The Colca Canyon touts its status as one of world’s deepest, at 10,725 feet. That may be technically true, but Colca is no Grand Canyon analog. The scenic allure of the region results from the countless Inca and pre-Inca terraces that sculpt the landscape into a vast work of art. In certain places, the valley resembles a high-desert Bali. At the popular Cruz del Condór and less-visited Tapay viewpoints, it’s possible to observe majestic condors in flight, spiraling ever higher on favorable thermals. The quiet, atmospheric Uyo Uyo ruins also merit a visit. Transfers between the canyon and Arequipa take at least 3.5 hours, but the journey is beautiful, passing through a reserve dedicated to vicuña and over the Mirador de los Andes pass, the latter at an elevation of 16,100 feet — higher than the summit of Mont Blanc.

Join Andrew Harper today to continue reading our exclusive content.