Flight of the Condors at Colca Canyon

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After a long weekend of relaxing in Cuzco after Machu Picchu we took an overnight bus to Arequipa, a 10 hour journey south. We were here to organise a tour to Colca Canyon to see the condors that it is famous for. Arequipa itself is a pleasant city. Sitting at an altitude of 2380m it enjoys spring like weather all year round. The central Plaza de Armas and surrounding streets are attractive and a good place stay, have drinks, or grab something to eat.

The trip to Colca Canyon was excellent. An early start on day one and a bit of bumping around in the mini bus but once there it made for a challenging and interesting trek. The sky was full of condors at the main view point Cruz Del Condor. We stood for almost an hour watching them early on the first morning, the best time to view them. We then enjoyed a 2 day trek within the canyon itself visiting the communities, staying a night in a local village, and getting some excellent relaxation time in the canyon oasis. The climb from 2000m at the base of the canyon to the top at 3300m was hard going but rewarding. We enjoyed several beers after completing that one!

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Photos

Into the canyon
the long walk down

Condors
at Cruz del Condor

Colca Canyon
a 1300m descent

Condors
at Cruz del Condor

A bit of traffic
Passing some locals on our way down

Team Colca Canyon
Jonty, Louise, Shane, Lorraine, Jessica and Brian

Colca Canyon
with the Oasis in the distance

Rest stop
at the bridge over the Rio Colca

Mule anyone?
Available for hire for the way back up these two looked on rather anxiously

The Oasis
a welcome sight and great place for a swim

The Oasis
very inviting after a long day trekking

Colca Canyon
´back a bit, a bit more...´

Canyon contemplations
but just for the photo, it´s a sheer drop either side!

Safe and sound back in the pub
and a few celebratory beers

At 4500m
Volcanos on the way back to Arequipa

4500m
The little piles of stones are ´wishes´

Comments

[Karen]

Wonderful
Another set of fabulous photos and a great description of your visit. Thank you!