Plunging more than 1,500 meters down to the thundering Apurimac River, the Apurimac Canyon is one of the deepest gorges on the South American continent. Perched high above this chasm lies the traditional farming community of Chonta, home to natural cliff roosts used by wild Andean Condors (Vultur gryphus).
This full-day expedition escapes the crowded tourist circuits to combine an impressive visit to the polygonal Inca masonry of Tarawasi with a panoramic 2-hour rim trail hike. At the cliff-edge viewpoints, travelers enjoy front-row observation as juvenile and adult condors lift off on rising afternoon thermals, gliding just meters past the canyon edge with wingspans exceeding three meters (ten feet).
The Andean Condor was venerated by the Incas as the spiritual ruler of Hanaq Pacha—the celestial realm connecting humanity with the cosmos. Experiencing this sacred creature in its wild, natural sanctuary rather than an enclosure is one of the most profound wildlife encounters in Peru.
Leaving Cusco after breakfast, our route winds west past the Anta farming plains and drops into the warm valley of Limatambo. After exploring the ceremonial Inca temple of Tarawasi, we ascend by private vehicle along a scenic mountain dirt road to the rural hamlet of Chonta.
From here, a scenic, gently undulating trail hugs the canyon rim, offering expansive views of snowcapped peaks across the horizon. By 1:00 PM, warm thermal winds begin rushing up the canyon walls, signaling the moment condors leave their rocky perches to circle effortlessly on the updrafts.
Starting Point: Hotel pickup in Cusco at 07:00 AM
Ending Point: Hotel drop-off in Cusco by 07:30 PM
Driving Distance: 95 km / 59 miles each way (approx. 2.5 hours driving)
Trekking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles round-trip on well-marked dirt trail
Trekking Time: Approx. 1.5 to 2 hours outbound, 1.5 hours return
Difficulty Level: Moderate (undulating trail at 3,300m altitude)
We pick you up from your Cusco accommodation at 07:00 AM in private transport, setting out westward across the fertile Anta plateau. Along the route, we enjoy sweeping views of the snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay massifs.
Our first stop is Tarawasi in the Limatambo Valley. This ceremonial Inca complex served as an administrative center and resting point (tambo) on the road to Chinchaysuyo. We admire the intricate polygonal masonry featuring distinctive carved cell-like stone patterns unmatched elsewhere in the Cusco region.
Continuing our drive, we ascend a scenic unpaved road to the rural Andean hamlet of Chonta (3,400m). Here, we register at the local community office and begin our 3-kilometer hike along a panoramic trail skirting the edge of the canyon. Along the way, we watch for highland birds such as Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, Aplomado Falcon, Variable Hawk, and Highland Parakeet.
Around midday, we reach the third and most dramatic viewpoint: a natural rock promontory suspended hundreds of meters above the Apurimac River. Here, we unpack our nutritious lunch and set up high-powered spotting scopes.
Between 01:00 PM and 03:30 PM, as the canyon warms, thermal air currents surge up the sheer vertical cliffs. Adult condors with white neck ruffs and juveniles with dusky plumage lift from their cliff cavities. They frequently bank within 20 to 50 meters of the viewpoint, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
At 03:45 PM, we begin our gentle return walk to Chonta, where our private transport is waiting. We drive back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel door by 07:30 PM.
Day Tour Pricing (USD per person):
Weather & Soaring Dynamics: Thermal air currents require temperature differential between canyon floor and cliff tops. Therefore, condor activity peaks between 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM. In the rare event of overcast weather, sightings still occur, though birds may fly slightly lower.
Altitude: The hike takes place between 3,200m and 3,400m above sea level. Acclimatization of at least 1-2 days in Cusco is recommended.
Trail Conditions: Packed dirt trail with gentle undulations; brief rocky sections near viewpoints. Safe for all active travelers with reasonable fitness.
Conservation: The Chonta community manages this sanctuary directly. Your visit provides sustainable tourism revenue that supports condor habitat preservation and rural school education.
Q: How close do the condors actually get?
A: Depending on wind speed and thermal currents, condors frequently cruise within 20 to 50 meters of the primary viewpoint, sometimes passing directly overhead.
Q: Is the hike difficult?
A: It is classified as moderate. The trail is well-defined with gradual ups and downs, taking approximately 1.5 hours in each direction.
Q: Can children participate?
A: Yes, active children aged 8 and above accustomed to walking can comfortably complete this day tour.
Our local specialists craft custom itineraries suited to your pace, preferences, and budget.
Important Reservation Notes: Prices are in US Dollars per person based on shared double/twin room accommodation. A deposit of 30% is required to guarantee your departure date. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from entry to Peru.
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