River crossings make this hike feel real. You’ll head out from Arequipa for a Capua Canyon trek that leads to the base of the Capua Waterfall, then cool off and warm up again at volcanic thermal pools. It mixes movement, nature, and a local church stop in Yura Viejo—without turning the day into a long bus crawl.

I especially like that the group is small (up to 8 people), so the hike doesn’t feel rushed or overcrowded. I also like the practical pacing: a 4-hour walk to the falls, a short thermal soak afterward, and then an easy 1-hour church visit where you get a sense of everyday life beyond the tourist sights. The main thing to consider: the thermal pool entrance is extra, and the route works best when weather stays cooperative.

Plan for shoes that can handle getting wet, plus a quick rinse-and-relax setup for the hot springs. If you’re happy with a hands-on day (streams, puddles, and uneven ground), this one is a very good value for $62.

Key highlights you’ll feel the moment you start

• Capua Canyon wading-style trek with puddles and streams right on the trail
• Capua Waterfall time at the base to actually see the falls up close
• El Tigre thermal pools for a volcanic heat reset after hiking
• Yura Viejo church stop with a local-town feel and included entry
• Small group size (max 8) for a calmer, more personal day
• Snacks + water included so you’re not scrambling halfway through

Capua Canyon Near Arequipa: Why This Day Feels Different

Most Arequipa day trips focus on a single big sight. This one strings together three different moods in one go: cool canyon trekking, warm volcanic soaking, and a quiet cultural stop in Yura Viejo. The flow works because the hardest part is front-loaded, then the thermal baths do the recovery.

The canyon approach matters, too. You’re not just walking a paved path to a viewpoint. You’re moving through the canyon with puddles, streams, and occasional water-on-the-ground moments, which gives the hike a lived-in, local feel. It’s active, but it’s still a day trip you can manage with the right footwear.

Stop 1: The Capua Waterfall Trek Through Streams and Puddles

Your day begins with the hike toward Capua Waterfall. Expect about 4 hours on the trail, and expect water. The route includes jumping puddles and crossing small streams as you work your way to the base of the falls.

This is where footwear makes or breaks the experience. One traveler tip that’s worth taking seriously: bring hiking shoes for the trek, because you may end up stepping through water. Afterward, pack sandals if you want an easy switch for the thermal pools and the ride back. If you already own trail sandals or sandals with a secure strap, they can work for parts of the day, but choose what keeps your feet stable on uneven ground.

Bring sun protection and bug spray. In a canyon hike, you don’t want to spend your time swatting insects or thinking about sunburn. Also, keep water handy even though bottled water is included—you might want small sips during the walk rather than waiting until you’re tired.

At the waterfall, the payoff is the base-level view. You get to see how the water hits the canyon area instead of just looking down from above. If your guide is upbeat and photo-friendly (one guide example is Pablo), you may get help with photos along the route, and you might even receive small snacks once you reach the falls—fruit, crackers, and similar grab-and-go items.

What could be annoying here? The canyon is not a clean, dry walk. If you hate getting your shoes wet or you’re not comfortable with slippery footing, this segment will take extra patience.

Stop 2: Pozo de Aguas Termales El Tigre Hot Springs for Recovery

After the hike, you’ll head to Pozo de Aguas Termales El Tigre. This is the “reset button” portion of the day, lasting about 40 minutes. The pools are volcanic hot springs, and the pools are promoted for healing qualities for bones and skin.

Now for the practical side: the thermal entrance ticket is not included. Plan on paying at the site, and bring cash. A typical ballpark you should expect is about 5–10 soles depending on the day. If you show up with only card payments, you may lose time.

What you’ll like most is how the heat balances the hike. You’ll likely feel the difference right away in tight legs and tired feet. But don’t treat it like an all-day spa. This is a short soak, so come in ready to change fast and enjoy the water without trying to do everything at once.

My advice: treat it like a recovery sprint. Use the full 40 minutes, rinse off if that’s part of how the site is run, then get back in rhythm for the cultural stop.

Stop 3: Yura Viejo and the Iglesia de Yura Viejo Stop

Next comes a calmer hour in Yura Viejo. You’ll pass through the traditional town and then visit the Iglesia de Yura Viejo. This part is about 1 hour, and the admission is included.

This stop matters because it breaks the pattern of purely nature-focused days. Instead of only canyon and heat, you get a small-town rhythm: local economy, everyday culture, and a church that anchors community life. You won’t spend all day touring museums here. You’ll get just enough time to see what the town looks like and to understand why people live and gather in this area.

If you’re someone who likes to travel beyond viewpoints, this is a good balance. If you’re mainly chasing photos of dramatic sites, you may find this section a bit slower. Still, it’s included and timed well—an easy transition after the hike and the thermal soak.

Price and Value: What $62 Really Buys You

At $62 per person, this tour is priced like a practical group day, not a luxury private outing. Here’s how the value works in real life:

Included:

• hotel pickup
• snacks (cookies, cereal bar, fruit)
• bottled water
• entry to Iglesia de Yura Viejo
• admission for Capua Waterfall (free)
• the core guided experience and the hike

Not included:

• entrance ticket for the thermal pools (usually 5–10 soles)

So your extra cost is basically the hot springs entry. That makes the pricing feel fair because the hike and waterfall access are already covered, and the town church stop is paid for too. You’re not paying twice for everything.

For value, watch the details: the day runs about 8 hours 30 minutes total (including travel between stops). If that timing matches what you want—one active morning, one recovery soak, and one cultural hour—then $62 is a strong deal for what you get.

Timing, Group Size, and Getting There Without Stress

The tour starts at 8:00 am. It runs about 8 hours 30 minutes and ends back at the starting point. Your meeting point is C. Zela 301, Arequipa 04001, Peru.

Group size is capped at 8 travelers, which you’ll feel. In small groups, you spend less time waiting for stragglers and more time walking, soaking, and moving. That’s especially helpful during a water-involved hike where footing matters and you want consistent pacing.

This activity is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed. Most people can participate, but keep in mind that “can participate” doesn’t automatically mean “will be comfortable.” If you struggle with walking for hours or stepping on uneven ground, choose carefully.

What to Pack: The Simple Gear List That Saves the Day

For this tour, pack for water and sun. You don’t need ultralight gear, but you do need the basics to stay comfortable.

Bring:

• hiking shoes you’re okay getting wet
• sandals (or water-friendly slip-on shoes) for after the trek
• sunscreen
• bug spray
• a small towel if you have one (optional, but helpful)
• cash for the thermal pools entrance

If you forget sandals, you can still manage. You’ll just spend longer in damp shoes before you get to the hot springs. If you forget sunscreen or bug spray, the canyon will remind you fast.

Who Should Book This (and Who Should Skip It)

This tour is a great fit if you want:

• a hands-on hike with a real payoff at the waterfall
• a short hot springs soak as recovery
• a small-town church stop that feels local, not staged
• good value with hotel pickup and included snacks

It’s not the best fit if:

• you want a fully dry walk the whole time
• you dislike slippery footing or stepping through shallow water
• you’re only interested in major city-style attractions and want zero “active outdoors” time

If you’re comfortable with a day that involves streams, puddles, and warm water afterward, you’ll probably enjoy the rhythm.

Should you book the Capua–El Tigre–Yura Viejo day trip?

I’d book it if you’re traveling with a “do something” mindset. For $62, you get a guided canyon hike, waterfall time, included church entry, snacks, and hotel pickup—with the only real extra cost being the thermal entrance. The small group size and the practical pacing make it feel like a day that was designed for people, not just schedules.

I’d hesitate only if you know you dislike wet trails, or if you’re traveling during a time you can’t spare extra time if conditions change. Weather matters here. If the tour can’t run due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

If you want an Arequipa day that mixes nature and local life without being exhausting, this one is worth your shortlist.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?

The experience lasts about 8 hours 30 minutes (approx.).

What time does the tour start?

It starts at 8:00 am.

Where do I meet the guide?

The meeting point is C. Zela 301, Arequipa 04001, Peru. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Is the thermal bath entrance included?

No. The entrance ticket for the thermal pools is not included, and you’ll need to pay at the site (typically 5–10 soles depending on the day).

Is admission included for Capua Waterfall and Iglesia de Yura Viejo?

Yes. Capua Waterfall admission is free, and admission to Iglesia de Yura Viejo is included.

What’s included in the price besides the tour itself?

You get hotel pickup, bottled water, and snacks (cookies, cereal bar, and fruit).

How large is the group?

This activity has a maximum of 8 travelers.

What should I bring for the hike?

You should bring sunscreen and bug spray, and it’s a good idea to wear hiking shoes for the trek. Consider packing sandals for after the hike.

What if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?

No. The experience is non-refundable and can’t be changed for any reason.

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