Cotahuasi Canyon: Discover Peru’s Natural Wonder
Location and Geography
Cotahuasi Canyon is situated in the Arequipa region of southern Peru. It spans over 100 kilometers and is recognized as one of the deepest canyons in the world. The canyon’s dramatic cliffs and waterfalls are carved by the Cotahuasi River, creating a landscape that is both rugged and captivating. The lush vegetation and towering rock formations make it a remarkable natural wonder.
Unique Attractions
1. Sipia Waterfall
The Sipia Waterfall is a stunning feature of the canyon, with water cascading down from a height of approximately 150 meters. It’s a powerful display of nature’s beauty, and a visit here is a must for any traveler with a camera in hand.
2. Thermal Baths
After a day of hiking, the Luicho hot springs offer a perfect way to unwind. Located within the canyon, these thermal baths have three pools with temperatures around 35°C. They are open from 3:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and entry costs range from S/3 to S/6.
3. Ancient Ruins
The canyon is rich in history, with ruins like Maukallacta and Ccalla offering a glimpse into the past. Maukallacta, a 40-60 minute walk from Puyca, was built by the Allccas and later occupied by the Waris and Incas. Ccalla, a typical Wari city, is a 2-3 hour walk from Alca or 1-2 hours from Lucha.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore Cotahuasi Canyon is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. For those interested in photography, the rainy season from December to March offers lush vegetation and full waterfalls, though it may be more challenging to navigate.
How to Get There
Reaching Cotahuasi Canyon requires some planning. Start from Arequipa, where several bus companies like Ana Express, Inmaculada, Cromotex, and Nazareno offer services to Cotahuasi and Alca. Buses leave between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM, with tickets costing between S/30 and S/35. The journey takes about 10 hours, but the scenic views make it worthwhile.
Local Transportation
Once in Cotahuasi, getting around is manageable with local buses connecting most villages. For example, buses run hourly between Cotahuasi and Alca. Hiring a local guide can also enhance your experience, ensuring you don’t miss key sites. Be aware that some routes have limited daily services, so plan accordingly.
Summary
- Cotahuasi Canyon is located in the Arequipa region of southern Peru, known for its depth and dramatic landscapes.
- Key attractions include the Sipia Waterfall, Luicho hot springs, and ancient ruins like Maukallacta and Ccalla.
- The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September) for optimal weather conditions.
- Travel involves a bus journey from Arequipa, with several companies offering evening departures.
- Local transportation includes buses and guides, with some routes offering limited services.
