Description

This three-day journey takes you into the heart of the Andes, between grandiose landscapes, ancient heritage and authentic encounters. From the Colca valleys to the remote lands of Espinar, you will explore the Tres Cañones and the pre-Inca site of Maukallaqta, before continuing toward the Inca bridge of Q’eswachaka and the Wari ruins of K’ananmarca.

You will end this Andean immersion in Raqchi, within a community of ceramic artisans, and then set off to admire the colorful mountains of Palcoyo, the Stone Forest and the spectacular Ananiso canyon. A rare journey, off the beaten path, revealing the cultural and natural diversity of Southern Peru.

Highlights

Chivay
Espinar
Qeswachaka
Raqchi
Palcoyo

Day 1 :

Chivay - Espinar

Today we set off for a long day on the road, taking us from Colca to the mining region of Espinar.

We will go up the beautiful Sibayo Valley and then continue across the Andes to reach the Regional Conservation Area of Suyctutambo – Tres Cañones. There, we can enjoy a short walk in the heart of the impressive Tres Cañones landscape, followed by a stop at the archaeological complex of Maukallaqta (the ancient city in Quechua).

We will end this entirely off-the-beaten-path day in the village of Espinar, where we will spend the night.

Overnight at Hotel Convención Espinar in a standard room.

Day 2 :

Espinar - Qeswachaka - Raqchi

Today we will experience a day full of discoveries during our journey from the village of Espinar to the pottery community of Raqchi.

We will first make a stop at the ruins of K'ananmarca, an impressive archaeological complex dating back to the pre-Inca Wari civilization. After exploring this unique site, we will continue on the road to reach the last Inca bridge of Q'eswachaka.

Protected by UNESCO, this suspension bridge made of ichu (Andean straw) and rebuilt every year by the local communities is also a remarkable symbol of local heritage.

We will end our day in the pottery community of Raqchi.

Night in the community of Raqchi.

Day 3 :

Palcoyo - Canyon d'Ananiso

We leave early this morning for a unique adventure to the Rainbow Mountain Range of Palcoyo, a less crowded alternative to Vinicunca, offering breathtaking landscapes of colorful mountains in shades of red, ochre and violet.

Before starting our hike, we will stop at the spectacular Stone Forest, a fascinating geological site with impressive rock formations. Then, we will begin a panoramic hike, mainly downhill, towards the village of Ananiso. During approximately 4 hours of walking, we will enjoy incredible views of the majestic Ausangate mountain range, one of the most impressive peaks in Peru.

Before reaching Ananiso, we will take a well-deserved break to enjoy a lunch in the middle of nature, surrounded by stunning scenery. In the afternoon, we will explore the fascinating Ananiso Canyon, a geological wonder dating back several million years.

Finally, we will hike back up to the village, where our driver will be waiting for us.