The Southern Andes and Lake Titicaca
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1. Colca Canyon
CanyonFlying overhead, you can't miss the green, fertile trough as it cuts through the barren terrain, but it's all an illusion; only scrub brush and cactus cling to the canyon's sheer basalt sides and miles of ancient terraces. The canyon is named for the stone warehouses (colcas) used to store grain by an ancient culture that lived along the walls of the gorge.Carved into the foothills of the snow-covered Andes and sliced by the silvery Río Colca, Colca Canyon is 3,182 meters (10,440 feet) deep. The more adventurous can embark on a hike into the canyon—typically a two-, three-, or five-day excursion. Bird lovers (and anyone with a penchant for amazement) can visit the Cruz del Condor, currently home to 38-odd animals. Culture seekers can spend a night with a native family. Light hikers and archaeology aficionados can observe points along the rim, and those seeking pure relaxation can hit one of the all-inclusive lodges that offer horseback riding and thermal baths.
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2. Cruz del Condor
Cruz del Condor is a haunt for the giant birds, particularly at dawn, when they soar on the thermal currents rising from the deep valley. At 1,200 meters (3,937 feet), the "condor cross" precipice, between the villages of Pinchollo and Cabanaconde, is the best place to spot them. From June to August, you're likely to see close to 20 or more condors during a morning visit. By October and November, many of the female birds are nesting, so your chances of eyeing flocks are slim, though you'll likely spot a few birds. It is possible to take a taxi or bus to the Cruz del Condor from Chivay, but if you take a tour from there, your guide will likely only speak Spanish. If you want a guided tour in English, you will need to set this up with a tour operator ahead of time in Arequipa or Cusco. If you overnight in Cabanaconde or Chivay, you can also visit the Mirador before the sun sets. It's when the condors return to their nests, and you'll have the place all to yourself.
Chivay, Arequipa, Peru -
3. Church of the Inmaculada Concepción
Religious Building/Site/ShrineBuilt in Mestizo-baroque style, this important 17th-century church, with its Latin cross and detached chapels, dominates one side of Yanque's Plaza de Armas. Its facade, which has been undergoing restoration, is one of the best in the Colca Valley, featuring Ashlar stone that is richly decorated in high relief.
Plaza de Armas, Yanque, Arequipa, Peru054- 203–010 -
4. La Calera Hot Springs
Hot SpringOften included in tours leaving from Arequipa, a visit to Chivay's hot springs is perfect to enjoy the canyon's narrow slopes alfresco while soaking in naturally heated pools. The setting is relaxing, and locks are provided to secure your gear and bags. It's a 3-km (1.86-mile) walk from Plaza de Armas or a quick colectivo ride (S/1) from the square.
Chivay, Arequipa, PeruSight Details
Rate Includes: S/15 -
5. Uyo Uyo Ruins
RuinsWhether on foot or on horseback, a visit to the ruins of this pre-Columbian stone village makes for a perfect half-day trip from Yanque. Uyo Uyo, which sits on a hillside overlooking the canyon valley and a crown of snowcapped mountains, was a pre-Inca village attributed to the Collagua people of the region. It was later occupied by the Incas and destroyed by Spanish conquistadores to force the natives to move to Yanque. The ruins are within walking distance of the Colca Lodge, only 800 meters (2,625 feet) from the main road up a winding footpath; they can also be reached directly from Yanque in two or three hours following a well-marked trail via Sifon Bridge. Uphill from the ruins is a waterfall that stems from the glaciers of Nevado Misti. The visitor center next to the beginning of the 15-minute trek to the ruins collects a S/5 entry fee.
Yanque, Arequipa, Peru -
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