hat, and SPF 50+ sunscreen), but at night, temperatures plummet drastically, making a thermal or fleece jacket absolutely essential.

  • Embrace a Digital Detox: Due to its rugged geography and remote location, cellular service is extremely limited or completely nonexistent along several sections of the trek and within the villages. Use this trip to completely disconnect.

  • Sturdy Trekking Boots Are Mandatory: The trails in Cotahuasi are rocky, steep, and covered in loose dirt. Do not attempt this route with flat city sneakers; high-quality hiking boots or trekking shoes with mid-to-high ankle support and deep-tread outsoles are required.


  What to bring

  • Insect Repellent
  • Swimsuit
  • Light Clothing & Warm Layers
  • Hiking Shoes
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen

  Plan your trip


Leave the typical and enter the unforgettable. Design your own adventure and discover Peru at your own pace, just as you always dreamed.


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Cotahuasi Canyon traditional 4 days

4 days / 3 nights

Culture/History, Trekking/Hiking

Departures: On request

P. Level:  



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Pre-arrival deposits are required for tours in order to reserve tickets, entrances, and lodging. The amount may vary but is generally around 50% and can be paid in a variety of methods depending on your location. These methods include payment by credit card, PayPal, bank transfer, and Western Union.
If you are interested in only a segment of a tour package, it is more recommendable to reserve individual day tours and transport, or to request one of our tour specialists to create a custom itinerary for you. (Read our terms and conditions)
The only restriction is that you must be at least 18 years old if you are traveling independently, otherwise you must be traveling with an adult. There is no upper age limit, but please disclose any health or mobility concerns so that we can ensure that your trip is as comfortable and pleasurable as possible.
Any cancelation or change of services should be requested in writing, via email to the specialist making your arrangements. Regardless, it is important to remember that there exist cancelation and modification policies for each program, for which we invite you to review the general terms and conditions.

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