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When is the best time to see condors?
The best time is in the morning, between 7 and 10am, when the condors come out of their caves and nests to look for food. They rise on the warm air currents that are heated by the sun and they fly very close over the Cruz del Condor viewpoint. If the day is cloudy, there’s less of a chance that you’ll see them, but it’s still possible. However the best time to go is on a bright clear day.
You can also go in the afternoon when the viewpoint is less busy. You might not see as many condors but you’ll probably see several condors returning to their caves and nests. |
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What’s the climate like in the canyon?
For most of the year the temperature in the canyon is hot, reaching temperatures of 15 to 25 º C. When the sun sets, the temperature can drop suddenly, sometimes reaching 0ºC.
During the rainy season (from December until March), the temperature usually holds steady between 5 to 10 ºC and there’s a lot of precipitation. If you plan on hiking during these months it’s best to come prepared with a rain jacket and waterproof boots.
Inside the canyon in Sangalle and San Juan de Chuccho for example, the climate is warm since they are protected by the canyon walls. Because of their location these towns can still grow tropical fruit trees and palm trees even though they are situated at high altitudes (2000 to 2600 meters above sea level). |
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Is it possible to get lost in the canyon?
Yes, there are cases where hikers got lost or injured, but usually it was due to a lack of information about the canyon. The paths are generally pretty clear but since there’s not much signage in the canyon, it is possible to get lost. The information that we give you will help you avoid getting lost and help keep you safe. |
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Do I need a sleeping bag?
It’s not necessary. The majority of hostels in the canyon have extra blankets in case you get cold, but it doesn’t get that cold in the canyon as the climate is semi-tropical. However you may want to bring a sleeping bag to put on top of the bed in your hostel since the hostels in the canyon typically don’t change their bedsheets regularly. |
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Are the hiking paths dangerous?
NO. All the paths are safe and well-traveled. However always walk on the main paths and avoid shortcuts. |
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Are there places to sleep in the canyon?
Yes. Most of the little towns have hostels that are very economical (between 5 and 15 soles per night). |
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Do we need to bring food with us or can we buy food in the canyon?
All of the hostels sell food. We recommend you bring lots of water and snacks with you since these can be expensive in the canyon. |
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Are there buses from Cabanaconde to Puno?
There are no direct buses, but there are ways to transfer buses. Please see the section called “Cabanaconde to Puno” |
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Do I really need to buy the tourist ticket to enter the Colca Canyon.
Yes, you have to buy the ticket. |
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Can I go hiking alone?
It’s best to join a group of other people who are going into the canyon the same day as you. In Pachamama there are always groups going down that you can join. |
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