La Calera Hot Springs

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Arequipa surprises us again with its natural charms. This time we have the thermal baths of La Calera, located just 3 kilometers from the district of Chivay. This complex takes its name from the lime mines that abound in the area and offers a unique relaxation experience in the middle of the Andean landscape.

The complex has five thermal pools, whose waters range between 32°C and 40°C. These waters come from the top of the Cotallumi volcano, where they emerge at a temperature of 80°C. To make them safe and pleasant for human contact, they are cooled to an ideal average of 38°C. Rich in minerals such as calcium, zinc, and iron, these waters are recognized for their therapeutic properties, ideal for relieving muscle, joint, and skin discomfort.

La Calera stands out not only for its thermal baths but also for the natural environment that surrounds it: a green landscape, a warm climate, and an atmosphere of tranquility. In addition, the complex houses a small site museum and other attractions that enrich the visit, making it a remarkable stop for those traveling through the Colca Valley.

Location of ''La Calera''

The hot springs of "La Calera" are located very close to the town of Chivay, in the province of Caylloma, in the Arequipa region. This destination is easily accessible, as it can be reached by car, by taxi, or even by walking from the town center. Thanks to its proximity, many visitors choose to include them in their itinerary after exploring the Colca Canyon or after a day of traveling through the region.

What to do in the hot springs of La Calera?

Visit the hot springs | Relax in its five pools. With different sizes and temperatures, the different pools of La Calera allow visitors to enjoy comforting baths in its pleasant thermal and mineral waters.
Visit its Site Museum | Next to the hot springs there is a small museum where elements found in archaeological excavations carried out in the Colca Valley are exhibited.
Cross the Hanging Bridge | Next to the hot springs there is a hanging bridge that crosses the Colca River. In the surroundings there are also viewpoints, from where you can appreciate the natural views of the surroundings.
Have fun with the Zip-Line | Just a few steps from the hot springs is "COLCA EXTREMO Zip-Line" a company that offers: zip line, zipline and canopy. Ideal to add a bit of adventure sports of peru to your trip.
Get to know Chivay | It is the closest town to the hot springs. There you can appreciate the way of life of the wititis, local inhabitants of Colca, who express their culture with traditional dances, crafts and native foods. You will also see its church and buildings from the time of the Spanish foundation.
Observe the Colca Canyon | There are numerous viewpoints from where you can observe the majestic landscapes of the area and the flight of the condors.

How to get to the hot springs of La Calera?

To get to the La Calera hot springs, the first thing to do is go to Chivay, the closest town to the complex. For this you have to go along the route to Yura 34A, then take the 1, which leads to the 109, which is the one that goes to Chivay. The duration of this trip is around 3 hours.

If you want to go by bus you have to do it from the Arequipa land terminal. Tickets to Chivay cost between 10 and 15 soles, depending on the transportation company.

Another possibility to get there is to do it with a tourist company. Visits to La Calera usually include it in some of the tours to the Colca Canyon, where they offer to go take a bath in these waters at the end of the tour.

The hot springs complex is located 3 kilometers from Chivay. You can walk from there in a journey of approximately one hour. The cost of the taxi trip is 5 soles and one sole by bus. If you go with a tour you should not worry, since the company will take care of the transportation.

Costs and Schedules

Opening hours: The hot springs of La Calera are open every day, normally from 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. It is recommended to go early to enjoy the landscapes of the Colca Valley with greater clarity.
Admission fees: The price per adult person varies between 10 and 15 soles. Usually, reduced rates apply for minors and seniors. During certain times of the year, prices may change.

Recommendations:

Bring a swimsuit and towel: Make sure to bring a swimsuit, towel, and sandals, as these items are not always available for rent on site.
Avoid staying in the water too long: Due to the altitude and the characteristics of the water, it is advisable to limit time in the pools to 15-20 minutes to prevent fatigue or dehydration.
Be careful with the altitude: If you are not yet adapted to the altitude level, it is best to enter the water cautiously and avoid very high temperatures. Remember to stay well hydrated throughout the visit.
Take advantage of the local offerings: After bathing, you can enjoy Peruvian gastronomy on site or a hot drink in the complex's cafeteria. A coca tea, for example, can be useful to better adapt to the environment.
Lodging: The complex does not have its own accommodation. If you plan to stay in the area, the best option is to look for lodging in Chivay, the nearest town.
Available services: The complex offers parking, a cafeteria, food sales, a craft shop, and restrooms.

Best Tours in Peru

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