8 Adventurous Things to Do in Yanque Peru

Yanque Peru is an authentic village that is almost 20 miles before the main tourist entrance gate of the increasingly popular Colca Canyon. There are many awesome and adventurous things to do in Yanque and the surrounding villages that remain hidden gems. Sadly, many tourists skip this under-appreciated region and village.

There are some fascinating Pre-Inca ruins found at the Uyo-Uyo Archaeological Park that boast a small, yet stunning waterfall. Let’s not forget those incredible views. Some of the best “off the beaten path” Colca Canyon day hikes are be easily accessible from Yanque Peru. After hiking in the free sector of the Colca Canyon, soak in those tired legs in at least one of the Yanque public hot springs. The nearby village of Chivay has a local and pleasant market to sample and appreciate regional dishes at a budget friendly price.

With all of these intrepid and worthwhile things to do, and even less crowds, Yanque Peru makes a fantastic alternative for those who don’t want to shell out the expensive entrance fee for the Colca Canyon. Twenty miles down the road, expect to pay 70 soles ($17 USD) to simply enter the Canyon Canyon.

In my humble opinion, I preferred my week in Yanque Peru over the ticketed section of the Colca Valley. Yanque is magical and an awesome way to explore lesser known places and the unique landscapes of the Colca Canyon.

Here are 8 incredible things to do in Yanque Peru.

Table of Contents

• How to Get to Yanque Peru
• Where to Sleep in Yanque Peru
• Explore the Pre-Inca Ruins of Uyo-Uyo
• Alternative Colca Canyon Day Hike to Coporaque
• Visit the Village of Lari
• Climb the Chimba Fortress
• Soak in the Yanque Hot Springs
• Visit The Chivay Market
• Catch at Least One Sunrise or Sunset in the Colca Canyon
• Plan for an Epic Colca Canyon Trek
• How to Return to Arequipa from Yanque Peru
• 8 Adventurous Things to Do in Yanque Peru

How to Get to Yanque Peru

Most travelers looking to experience the Colca Canyon will come from the “white city” of Arequipa. Arequipa is Peru’s second largest city and has two busy bus terminal located right next to each other. Three bus companies depart from the regional Arequipa Terminal Terreste to take travelers to the depths of the Colca Canyon. Buses going to the Colca Canyon will drive directly past Yanque Peru, so simply purchase the ticket to Yanque.

🚌 Arequipa to Chivay Bus Logistics | Don’t forget to pay the regional exit tax of 1.50 PEN (40¢) | Average Ticket Cost: 15 PEN ($3.75 USD) | Duration: 4 hours

Arequipa to Chivay Bus Schedule

This was the most recent bus schedule I could find, but the schedules are constantly changing, so always verify departure times the day before. Message each company on WhatsApp for the most up-to-date departure information.

Departure Time	Bus Line	Contact #	Departure Location
00:30	Andalucia	+51 054-486263	Terminal Terreste Arequipa
1:00	Reyna	+51 958 793 719	Terminal Terreste Arequipa
3:30	Milagros	+51 054-53-1115	Terminal Terrsste Arequipa
9:30	Andalucia	+51 054-486263	Terminal Terreste Arequipa
11:00	Reyna	+51 958 793 719	Terminal Terreste Arequipa
14:00	Milagros	+51 054-53-1115	Terminal Terreste Arequipa

However, it’s just as easy to get there from the village of Chivay, which acts as a gateway village to the Colca Canyon. Near the main bus station, the most popular collectivo companies of Transportes Caminos del Inca and Tuti Tours Colca express depart for Chivay frequently.

Chivay to Yanque Peru

If the buses final destination in Chivay, that’s alright! You’re super close. Once in Chivay, catch a collectivo to Yanque which departs frequently and is less than a 10 minute ride.

🚐 Chivay to Yanque Collectivos | Cost: $1.30 PEN (30¢) | Depart when full, three blocks from the Chivay Plaza de Armas near here | Duration: 10 minutes

Where to Sleep in Yanque Peru

Yanque Peru is the perfect place to stay for at least a night or two. The charm lured me in, and I actually ended up staying a whole week. While the village is small, there are lots of different lodging accommodations. In Yanque, find everything from campsites, guesthouses, hotels, and high-end luxury accommodation.

Budget Family Guesthouse | Casa Bella Flor is an amazing family run guesthouse with a beautiful garden, awesome and caring hosts, and super clean facilities. The family also offers Colca Canyon tours, but is also willing to give helpful details for independent travelers. Real budget travelers can pitch a tent and sleep at their other property that is just two blocks away. They are more than happy to accommodate campers! Tent space cost 10 PEN ($2.50 USD) a night in a gated facility. The nightly fee includes access to the main guest house kitchen, bathrooms, and garden.

Mid-Range | Le Foyer Casa has bright rooms and amazing views of the Colca Canyon. With it’s perfect location outside of town, this is near the trailhead to the lovely hike to the village of Coporaque

Mid-Range Guesthouse | Miskiwasi Bed & Breakfast is a lovely guesthouse with spectacular hosts, stunning views, and super clean rooms. This is a favorite midrange place to stay in Yanque Peru

Luxury Resort | Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs is a luxury resort outside of the village of Yanque, but boasts its own private hot springs.

➜ Find the best Yanque hotels and places to sleep

Explore the Pre-Inca Ruins of Uyo-Uyo

One of the best things to do in Yanque is to explore the Pre-Inca site of Uyo-Uyo. These hillside ruins sit on the other side of the lovely Colca River. The Uyo-Uyo Archaeological Park was home to the Collawa, or Collagua culture. This ancient city was eventually integrated into the Inca empire, only to be invade and destroyed by the Spanish conquistadors.

Although not as picturesque as more famous Peru Inca sites, the surrounding landscapes and views of the Colca Canyon are what makes this place unique, breathtaking and worth a stop.

In December, expect to find the crumbling stone ruins surrounded by flowering San Pedro cacti. Wander the ancient roads that are lined with water canals that are both impressive and plentiful. There are incredible vistas of the terraces of the Colca Valley. Don’t miss the chance to walk to the back of the Archaeological site where a pleasant waterfall flows above the Uyo-Uyo ruins.

Since Yanque Peru is off the main Colca Canyon circuit, this ruin site is usually empty and deserted. The one thing that is lacking are informative signboards explaining the history of the Collawa people and the history of the site in English. There are a few signboards in Spanish.

Uyo-Uyo Archaeological Park is a beautiful place that seems to be forgotten in time by most tourists. The quiet and abandonment of the ruins adds to the magic of this place.

Uyo-Uyo Pre-Inca Site | Standard Admission: 5 PEN ($1.25 USD) | Daily: 8:00 – 17:00

How to Visit Uyu-Uyo from Yanque Peru

Uyo-Uyo Archaeological Park is an easy walk to from the village of Yanque. By foot, it’s just a little over a mile. If walking, leave Yanque by crossing a small foot bridge near Le Foyer Casa. After the footbridge, take a left and walk on the main road until you see the main entrance.

If you have a car, it’s easy to park at the main entrance gate and visit the Uyo-Uyo ruins. Due to their hillside location, the ruins are a bit of a climb on uneven cobblestone paths. Don’t forget that the elevation of Yanque Peru is already a steep 11,210 ft (3,417 m), so proper acclimation is important. With the uneven surfaces, it is best to wear hiking shoes with good ankle support. Since it’s a little steep, hiking poles may be beneficial.

Colca Canyon Day Hike

Alternatively, the Uyo-Uyo ruins can be combined with a visit to the small village of Coporaque. This awesome Colca Canyon day hike includes stunning viewpoints, a stop at adorable village of Coporaque, the Pre-Inca burial site known as Tumbas de Yuraq Qaqa, and finish at the Uyo-Uyo Archaeological Site. The views are the main attraction of this hike. Read more about this worthwhile trek below.

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Alternative Colca Canyon Day Hike to Coporaque

A hike to the village of Coporaque is an excellent way to enjoy the stunning desert landscape of the region around Yanque Peru. The Coporaque hike boasts breathtaking views of the distant volcanoes, including the active Sabancaya, which is frequently spewing ash into the sky.

Appreciate the gorgeous views of stony terraces. If you’re lucky, see the spectacular flowering cacti. For me, the first week in December was out of this world. Along the trail, spot crumbling stone ruins. En-route walk through working pastures, where women work the fields in their intricate blue skirts. Accompanying them are usually jovial dogs and silly donkeys.

This trail has little shade coverage, so it’s best to start it early in the morning to avoid the arid afternoon heat. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes and wear long sleeves to protect from the sun. The hike from Yanque to Coporaque is a decent climb and you’ll climb to an elevation over 12,000 ft.

From Yanque Peru to Coporaque

🥾 Hiking Guide Yanque Peru to Coporaque | Distance: 3.25 miles | Duration: +/ – 2 hours

The hike from Yanque to Coporaque begins from the footbridge of the Rio Colca. Follow the map and appreciate breathtaking views of Yanque, the Colca Valley, and the river. The highlights on this route include the miradors of Chiqra and San Antonio. The trail continues into the village of Coporaque.

If you wish to only complete the hike to Coporaque, it’s possible to catch a collectivo from the Plaza to either Chivay or Yanque. Otherwise, take the path behind the Plaza past the Pre-Inca burial tombs and into Uyo Uyo Archaeological Park.

Coporaque to Uyo-Uyo Site

🥾 Coporaque Peru to Uyo-Uyo | Distance: 2.5 miles | Duration: +/- 2 hours

Leave the Plaza de Armas of Coporaque via Avenida Arequipa, which is only one block from the Plaza de Armas and is clearly marked with signboards. Wander up to the Tumbas de Yuraq Qaqa, where skulls and bones are still out on display. After exploring the cliffside burial site, the trail meets back to the Mirador San Antonio. From there, back track on the same path you came from, but this time continue on the path to Uyo-Uyo. The views of Sabancaya Volcano are spectacular. Reach the Uyo-Uyo ruins from the back entrance.

🥾 Detailed Hiking Guide | Detailed Hiking Guide for Yanque, Coporaque, & the Uyo-Uyo Ruins

Visit the Village of Lari

Lari is another spectacular and tiny hamlet outside the main ticketed area of the Colca Canyon. It also is the entry way to reach one of the best day hikes in the Colca Canyon, the Chimpa Fortress.

Lari village also houses one of the most significant churches in the entire region. Again, notice the Spanish influence of the shells. The village is small, but a few doors down from the church is super helpful tourist information center.

My visit to Lari village was so special, as they were celebrating a festival complete with free food and a display of traditional outfits and customs. The village was buzzing with magical energy.

Climb the Chimba Fortress

Three miles from Lari is the hamlet of Madrigal, which is where the trailhead to the Chimba Fortress is found. This trail is steep, and there’s only one way to go… and that’s up! The trail is well marked, but it’s also a straight ascent.

The trail leads to a lovely hilltop fortress that dates back to the Pre-Inca civilization. There is not much information about this fortress, as it’s pretty far off the normal tourist track, but it is so worth it!

Since few travelers visit this landmark, expect to have this place to yourself! Be in awe of some beautiful rock formations, incredible panoramic views, a well preserved ancient fortress, and one of the most epic viewpoints in the entire Colca Canyon. The panorama view from here boasts the absolutely deepest viewpoint in the canyon. The best part is, it’s still a hidden gem! Most people skip past the fortress, because it can be hard to reach. At a steep elevation of 11,200 feet, the views from the fortress are worthwhile.

If you arrive early enough in the morning, there’s a great possibility to see condors flying in the canyon. Remember, the earlier the better to avoid the harsh heat of midday sun.

🥾 Chimba Fortress Hike Guide | Out & Back Trail | Free Colca Canyon Hike as it’s outside the parameters of the ticketed area | Distance: 3 miles round trip | Excursion Duration: 2-4 hours | Ascent: almost 1,000 ft, but plenty of switch backs

The Chimba Fortress hike was one of my favorite things to do from Yanque Peru!

It’s best to do this hike during the dry season in Colca Canyon from April to November. Always know your limits and check the weather. Personally, I completed this hike in the beginning of December and had fantastic weather.

Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as this hike is very isolated in the arid desert and there is no shade coverage along the hiking trail.

How to Get to Chimba Fortress from Yanque Peru & Logistics

A day at Chimba Fortress will include an early start. No matter how you reach the hilltop fortress, it may end up being a highlight of your trip. Chimba Fortress is one of the best Colca Canyon day hikes and one of the best off the beaten path attractions in the Colca Valley.

By Car or Bike

With a car or bike, it is super easy to arrive right at the start of the Chimba Fortress trailhead. The beginning of the trail is three miles past Madrigal, which makes the total distance 16 miles from Yanque Peru.

If inclined, make a day of it and stop in the little villages of Ichupampa, Lari, and even grab lunch in Madrigal. A common theme of the Colca Canyon villages are a central plaza boasting a Spanish style church, women selling handicrafts, and livestock wandering about the streets. These small villages feel authentic and genuine and are a true highlight of visiting the Colca Canyon.

Chimba Fortress Tours

Chimba Fortress is a gaining popularity, so some local guides are starting to offer guided tours. To me, the journey to Madrigal was almost more fun and exciting than the actual fortress. The real adventure to me was found in the journey to the Chimba Fortress.

By Bus via Maca

There are no direct buses from Yanque to Madrigal. If looking for a true adventure, take the local bus, hike, and if you feel comfortable, incorporate some hitchhiking!

First, you will need to take the first bus that departs Yanque Peru for Macas.

🚌 Bus Yanque Peru to Macas | Departure: 4 am | Duration: 30 minutes | Cost: 3 PEN (75¢)

☛ Travel Tip | The bus does not have a specific schedule, rather it runs on a”general time.” The time of departure from Yanque Peru ranges between 3:50 am-4:35 am. It’s best to arrive early, so not to miss it! Always verify the constantly changing bus schedules.

Maca to Lari

Once in Macas, you will need to hike to Lari. At this time, there were no collectivos connecting Maca to Lari. The trail is unmarked, but simply ask the locals the route, as it is quite common.

Keep the Maca’s church on your lefthand side and head out of town. Turn right on the last road out of town and look for three crosses. The crosses are excellent markers that continue unmarked path to Lari. Follow along your own path until the river appears. Cross the nice bridge and follow the clearest path to Lari. Maps.me is super helpful, and usually there are people working in the fields to offer assistance. I had a man scream down at me to point me in the right direction. The hike from Maca to Lari should take around one hour.

Lari to Madrigal and the Trailhead to Chimba Fortress

Rumon has it that there is one daily collectivo that runs at 7 am from the main Lari Plaza de Armas to Madrigal. There is also a bus at 10 am, but that is too late to start the hike to Chimba Fortress and catch the last bus back to Yanque Peru.

I ended up hitchhiking with police officers, since they have a main Police Station in Madrigal. They were nice enough to drop me directly at the trailhead. Otherwise, plan on walking an additional 2.75 miles to the start of the hike. For time, it’s best to hitchhike, or share a ride with local people.

☛ Tip | The collectivo will only drop in the Plaza de Armas in Madrigal. You will still need to walk or find a ride to the Chimba Fortress, which is close to three miles away. Factor in at least an additional hour to reach the Chimba Fortress trailhead

How to Return to Yanque Peru

Time is the biggest factor when hiking the Chimba Fortress without a tour! After appreciating the stunning views and solitude day hike, you will need to walk back to Madrigal. There probably won’t be any people at the fortress, so the chances of hitching a ride back are slim to none. Remember, it’s about 3 miles back to Madrigal on a dirt and dusty road.

Good news is there is a bus that depart from Madrigal Plaza de Armas and drops at Yanque. Like most things in this region of Peru, the bus is usually late. For all the hassle to get there, arrive back in Yanque Peru in under 40 minutes!

🚌 It’s important to note the LAST bus back to Yanque Peru departs from Madrigal at 13:20 | Bus Company: Milagros | Duration: 40 minutes | Cost: 3 PEN (75¢) | This bus continues all the way to Arequipa

Soak in the Yanque Hot Springs

On the outskirts of Yanque Peru are a plenty of options for both public and private hot springs. These aguas termales are a great way to start or end the day after some of the demanding hikes in the area! The two public baths are Baños Termales de Puye and Baños Termales de Chacapi.

These are very basic thermal pools that are very much used by the local communities, especially in the early morning before work. Both of these facilities come with simple outdoor lockers, so bring your own locks, basic showers, so bring your own supplies and towel, and minimalist toilets. Yes, you will even need to bring your own toilet paper.

Don’t expect an overly luxurious experience, but rather a great place to soak in curative waters. These waters contain minerals like lithium, iron, potassium, sodium, magnesium, and high alkalinity from the surrounding volcanoes. Pools temperature range from 90-100° F. Recommended bathing time is 40 minutes, but it’s possible to break up the time by dipping in the river or finding a bench to sprawl out on.

➯ Detailed Guide | 14 Hot Springs to add to your Peru Itinerary

If you are craving a little more luxury, across the river are private hot springs at the high-end Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs. Remember, these fancy pools comes with a big price-tag.

Visit The Chivay Market

For those adventurous eaters, make sure to eat at the nearby Chivay Market. It’s possible to snag a menu serving up fried trout for 8 soles, under $2. Not only is the marketplace a happening place, but there are tons of locals setting up make shift food carts around the marketplace. Women will sell hot chocolate while locals dip delicious empanadas in the liquid dessert. Emoliente, or a soothing medicinal hot drink for your belly, can be found on every street corner.

On top of the food market, there is a decent handicraft market. The traditional clothing of the local people is extremely unique to this area, and many of their items can be bought from the marketplace.

How To Get to Chivay from Yanque Peru

Take a collectivo from Yanque to Chivay.

🚐 Yanque to Chivay Collectivos | Cost: $1.30 PEN (30¢) | Depart Yanque Plaza de Armas when full and drop three blocks from the Chivay Plaza de Armas near here | Duration: 10 minutes

Catch at Least One Sunrise & Sunset in Colca Canyon

Can we talk about the magnificent sunrises and sunsets in the Colca Canyon? Yanque makes the perfect place to watch the sky, since the active volcano Sabancaya smoldering in the backdrop.

Plan for an Epic Colca Canyon Trek

The entrance gate to the famous Colca Canyon is only 20 miles from Yanque Peru. So, plan your own Colca Canyon trek, or enjoy popular Colca Canyon attraction like the Cruz de Condor, or the village of Cabanaconde. Don’t fret, if you don’t feel comfortable hiking alone, there are plenty of Colca Canyon trek tours.

The most popular Colca Canyon trek is 2 days and includes stop at the Oasis village of Sangalle. Personally, I took a 4 day Colca Canyon trek and loved it. My Colca Canyon trek map included an overnight in Sangalle and Fure, a not so visited village that boasts an incredible waterfall. If you have the time to spare, I highly recommend a 4 day Colca Canyon Trek.

🥾 Hiking Guide | 4 Day Colca Canyon Trek: Oasis, Waterfalls, and Hot Springs

Yanque Peru can make a great alternative place to stay, but still possible to take with day trips to the Colca Canyon. Keep in mind, crossing into the popular tourist hot-spots of Mirador Cruz del Condor, Cabanaconde, Oasis de Sangalle, and Llahuar with their hot own hot springs, all require the Colca Canyon Entrance Ticket.

Colca Canyon Admission ticket | Cost: 70 PEN ($18.25 USD) | Valid: 5 days | Purchase the ticket at many of the popular Colca Canyon Attractions

How to Return to Arequipa from Yanque Peru

Sadly, it will be time to leave Yanque Peru. The most common place to head after exploring the Colca Canyon is back to Arequipa.

From Yanque, hop in a collectivo back to Chivay, which will stop at the main bus station. The departures to Arequipa are frequent, with at least one bus or collectivo departing almost every hour.

🚌 Chivay to Arequipa Buses | Average Cost: 15 PEN ($3.75 USD) | Duration: 4 hours

A collectivo will be faster, and the company Transportes Caminos del Inca offers frequent departures from Chivay.

🚐 Chivay to Arequipa Collectivos | Average Cost: 15 PEN ($3.75 USD) | Duration: under 4 hours | Double check the schedule at the Chivay terminal or contact them via their website here

Don’t Simply Skip Past Arequipa

Make sure to spend some quality time in Arequipa. The best way to see and explore the city is to get lost in the many unique districts, neighborhoods, and charming little streets that make up the “white city.” From a colorful monastery, interesting museums, a bustling local market, stunning viewpoints, a special region cuisine that boasts over 500 typical dishes, and a fun and modern food scene, Arequipa is a brilliant place to explore when visiting Peru.

➯ Detailed Arequipa Travel Guide | 10 Awesome Things to Do in Arequipa Peru

8 Adventurous Things to Do in Yanque Peru

In conclusion, Yanque Peru can make a great alternative base to explore the lesser known areas of the breathtaking Colca Canyon. The tiny little village offers a little more pizzazz with a lot less crowds.

From Yanque, hike to surrounding villages, visit untouched Colca Canyon attractions, wander through Pre-Inca ruins. All of these highlights boast impressive views, a desert landscape, and the opportunity to gawk at towering volcanoes. After trekking around the Colca Valley, soak in one the Yanque hot springs. The market in Chivay makes a great place for enthusiastic eaters to indulge in some home cooked meals at a reasonable price.

Yanque is still a hidden gem in the Colca Canyon that is off the main tourist circuit, but is worthwhile with diverse attractions and awesome things to do!

Have you visited Yanque Peru and the Colca Canyon? Did you visit any of the suggested attractions in and around Yanque Peru? Is there something you did in Yanque Peru that you loved and I’m missing? Let me know in the comments below!

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