Watch the flight of the giant monster is an experience that you can taste, emotion and respect, on the edge of the deep rift that opened volcanic cataclysms in this region of Peru, one of the deepest chasms of the earth.
For the Incas, the condor was immortal. Says one of the most popular myths about this huge bird which, feeling old, condors fold their wings and dropped on the cliffs, this gesture symbolizing the rebirth of the life cycle. But not only for the Incas the condor was a mythological creature, also has been and it is for other Andean civilizations as collaguas and cabanas, settled long before the Incas by these corners lands in southern Peru, and even today their main inhabitants.
From Arequipa, the road to the Colca Valley in some sections becomes a real blender, with potholes and all, it runs with fascination thanks to some breathtaking views that emerge at every step, chaired by volcanoes, exceeding 6,000 meters and concourses moon inhabited by alpaca and vicuna, which is extracted from the wool softer side of the planet.
The valley, adorned on its sides by the zigzag paths caravans were old flames decanted from the Altiplano and the Pacific, is dotted with colonial churches Dominicans and Franciscans erected after the arrival of the Spanish in key towns as Chivay, Yanque, Maca, Pinchillo, Cabanaconde, Lari or Coporaque; of ancient barns where they kept the crops still grow between the agricultural terraces and platforms built by the Incas in rough adobe villages after which blunt the snowy peaks of the volcano Hualca Hualca or Ampato, and markets in which women collaguas and cabins, easily identifiable by the peculiarity of their colorful costumes and hats, crafts and fabrics shipped by them. But especially the picture of the amazing geography of this secluded valley in the world where the earth opened up dramatically in two giving rise to the second deepest canyon in the world.
Owners and Gentlemen of the Colca Canyon, the condors, which can weigh up to a dozen kilos and more than three meters in size, they use the thermal currents that flow from this tremendous gorge to rise in perfect glide over walls red vertical canyon over 3,000 feet, where they have their nests.
It is especially in the viewpoint of Cruz Del Condor, where either the morning or at dusk, visitors gamble to wait until one makes its appearance and power and amazement at the majesty of its flight. But the miracle can be wrought at any time and, although difficult, this mysterious and elusive flying Andean decides to appear by surprise when he sees fit, patrolling in search of food, above the heads of the lucky ones for a walk between villages in the valley or on a ride through the most rugged of landscapes.
Condor sighting
Condors, from which are estimated only about 6,200 copies on the planet, living in many areas of the Andes, including the coast, although one of the places that are less difficult to spot is the Colca Canyon, home about fifty. The dry season, between April and November, usually provide the best time to see them. The sightings, never insured, usually occur in the early morning or late afternoon, and the most spectacular place to await the meeting is the viewpoint of Cruz Del Colca.
Where to sleep
A little over two years, the Orient Express group opened the most luxurious accommodation throughout the region: Casitas del Colca, a score of field estilosísimos chalets with fireplace and even a small heated pool in each from which to admire, submerged Valley landscapes. The colony has a spa with all sorts of treatments, from a ritual of beauty to a massage to alleviate the effects of altitude sickness or altitude sickness, “not to mention a menu a la carte activities: hiking, fishing, cycling and ride out their sites, and even participate in a cooking class with chefs using organic ingredients from the hotel garden, learn to observe the stars or lend a hand as a volunteer at a nearby mission.
Gastronomy
Peruvian cuisine has received in recent decades a well deserved international recognition. In it, the result of the comings and goings of the most diverse peoples, merging tradition and local ingredients with Spanish influence, Japanese and Chinese. Ceviche of fish and seafood, and specialties such as lomo saltado, the tiraditos, chili chicken, kebabs or cause the Lima make the trip to Peru is also a culinary journey. Some specialties of the region Arequipa and Colca Canyon, Rocoto, quinoa fritters or fried guinea pig chactado can be tasted in the markets in the region and its popular restaurants nearby, but the best cuisine is offered in restaurants of its most luxurious hotels, such as those mentioned Casitas del Colca, with Yanque, or three stars and Casa Andina Colca Lodge, Chivay and its surroundings, respectively.
