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Arequipa & Colca Canyon Guide: White City & Condors 2025

Complete Arequipa and Colca Canyon guide. Learn about the White City, condor viewing, hiking, tours, and practical information.

Arequipa is called the "White City" because of its beautiful white volcanic stone buildings. It's one of Peru's most beautiful old colonial cities. Located in southern Peru, Arequipa is where you start your trip to Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons and home to the amazing Andean condor. This guide tells you about both Arequipa city and Colca Canyon, including helpful travel information.

What Is Arequipa, Peru? The White City Guide

Historic Center

Arequipa's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful old colonial buildings made from white volcanic stone (called sillar). The Plaza de Armas is one of Peru's most beautiful squares, surrounded by the Cathedral and old colonial buildings.

Plaza de Armas and Cathedral
Santa Catalina Monastery (you must visit this)
Old colonial buildings and churches
Yanahuara viewpoint for great city views

UNESCO: Arequipa Historic Center

What Is Colca Canyon? Deepest Canyon in the World

Cruz del Cóndor

The most popular place to see condors in Colca Canyon. Condors are most active in the early morning (6am to 9am), using warm air currents to fly high above the canyon.

Best time: Early morning (6am to 9am)
Condor viewing: Most active during morning hours
Depth: Canyon is over 3,000 meters deep
How to get there: 3 to 4 hours from Arequipa by bus

Colca Canyon Hiking

Colca Canyon has challenging but amazing hiking opportunities. The most popular route goes down into the canyon to the Oasis, then back up the next day. This is a hard hike that needs good fitness and getting used to the altitude.

Difficulty: Hard (steep going down and up)
Time: Usually 2 to 3 days
Altitude: Up to 4,900 meters at the highest points
Best for: Fit, experienced hikers

How to Visit Colca Canyon

Tour Options

Day trip: Very long (12 hours or more), includes condor viewing, but very rushed
2-day tour: Best option, includes staying overnight, condor viewing, and time to explore
3-day tour: Lets you hike into the canyon or explore more slowly
Travel on your own: You can go by bus, but organized tours are easier

Transportation:

Buses: Cruz del Sur | Oltursa | See our transportation guide for more options

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Arequipa and Colca Canyon: Practical Information

Altitude

Arequipa: 2,335 meters (7,661 feet)
Colca Canyon: Up to 4,900 meters (16,076 feet)
Get used to the altitude before doing hard activities
Watch for altitude sickness symptoms

CDC: Altitude Sickness Info

Best Time to Visit

Dry season: May to September (best weather)
Wet season: October to April (rain possible)
Condor viewing: All year, best in dry season
Busiest season: June to August

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arequipa famous for?

Arequipa is famous for its white volcanic stone buildings (which is why it's called the "White City"), old colonial buildings, Colca Canyon (one of the world's deepest canyons), and seeing condors. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How do I get to Colca Canyon from Arequipa?

You can get to Colca Canyon from Arequipa by bus or organized tour. The trip takes 3 to 4 hours by bus to Chivay (entrance town) or Cabanaconde (hiking base). Organized tours are easier and usually include transportation, a guide, and a place to stay. Day trips are possible but very long (12 hours or more).

What is the best time to see condors in Colca Canyon?

The best time to see condors in Colca Canyon is early morning (6am to 9am) at the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. Condors are most active during these hours, using warm air currents to fly high. The dry season (May to September) has the best weather and visibility.

How many days do I need for Arequipa and Colca Canyon?

For Arequipa city, 1 to 2 days is enough to see the historic center and main attractions. For Colca Canyon, plan for 2 to 3 days: one day for travel and condor viewing, and more days if you want to hike into the canyon. At least 3 to 4 days total is best for both.

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