About 4 hours drive away from Arequipa is the Colca Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world, at more than 1 km from cliff-edge to river-bottom. The “Cruz del Condor” (flight of the condors) is the most popular viewing point to look into the depths of the canyon, which at this point reach 1200 metres. If you come here early enough in the morning there is a very good chance that you will be treated to the sight of huge Andean condors rising up from the canyon on the morning thermals. There are a number of small villages along the way and the village women wear very distinctive and colourful hats, embroidered waistcoats and flowing skirts. There are some great lodges in this area where you can enjoy a relaxing stay in comfortable rooms with good food.