We’ve all got our favorite destinations and I’m no different. Out of all of my South America travels I would have to recommend Arequipa and the Colca Canyon. I personally feel that Arequipa is Peru’s most beautiful city, and with its white volcanic walls and picturesque colonial style I think few people would disagree with me. Overshadowed by the ever-impressive Misti Volcano, it’s the city’s surroundings that really impress - and nothing does more so than the Colca Canyon. Surrounded by volcanoes and watched over by hordes of giant Condors, the Colca Canyon is a five hour drive from Arequipa.

Silence, peace and exquisite beauty all seem to summarize the Colca Canyon - that with a height of over 10,000 ft - is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Over 17 different pueblitos (small towns), randomly line the Colca countryside, each with its own distinctive and beautiful dress style and local culture. My favorite spot in the Canyon has to be the Cruz del Condor where - if you get up there early enough - you’re given great panoramic views over the Canyon and a chance to see the Giant Andean Condor. On my last visit we were lucky enough to see six condors circling above us at the same time. One of them actually swooped down over our heads and missed me by what felt like millimeters.

A great aspect of the Colca Canyon is that it can be visited at pretty much anytime of the year. Accommodation in the Canyon in superb with a number of eco-lodges offering varying levels of luxury; and all seem harmoniously tuned into the harmony and natural setting of the canyon. Besides touring through the Canyon, a number of other activities are also available with anything from bike riding, to horse back adventures, and white water rafting available. What more can I say? It’s high up there, serene, astoundingly beautiful, and one of my favorite places in South America