Chivay - Discovering Peru

Travelling to Chivay

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Chivay, a pretty good destination in Peru (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Chivay and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Chivay, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Peru, here's everything to know about Chivay for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Chivay

Chivay is a small town located in the Colca Canyon area of Peru, in the region of Arequipa. It is mostly known as the main gateway to the popular Colca Canyon, which is one of the deepest canyons in the world and a very popular hiking destination. Chivay has a pleasant climate with sunny days and cold nights, due to its high altitude of over 3600 meters above sea level. The town has a few churches, a main square, and some restaurants and shops catering to tourists. Local traditional dance and music performances are also a common attraction.

What to visit in Chivay

Chivay is a beautiful town located in the Andean mountains of Peru, known for its thermal baths and the magnificent Colca Canyon. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Chivay: 1. Colca Canyon: It is one of the deepest canyons in the world, with a depth of around 3,400 meters. It is a popular spot for hiking, trekking, and sightseeing. You can also spot the majestic Andean condors here.
2. La Calera Hot Springs: It is a set of hot springs located just outside the town of Chivay. The water in these springs has medicinal properties and is believed to be beneficial for skin and respiratory problems.
3. Plaza de Armas: This is the main square of Chivay, where you can find the beautiful church of Our Lady of the Assumption and other colonial buildings.
4. Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site: This is an ancient Inca site located just a few kilometers outside of Chivay. There are several stone terraces and a ceremonial center, which are believed to have been used for worship ceremonies.
5. Yanque Village: A picturesque village located in the Colca Valley, about 9 km from Chivay. It is known for its colonial architecture and beautiful church.
6. Cruz del Condor: This is a natural viewpoint where you can see the Andean condors flying over the Colca Canyon. It is located about 60 km from Chivay.
7. Maca Village: A small village located in the Colca Valley, famous for its beautiful white church and traditional customs.
Overall, Chivay offers a great mix of natural beauty, culture, and history, making it a must-visit destination in Peru.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Peru, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Chivay.

When to go on holiday to Chivay

Chivay is a small town located in the Colca Valley, in the southern highlands of Peru. The best time to visit Chivay is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and exploring the Colca Canyon.
If you are interested in seeing the Andean condors, the best time to visit is between June and August, which is the mating season for these birds. This is the time when you are most likely to see the birds flying overhead on their morning flight.
During the shoulder season, which runs from October to April, you can still visit Chivay, but you should be prepared for occasional rain showers and colder temperatures. However, this is a great time to enjoy the hot springs and thermal baths that are located in the area.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Chivay

To get to Chivay, Peru, you can take a bus or hire a private car. From Arequipa, you can take a bus from the bus terminal or hire a private car to get to Chivay. The journey takes about 3-4 hours by bus or 2.5-3 hours by car. There are also daily flights from Lima to Arequipa, which is the closest city to Chivay. From there, you can connect to Chivay by bus or private car.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Chivay, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Chivay

Chivay is a small town located in the Colca Valley of Peru. Here are some typical foods you can find in Chivay: 1. Rocoto Relleno - This is a spicy dish consisting of stuffed rocoto pepper, which is a type of Peruvian hot pepper. The pepper is usually stuffed with ground beef, onions, and cheese before being fried or baked.
2. Chupe de Camarones - This is a hearty soup made with fresh river shrimp, potatoes, milk, and cheese. The dish is often served with a side of white rice.
3. Alpaca Meat - Alpaca is a type of animal similar to a llama. The meat is lean and tender, with a delicate flavor. It can be grilled, sautéed, or roasted and is often served with potatoes or other traditional side dishes.
4. Cuy - Cuy is a traditional dish consisting of roasted guinea pig. It is commonly served in many parts of Peru, including Chivay. The meat is tender and flavorful, although some may find the idea of eating guinea pig unappetizing.
5. Locro de Zapallo - This creamy pumpkin soup is a popular dish in many parts of Peru, including Chivay. It is often made with potatoes, cheese, and a variety of herbs and spices.
6. Corn on the Cob - Corn is a staple food in Peru and is often grilled or boiled and served as a side dish. In Chivay, you may find it served with a variety of toppings such as cheese, butter, or chili sauce.
7. Humitas - These are similar to tamales, made with ground corn, cheese, and other herbs and spices. They are often steamed in corn husks and served as a snack or side dish.
You can find general info about typical foods in Peru here.

Is Chivay an expensive destination for tourists?

Chivay, Peru is not considered an expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are generally affordable, and you can find options to fit a range of budgets. However, prices may vary depending on the season you choose to visit, so it's a good idea to do some research and make reservations in advance. Additionally, some activities like visiting hot springs or taking a guided tour of Colca Canyon may incur higher costs. Overall, Chivay can be a great option for travelers looking for an authentic Peruvian experience without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Chivay

Chivay is a town located in the Colca Valley, Peru. If you're planning a trip to Chivay, the best areas to find accommodation would be in or around the town center or in the nearby towns of Yanque, Coporaque, or Cabanaconde. In the town center, you'll find most of the hotels and hostels, as well as restaurants and shops, making it a convenient location for travelers. Yanque and Coporaque are smaller towns located nearby and offer a more peaceful and scenic setting. Cabanaconde is located a bit further but offers stunning views of the Colca Canyon. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences and itinerary to decide where to stay.
You can check hotel prices at Chivay here:
Booking.com

Is Chivay a safe destination for tourists?

Chivay is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's always important to take precautions to ensure your personal safety. Make sure to take standard safety measures like not carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry, being aware of your surroundings, and sticking to well-lit and populated areas. It's also a good idea to research ahead of time any specific safety concerns or local customs to be aware of. Overall, Chivay is a beautiful and welcoming destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Peru here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Chivay.

What type of travelers will enjoy Chivay the most?

Chivay, located in the Colca Valley, is an excellent destination for all types of travelers. It is well-known for its stunning landscapes, hot springs, and traditional markets, making it a great option for families, couples, and young people alike.
For families, there are plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, and bird watching. The hot springs are also an ideal way to relax together as a family.
Couples will love the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of Chivay. They can enjoy the beautiful scenery, take romantic walks, and enjoy a soak in the hot springs while admiring the sunset.
Young people looking for fun won't be disappointed either. There are plenty of adventure sports to try, such as rafting, paragliding, and trekking. The markets are also an ideal place to shop for souvenirs and try local foods.
Overall, Chivay is a great destination for everyone, regardless of age or interests.

How to get around Chivay

In Chivay, the most common mode of transportation is by foot as the town is relatively small and walkable. However, taxis and colectivos (shared taxis or vans) are also available for those who prefer to get around faster or are traveling to nearby towns. Some visitors also opt to rent motorcycles or bicycles to explore the area.

What to see around Chivay

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Chivay, Peru: 1. Colca Canyon: One of the deepest canyons in the world and home to the Andean condor.
2. Cruz del Condor: A viewpoint to see the condors flying over the Colca Canyon, located about 2 hours from Chivay.
3. Maca and Yanque towns: These two colorful villages are located close to Chivay and offer beautiful views of the valley and traditional architecture.
4. La Calera hot springs: A relaxing and popular spot to go for a soak in hot springs located just 5 km from Chivay.
5. Aguada Blanca National Reserve: A high-altitude reserve with stunning landscapes and wildlife such as vicuñas and flamingos, located about 40 km from Chivay.
6. Sumbay Caves: An archaeological site with ancient cave paintings located about 60 km from Chivay.
These are some of the best options for a day trip from Chivay, Peru.
For every travel information about Peru you can click here.

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