Arequipa and the Colca Canyon
The educational capital of Peru
Situated in the southern coastal region of Peru, Arequipa is the known a the white city and is both the capital of the Arequipa district and the seat of the Constitutional court of Peru. Sitting at the slopes of the Misti volcano (one of the world's easiest over 6,000 meter peaks to climb) it is often included on itineraries as a means of accessing the famous Colca Canyon but is, in our opinion, well worth a couple of nights to take in the laid back atmosphere and stunning architecture.
Arequipa
The white city of Arequipa, in the south west of the country, sits in the shadow of the Misti volcano and is a truly stunning place to spend a night or two. The city itself is located around a central plaza, influenced by the Spanish conquistadors who moved through the area in the 1500s. This beautiful city is the perfect place to spend a couple of nights before moving on to the nearby Colca Canyon.
Colca Canyon
At around 2 a hour drive outside of Arequipa, the Colca Canyon is famed as the deepest canyon on earth (or so the signs all say!) and the home for the famous Condors. Related to the turkey vulture of Northern America, the condor is a vast bird who spends most of his/her time soaring on the many thermals that run through the valley. A great destination for those keen on natural beauty or taking a few days to walk.
Click here to view some video footage of the Colca Canyon and the condors.
