Colca Canyon Peru Guide: Tours, Hiking, Maps, Buildings, Facts and History

The Colca Canyon is a canyon of the Colca River in southern Peru. Colca Canyon is located over 160 kilometers northwest of Arequipa and the depth is about 33000 – 6600 feet. The bottom is at cca 2000 miles and the edges are 3000 – 4000 meters above sea level. The length of Colca Canyon is over 70 kilometers, and it is known as one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Colca pertains to small holes in the cliffs in the valley and canyon, while Canyon is a Spanish word for “cañon” which means narrow valley between cliffs. In addition, the name Canyon pertains to the ancient storerooms where the Incas kept their foods, such as corn and potatoes.

The storerooms were referred to as Colcas. According to the researchers, the Colca Canyon has formed about 150 million years ago. Colca Canyon originated because of the erosion of volcanic rock by the Colca River beside the fault line on the crust of the earth. The Colca River is within the Andes at the Condorama Crycero Alto flowing downstream. In 1931, the first scientific tour happened with George Johnson and Rober Shipee from the Geographical Society.

It was abandoned when the roads were constructed. One of the reasons for the abandonment of Colca Canyon is that it is a very seismic region. The canyon was rediscovered by a group of Polish and that was the beginning of the Colca River being popular. Moreover, Hiram Bingham, an American Explorer, explored and discovered the ruins of Machu Picchu and other Inca sites in Peru. In addition, Colca Canyon is the habitat of numerous animal species, including condor, llamas, guanacos, alpacas, and puma. Colca canyon is perfect for extreme sports and for agricultural purposes with its terraces that line its edges.

Visitors and tourists have 3 tour options, such as 1-day tour, 2 days and 1-night tour with or without hiking, and 3 days and 2 nights tour with hiking. Moreover, the climate in the Colca Canyon is usually cool and dry. The temperature in Colca Canyon ranges from 44 degrees Fahrenheit to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, the Colca Canyon is nearly 40 volcanoes, which means that it is a geologically active area.

The Colca Canyon is one of the best tourist spots in Peru because of its unique landscape, topography, terraces formed by the ancestors, and the condors around the area every morning. There are about 150,000 tourists every year to Colca Canyon. Furthermore, there are more than 15 churches located around Colca Canyon. These churches were created in the 17th century using volcanic stones, mud, and lime stuccoes. 

How is the Colca Canyon History?

The Incas arrived in Colca Valley around 1320 AD. The Cabanas from the Lake Titicaca region lived in the valley in the pre-Inca era. The Spaniards arrived in 1540 and the 1570s, the residents in the valley were commanded to leave and transfer to the settlements in a process known as “Reductions”.

Missionaries built chapels and churches. The first chapel was built in 1565, while the first church was in 1569. On the other hand, there is a tribe called “Los Collaguas” who lived in the higher area of Colca Valley. They buried the dead members of their tribe in the mountain and paint it red. The stains are still visible in the high part of the valley. The roads were established in the 1970s because there are no decent passages between Arequipa and Chivay.

The road was built by the Majes Hydroelectric Project. Its purpose is to transfer the water from the Colca River to water the crops in the Majes region. In 1931, the first scientific tour happened with George Johnson and Rober Shipee from the Geographical Society. In 1981, Andrzej Pietowski, started the expedition in the river and stated that it has the potential to become the deepest canyon in the world.

Colca Canyon became part of the Guinness Book of Record in 1984 as the deepest canyon in the world. On the other hand, there are books written about the Colca Canyon, entitled Comrades on the Colca by Eugene Buchanan and The People of the Colca Valley: A Population Study, written by Noble David Cook. Noble David Cook and Alexandra Parma Cook have been researching the Colca Valley since 1974. In January 1993, Colca Canyon was featured in National Geographic. 

Colca Canyon has astonishing views of striking terraces of the Inca Empire and enormous cliffs. A diversity of various landscapes are spotted, including the high peaks of the Andes mountains, wide and horizontal valley floors, and the ruins of the Inca Empire.

In addition, the Colca Canyon has three sections: upper, middle, and lower canyon. The walls of the Colca Canyon were made from volcanic rocks and different rocks including limestone, sandstone, and shale. There are trails available in Colca canyon perfect for hikers. The Colca River is perfect for rafting and kayaking. Mountain biking is popular in Colca Canyon.

In addition, Colca Canyon is important to the history of Latin America because of the Inca Empire, one of the largest empires of the ancient world. Incas, are often credited when it comes to agricultural innovations. The pre-Inca culture was found in the Colca Canyon, where early civilization happened, such as terraces.

The Incas grew varieties of crops and plants using vertical agriculture. Some plants have different planting and harvesting times. The terraces show the innovation of the Incas when it comes to the concept of vertical agriculture. The microclimate of the terraces enabled the Incas to grow different kinds of crops. Furthermore, the boundaries of the Colca Canyon are the Chila and Huanzo Cordilleras, where mining activities happened since colonial times. The road linking the Canyon to Arequipa was made to transport silver and copper.  

Is Colca Canyon Important for Peru History?

The Colca Canyon is important to Peru’s History because it shows the culture of the Incas in ancient times. Colca Canyon reminds the hardships and the innovative characteristics of the Incas in terms of agriculture. In addition, Colca Canyon is the second-deepest canyon in the world. The depth of the Colca Canyon is around 3,400 miles and is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Colca Canyon is a popular place to watch the Andean Condors. Andean Condor has a life span of approximately 60 o 70 years. The Amazon River is accessible from the Colca Valley via Tuti. 

Where is Colca Canyon Located?

Colca Canyon is situated in the district of Huambo in the Arequipa Region. The Colca canyon is a mountain located in the middle of the Andes mountain range. Mountain biking is popular in Colca Canyon. Colca River is the river falling through the canyon. The Colca River is perfect for rafting and kayaking. In addition, the Amazon River can be traveled from Lake Tuti. There is a lake near Colca Canyon, known as Lake Titicaca. Colca Canyon has various species of trees and plants such as queñua forests, ichu, bofedales, yaretas, cacti, tolares, and the raimondi puya. 

What are the coordinates of Colca Canyon?

The exact geographical coordinates of Colca Canyon are 15°35′50″S 71°52′45″W The latitude of Colca Canyon is -15.657435, and the longitude is -72.177154. It is formed by the Colca River and stretches to about 180 miles. 

What are the Tours for Colca Canyon?

There are various available tours in Colca Canyon for family, friends, or couples. Colca Canyon is safe to travel with or without a tour guide. The tours in Colca Canyon are available for the family and great option for traveling with kids. To visit Colca Canyon, there are two options to go: avail of an all-inclusive tour or go without a tour.

If with an organized tour, there are 3 options, such as a 1-day tour, 2 days and 1-night tour with or without hiking, and 3 days and 2 nights tour with hiking. If going without a tour, it is necessary to avail the Colca Tourist Ticket. The cost of a Colca Tourist Ticket for foreigners is $17.81 for adults and $5.09 for minors from 6 to 15 years old. For Latin Americans,  $10.18 for adults and $5.09 for a minor.

For Peruvians, $5.09 for adults and $1.27 for minors, pre-grade students, and senior citizens. The Colca Tourist Ticket allows visitors to tour the Colca Canyon, and even the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. In addition, the Colca Tourist Ticket has special prices. For foreign with more than 10 tourists, foreign tourists residing in Peru, and foreign volunteers in Auto Colca Jurisdiction, the cost of the ticket is $10.18. While the Peruvian driver tour with more than 10 tourists and tour guide assistants are able to purchase the ticket for $1.27.

However, the Colca Canyon offers free access for 0 to 5 years old, on-duty police officers, Peruvian tour guides, and Peruvian with disabilities. Those who were born or residing in the Jurisdiction of Auto Colca, and tour guides were permitted to work in the Colca Canyon, Salinas, and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. It is necessary to bring documentation or proof that the tourist is qualified for free access.

If preferred to travel alone and without availing of an organized Colca Canyon Tours, the budget for transportation, food, and accommodation must be prepared aside from Colca Tourist Ticket. Expect to spend around $150 USD per head if 3 days and two nights tour with hiking. Traveling with organized Colca Canyon Tours, the cost ranges from $30 to $100 a day, per head.

The cost of the Colca Canyon tour depends on the tour length, group size, and inclusions. In addition, the Colca Canyon tour can be done by trekking. For the 3-day tour, each day requires four to five hours of walking and trekking. 

What is the best season for visiting Colca Canyon?

Colca Canyon is possible to visit any time of the year, the best season to go is between March and June. The condors are most lively during that time and the paths are in good condition. Aside from that, March is the end of the rainy season. The dry season in Colca Canyon starts from May to November, with 18 degrees Celsius for daytime, while 4 degrees Celsius during nighttime. The wet season in Colca Canyon starts from January to March, with 16 degrees Celsius in the daytime, and 7 degrees Celsius during nighttime. The dry season offers clear skies and lots of sunshine, while the wet season gives muddy paths but gives a beautiful view of green canyons. 

What are the Hiking Routes for Colca Canyon?

There are three main hiking routes for Colca Canyon, these include Cabanaconde – Sangalle – Cabanaconde; Cabanaconde – San Juan de Chuccho – Sangalle – Cabanaconde; and Cabanaconde – Llahuar – Sangalle – Cabanaconde. These hiking routes depend on the length of the tour. The hiking route Cabanaconde – Sangalle – Cabanaconde is a 1-day hike. The hike starts and ends in Cabanaconde.

It is considered the shortest route, but it requires 6 to 8 hours to complete the hike. In Cabanaconde, Mirador Cruz de Condor, Tapay Viewpoint, Achachiwa viewpoint, Sepregina and Bomboya, Kallimarka, Hualca volcano, and Mukurka Lagoon are the attractions that can be seen. In Sangalle, it is possible to see a small oasis, swimming pools, and waterfalls.

It can be hiked for 2 days because the trail is tough and challenging. The second route is Cabanaconde – San Juan de Chuccho – Sangalle – Cabanaconde. It is a popular route and a realistic option to hike Colca Canyon. The hiking time is 8 to 12 hours, and it requires two days and one night to complete the hike.

San Juan de Chuccho is a village at the bottom of the valley. Terraces and the Colca River can be seen along hiking the route. The last route is the Cabanaconde – Llahuar – Sangalle – Cabanaconde. It is a route in the western loop of Colca Canyon. The route requires 10 to 12 hours of hiking and walking. The thermal baths in the Llahuar can be seen during the tour. The route can be completed in 3 days and 2 nights. It is known as the most challenging and longest route. 

What are the Closest Destinations to Colca Canyon?

Listed below are the closest destinations to Colca Canyon.

• Chivay: Chivay is a town in the Colca valley. Chivay is one of the villages near the Colca Canyon and has various thermal baths, hotels, and massage services. Most of the tourists stay in the houses and hotels in Chivay. There are several attractions in Chivay, including Chivay Main Plaza or Plaza de Armas, La Calera Thermal Waters, and Patapampa. 
• Yanque: Yanque is a village 20 miles from the Colca Canyon. The Colca Canyon can be traveled from Yanque. There are public hot springs in Yaque for tourists to relax. It has many accommodations available for tourists to stay and rest. They have campsites, guesthouses, and hotels. 
• Cabanaconde: Cabanaconde is a village in the Canyon. Cabanaconde is sited on the left of the Colca River. It has views of the Colca Canyon, including Mirador Cruz de Condor, Tapay Viewpoint, Achachiwa viewpoint, Sepregina and Bomboya, Kallimarka, Hualca volcano, and Mukurka Lagoon. 
• Arequipa: Arequipa is a city in Peru. Arequipa has various restaurants, bars, and cafés. The Santa Catalina Monastery, Juanita, and the Basilica Cathedral are located in Arequipa. 
• Thermal Baths in Llahuar: The village of Llahuar has lodges and thermal baths where tourists can spend their nights and relax. The thermal baths are located in the Colca River. 
• Sangalle Oasis: The Sangalle has an oasis, which is situated at the bottom of the Colca Canyon next to the Colca River. The oasis has gardens and natural pools. 

How to Get from Cusco to Colca Canyon?

Listed below is the guide on how to get from Cusco to Colca Canyon by riding a plane and taxi.

• Train Station Wanchaq to Cuzco Airport: Ride the shuttle from Train Station Wanchaq to Cuzco Airport. It takes 12 minutes to get to the airport. The fare ranges from $15 to $40. After arriving at the airport, transfer to Cuzco (CUZ).

• Cuzco to Arequipa: In Cuzco, book a flight going to Arequipa. It takes 56 minutes to get to Arequipa. The fare ranges from $35 to $130. 

• Arequipa to Colca Canyon: In Arequipa, ride a taxi going to Colca Canyon. It takes 4 hours and 17 minutes to get to Colca Canyon. The fare ranges from $45 to $55. 

Listed below is the guide on how to get from Cusco to Colca Canyon by riding a bus and taxi.

• Cusco to Chivay: From Cusco, ride a bus going to Chivay. It takes 9 hours and 45 minutes and the fare is $65. 

• Chivay to Colca Canyon: From Chivay, ride a taxi going to Colca Canyon. It takes 1 hour and 47 minutes and the fare ranges from $17 to $21. 

The distance between Arequipa and Colca Canyon is 166.3 kilometers. Ride a taxi to get to Colca Canyon from Arequipa. The taxi fare ranges from $45 to $55, and it takes 4 hours and 17 minutes. 

What to know before going Colca Canyon?

Listed below are the things to know before going to Colca Canyon. 

• Purchase Tickets in Advance: Buying tickets on the day of the visit is not recommended. It is suggested to purchase a bus ticket one day in advance. It is in the best interest to make preparations as far in advance as possible.
• Visit Colca Canyon in the Morning: There is a big chance to witness Andean Condors early in the morning. In addition, the sun is astonishing in the morning.
• The guide is not required: Touring and trekking Colca Canyon without a guide is not a requirement. It is cheaper than with a tour guide, but it is helpful and recommended if only touring for a day. 
• Do Not Wear Shorts: Always protect the skin from mosquito bites in Colca Canyon by wearing long pants rather than shorts. The most effective method for avoiding these irritating red welts is to dress in long pants and sleeves whenever possible, even when the temperature is high. 
• Tourists Can Still Bring Water Bottles: Refillable water bottles are permitted. 
• Length of Tour: One of the important Things to Know Before Hiking the Colca Canyon is the length of the tour because it is where the budget and the itinerary depend. There are three options, such as 1-day tour, 2-day tour and trek tour, and a 3-day trek tour. 

When is Colca Canyon Open?

The Colca Canyon is open all year round, but the most recommended months to visit is between March and June. During morning is the best time to visit Colca Canyon to witness the Andean Condors. In addition, the months of May to November, which are considered to be the dry season, are the ideal months in which to make a trip to the Colca Canyon.

At this time of year, there is just a trace amount of precipitation, and the sky is typically clear. Having said that, it is crucial to keep in mind that even during the dry season, there may be isolated instances of rain. When travelers travel to the Colca Canyon during the wet season, which runs from January to March, they should be prepared for an increase in the amount of precipitation and cloud cover. 

How is the Colca Canyon Itinerary?

Colca Canyon has different options on how long the tourist wants to tour the site. The popular tours are 1-day, 2 days and 3 days. The starting point is usually in Cabanaconde. There are ways to get to Colca Canyon if from Arequipa. Colca Canyon can be traveled with or without a guide. If with a guide, the itinerary depends on the planned tour. It is more organized and easy.

If without a guide, it is cheaper than with a tour. However, if planning to tour Colca Canyon for a day, it is recommended to book for a guide to save time and visit all viewpoints included in the tour. Touring Colca Canyon alone or without a guide is easy and safe because the trails are easy if the tourists have hiking knowledge and experience. 

What is the best vehicle for visiting Colca Canyon?

Transportation is one of the most important when traveling to Peru. In Colca Canyon, it is best to take a plane, but there are other ways to go to Colca Canyon, including taking a bus, taxi, or car. There are numerous round-trip buses spread over Colca Canyon. The fastest way to get to Colca Canyon is by riding a plane. It takes around 6 hours and 24 minutes.

The plane fare from the airport to Colca Canyon ranges from $95 to $230. The cheapest and second-fastest way to get to Colca Canyon is by driving a car to Colca Canyon. It takes 8 hours and 59 minutes and the cost is about from $67 to $96. If riding a bus and taxi, the fare ranges from $82 to $86, and it takes 11 hours and 32 minutes. 

How many hours should a person spend in Colca Canyon?

Colca Canyon has no time limit. The length of touring Colca Canyon depends on the time the visitor has, but if traveling with a tour, there are planned times and lengths of visiting every viewpoint. Touring and trekking at Colca Canyon have three options. The tourist is able to visit and tour Colca Canyon for a day, 2 days, or 3 days.

The routes of hiking Colca Canyon depend on the length of the tour. For one day hike, it takes around 7 hours to hike the Colca Canyon. For two days and 1-night of trekking, it requires walking for 7 hours on the first day and 4 hours on the second day. While for 3 days and 2 nights, walking 5 hours each on the first and second day and the third day, it takes 4 hours.

Is it possible to stay at Colca Canyon?

Staying in Colca Canyon is possible. There are spaces to pitch tents. However, to avoid bringing tents, sleeping mattresses, or food, there are hotels and restaurants around Colca Canyon. Cabanaconde is a village and has several guesthouses and restaurants. If traveling on a tour, accommodation is included in the package. 

Which Civilization used Colca Canyon for what?

Inca’s civilization creates the greatest empire in entire America. Colca Canyon was occupied by prehistoric civilizations that pioneered the Incas, such as ethnic groups including Cabanas, Ccaccatapay, and Kollowas. Incas are known for their agricultural technologies, such as the terraces where Incas grew different varieties of crops and plants. Incas in Colca Canyon are farmers, and they are the ones that made waterways to irrigate the crops.

On the other hand, the Incas are known as religious and great in engineering and architecture. There are several churches and chapels around Colca Canyon. The first chapel was built in 1565, while the first church was in 1569. Incas being artistic and creative presents their traditions and culture. There are paintings, drawings, and carvings found 7,000 years ago in the cave in Colca Valley. 

What is the Geological Profile of Colca Canyon?

Colca Canyon serves as a canyon of the Colca River, Colca Canyon is positioned about 160 kilometers northwest of Arequipa. The rock type of Colca Canyon is volcanic rocks from the erosion and seismic activity of two volcanoes: Sabancaya and Hualca Hualca, which resulted in the formation of Colca Canyon.

The walls of the Colca Canyon are formed by layers of volcanic rock, and it appears a distinctive red color. In addition, the Incas are known for being great in engineering and architecture. Did Inca build buildings in Colca Canyon? Yes, there are several architectural sites around Colca Canyon. Churches were established in the 17th century in the Colca Valley. Incas used the style called Andean Baroque in building churches. They used colonial and indigenous elements, such as volcanic stone, cross-shaped floors, and the entrance with the same pillars. 

What are the findings in Colca Canyon?

Buildings, paintings, drawings, and carvings were found in and around Colca Canyon. There are a total of 15 churches in the small village along the Colca River. Inside the caves in the Colca Valley, are carvings, drawing, and paintings of the Incas, which presents their culture and lifestyle 7,000 years ago. Some of the carvings were in the form of llamas, humans, birds, stars, and even hunting scenes. 

How many cities do exist in Colca Canyon?

Colca Canyon is located over 160 kilometers northwest of Arequipa and the depth is about 33000 – 6600 feet. Ancient cities in Colca Canyon and towns are still existing, including the Chivay, Cabanaconde, and Yanque. Arequipa is a city in Peru and was founded in 1540. Arequipa has numerous restaurants, bars, and cafés. The Santa Catalina Monastery, Juanita, and the Basilica Cathedral are situated in Arequipa.

Chivay is a town in the Colca valley. Chivay has various thermal baths, hostels, and massage services. The main attractions in Chivay, include Chivay Main Plaza or Plaza de Armas, La Calera Thermal Waters, and Patapampa. Cabanaconde is a village in the Canyon and was founded as a district in 1857. Cabanaconde is situated on the left of the Colca River.

It has views of the Colca Canyon, including Mirador Cruz de Condor, Tapay Viewpoint, Achachiwa viewpoint, Sepregina and Bomboya, Kallimarka, Hualca volcano, and Mukurka Lagoon. Yanque is a city and village in Arequipa, 20 miles from the Colca Canyon. The Colca Canyon can be toured from Yanque. Public hot springs are available in Yanque for tourists to relax. There are accommodations available for tourists to stay and rest. They have campsites, guesthouses, and hotels. 

What are the myths about Colca Canyon?

Listed below are the myths about Colca Canyon.

• Myth #1: Colca Canyon is the deepest canyon in the world.
• Myth #2: The trail in the Colca Canyon is the hardest.
• Myth #3: Colca Canyon is man-made.
• Myth #4: The Andean Condors in Colca Canyon are immortal.
• Myth #5: A ticket is not required in Colca Canyon
• Myth #6: Colca Canyon is always crowded. 

Is Colca Canyon safe?

Hiking Colca Canyon is safe but is recommended to be physically fit when visiting to avoid problems. Trekking Colca Canyon is quite difficult because it is steep and some have high elevations. It is recommended to wear proper hiking gear. 

What are the books about Colca Canyon?

Listed below are the books written about Colca Canyon.

• Comrades on the Colca: Comrades on the Colca was written by Eugene Buchanan. The book features Incan history. It is a tale of travel and adventure. 
• The People of the Colca Valley: A Population Study: The People of the Colca Valley: A Population Study was written by Noble David Cook. Noble David Cook and Alexandra Parma Cook have been researching the Colca Valley since 1974. The book features the history of Colca Valley and its people. 
• In Kayak Through Peru: In Kayak Through Peru was written by Majcheyczyk Jerzy Et Al. It is a guidebook and the first of this kind book in entire Latin America. 
• The Conquest of Rio Colca: The Conquest of Rio Colca was written by Majcheyczyk Jerzy Et Al in 1988.

Who are the scientists who worked on Colca Canyon?

George Johnson and Rober Shipee performed the first scientific expedition in Colca Canyon in 1931. They are from the American Geographical Society. Andrew Pietowski, a researcher, performed an expedition in 2005 to measure the height of the Colca Canyon using modern devices. According to Pietowski, the Colca Canyon reached 1,160 meters on the north side and 3,600 meters on the south. In addition, Noble David Cook, the author of “The People of the Colca Valley: A Population Study” and Alexandra Parma Cook has been examining the Colca Valley since 1974. In addition, Hiram Bingham, an American Explorer, discovered the ruins of Machu Picchu and other Inca sites in Peru.

Is Colca Canyon in UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

No, the Colca canyon is not part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it was recognized by UNESCO as the first ever Peru geopark, and it became part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network. 

What does Colca Canyon Mean?

Colca pertains to the small holes in the cliff in the valleys and canyon, while canyon is a Spanish word for “cañon” which means narrow valley between cliffs. In addition, the name Canyon pertains to the ancient storerooms where Incas kept their foods, such as corn and potatoes. The storerooms were referred to as Colcas.

Which district is Colca Canyon in?

Colca Canyon is in the Callalli District. Callalli District is one of the districts of the Arequipa region, in the Caylloma province in Peru. Callalli is situated within the geographical area of the Colca Canyon. Callalli is 7,000 kilometers square area and has several towns including Callalli, Sibayo, Tisco, Imata, and Caylloma. 

Is Urubamba River close to the Colca Canyon?

Yes, the Urubamba River is close to the Colca Canyon. The distance between Urubamba River and Colca Canyon is 602.9 kilometers. It takes 12 hours and 13 minutes to travel from Urubamba River to Colca Canyon. Urubamba River is a river in Peru in the Amazon drainage system. 

Does Urabamba River affect the History of Colca Canyon?

Urubamba River is one of the contributors to the Ucayali River, which rush into the Amazon River. The most remote source of the Amazon River is reachable from the Colca Valley via Tuti. Amazon River is the river that fed the Inca Empire. Amazon River is the largest river in South America and the largest drainage system in the world. Incas depended on the Amazon River in terms of fishing and trading, as well as the plants and animals living in the area. 

How did Colca Canyon Lived in the Past?

The daily life of the people who lived in Colca Canyon was described by strenuous family agricultural work, also often imposed state or service in the military for men. Colca Canyon was occupied by prehistoric civilizations that pioneered the Incas, such as ethnic groups including Cabanas, Ccaccatapay, and Kollowas. Incas are excellent in terms of agricultural technologies, such as the terraces where Incas grew various kinds of crops and plants.

Incas in Colca Canyon are farmers, and they are the ones that form waterways to irrigate the crops. The Incas grew diversities of crops and plants using vertical agriculture. Some crops have different planting and harvesting times. The terraces present the creativity of the Incas when it comes to the concept of vertical agriculture. The microclimate of the terraces enabled the Incas to grow different kinds of crops. In addition, the road linking the Canyon to Arequipa was made to transport silver and copper.

How was the economy of Colca Canyon?

The Inca had a bountiful economy during its peak. Their primary resource was agriculture, which allowed them to trade with other places. It also has plenty of land, workers, mines, and freshwater everywhere. They were able to maintain a thriving economy by carefully utilizing those resources. The beauty of Colca Canyon generates many travel and companies that give as huge economic returns through the use of natural and cultural attractions located at Colca Canyon. 

How was Daily Life in Colca Canyon?

The lives of the people in Colca Canyon depend on the type of work they are doing. Most of them are reliant on agricultural work. The residents in the Colca Canyon maintain the ancient tradition and culture of the Incas by cultivating the terraces. 

How was Agriculture in Colca Canyon?

One of the essential elements of the Incan life is agriculture because they put great effort into the management of food supplies. Incas are known as the best agriculturists. Experts believe that the terraces found are all made by the Incas where they can grow different crops. Rivers can be found in Colca Canyon, which helps to cultivate crops. The Incas were able to cultivate hardy strains of food crops like potatoes, quinoa, and corn due to the creation of terraced agricultural systems.

How was Mining in Colca Canyon?

The Incas had a significant wealth of gold and silver. The gold and silver used by the Inca came exclusively from surface sources, either in the form of gemstones or as a result of panning river beds. The road joining the Canyon to Arequipa was made to transport silver and copper.

What was the Religious Beliefs in Colca Canyon?

One of the accents of the Colca Canyon is the chapels and churches situated in the area. There are 15 churches in the towns around Colca Canyon. Churches were created in the 17th century in the Colca Valley. Incas applied the style called Andean Baroque in building churches. They utilized colonial and indigenous elements, such as volcanic stone, cross-shaped floors, and the entrance with the same pillars. 

How is the Past of Colca Canyon presented to the visitors?

Colca Canyon is one of the breathtaking tours in Arequipa because of the viewpoints and sceneries. Some villages in the Colca Canyon still practice the traditions and cultures of the Incas. Aside from being the second-deepest canyon in the world, Colca Canyon is a popular site to watch the Andean Condors.

Andean Condors are the largest bird in America. Rafting and Kayaking in the Colca River give a different experience to the tourists of Colca Canyon. From the bottom, tourists get the chance to see the Colca Canyon from a different point of view. Around Colca Canyons, there are thermal baths and an oasis for tourists to relax. Horseback riding is available for those who are tired of walking but want to enjoy the sceneries and beauty of the Colca Canyon. 

How is the Preservation of Colca Canyon?

There are areas in the Colca Canyon that are active in the tectonic and volcanic process, as well as landslides in the Valley of the Volcanoes. Building hotels and other tourist spots resulted in landscape and rock damage. Polish Scientific Expedition Peru (PSEP) leads an integrated study in the Colca Canyon and Valley of the Volcanoes in Peru. The objective of the PSEP is to secure the geodiversity, landscapes, nature, and culture of the Colca Canyon. 

Is there a modern town of Colca Canyon?

Cabanaconde is a modern town and village in Colca Canyon. Cabanaconde was founded on January 2, 1857. It is the leading town in the region of Arequipa. In 2015, the population in Cabanaconde was 1,420. The attractions near Cabanaconde, aside from the Colca Canyon, are the Sangalle Oasis, the Complex of Ccallimarca, and the viewpoint of Andean Condor. 

How is the Geography of Colca Canyon?

Colca Canyon is situated in the middle of the Andes Mountain Range. Colca Canyon has formed 150 million years ago. Colca Canyon is near 40 volcanoes, meaning that it is a geologically active area.

The Colca Canyon is one of the most visited tourist spots in Peru because of its unique landscape, topography, terraces created by the ancestors, and the condors around the area every morning. In addition, Colca Canyon is the canyon of the Colca River. The Colca Canyon is covered by terraces. The rocks in the Colca Canyon are volcanic rocks from erosion. In addition, the overall climate of Colca Canyon is cool and dry. 

How is the Map of Colca Canyon Layout?

What are the prominent historical ruins in Colca Canyon?

Listed below are the prominent historical ruins in Colca Canyon.

1. Planetarium & Observatory Colca: Planetarium & Observatory Colca is situated in Chivay, Peru. It is one of the remains found at the top of Chivay, including stone houses, observatories, altars, and ritual fields. The tourist is able to get a chance to view the stars, moon, planets, and the Milky Way in the Planetarium & Observatory Colca.
2. Abra Patapampa: Abra Patapampa is a mountain situated in Caylloma, Arequipa. Abra Patapampa is the highest asphalted pass in America. While driving the Abra Patapampa, there are beautiful views to spot.
3. Mirador Cruz del Condor: Mirador Cruz del Condor is positioned at an elevation of 3270 MASL in Caylloma, Peru. It is one of the Best Places for Sights & Landmarks in Colca Canyon and the Andean Condors, as well as the hummingbirds. 
4. Plaza de Armas de Chivay: Plaza de Armas de Chivay is the main square of the Chivay. Many shops are located in the Plaza de Armas de Chivay, including souvenir shops, trinkets, and snack shops. Street performers and dancers are prominent in Plaza de Armas de Chivay.
5. Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site:  Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site is a town that was dismantled by the Spaniards. It is situated in Chucuito, Peru. It was believed that the purpose of the site is to worship Mother Earth and the intended to heal infertility problems. 
6. Church of our Lady of the Assumption: Church of our Lady of the Assumption is a church in Chivay, simple and the exterior is Spanish style. Church of our Lady of the Assumption presents how locals have shaped their Incan belief into their Roman Catholic faith.
7. Plaza de Armas: In Peru, there are five Plaza de Armas, such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, Ayacucho, and Cajamarca. The Plaza de Armas near Colca Canyon is in the Arequipa. It has cathedrals, galleries of white ashlar stone, and the Portal of the Flowers. 
8. Mirador Achachiua: Mirador Achachiua is the nearest viewpoint of the Colca Canyon to Cabanaconde. It has astonishing views of the landscapes and mountains. 
9. Tapay Viewpoint: Tapay Viewpoint is another viewpoint of Colca Canyon. It is less popular than the Cruz del Condor. Tapay Viewpoint is situated in Cabanaconde. It has views of the small villages at the bottom of the Colca Canyon.