Overview
Your journey begins with a private morning drive through highland villages down into the fertile Limatambo Valley. From the rural community of Chonta, set out on a gentle 1.5-hour trail winding through open mountain countryside and native Andean vegetation. As the trail nears the canyon rim, expansive views reveal the Apurimac River’s dramatic depths below and snow-capped summits on the horizon.
Upon reaching the strategic cliffside observation points, settle in with your expert bilingual guide as afternoon thermal currents lift magnificent Andean condors directly over the abyss—Marvel at these sacred birds soaring with impressive 10-foot wingspans in their untouched natural habitat. After capturing photos and enjoying a fresh box lunch surrounded by quiet wilderness, return along the scenic path to your private transport for a comfortable drive back to Cusco.
Summary
CUSCO – APURIMAC CANYON – CUSCO
Embark on a captivating full-day journey from Cusco to the quiet highland village of Chonta, gateway to one of South America’s deepest gorges. Travelling west through the Limatambo Valley, this expedition combines scenic countryside driving with a moderate 1.5-hour hike along mountain ridges. At the cliffside lookout points of the Apurimac Canyon, observe wild Andean condors taking flight right as afternoon thermal currents lift them above the abyss. With dramatic vistas of snowy Andean summits, sweeping river views, and a relaxing box lunch in nature, this trip offers an authentic connection to Peru’s wild wildlife away from high-density tourist circuits.
– Hiking Time: ~3 hours total (round-trip)
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Starting Altitude (Cusco): 3,400 m (11,150 ft)
– Chonta Trailhead Altitude: ~3,400 m (11,150 ft)
– Chonta Viewpoint Altitude: 3,400 m (11,150 ft)
– Canyon Depth: ~1,500 m (4,900 ft) drop to the Apurimac River
Itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO – APURIMAC CANYON – CUSCO
06:00 AM – Hotel Pick-up & Departure from Cusco: Meet your guide and private driver directly at your Cusco hotel. Begin your scenic drive west toward the Limatambo Valley, passing agricultural fields and traditional highland villages.
08:30 AM – Scenic Stop & Arrival in Chonta: Pass through Limatambo and wind up mountain roads to reach the small rural community of Chonta, the official starting point for the trek.
09:00 AM – Trailhead & Ridge Hike: Receive a briefing from your professional guide. Begin a gentle, 1.5-hour hike along scenic mountain paths lined with native flora, taking in distant views of Mount Salkantay and Mount Humantay.
10:30 AM – Arrival at Chonta Viewpoint & Condor Observation: Settle in at the strategic observation points overlooking the Apurimac Canyon. As the sun warms the valley, watch Andean condors emerge from their nests to ride the thermal winds, gliding gracefully over the 1,500-meter drop.
01:00 PM – Box Lunch at the Canyon Rim: Enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared box lunch while continuing to observe the condors and taking in panoramic mountain scenery.
02:00 PM – Return Hike to Chonta: Pack up and begin the leisurely 1.5-hour return walk along the cliffside trail back to the village of Chonta.
03:30 PM – Private Return Transfer: Board your comfortable private transport in Chonta for the relaxing drive back toward Cusco.
05:00 PM (approx.) – Arrival in Cusco: Conclude your day trip with a direct, safe drop-off at your hotel door in Cusco.








