Colca Canyon, Peru: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Colca Canyon, Peru? If you're planning to go to Colca Canyon, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Colca Canyon, Peru

Based on the climate and weather in Colca Canyon, Peru, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Colca Canyon, Peru

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Colca Canyon, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Colca Canyon, Peru by month

January

If you are traveling to Colca Canyon in January, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

February

February for Colca Canyon is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Make sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

March

Traveling to Colca Canyon in March, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Make sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April here can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May here is brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost most days. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. It's important that you pick the correct type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you go to Colca Canyon in June, you will notice that it is brisk. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 30s F (single digits C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Take care to get the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

July

July for Colca Canyon can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day of the month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Take care to get the right kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

August for Colca Canyon is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost almost every day of the month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Take care to choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

If you are traveling to Colca Canyon in September, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain occasionally. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be sure to get the correct type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

October

October in Colca Canyon can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost most days. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Be sure to find the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

November

If you are traveling to Colca Canyon in November, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Take care to get the correct type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you go to Colca Canyon in December, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Peru has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Colca Canyon. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and C. Check that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

What to do in Colca Canyon, Peru

Peru is a country that boasts countless natural wonders and cultural attractions, and the Colca Canyon is one of its most exceptional tourist destinations. Located in southern Peru, the Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, and it attracts visitors from all over the globe who want to experience its breathtaking geological formations, cultural diversity, and archaeological sites. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Colca Canyon that you should not miss on your trip.

1. Condor Cross (La Cruz del Condor)

The Condor Cross is one of the most popular destinations in Colca Canyon, located at a height of 3,800 meters above sea level. Here, visitors can observe the colossal Andean condors as they soar over the canyon. The condor is a majestic bird that is a symbol of freedom and strength in Andean culture, and he plays an essential role in the culture of the indigenous people of Colca Canyon. Visitors to the Condor Cross can enjoy panoramic views of the canyon and the surrounding mountains, while marveling at the grace and beauty of the Andean Condors.

2. Hot Springs of La Calera

The Calera hot springs are another must-visit destination in Colca Canyon, located at the foot of the canyon. These natural hot springs offer visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate amid the stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding mountains. The thermal waters of La Calera are rich in minerals and are believed to have healing properties that can cure various ailments, such as rheumatism, arthritis or nervous problems. There are various pools of different temperatures, ranging from 38 to 45 °C, so visitors can easily find a perfect spot to soak and unwind.

3. The town of Chivay

Chivay is the largest town in the Colca Valley and an excellent base for exploring the canyon and its surroundings. Visitors can explore the town's architecture, which is a blend of colonial Spanish and Andean styles, and enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the town. There is also a local craft market where tourists can buy handmade souvenirs and handicrafts made by indigenous people.

4. Colca Canyon trekking

For visitors who like outdoor activities, trekking in the Colca Canyon is an excellent option. Hiking trails lead visitors through diverse landscapes, from lush green valleys to the rugged rocky cliffs of the canyon. Trekkers can observe villagers working on traditional farms, small communities of worship, and view different species of plants and animals, making it an unforgettable experience. Treks can last anything from a few hours to several days, with different levels of difficulty to suit hikers with different skills and fitness levels.

5. Sibayo Viewpoint

Sibayo is a traditional town located at the edge of the Colca Canyon. The town itself is an excellent destination for experiencing local culture, as it has hardly been touched by modernization. Sibayo is home to a viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the canyon and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy an excellent opportunity to glimpse the terraced farmland and stonewalled fields that have been cultivated by the local people for centuries.

These are just some of the top tourist attractions you can find in Colca Canyon. With so much to see and do, Colca Canyon is an excellent destination for those who want to explore the natural beauty and rich culture of Peru.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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