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Viewpoint · Chivay, Arequipa
Mirador Cruz del Cóndor
Viewpoint on the rim of the Colca Canyon, about 40 km from Chivay, with the river more than a thousand meters below. In the early morning hours, Andean condors often glide near the rim.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mirador Cruz del Cóndor
The Cruz del Cóndor is a viewpoint on the rim of the Colca Canyon, between the villages of Pinchollo and Cabanaconde, about 40 km from Chivay. From there, the Colca River runs more than a thousand meters below, between rock walls, and the mountains on the opposite side of the canyon rise above 5,000 meters. A stone cross at the highest point gave the place its name.
The viewpoint is known for the Andean condors, which live on the canyon walls. In the early morning hours, when the sun heats the rocks and creates rising air currents, they often leave their nests and glide along the rim, sometimes just a few meters from visitors. The Andean condor has roughly a 3-meter wingspan and is a symbol of the Andes.
The viewpoint has stone platforms along the rim and a short trail that links the observation points. Condor sightings vary with the weather and the season: they tend to be more frequent in the dry season, from May to November, and less common on cloudy days.
Entry to the Colca Valley, including the Cruz del Cóndor, requires the Colca tourist ticket, charged on the road. Bring warm clothing, a hat and sunscreen: it is cold early in the morning, and the sun becomes strong later.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours at the viewpoint, waiting for the condors.
Best time
Generally between 8 and 10 a.m., when the condors tend to rise on the warm air currents. In the dry season, from May to November, sightings are usually more frequent. From December to March, clouds and rain reduce the chance.
How to get there
It is located on the road between Chivay and Cabanaconde, about 40 km from Chivay, a 1.5–2 hour drive by car or van. Agency tours depart from Chivay at dawn. Regular buses to Cabanaconde pass by the viewpoint.
Tip
Arrive before 8:00 and wait patiently along the rim, not just on the main platform. On the return, stop in the villages of Pinchollo and Maca and at the Choquetico viewpoint.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mirador Cruz del Cóndor
Is it certain to see condors at the Cruz del Cóndor?
Not certain. Condors tend to appear in the early hours of the morning, especially from May to November. On cloudy or rainy days they are seen less often.
How deep is the canyon there?
From the viewpoint, the Colca River runs more than a thousand meters below. Measured from the tops of the surrounding mountains, the canyon exceeds 3,000 meters in depth.
Do you need a ticket?
Yes. Entry to the Colca valley requires the Colca tourist ticket, collected on the road. Check before you go.