Considered to be one of the deepest canyons in the world, Colca can only be reached overland - a five hour journey from Arequipa along a road that is only paved along some sections. Given the distance of the canyon from the city of Arequipa it is advisable to make the trip over two days, although it is possible to visit Colca in one day.

Considered to be one of the deepest canyons in the world, Colca can only be reached overland - a five hour journey from Arequipa along a road that is only paved along some sections. Given the distance of the canyon from the city of Arequipa it is advisable to make the trip over two days, although it is possible to visit Colca in one day.

The road climbs up to the Cañahuas plain, a wildlife reserve where it is possible to see vicuñas and, Occasionally, the much rarer guanaco. The scenery at the canyon is truly breathtaking. Hundreds of Inca agricultural terraces are still used by local farmers, and life in the valley has changed very little over the centuries. For millions of years the Colca River has been eroding its path to form the canyon. Along its course the river changes its name five times.

At its source it is known as the Paco Paco, until it becomes the Chilamayo for about 12 km, the Colca for about 25 km, then the Majes for a further 60 km, before it becoming the Camaná for the last 45 km of its course before it reaches the Pacific Ocean.

The river drops an average of 950 m every 45 km. The most spectacular point is the place known as Cruz of Condor, about 60 km from Chivay. As its name suggests, this is a perfect place to see condors as they rise on thermal air currents in the morning and afternoon. At Cruz of Condor the river lies an incredible 1200 m below. It is known that the Incas reached the valley in the 15th century, but they never really conquered it.

The Spanish, too, never managed to establish themselves permanently in Colca. Today, however, tourism is slowly conquering the valley, as it becomes Arequipa's most important attraction. Although Colca can be visited in one day, we recommend that travellers take at least two days in order to fully appreciate the trip. The base for excursions to Colca is the village of Chivay, a typical Andean village with a number of small hotels and hostals which, although simple, are comfortable.