Colca Valley

Four hours north of Arequipa the impressive Colca valley stretches out. En-route the ascent passes through the Chanhani slopes and crosses plains containing Ichu and Yareta (umbelliferous plants used as fuel) plants where alpacas and vizcachas graze. The highest point along the way is 4350 metres above sea level before then descending into the valley with beautiful surroundings made up of snowcapped peaks and terracing cut into the valley side. At a depth of 3400 metres flows the Colca River making the canyon one of the deepest in the world.

The valley also contains the archaeological remains of the Collagua, ancient inhabitants of the area, such as mysterious stones and caves where the colcas were kept or where grain was stored. Fourteen villages, all founded in the 16th century, are dotted along both sides of the river where the descendants of the Collagua spread through the area. Throughout the ages the villages have maintained many of their original features such as the outline of the streets, the highly ornate colonial churches and the traditional festivals.

The area is known for the fabrication of beautiful handcrafts such as rugs and embroidery (on skirts and blouses worn by the local women) in colourful designs, which are sometimes cut and reworked over tin.

About 40km from Chivay, the first of the villages along the way, you find an amazing natural look out point where the kings of the area, the condors, can be observed as they soar high above. Further away it is also possible to view the Coropuna and Ampato volcanoes. Several of the villages offer lodging and its also possible to camp and trek through the area which is perfect for adventure sports.

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