Cotahuasi Canyon

The majority of people may think that the deepest canyon in the world is Grand Canyon in Arizona as it is well known for its dimentions but in fact it is only 1 737 meters deep while the deepest one is 3 535 meters. It is located in Peru near the city Arequipa at the highest Andean point and is called Cotahuasi Canyon. Its deepest part is a picturesque area where you can enjoy white glaciers, beautiful lakes and thermo medicinal waters. It is an ideal home for such endangered species as the Andean condor, guemales and vicunas. 

In 1988 the region of Cotahuasi Canyon was declared a Touristic Reserve Zone and it very soon became an ideal destination for sport and adventure lovers. Each year on the May 4th it becomes a place for holding rock climbing, rafting and mountain biking festivals.

Catahuasi is a canyon of adventures, waterfalls and hanging bridges. It is sometimes even called the Canyon of Wonders. In the canyon area you will also find churches, villages and numerous cultivation areas, but Catarata de Sipia located in the very heart of the canyon is a real delight for the eye. It is an impressively high waterfall representing a huge and strong mass of water. Adrenaline lovers may come closer to the edge of the cliff to look down over the vertical drop of hundred meters of water. The experience is amazing, but it is only for those who are ready to do it.

The waterfall is located three hours from Cotahuasi town if you decide to travel on foot but if you don't like hiking, you may rent a car in a car rental in Arequipa. There is however another option: you may take a combi to the Cuyao hanging bridge and then ride a donkey. The path you’ll be travelling through is fascinating and borders with the Cotahuasi River. This route will take you approximately an hour and a half. If you are planning to spend only one day near the waterfall and return in the evening it’s better to start your trip as early as possible. The spectacular journey is guaranteed.

Cotahuasi River is the top destination in Peru for rafting and kayaking lovers. It will take you 12 hours to get from Arequipa to the river by bus. 

In this area there are no official campgrounds but camping is possible nearly everywhere. People living in neighboring villages are really friendly and hospitable so it won’t be difficult to find a campsite even on somebody’s field.  If you are not a huge fan of camping there is another option, you may always stay in the hostel as there are many of them in Cotahuasi and the price is quite reasonable. Continental breakfast is usually included into the price. There are also different restaurants nearby serving typical Peruvian food. Such trip will be a lifetime experience.