Located in the Cayllona province within Arequipa region in Perú, Cabanaconde district is a premier destination for those seeking authentic adventures through trekking. Sitting at 3,287 m altitude, it offers countless breathtaking vistas overlooking both the Colca Canyon and other natural wonders. You'll also discover unique cultural experiences, whether exploring the small village of Cabanaconde or its surroundings. Notable sites like the Kallimarka Ruins and stunning pre-Inca terraces enchant visitors. Don't miss engaging with local activities and traditions that define village life.

The Village of Cabanaconde and Its Unique Heritage

Its remote location shields this village from mass tourism, preserving its authenticity. Surrounded by majestic mountains, Cabanaconde offers breathtaking viewpoints, notably the Condor Cross where you can watch these magnificent raptors soar overhead. It serves as the starting point for numerous multi-day treks, including journeys descending to the heart of Colca Canyon.

This Quechua village's economy revolves around agriculture, with modest contributions from commerce and tourism. Most terraces cultivate "maiz cabanita"—a 100% organic heirloom corn variety.

Walking through the village, you'll be struck by women wearing traditional dress adorned with vibrant hand-embroidered hats. Meticulously crafted with precision, these hats showcase regional iconography exclusive to Cabanas culture, distinguishing them from Collaguas traditions. You may witness the "witite" dance, a pre-Inca dance of remarkable beauty recognized in 2015 as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. If your visit coincides with "del Pueblo," the national festival held in mid-July, the celebration offers an unforgettable immersion.

Trekking in Colca Canyon from Cabanaconde

Cabanaconde is the departure point for all Colca Canyon treks. From here, you can embark on routes toward Llahuar, Fure, Sangalle, San Juan de Chuccho, or Tapay.

Since the journey from Arequipa to Cabanaconde takes 5-6 hours, it's wise to avoid trekking the same day. Spending one or two nights acclimatizing is strongly recommended after such an arduous journey.

To begin trekking, head to the Cejana viewpoint (toward Sangalle), San Miguel or Pampa Amaru (toward San Juan de Chuccho and Tapay), or Achachiwa (toward Llahuar and Fure).

The Cejana viewpoint lies just 20 minutes on foot from Cabanaconde. Take Polonia Street (formerly Grau Street) directly across from the San Pedro Church. Continue to the street's end where a wooden sign marks the Sangalle-Tapay trail via Mirador de Cejana and a small shelter. Keep your entry tickets handy.

The trek toward San Juan de Chuccho and Tapay begins at the San Miguel viewpoint, 25 minutes northeast on foot from Cabanaconde. From the paved road past Juanita Museum, you'll spot the football stadium. Look for the path beside it leading to a straw-roofed shelter. Simply follow the obvious trail to the right.

For the Llahuar-Fure trek, locating the Achachihua viewpoint is essential as signage is sparse. It's just 20 minutes on foot west of Cabanaconde via Bolivar Street. Past the village bullring, take the path at its edge toward an abandoned football field. Continue to the viewpoint where a small eucalyptus shelter awaits. Follow the clear, safe path to the left.

Excursions to Cruz Del Condor and Tapay

The Cruz Del Condor viewpoint is Colca Canyon's most celebrated vantage point. Its primary draw is condor observation—best between 7 and 10 a.m. and evenings as birds return to their roosts. You'll be rewarded with a stunning panorama of Colca Canyon's profound depths. No demanding hike required—simply take a public bus, taxi, or private transport.

For a quieter experience with fewer crowds, the Tapay viewpoint is equally rewarding for condor watching. Just 15 minutes by bus and 1 hour 30 minutes on foot from Cabanaconde, it offers splendid canyon vistas and views of Tapay village, from which it takes its name.

Other Must-See Attractions

Kallimarka Ruins

Another worthwhile trek from Cabanaconde covers 3,700 m and takes roughly 1 hour 20 minutes—well worth the effort. Explore the Kallimarka ruins, a pre-Inca sacred site, while enjoying magnificent vistas of terraced landscapes, the extinct Hualca-Hualca volcano (6,025 m), and Cabanaconde village below, particularly magical at sunset.

Hualca-Hualca Extinct Volcano

This imposing volcano is visible from Cabanaconde and revered by locals as an Apu (mountain god). Summiting this peak promises an extraordinary experience, though it demands altitude acclimatization. The ascent rewards you with magical, otherworldly vistas.

Mucurca Lagoon

Located at 4,350 m, this stunning lagoon is best explored via 4x4—requiring advance arrangement and booking. The site hosts abundant birdlife, including pink flamingos and region-endemic species. Beyond its beauty, it offers unobstructed views of Hualca-Hualca, Ampato, and Sabankaya volcanoes.

Practical Information

From Arequipa, the journey to Cabanaconde spans 224 km, taking approximately 5-6 hours by public bus, tourist coach, or private vehicle. The road is generally well-maintained.

From Puno, the distance is 211 km, with taxi service taking about 5 hours 25 minutes—the fastest option from Puno to Cabanaconde.