Peru Holidays: Cotahuasi Canyon trekking and hiking adventure holiday - Arequipa

The Cotahuasi Canyon is one of the most spectacular canyons in Peru and the world. Actually, it is the deepest known canyon in the world (3354 m deep), deeper than the Colca Canyon, which was long considered the deepest. Although really, spectacular, it is virtually unknown to modern man. The lower canyon has and abundance of archaeological sites and is an excellent place to study the geography and fauna and flora of the Andes.

Day 1: Arequipa - Cotahuasi
From Arequipa, we drive north along the Pan-American Highway, towards the province of Castilla. The road goes through the Majes valley, passing the little villages of Corire and Aplao (where the paved road finishes) and continues uphill to the City of Chuquibamba. Along the way, we admire the beautiful landscapes with the volcano Coropuna. While ascending to 4500 m/14760 ft we discover the volcano Solimana and observe highland wildlife such as the Vicuna, Huanaco, Vizcacha, Andean fox, Andean deer call Tarucas, and highland birds, including the Andean Condor. Late afternoon, we arrive in Cotahuasi. Overnight in basic lodge (L D).

Day 2: Cotahuasi - Hot Springs at Luicho (hike)
Early morning, we continue our journey through the Valley of Cotahuasi, stopping at the traditional towns of Alca, Tomepampa, and Toro and the Hot Springs of Luicho, Overnight at basic lodge in Luicho (B L D).

Day 3: Cotahuasi - Sipia Falls (hike)
We hike through the Cotahuasi Canyon to the famous waterfalls of Sipia and enjoy the spectacular views of the canyon surround by high mountains. The trail follows the side of the Cotahuasi River, passing many times from one side to another by hanging bridges used only by local people. From the deepness of the canyon, we admire the colossal natural walls of one of the world deepest canyons. We discover a great variety of Andean wildlife, including the majestic Andean Condor. Overnight at basic lodge (B L D).

Day 4: Cotahuasi - Arequipa
Today we return to Arequipa, visiting the natural rock formation known as "The Castle" and the pre Inca site of "Toro Muerto" on the way. We arrive in Arequipa late in the afternoon (B L).

Rated: Moderate.

Included: Private transportation from Arequipa to Cotahuasi and back, accommodation in basic lodges, meals as mentioned, professional trekking guides.

Not included: Meals not mentioned