At more than 10,000 feet (3,200 meters) deep, Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and one of Peru’s most spectacular landscapes. Located a few hours from Arequipa, it combines dramatic scenery with rich cultural traditions and wildlife, including the chance to see the majestic Andean condor soaring overhead.

Travelers have two main ways to experience Colca Canyon:

• Multi-day treks: For the adventurous, hiking down into the canyon is unforgettable. We chose the 3-day trek, which gave us time to truly take in the scenery, stay overnight in local villages, and climb out at a more relaxed pace. It was challenging but rewarding, really one of the best hikes we’ve ever done. We have a YouTube video on the entire journey that you can watch here!

• Bus tours and viewpoints: If trekking isn’t for you, day and overnight tours take you to the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, small Andean towns, and natural hot springs, all without intense hiking.

For us, the highlight was not just the canyon itself, but the sense of journey, descending into the depths, meeting locals, and then soaking our tired legs in the hot springs at the end.

Pro Tip: If you plan to trek, acclimatize in Arequipa first and bring cash for food and small shops along the way. If you just want the views, the condors are most active in the morning, so plan to be at the viewpoint early.