Urubamba to Colca Canyon
Updated: March 11, 2024 10:03 PMUrubamba to Colca Canyon
Urubamba and Colca Canyon are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. Both offer stunning scenery, rich history, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. Getting from Urubamba to Colca Canyon is relatively easy, and there are a number of different ways to do it.
Language
The official language of Peru is Spanish. However, Quechua and Aymara are also widely spoken in the country. In Urubamba and Colca Canyon, you will likely be able to get by with English, but it is helpful to know a few basic Spanish phrases.
Currency
The currency of Peru is the Peruvian sol (PEN). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. It is also possible to use credit cards in most places.
Distance
The distance between Urubamba and Colca Canyon is approximately 240 miles (386 kilometers). The journey takes about 6-8 hours by car.
How to Reach
There are a number of different ways to get from Urubamba to Colca Canyon.
- By car: The most direct way to get from Urubamba to Colca Canyon is by car. The drive takes about 6-8 hours, depending on traffic. You can rent a car in Urubamba or Cusco.
- By bus: There are a number of bus companies that operate between Urubamba and Colca Canyon. The journey takes about 8-10 hours. You can book tickets online or at the bus station.
- By train: There is no direct train between Urubamba and Colca Canyon. However, you can take a train from Cusco to Arequipa, and then transfer to a bus to Colca Canyon. The journey takes about 12-14 hours.
Expenses
The cost of getting from Urubamba to Colca Canyon will vary depending on the mode of transport you choose. Here is a rough estimate of the costs:
- By car: The cost of renting a car in Urubamba is around $30-40 per day. The cost of gas is around $1 per gallon.
- By bus: The cost of a bus ticket between Urubamba and Colca Canyon is around $20-30.
- By train: The cost of a train ticket between Cusco and Arequipa is around $50-60. The cost of a bus ticket between Arequipa and Colca Canyon is around $10-15.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Colca Canyon is during the dry season, from May to October. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the trails are easy to hike. The rainy season, from November to April, can be wet and muddy, and some trails may be closed.
What to Eat
There are a number of great places to eat in Urubamba and Colca Canyon. Here are a few of our favorites:
- In Urubamba:
- El Jardin: A popular restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine.
- Pachamama: A restaurant specializing in Andean cuisine.
- La Casona: A restaurant serving international cuisine.
- In Colca Canyon:
- La Posada del Conde: A restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine.
- El Mirador: A restaurant with stunning views of the canyon.
- La Casa de la Abuela: A restaurant serving home-cooked Peruvian cuisine.
Where to Go
There are a number of things to see and do in Urubamba and Colca Canyon. Here are a few of our favorites:
- In Urubamba:
- Machu Picchu: The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. It is located about 3 hours from Urubamba by train.
- The Sacred Valley: The Sacred Valley is a beautiful valley located between Urubamba and Cusco. It is home to a number of Inca ruins, including Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
- The Pisac Market: The Pisac Market is a colorful market where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and food.
- In Colca Canyon:
- The Cruz del Cóndor: The Cruz del Cóndor is a viewpoint that offers stunning views of the canyon. It is a popular spot for birdwatching.
- The Colca River: The Colca River is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking.
- The Inca Trail: The Inca Trail is a popular trekking trail that leads to Machu Picchu. It is a challenging hike, but it is also one of the most rewarding experiences in Peru.
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about getting from Urubamba to Colca Canyon:
- How long does it take to get from Urubamba to Colca Canyon?
The journey takes about 6-8 hours by car, 8-10 hours by bus, and 12-14 hours by train.
- How much does it cost to get from Urubamba to Colca Canyon?
The cost of getting from Urubamba to Colca Canyon will vary depending on the mode of transport you choose. Here is a rough estimate of the costs:
- By car: The cost of renting a car in Urubamba is around $30-40 per day. The cost of gas is around $1 per gallon.
- By bus: The cost of a bus ticket between Urubamba and Colca Canyon is around $20-30.
- By train: The cost of a train ticket between Cusco and Arequipa is around $50-60. The cost of a bus ticket between Arequipa and Colca Canyon is around $10-15.
- What is the best time to visit Colca Canyon?
The best time to visit Colca Canyon is during the dry season, from May to October. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the trails are easy to hike.
- What are some of the things to see and do in Colca Canyon?
There are a number of things to see and do in Colca Canyon, including:
- Visiting the Cruz del Cóndor
- Rafting or kayaking on the Colca River
- Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
*Distance calculation may be aerial distance.
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