Arequipa, Colca valley
Arequipa, the second largest city in Peru, located at an altitude of 2360 m at the foot of the Misti volcano (5500 m), is known as the «white city». The name comes from the sillar, the white rock of volcanic origin common in the area, which was used in the construction of many of the city's important structures, and its white color defines the city's appearance.
The pleasant climate, paired with the beauty of the city and the surrounding area with the towering volcano Misti as well as the excellent typical dishes (stuffed rocoto, cuy and a variety of soups) guarantee a pleasant stay in Arequipa.
In a four-hour drive, the Colca Valley is reached, a deeply incised valley that characterizes one of the most impressive landscapes with the surrounding, still active volcanoes and the terraces for agricultural use created by the ancestral inhabitants of the Collaguas and Cabanas on the steep slopes.
Numerous archaeological remains testify to a lively life in the region even before the conquest by the Spaniards, but the colonial period had also exerted a strong influence, which can be seen in the pretty churches in the villages of the Colca. In the heights surrounding the valley, alpacas in particular are bred to obtain the coveted wool.
The «Cruz del Cóndor» viewpoint offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Colca Valley. from which the condor can also be observed during its flight in the early morning.
Travel programs:
PTW-AQP001
Half a day
Guided tour through the city:
main square, cathedral, Jesuite church, Santa Catalina
Convent, Yanahuara observation point.
PTW-AQP002
Surroundings of ArequipaHalf a day
Visit to the surroundings of Arequipa with the «Sabandía Mill» and the «Mansión del Fundador».
PTW-AQP003
Combined city and surroundingsHalf a day
Guided tour of the city with the main square, cathedral, Jesuit church, Santa Catalina and visit to the surroundings of Arequipa with the «Sabandía Mill» and the «Mansión del Fundador».
PTW-AQP004
Colca valley2 days
Drive from Arequipa through «Pampa Cañahuas», «Sumbay», «Vizcachani», «Chukura» and «Parapampa» to «Chivay». Overnight in Chivay. Observation of the condors and the Colca Valley from the Cruz del Conder viewpoint. Return to Arequipa or continue to Puno.
PTW-AQP005
Sillar Quarry1 day
Using hammer, iron rod and chisel, blocks of Sillar stone are broken out of the 30 m high cliff.
PTW-AQP006
Toro Muerto and Querullpa rock carvings1 day
With different techniques are different motives like plants, animals, anthropomorphic beings and geometric shapes incorporated into the stones.
PTW-AQP007
Wetland Lagunas de Mejia1 day
This wetland is a refuge and resting place for migratory birds. Here many native bird species meet with migratory birds, a total of about 180 bird species.
For more tours that include Arequipa see Roundtrips.
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