Travelers in search of family time or a romantic Peruvian getaway need look no further than the Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs. Snuggled in the Valle del Colca, or Colca Valley, about a 3-hour drive from Arequipa, this rustic, eco-friendly lodge features a series of natural hot springs and a luxurious spa. The opportunity to spot Andean condors in flight lures many travelers to this region of Peru, but the serenity of the Colca Lodge makes a prolonged stay worthwhile.
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The Colca Lodge Experience
The drive from Arequipa to the Colca Valley builds in elevation. During a Colca Canyon tour, travelers reach a dizzying peak altitude of 15,750 feet (4,800 meters) above sea level. Distant volcano peaks and populations of vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas add to the dramatic scenery along the way.
Arriving to Colca Canyon, you will begin to see the iconic agricultural terraces coloring the surrounding landscapes shades of green, yellow and brown. From the small town of Chivay, it’s about a 20-minute ride to the picturesque property of the Colca Lodge hotel.
A friendly staff member ushers guests to the principal lounge and bar area for a complimentary welcome beverage of iced or coca tea. The elevation of the lodge is 10,662 feet (3,250 meters) above sea level, so coca tea is a great option to aid with altitude acclimatization. Read our blog on how to avoid altitude sickness for more helpful tips.
Colca Lodge premises. Photo by Melissa Dreffs of Peru for Less.
Ambiance
The Colca Lodge is located in the outskirts of Yanque, a small village in the Colca Valley. Far from noisy city traffic, guests have true peace and quiet. The surrounding natural beauty, unlimited access to natural hot springs, and its location along the Colca River are unique elements that create the perfect environment to unwind during your stay.
Arequipa Tours:
16 Days / from $3869
11 Days / from $2769
The Restaurant
The Colca Lodge restaurant has two dining areas and room service available for guests. Buffet breakfast is included for all guests, with lunch and dinner options available for purchase. The kitchen is open 24 hours a day while the dining rooms are only open during certain times. A variety of Peruvian and international dishes are available for reasonable prices. As the lodge is rather remote, there are no other dining options nearby.
The Rooms
The 45 spacious rooms at the lodge are rustic in style and have unique views of the nearby river and valley. In addition to 36 standard rooms, several suite options are available. Families can stay in a larger family suite with space for up to four people. Couples can upgrade to stay in the panoramic suite that has its own private jacuzzi filled by water from the natural hot springs. One matrimonial suite and six adobe junior suites are also great options for an upgraded stay.
Hotel Highlights
Its natural hot springs and Eco-spa are two key elements of the Colca Lodge experience that make a guest’s stay extra special. Guests can also explore the alpaca farm and accompanying wildlife interpretation centers. Have something else in mind? The hotel can also coordinate horseback riding, biking, recreational fishing, hiking to the nearby Uyo Uyo ruins or ziplining for their guests.
These features not only maximize tranquility, but set the lodge apart from other hotels in Peru.
Natural Hot Springs
Guests of the lodge have access to a series of riverside pools filled with heated thermal water. A short walk from your room alongside the river delivers you to these privately owned hot springs (not open to the general public). Each of the pools vary in temperature, ranging between 97 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit (36 and 39 degrees Celsius). While relaxing in some of the best hot springs in Peru, the flowing river provides the perfect soundtrack for your moment of zen.
Insider tip: Each guest will find a white, plush bathrobe in their room. This bathrobe will be your best friend when you exit the steaming pools after the sun goes down and the outside temperature drops significantly. In addition to the bathrobe, we suggest bringing a pair of sandals to walk to and from the hot springs.
Eco-Spa
Treat yourself to a heavenly experience at the Colca Lodge’s Eco-spa, one of the best spas in Peru. The professional staff specializes in a variety of massages, facials, and treatments from 45 minutes to 3 hours long. After your treatment of choice, enjoy the spa’s gorgeous outside hot-tub whose lithium-rich thermal water promotes relaxation.
Insider tip: Schedule your spa treatment in the evening so you can stargaze from the hot tub at night. In one word: spectacular!
Alpaca Farm & Interpretation Center
Cross the river on a wooden bridge to visit the alpaca farm and an accompanying interpretation center. Several breeds of llamas and alpacas live on the farm, with an interpretation center to learn more about them, their wool, and their history in Peru. Another interpretation center is dedicated to condors and a variety of birds found in the Colca Valley.
Alpaca Farm. Photo by Colca Lodge.
Plan Your Stay at the Colca Lodge
The Colca Lodge is easily one of the best Colca Canyon hotels. Start planning your trip to Colca Canyon and a memorable stay at the Colca Lodge. Talk with an expert travel advisor today!
Britt is a California native who now calls Peru home. She is a traveler with a passion for all things outdoors, scuba diving, and capturing memories with her camera.
