Explore the wonders of the Majes Valley on this full-day adventure. From ancient petroglyphs and dinosaur footprints to natural springs and local wineries, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and gastronomy—all just a few hours from Arequipa!
Trip Info
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1400 m.a.s.l.
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Pick up from your hotel
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All year
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Spanish and english
Description
We begin our journey heading toward the coast of Arequipa, specifically to the Majes Valley. On the way, we’ll make a quick stop for breakfast.
We then continue toward the entrance of the beautiful Majes Valley, crossed by the river of the same name. Along the way, we’ll enjoy scenic views of fertile gorges, home to the region’s best vineyards for wine and pisco production.
Around 8:30 am, we will visit the Toro Muerto Petroglyphs, the largest collection of rock carvings in the world—huge stones carved by ancient inhabitants right in the middle of the desert.
Next, we’ll explore the traditional town of Corire, followed by a visit to the Querulpa Paleontological Park, home to real fossilized dinosaur footprints. Here, you’ll also see life-sized dinosaur replicas, crafted with impressive detail, and a small museum displaying fossilized bones. Once at the top of the hill, you’ll get to see the actual footprints of dinosaurs that roamed Arequipa millions of years ago.
We’ll then head to the Chancharay pools for a refreshing dip in natural spring waters. You’ll have about one hour to enjoy the pool and surrounding nature.
Later, we’ll have lunch at a restaurant in Aplao, where you can choose from a variety of dishes. We highly recommend trying a local specialty: fresh river prawn (camarón) from the Majes River—a true culinary gem and a signature dish of Arequipa. (Note: Not available during the fishing ban from January to March.)
After lunch, we’ll visit the Quiskay suspension bridge, and a little further ahead, we’ll observe a unique rock formation known as the «Profile of Christ.»
Before returning to Arequipa, we’ll stop at a local winery and vineyard in the Majes Valley, where the winemaker will share the secrets of pisco and wine production. You’ll also get to taste some of their products.
We expect to arrive back in Arequipa around 8:00 pm, with drop-off a block from the Main Square.
Highlights
- Discover the Toro Muerto Petroglyphs, the largest rock art site in the world
- Visit the Querulpa Paleontological Park to see real dinosaur footprints and life-size replicas
- Enjoy a refreshing swim at the Chancharay Pools
- Taste delicious local dishes, especially the famous river prawn (camarón) (seasonal)
- Learn about pisco and wine production during a winery visit with tasting