Experience the unspoiled ‘Valle de los Volcanes’ Geopark on this 3-day off the beaten path tour from Arequipa. Once there, discover the quaint village of Andagua and share a homestay with a local family. Set off on moderate hikes to pristine waterfalls and fascinating viewpoints amid stunning countryside. Admire dramatic, volcanic landscapes and visit Laguna Mamacocha, an idyllic freshwater spring.
HIGHLIGHTS
DAY 1
VALLEY OF THE VOLCANOES
After pickup from your accommodation in Arequipa, drive out of town towards the Pacific coast. Drive past lush, agricultural fields with short stops to rest and admire the views.
Next, start climbing to the heights of the Andes’ mountains. Along the way, visit the Toro Muerto Petroglyphs site. Lunch en route.
After passing scenic villages perched along a winding road, reach a 4800 meter-high pass at the base of Mt. Coropuna (6425m). Enjoy several scenic stops to be awed by the beautiful Andean landscapes. By the end of the day, arrive in Andagua, a traditional village located in a fertile valley which will serve as the base for our explorations the following days.
ACCOMMODATIONBASIC HOMESTAY IN FAMILY GUESTHOUSE (PRIVATE ROOM)
MEALS
LUNCH, DINNER
DAY 2
VALLEY OF THE VOLCANOES FULL DAY - LAGUNA MAMACOCHA
This morning, join a scenic hike (or optional horse ride) to secluded waterfalls deep in a canyon accessible on foot. Later, we have the opportunity to join another nearby hike to the top of the ‘twin’ volcanoes for awe-inspiring views of the Valley.
Lunch
We are headed for Laguna Mamacocha this afternoon, a lush lake of crystal-clear glacial water in the middle of a barren setting. We may glimpse the elusive otter if we are lucky, but even if we are not, the beauty and peace of this place makes the trip here totally worth it. After our adventure, make our way back to the town of Andagua
ACCOMMODATIONBASIC HOMESTAY IN FAMILY GUESTHOUSE (PRIVATE ROOM)
MEALS
BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER
DAY 3
HIKING TO ANTAYMARKA - AREQUIPA
Early morning hike to ‘Mirador de Antaymarca’, a viewpoint located above an ancient citadel built with petrified lava from ancient eruptions. You will be able to appreciate the towering mountains surrounding Colca Canyon in the near distance. No prior hiking experience is required to enjoy this amazing lookout point. After this hike, climb aboard our vehicle for the scenic journey back to the city of Arequipa. Arrive in the evening when we drop you off at your accommodation of choice (central hotels).
MEALS
BREAKFAST, LUNCH
SOME IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO CONSIDER TO ENSURE THIS TRIP IS FOR YOU
- Ideal if you enjoy traveling away from the crowds
- Perfect if you enjoy visiting areas unspoiled by mass tourism
- Great if you enjoy meeting locals and experience local life
- Be prepared for long but scenic drives on our purpose-built vehicle
- Accommodation is in a simple, rural guesthouse but is clean and well-managed
- It is recommended to be moderately fit in order to join hikes and enjoy them
- Be prepared for some very high altitude moments (4000m+/13,000 ft+) as well as high altitude (3500 m/11,768 ft) hikes (may want to have your doctor prescribe some altitude medication just in case)
- Food is simple but freshly prepared and very filling made with local ingredients and by local hosts
- Locals are extremely friendly, welcoming visitors from any country, ethnicity, etc.
- The region we travel to is extremely safe with only minor safety concerns while in the city of Arequipa (as is the case with any large city)
Summary | |
CODE: | ANDA-3 |
PLACES VISITED: | Toro Muerto, Andagua, Valle de los Volcanes, Laguna Mamacocha, Ayo |
DURATION: | 3 days, 2 nights |
TYPE: | Cultural, Active |
AVAILABILITY: | April to November is best due to dry season |
GROUP SIZE: | As requested |
DEPARTURE: | Accommodation in Arequipa |
DROP OFF POINT: | Accommodation in Arequipa |