A harmonious fusion of nature and culture
Arequipa and Colca Canyon
Arequipa is one of Peru’s largest and most exciting cities. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, creating a must-see blend of heritage buildings and lively modern culture. Arequipa is one of Peru’s largest and most exciting cities. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, creating a must-see blend of heritage buildings and lively modern culture.
Why Arequipa and Colca Canyon?
Arequipa’s natural landscapes are reason enough to visit. The Andes Mountains lie to the north and east, while the Chili River flows through the heart of the city. For centuries, this city has been shaped by its environment – many of the historic buildings in Arequipa’s UNESCO-designated centre were constructed with volcanic stone that remains strong even through earthquakes and has no doubt contributed to the enduring churches, convents and palaces.
From Arequipa, venture out to Colca Canyon. One of the deepest in the world and cut by the Majes River, Colca Canyon is the best place in Peru to watch large numbers of condor circling just below the canyon rim. In this colourful Andean valley, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking or simply relax in thermal pools between visits to the Mollepunko Caves to see ancient rock art and the Fortaleza de Chimpa mountaintop citadel.
From Arequipa, venture out to Colca Canyon. One of the deepest in the world and cut by the Majes River, Colca Canyon is the best place in Peru to watch large numbers of condor circling just below the canyon rim. In this colourful Andean valley, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking or simply relax in thermal pools between visits to the Mollepunko Caves to see ancient rock art and the Fortaleza de Chimpa mountaintop citadel.
- A vibrant, historic city amid stunning landscapes.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Ancient cultural wonders including rock art.
- Outdoor activities including hiking and mountain biking.
- Thermal springs in Colca Canyon.
- A great place to begin or end your Peruvian adventure.
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Best Places to Stay in Arequipa and Colca Canyon
PUQIO Camp
With canvas and adobe accommodations deeply embedded in the dramatic and beautiful Colca Valley, Puqio Camp offers both authenticity and luxury to its few lucky guests. Embrace the spirit of adventure inherent in outdoor tubs, log burning stoves, generous flame-grilled food, and nature-focused excursions.
Belmond Las Casitas
The stunning Colca Canyon surrounds you as you take in the delights of the Belmond Las Casitas Arequipa. The 20 fairytale-worthy picturesque bungalows set in 20 acres blend into the striking landscape, and put you in the perfect location for contact with the local communities and exploring the unspoilt natural world.
Cirqa, Arequipa
The boutique hotel is located in the heart of the city, just a block away from Arequipa's main square. This makes it a perfect place from which to explore the city’s Spanish-colonial architecture, spend lazy afternoons sampling its culinary delights and sipping pisco sour whilst people-watching at the plaza.
Colca Lodge Spa and Hot springs
Far from the bustle of the modern world, Colca Lodge Spa is an oasis of peace and calm. The surrounding natural beauty, the ancient terraces, clean mountain air, natural hot springs and the sound of the Colca River make for an experience of complete relaxation.
Private Journeys Tailored to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
Who are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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