Condors of Chonta

Overview

The Andean condor has a wingspan of over three metres and barely flaps: it rides the currents rising from the canyon. At Chonta, in the Limatambo valley, you see them pass close by, level with the viewpoint.

We leave before dawn because the morning is the best time to see them, when the sun warms the canyon walls and the thermals build.

The walk is gentle and accessible: about 45 minutes to the first viewpoints and then an hour and a half along the canyon rim, looking down at the Apurímac River a thousand metres below.

It is a private experience, with breakfast and lunch included and a guide dedicated only to your group.

Day by day itinerary

1. 01

   Departure from Cusco

   Private pickup from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. and drive towards the Apurímac canyon.

2. 02 3,400 m

   Arrival at the canyon

   We reach Chonta at around 6:30 a.m. A guided walk of about 45 minutes takes us to the first viewpoints, the best time of day to spot the condors.

3. 03

   Along the canyon rim

   About an hour and a half walking along the canyon rim, with views of the Apurímac River and the rock formations.

4. 04

   Breakfast and lunch

   Breakfast in the area and, at midday, a local-style lunch at a nearby restaurant.

5. 05

   Return to Cusco

   In the afternoon we head back, arriving in Cusco at around 6:00 p.m.

What to bring

• Comfortable clothing and warm layers (it is cold before dawn)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Water and light snacks
• Camera or phone, ideally with zoom
• Passport or ID

Prices by group size

This is a private trip: the more people travel, the less it costs per person.