Chivay
Arequipa Perú
Chivay is a picturesque town located in the Colca Valley, about 3,600 meters above sea level and approximately 3.5 hours by car from Arequipa, Peru. It is the entrance to the famous Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, and is known for its local culture, its impressive landscapes, hot springs and its proximity to the Mirador La Cruz del Cóndor, where Andean condors can be seen in their natural habitat.
Location
Chivay is the gateway to the Colca Valley and is located in the province of Caylloma, Arequipa. It is accessible by bus or car from the city of Arequipa. The road that connects both cities is an experience in itself, as it passes through beautiful landscapes, with panoramic stops where you can see alpacas and vicuñas.
What Chivay Offers
Chivay is a meeting point between nature and Andean culture. Tourists can enjoy hot springs, craft markets, typical dances, and delicious local cuisine. This small town is also ideal as a starting point for exploring the Colca Valley, with several accommodation options to suit different budgets.
Activities in Chivay
- La Calera Hot Springs: Just a few minutes from Chivay, these hot springs offer a perfect space to relax after a day of exploring. The thermal water pools have healing properties and are surrounded by mountains, creating a relaxing and natural environment.
- Visit to Mirador La Cruz del Cóndor: From Chivay, you can take an excursion to Mirador La Cruz del Cóndor, where you can observe Andean condors flying over the canyon. This is one of the main attractions of the valley and a unique experience.
- Handicraft Market and Local Gastronomy: The Chivay market is an excellent place to buy local crafts, such as textiles and jewelry made with traditional techniques. You can also try typical Arequipa food, such as caldo de gallina and ocopa arequipeña, as well as typical drinks such as mate de coca.
- Church of Our Lady of the Assumption: This colonial church, located in the main square, is a historical and cultural site. Its baroque architecture and well-preserved interior offer a glimpse of the Spanish colonial legacy in the region.
- Hiking and Walking: Chivay and its surroundings offer a variety of hiking routes, from gentle strolls to more intense hikes that offer panoramic views of the Colca Valley and volcanoes.
Recommendations
- Altitude Adaptation: Chivay is at high altitude, so it is advisable to take precautions to avoid altitude sickness. Drinking mate de coca, staying hydrated, and avoiding sudden efforts can help you adapt better.
- Clothing in Layers: The weather in Chivay can vary greatly, with cold mornings and nights, and warmer temperatures during the day, so it is recommended to wear layered clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat.
- Visiting in Low Season: The high season (April-November) is ideal for the weather, but the influx of tourists is greater. In the low season (December-March) there are fewer tourists, but there is the possibility of rain, which sometimes limits access to certain areas.
Costs
- Entrance to the Colca Valley: Access to the valley, which includes entry to places such as the Mirador La Cruz del Cóndor, costs approximately 70 soles for foreign tourists and 20 soles for national tourists.
- La Calera Hot Springs: Entrance to the hot springs costs between 10 and 15 soles.
- Lodging and Food: Chivay has lodging options for all budgets, from budget hostels to mid-range hotels. Accommodation costs can range from 50 to 300 soles per night. Food is affordable, with a good meal at the market or a local restaurant costing between 10 and 25 soles.
How to Get There
- By Bus: There are daily buses connecting Arequipa and Chivay. The trip takes between 3.5 and 4 hours.
- By Guided Tour: Many agencies in Arequipa offer guided tours of the Colca Valley that include transportation, a guide, and stops at points of interest such as Chivay and the Mirador La Cruz del Cóndor.
- By Private Car or Taxi: It is also possible to rent a car or take a taxi from Arequipa, which provides greater flexibility to explore the area.
Extra Tip
Chivay is the ideal place to experience Andean culture in an environment of stunning natural beauty. It is recommended to spend at least one night in the town to enjoy the hot springs, explore the surroundings, and make the most of the activities that the Colca Valley offers.
Location
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Would you like to travel to Arequipa?
Cusco Travel is a travel agency that offers tourist packages to discover its wonders, such as the impressive Colca Canyon, home of the majestic Andean condor, the Monastery of Santa Catalina, and the beautiful Yanahuara viewpoint with views of the Misti volcano. Live the history, culture and unique landscapes of Arequipa in an unforgettable experience. Visit: www.cuscotravel.com