Private Colca Canyon Full Day Tour: Cruz del Condor & High Andes

Private Colca Canyon Full Day Tour: Cruz del Condor & High Andes

What's Included

• 100% Private Transport: Exclusive vehicle and driver for the 14-hour journey.
• Expert Guide: Professional English/Spanish speaking guide specialized in nature and culture.
• Safety: Oxygen tank and first aid kit on board (essential for high altitude).
• Personalized Pace: Flexibility to stop for photos and adjust the schedule.
• ‍Assistance: Full support throughout the day.

Not Included

• Colca Tourist Ticket (BTC): Mandatory entry fee (approx. 70 soles for international visitors / 20 soles for Peruvians). Paid in cash on site.
• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch are not included (we give you the freedom to choose based on your preference).
• Gratuities: Tips for your guide and driver.
• ‍Hot Springs: Not included in the standard Full Day due to time constraints, but can be discussed if time permits.

Recommendations

• The Early Start is Worth It: Leaving at 3:30 AM is the only way to ensure you are at the Cruz del Cóndor when the birds are most active (typically 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM).
• Altitude Warning: You will reach 4,910m (16,100 ft). This is significantly higher than Cusco. We recommend doing this tour after at least 2 days in Arequipa. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals the night before.
• Dress in Layers: It will be freezing when you leave Arequipa and can get quite warm in the canyon during the day. Bring a warm jacket, beanie, lighter layers for the afternoon, and sun protection.
• ‍Cash is King: Bring Peruvian Soles for the tourist ticket, meals, and souvenirs in the villages.

Clearing Your Doubts

Is it guaranteed to see Condors?

While the Colca Canyon is one of the best places in the world to see them, they are wild animals. Sightings are highly likely but never 100% guaranteed, as they depend on wind and weather conditions.

Is the drive very winding?

Yes, the road to Chivay and along the canyon is winding and goes through high mountain passes. If you suffer from motion sickness, we recommend taking medication before the trip.

Can we stop at the hot springs?

On a Full Day tour, stopping at the hot springs (La Calera) usually rushes the rest of the itinerary. However, since this is a private tour, if you prefer to skip a village visit or shorten the lunch break to fit in a quick dip, we can try to accommodate it. Just discuss with your guide on the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?

It is a very long day (14 hours) with high altitude. It can be exhausting for young children (under 8). We generally recommend the 2-Day Colca Tour for families so you can break up the journey and enjoy the hotel pools/hot springs.

Please read the following Terms and Conditions carefully, as they constitute a legal agreement between you and True Peru Experience.

1. Reservations and Payment Policy

• Booking Confirmation: A reservation is confirmed upon receipt of the required deposit (e.g., 50%).
• Transaction Fees: Our prices do not include transaction fees (e.g., credit card, PayPal, bank transfers). The client is responsible for covering these fees (e.g., a 5% surcharge may apply for card payments).
• Final Payment: The remaining balance must be paid [e.g., 30 days before the tour start date, or in cash (USD or Soles) during the pre-tour briefing].

2. Cancellation and Refund Policy

• Cancellation by the Client: Cancellations must be submitted in writing. The following penalties apply:
• [e.g., 30+] days before the tour: Refund minus non-refundable items and transaction fees.
• [e.g., 15-29] days before the tour: 50% penalty of the total tour cost.
• Less than [e.g., 14] days before the tour: 100% penalty (Non-refundable).
• No-Show: If the client fails to appear at the agreed time and location (a "No-Show"), the service is considered rendered, and no refund will apply.
• Non-Refundable Items: Certain items are 100% non-transferable and non-refundable under any circumstances. These include:
• Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
• Inca Trail permits.
• Train tickets.
• Domestic flights.

3. Force Majeure (Uncontrollable Events)

• Definition: True Peru Experience assumes no responsibility for itinerary changes, delays, or cancellations caused by events outside of our control.
• Events Included: These include, but are not limited to: strikes, social protests, road blockades, extreme weather conditions, natural disasters, pandemics, or unexpected changes in government regulations.
• Our Commitment: In such events, our team will make all reasonable efforts to adapt the itinerary or find safe alternatives. However, monetary refunds will not be provided for services lost due to these events.

4. Responsibility and Insurance (Liability)

• Travel Insurance (Required): We strongly recommend that all clients purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and baggage loss. Our prices do NOT include insurance.
• Health and Fitness: The client declares they are in adequate physical and health condition for the tour purchased.
• Assumption of Risk: For adventure tours (trekking, Via Ferrata, etc.), the client acknowledges the inherent risks and participates at their own risk.
• Itinerary Modification: We reserve the right to modify the itinerary for operational, climatic, or safety reasons, always in the best interest of the client.