In Southern Peru, Arequipa and the Colca Canyon offer plenty to keep travelers occupied for several days, with spectacular scenery, fascinating history and a large number of outdoor activities to boot.

Arequipa itself is held in high regard for both its colonial charm and rich cultural heritage, and is a designated UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Beautiful churches, convents and colonial mansions, perfectly framed by majestic snow-capped mountains, set Arequipa aside from its neighbors. The town and its mountains draw culture buffs and adventure junkies from around the world.

The Colca Canyon is famous for its natural beauty, cultural history, and adventure trekking. The canyon was largely forgotten until the late 1970s when engineers visited the canyon to build the area’s first road. Due to their relative isolation from the modern world, the people and villages in this region have maintained their ancient traditions and ways of life. A great way to explore the region is on foot, via the numerous ancient trails that wind their way between villages. Along with Cusco and Huaraz, Colca has become known as a magnet for adventure sport, drawing hikers, bikers, trekkers, and rafters from around the world.

If you’re heading into the Canyon and you’re not coming from Cusco, stay in Arequipa a few days to acclimatize. The most popular point to view the canyon is the Cruz del Condór.