CHONTA TOUR: THE VIEWPOINT OF THE CONDOR

Trek Details

• Duration: 1 Full Day
• Tour Type: Adventure, Nature, Landscape, and Cultural Experience
• Departure Days: Daily departures available
• Best Time to Visit: March to November for clearer skies and better condor sightings
• Group Size: Minimum of 2 travelers
• Maximum Altitude: 3,500 meters / 11,482 feet
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate due to altitude

⭐ Key Highlights

• Witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor in its natural habitat
• Explore the fascinating Inca site of Killarumiyoc, surrounded by mountain scenery
• Enjoy panoramic views of the legendary Salkantay Mountain
• Experience authentic Andean culture in remote highland villages
• Discover hidden valleys, dramatic canyons, and untouched landscapes
• Hike through scenic mountain trails with breathtaking viewpoints
• Capture incredible wildlife and nature photography opportunities
• Enjoy a traditional lunch in the peaceful village of Chonta
• Escape the crowds and explore a lesser-known destination near Cusco
• Optional horseback ride available for a more comfortable adventure

Important Recommendations

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for strong mountain sun
• Carry water, snacks, and a camera for incredible photography opportunities
• Horse rentals are available for travelers who prefer not to hike the full distance
• Early booking is recommended, especially during the dry season when availability is limited

The Chonta Tour is more than a simple excursion — it is a powerful encounter with the untouched beauty of the Andes and one of Peru’s most inspiring natural spectacles.

🗺️ Short Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Killarumiyoc – Limatambo – Chonta – Condor Viewpoint – Cusco

Depart from Cusco at 7:00 am and travel through beautiful Andean landscapes to the Inca site of Killarumiyoc. Continue with stunning views of the Salkantay Mountain and a stop in Limatambo before enjoying lunch in Chonta village.

In the afternoon, hike approximately 1.5 hours (or ride a horse) to the famous Condor Viewpoint overlooking the Apurímac Canyon. Witness the majestic flight of the Andean condors before returning to Cusco in the evening.

🚀 Reserve Your Chonta Adventure Today

The Condor Viewpoint has quickly become one of the most sought-after hidden experiences near Cusco, and availability is limited due to small group departures.

Do not miss the opportunity to witness one of the most powerful natural spectacles in the Andes while exploring landscapes that few travelers ever discover.

Detailed Chonta Tour Itinerary.

DAY 1: CUSCO – CHONTA – CONDOR VIEWPOINT – CUSCO

Your unforgettable Chonta Tour begins at 8:00 a.m. with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. From there, we travel through the beautiful Andean countryside toward the village of Limatambo, surrounded by dramatic valleys and towering mountains.

Along the route, we stop at the fascinating Inca site of Killarumiyoc in Ancahuasi, an important ceremonial center known for its sacred lunar carvings. Here, you will discover part of the rich history and spiritual legacy of the Incas while enjoying peaceful mountain scenery.

Afterward, the journey continues along scenic roads with incredible panoramic views of the Limatambo Valley and the majestic snow-capped Salkantay Mountain (6,271 m / 20,574 ft), one of the most sacred peaks in the Andes. Several photo stops along the way allow you to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes of the region.

Around midday, we arrive at the remote village of Chonta (3,500 m), where a delicious local lunch awaits with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Following lunch, the adventure continues with a gentle 1.5-hour hike along a wide scenic trail toward the famous Condor Viewpoint.

As the afternoon approaches, anticipation grows while overlooking the immense Apurímac Canyon. This is the perfect moment to witness the majestic Andean condors returning to their nests. Watching these enormous birds glide gracefully above the canyon, sometimes only meters away, is one of the most emotional and unforgettable highlights of the Chonta Tour.

Finally, after enjoying this extraordinary natural spectacle and capturing incredible photographs, we hike back to Chonta village and return to Cusco by private transport in the evening.

What is included – Chonta Tour

INCLUSIONS 

The Chonta Tour includes everything you need for a comfortable, safe, and unforgettable experience through the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
• Private tourist transportation throughout the tour
• Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish)
• Additional assistant guide for groups larger than 8 travelers
• Delicious local lunch in Chonta village
• Entrance to the spectacular Condor Canyon viewpoint
• First aid kit and safety assistance during the tour
• Scenic stops to enjoy panoramic mountain views and photography opportunities

EXCLUSIONS 

To help you better prepare for your adventure, please note that the following services are not included in the Chonta Tour package:

• Drinks and personal snacks
• Mineral water, soft drinks, beer, or chocolates
• Optional horse rental for the hike to the Condor Viewpoint
• Personal expenses
• Tips for guides and drivers (optional but appreciated)

The Chonta Tour is carefully designed to provide a seamless and authentic Andean experience while allowing flexibility for personal preferences and comfort.

Packing List – Chonta Tour

For a comfortable and enjoyable Chonta Tour, we recommend bringing a small backpack (around 30L) with the essential items needed for changing mountain weather and the hike to the Condor Viewpoint.

Recommended Items

• Rain jacket or poncho
• Warm sweater or fleece jacket
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
• Reusable water bottle or mineral water
• Camera or smartphone with extra battery
• Binoculars for condor watching
• Snacks for the hike
• Toilet paper and personal items
• Extra cash (around 100 soles) for horse rental, drinks, or personal expenses

The weather during the Chonta Tour can change quickly, so dressing in layers is highly recommended. Being well prepared will help you fully enjoy the incredible landscapes, fresh mountain air, and unforgettable condor experience.

Tour Essential Information – Chonta Tour

Tour Briefing

Before your Chonta Tour, we provide a complete briefing the evening before departure at your hotel or our office in Cusco. During this meeting, your guide will explain the itinerary, weather conditions, altitude recommendations, and everything you need for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Tour Highlights

The Chonta Tour offers an unforgettable combination of breathtaking landscapes, Andean culture, and wildlife encounters. Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain, explore remote valleys, and witness the incredible flight of the majestic Andean condors above the Apurímac Canyon — one of Peru’s most impressive natural spectacles.

Professional Local Guides

Our experienced bilingual guides are passionate about the Andes, local traditions, wildlife, and Inca history. Throughout the Chonta Tour, they will ensure your safety, provide valuable information, and make your experience both educational and memorable.

Meals During the Tour

A delicious local lunch is included in the tour and prepared with fresh regional ingredients. Vegetarian and special dietary options are available upon request.

Trek Difficulty

The hike to the Condor Viewpoint is considered easy to moderate. However, due to the altitude and uneven terrain, basic physical condition and acclimatization in Cusco are recommended before joining the Chonta Tour.

Altitude & Preparation

The tour reaches elevations above 3,500 meters (11,482 ft). To avoid altitude discomfort, we recommend staying at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy meals before the hike.

Best Time to Visit

The best season for the Chonta Tour is from May to September, when dry weather and clear skies offer the best conditions for hiking and condor sightings. Nevertheless, mountain weather can change quickly, so bringing warm layers and rain protection is always recommended.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers joining the Chonta Tour, especially for coverage related to trekking activities, altitude, and medical emergencies.

Booking Information

Reserving your place on the Chonta Tour is simple. A small deposit is required to secure your booking, while the remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Cusco.

Required information:

• Full name (as in passport)
• Passport number
• Nationality
• Date of birth
• Gender

Experience the magic of the Andes, discover hidden landscapes, and witness the unforgettable flight of the Andean condor on this extraordinary journey from Cusco.

Travel Guide – Chonta Tour

Discover the Magic of the Andes

The Chonta Tour is a unique adventure that combines breathtaking mountain scenery, rich Andean culture, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Located near the impressive Apurímac Canyon, this experience offers the rare opportunity to witness the majestic Andean condor flying freely across one of Peru’s most spectacular landscapes.

Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers, the Chonta Tour takes you beyond the traditional tourist routes and into the untouched beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

Location

The journey begins in Cusco and continues through scenic valleys, traditional villages, and panoramic mountain roads toward the remote community of Chonta. Surrounded by dramatic canyon landscapes and snow-capped peaks, this hidden destination is one of the best places in Peru to observe Andean condors in their natural habitat.

History & Culture

The region of Chonta preserves the ancestral legacy of the Incas, whose sacred connection with nature can still be felt throughout the landscape. Along the route, travelers can explore ancient archaeological sites and learn about the traditions, history, and spirituality of Andean culture.

This combination of history and nature makes the Chonta Tour much more than a simple hike — it becomes a meaningful cultural experience.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

The best time to enjoy the Chonta Tour is during the dry season from May to October, when clear skies and stable weather create ideal conditions for hiking and condor watching.

Daytime temperatures are usually mild, while mornings and evenings can be cold due to the altitude. Dressing in layers and bringing a rain jacket is always recommended, as weather in the Andes can change quickly.

Biodiversity

The Apurímac Canyon region is home to diverse wildlife and native Andean flora. Besides the famous condors, visitors may spot hummingbirds, hawks, Andean foxes, and beautiful mountain vegetation along the trail.

This rich biodiversity makes the Chonta Tour an excellent choice for eco-tourism and wildlife photography enthusiasts.

Safety & Altitude

The tour reaches elevations above 3,500 meters (11,482 ft), so acclimatizing in Cusco before the tour is highly recommended. Although the hike is considered easy to moderate, proper hiking shoes, hydration, sunscreen, and warm clothing are essential for a safe and comfortable experience.

Our professional guides prioritize safety at all times, ensuring that every traveler enjoys the journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Why Choose the Chonta Tour?

The Chonta Tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and natural beauty in just one day. From spectacular canyon views to the unforgettable sight of condors soaring above the Andes, this experience creates lasting memories for travelers seeking something truly authentic in Peru.

Frequently Asked Questions – Chonta Tour

What is the Chonta Tour?

The Chonta Tour is a full-day adventure from Cusco that combines breathtaking Andean landscapes, cultural experiences, and the unforgettable opportunity to witness majestic Andean condors flying above the Apurímac Canyon.

What places are visited during the Chonta Tour?

The tour includes scenic drives through Limatambo Valley, a visit to the Inca site of Killarumiyoc, panoramic views of the Salkantay Mountain, Chonta village, and the famous Condor Viewpoint overlooking the Apurímac Canyon.

What activities are included?

During the Chonta Tour, travelers enjoy hiking, wildlife observation, photography, cultural exploration, and spectacular mountain scenery. Birdwatching and condor spotting are the main highlights of the experience.

Is the Chonta Tour difficult?

The hike is considered easy to moderate. However, due to the altitude and uneven terrain, basic physical condition and acclimatization in Cusco are recommended before the tour.

How long is the hike to the Condor Viewpoint?

The walk from Chonta village to the Condor Viewpoint takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, depending on your pace. Horse rentals are also available for travelers who prefer additional comfort.

What is the maximum altitude reached?

The Chonta Tour reaches approximately 3,500 meters (11,482 feet) above sea level, offering incredible panoramic views of the Andes and the Apurímac Canyon.

What is the best time to see the condors?

Condors are most active during the afternoon, usually between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., when they glide above the canyon using warm air currents. Although sightings cannot be guaranteed, this is the best time to observe them.

What time does the tour start and finish?

The Chonta Tour usually begins between 7:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. with hotel pickup in Cusco and returns in the evening around 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Is a guide included?

Yes. The tour includes a professional bilingual guide knowledgeable in Andean culture, wildlife, history, and local traditions to ensure a safe and enriching experience.

What should I bring for the Chonta Tour?

We recommend bringing comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, snacks, a camera, and binoculars for condor watching. Dressing in layers is ideal due to the changing mountain weather.

When is the best time to do the Chonta Tour?

The best season is from May to October during the dry season, when skies are clearer, and hiking conditions are better for enjoying the landscapes and condor sightings.

How can I book the Chonta Tour?

Booking the Chonta Tour is simple. Contact us directly through our website or WhatsApp to check availability and secure your spot. Early reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak travel season.

 Chonta Tours One Day Map