Located in the middle of the Andes Mountains of Peru, you will find one of the most impressive scenic landscapes in Peru. We refer to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. This has an estimated depth of approximately twice that of the Grand Canyon. The different landforms on offer are quite a spectacle to behold. You can relax in one of the most peaceful places in our country. But the scenic landscapes are not the only thing that awaits you within these Peruvian corners. You will also find many other wonders to experience such as Colca hot springs and much more. And for this reason, together with the Machu Travel Peru team, we have prepared an article where we explain the different Colca Canyon facts. So you can learn a little more about this wonderful Peruvian destination.
The most important facts about the Colca Canyon
- Canyon location
- Popular destination
- Overwhelming depth
- Home of the Andean condor
- Cultural history
- Adventure activities
CANYON LOCATION
The Colca Canyon is located in the middle of the Peruvian Andes. More precisely about 160 kilometers northwest of the city of Arequipa, one of the best tourist sites in Peru. You can get there in about 3 hours and 45 minutes if you choose to travel by bus. It is a quite pleasant journey and you will be able to appreciate wonderful natural settings and pre-Inca agricultural terraces. The agricultural terraces are still used by local farmers. They continue to practice the traditional way of life. Also, if you enjoy the cultural stops, you will find many things to see along the journey. Like magnificent churches and colonial cities where you can enjoy a delicious lunch.
POPULAR DESTINATION
The Colca Canyon is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Peru. With its growing popularity, in 2010 it received more than 160,000 visitors. Even in the following years, there was a growing public seeking to enjoy the landscapes. You will have options of tours and adventure activities for those who want it. But if you are a more relaxed tourist, in the surroundings you will find a wide variety of luxury hotels where you can relax. The options are many and varied, making it an excellent place to enjoy a family vacation. It is one of the best things to do in Arequipa after having toured the city.
OVERWHELMING DEPTH
The Colca Canyon is considered one of the deepest canyons in the world. Getting to duplicate in-depth the renowned and popular Grand Canyon. It has an approximate depth of 4,160 meters, although the measurements can be a bit misleading. Despite this, it is considered the second deepest Canyon in Peru after the Cotahuasi Canyon. From the different viewpoints available you will be able to be surprised by the views that this magnificent place offers. It is one of the geological phenomena that must be visited in Peru. Be sure to enjoy a Colca Canyon tour, where you can enjoy a large number of viewpoints and colonial towns. Or also start the trek, wherein a few days you will have wonderful views and visits to the most important regions of the place.
HOME OF THE ANDEAN CONDOR
One of the best-known facts about Colca Canyon is about the animals that live in it. This beautiful Canyon offers one of the most essential ecosystems for a large number of animal species. Among them llamas, guanacos, alpacas, and even pumas. But the animal that takes all the leading role is the Andean Condor. One of the many endangered species that inhabit our country. The Andean Condor is the largest flying bird in the world. Its wingspan can reach up to 3 meters. It is very easy to spot these magnificent birds in flight within the corners of the Canyon. In the different viewpoints available, you will have the possibility of watching the flight of the Colca Canyon condors.
CULTURAL HISTORY
Peru has a rich history in different nuances. And one of its most emblematic times was that of the Inca Empire. One of the largest empires of the ancient world, reaching many countries in South America. And the Incas usually get all the credit when it comes to agricultural technologies. But the truth is found in the different pre-Inca cultures that inhabited the Colca Canyon. These early civilizations were responsible for acquiring the many techniques that today represent the Inca Empire. Such as the agricultural terraces, a clear invention of the cultures that inhabited the surroundings of the Canyon. The Collaguas and Cabanas were the groups that innovated in this regard.
ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
One of the strengths of the Colca Canyon is its many and diverse activities. From hiking trails, guided tours, rock climbing, mountain biking, and even rafting in the Colca Canyon. The Canyon is ideal for the practice of adventure sports. So if you are looking to feel more than vertigo to appreciate the views of the Canyon, this is your place. You will find a great availability of packages and scheduled tours to enjoy. If you wish, you can check with a tourism agency and find out about the available tours. It is advisable to enjoy these between December to March, one of the best seasons to visit the Colca Canyon.
“LIFE IS SUPPOSED TO BE A SERIES OF PEAKS AND VALLEYS. THE SECRET IS TO KEEP THE VALLEYS FROM BECOMING CANYONS.”
As you will see, the Colca Canyon is one of those destinations that you cannot miss for anything on your trip to Peru. Whether you are looking to enjoy a large number of activities or relax in some hot springs, you will have unforgettable moments. Let yourself be enchanted by this wonderful destination with us, the Machu Travel Peru team. If you want to know more about the different tours around the Colca Canyon, be sure to consult with our advisors. They will be happy to help you fulfill the trip of your dreams. Peru is much more than Machu Picchu, so we would love for you to visit this wonderful place.
