How to Plan Your Tour in the Colca Canyon with a Horseback Ride in Chivay

If you’re visiting Chivay, Peru, you should definitely plan a unique tour that includes horseback riding. The Colca Canyon tour is an excellent choice for those who enjoy beautiful landscapes, authentic animals, and comfortable hotels. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of planning your tour in the Colca Canyon with a horseback ride.

Experience

During this two-day, one-night trip in the Colca Canyon, you’ll experience the following:

Discover Andean Mountains on a Peruvian Paso Horse

Paso horses are known for their comfortable ride, which is ideal for traversing uneven terrain. You’ll catch sight of the beautiful Andean mountains with breathtaking scenery while riding a horse.

Admire One of the Deepest Canyons in the World

The Colca Canyon is one of the world’s deepest canyons, featuring a unique landscape and beautiful scenery. You’ll get to admire the magnificent views of the canyon while also learning about its history and significance.

Enjoy Nature and Animals: Pre-Inca Terraces, Andes Condors, Lama, Alpaca…

Apart from the amazing canyon views, you’ll get to enjoy nature and observe a variety of animals such as lamas, alpacas, and Andes condors. The tour includes pre-Inca terraces, where you will witness the archaeological marvels of the Andean mountains.

Spend the Night in a Very Nice and Comfortable Hotel

You’ll enjoy a comfortable night’s rest in a beautiful hotel in a typical Andean village. The hotel features all modern amenities, guaranteeing a comfortable and memorable stay.

Highlights

Now that you know what to expect from this tour, let’s take a look at some highlights:

• Experience breathtaking views of the Andean mountains.
• Ride an authentic Paso horse.
• Observe authentic Andean animals such as lamas, alpacas, and Andes condors.
• Visit pre-Inca terraces with archaeological marvels.
• Sleep in a beautiful and comfortable hotel in a typical Andean village.

Full Description

Now, let’s take a deeper look at what the tour entails.

Day 1

You’ll be picked up between 7:40 and 8:10 AM at your hotel in downtown Arequipa by mini-bus. A bilingual guide will lead the group, speaking both English and Spanish. You’ll take the route to the Colca Valley and Canyon, crossing the “Salinas and Aguada Blanca” Natural Reserve, where you will watch vicunas, alpacas, and llamas. You’ll stop several times on the way to enjoy the scenery and take memorable photos. You’ll then continue to the town of Chivay, which is located 3,651 meters above sea level. Once you reach Chivay, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the hot springs of “La Calera” to relax and unwind. Then, you’ll head back to your comfortable hotel located in a picturesque village typical of the Andean region.

Day 2

The next morning, you’ll wake up early to start your horse riding tour in the Colca Canyon, which is one of the world’s deepest canyons. Your bilingual guide will lead you as you traverse the canyon, stopping at various points to observe the flora and fauna, as well as the pre-Inca terraces. You’ll also see the majestic flight of Andes condors, which is a unique experience that you won’t forget. After your horseback ride, you’ll return to Chivay to enjoy an authentic Andean lunch at a local restaurant before taking the bus back to Arequipa.

How to Book

Now that you know what to expect from this tour, you can book it online via GetYourGuide with the following link: book the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

In summary, planning a tour in the Colca Canyon with a horseback ride is an unforgettable experience. You’ll see breathtaking landscapes, encounter authentic Andean animals, learn about pre-Inca terraces, and sleep in a comfortable hotel. With the right preparation, you’ll have a unique and memorable trip to Chivay that you’ll cherish forever.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chivay

Chivay is a beautiful town located in the Colca Valley of Peru. The region is famous for its breathtaking scenery, ancient Incan and pre-Incan ruins, and outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and rafting. If you are planning on visiting Chivay anytime soon, here are answers to some frequently asked questions that will help make your trip more enjoyable.

1. Where is Chivay located?

Chivay is situated in the Colca Canyon, which is the second deepest canyon in the world. It is located approximately 160 km northwest of Arequipa, the second largest city in Peru. The town sits at an altitude of 3,635 meters above sea level, making it a popular spot for travelers who want to experience the high Andes.

2. How do I get to Chivay?

The most common way to get to Chivay is by bus from Arequipa. The journey takes about four hours and you can usually book your ticket from your hotel or a travel agency in Arequipa. If you prefer a private transfer, you can arrange for a taxi or a private car to take you to Chivay.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Chivay?

One of the main attractions is the Colca Canyon, which is a must-see destination for any traveler to the region. In addition to the canyon, you can also visit the Cruz del Condor viewpoint where you can see the Andean condors in flight, the La Calera hot springs, and the ancient ruins of the Collaguas and Cabanas cultures.

4. What is the weather like in Chivay?

Chivay has a dry and temperate climate with an average temperature of 16°C during the day and 4°C at night. The warmest months are from October to December, with temperatures reaching up to 22°C during the day. The coldest months are from June to August when temperatures can drop below freezing at night.

5. What outdoor activities are available in Chivay?

The Colca Valley is a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting. Some popular hikes include the Colca Canyon trek, which takes you through the heart of the canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Bird watching is another popular activity in the region, with more than 100 bird species to be spotted.

6. What is the local cuisine in Chivay?

The local cuisine in Chivay is a mix of Andean and Spanish influences. Some popular dishes include rocoto relleno, a spicy stuffed pepper dish, and chupe de camarones, a shrimp chowder. You can also try alpaca meat, which is considered a delicacy in the region.

7. What should I pack for a trip to Chivay?

Because Chivay is located at high altitude, it is important to pack warm clothes, especially at night when temperatures can drop below freezing. You should also bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun during the day. If you plan on doing some outdoor activities, you should pack comfortable hiking shoes and a small backpack to carry water and snacks.

8. Is it safe to travel to Chivay?

Chivay is generally a safe place to travel, but you should take precautions to ensure your safety. Keep your valuables close to you and be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. If you plan on hiking or trekking, it is recommended to go with a guide to ensure your safety.

9. Where can I stay in Chivay?

There are many accommodation options in Chivay, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some popular options include Colca Lodge, Casa Andina Standard Colca, and La Posada del Colca. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel season.

10. What is the best time to visit Chivay?

The best time to visit Chivay is from May to September when the weather is dry and sunny. The months of October to December are also a good time to visit, as it is the flowering season in the region. Avoid visiting during the rainy season from January to April, as road conditions can be treacherous and many tourist sites may be closed.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chivay

Chivay is a beautiful city in Peru situated at an altitude of 3600 meters. It is the capital of the Caylloma province and is famous for its beautiful landscapes, natural hot springs, and cultural festivals. If you are planning to visit Chivay, then we have some suggestions for you to make your visit a memorable experience. Here is a guide that will help you to spend your time as a tourist in Chivay:

1. Visit the Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon is one of the main attractions of Chivay. It is one of the deepest canyons in the world and is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States. The canyon is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including llamas, alpacas, vicunas, and condors. The best way to explore the canyon is by hiking or by taking a tour. The hiking trails in the canyon offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

2. Explore the Town of Chivay

The town of Chivay has a charming colonial architecture that attracts many travelers. The town has many attractions, including the Plaza de Armas, the local market, and the San Antonio Church. The Plaza de Armas is a central square featuring a fountain, benches, and palm trees. The local market offers a range of souvenirs, textiles, handicrafts, and fresh produce, while the San Antonio Church is a beautiful colonial-era church with intricate artwork and carvings.

3. Enjoy the Natural Hot Springs

Chivay is well known for its natural hot springs, which are located in the surrounding area. The hot springs offer a relaxing experience and are perfect for those who want to unwind and rejuvenate. The hot springs are rich in minerals and are believed to have healing properties. Some of the popular hot springs in the area are La Calera, La Gruta, and Termas de Chacapi.

4. Attend the Festival of the Crosses

The Festival of the Crosses is a popular cultural festival celebrated in Chivay every year in May. The festival is a mix of indigenous and Christian traditions and is a colorful event featuring dancing, music, and processions. The festival is celebrated over three days and is a popular event for locals and tourists alike.

5. Try the Local Cuisine

Chivay has a rich culinary heritage, and the local cuisine is a must-try. Some of the popular dishes in the area are rocoto relleno, which is stuffed chili with meat and vegetables, and cuy chactado, which is a crispy fried guinea pig. The area is also famous for its alpaca meat, which is tender and flavorful. You can try these dishes at local restaurants and food stalls.

6. Take a Tour of the Pre-Inca Terraces

The pre-Inca terraces are an impressive engineering feat that dates back to the 14th century. The terraces were built to enable agriculture in the area and have an intricate irrigation system that is still in use today. A tour of the terraces provides a glimpse into the local history and culture and is a must-do activity for those interested in archeology and history.

Book Your Tour Now

Chivay is a beautiful city that has something for everyone. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, there is something for you in Chivay. Use this guide to plan your visit and make the most out of your time in this beautiful city.