14
To stand on the edge of Colca Canyon, a
two-hour drive from Arequipa, Peru, is to be
transfixed by an overwhelming awe. Early
morning is the best time to visit, when the
golden light creeps across the mountains and
into the valleys, slowly bringing the full depth
of the chasm into view. Giant Andean condors
soar overhead as your mind struggles to
comprehend Colca’s magnitude—11,000 feet
deep, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.
A feeling of reverence is an appropriate
reaction, only compounded by the glorious
snow-capped mountains that complete the
magnificent view.
PHOTOS
TRAVEL OFFICE TIPS
“
The big highlight of Colca Canyon is seeing the condors.
The best time to go is early in the morning to Condor Cross.
Having a guide is well worth it, since they can take you to
some of the best hiking spots and viewpoints along the
way. Personally, I found the guide’s insights on the local
culture to be quite interesting as well as entertaining.”
BRIDGET KAPINUS
A N D R E W H A R P E R T R AV E L A DV I S O R
SPRING | 2018
C O N TACT YO U R T R AV E L A DV I S O R TO DAY
TO P : L L A M AS
NEAR COLCA
CA N YO N
MIDDLE:
COLCA
CA N YO N ,
PERU
BOT TO M :
PERUVIAN
M A N , C H I V A Y,
PERU