Quick FactsOverview
About Complejo Turistico Banos Termales La Calera
Complejo Turistico Banos Termales La Calera, Peru is a paid municipal thermal spring complex 3 km from Chivay in the Colca Valley, Caylloma province, Arequipa region, at 3,610 metres elevation. The springs originate from the Cotallumi volcano at 80 to 85 degrees Celsius and are cooled through serpentines to 38 to 40 degrees Celsius across five outdoor pools. Entry is 15 soles. Open daily from 4 am to 7 pm. The complex is administered by the Municipalidad Provincial de Caylloma.
The mineral water contains calcium, zinc, iron, sodium, potassium, magnesium, sulfates, and bicarbonates, traditionally associated with relief from rheumatism, arthritis, and muscle pain. An on-site archaeological museum displays artefacts from Colca Valley excavations. Other facilities include a cafeteria, food stalls, an artisan shop, changing rooms, and parking.
La Calera is routinely the final stop on Colca Canyon tours from Arequipa. Among the hot springs near Arequipa, it is the most accessible in the Colca Valley and the most directly integrated with a major tourist circuit.
Location & Access
Getting to Complejo Turistico Banos Termales La Calera
Complejo Turistico Banos Termales La Calera is 3 km from Chivay, capital of Caylloma province in the Colca Valley. From Chivay, the complex can be reached on foot in approximately one hour along the valley road, by taxi for about 5 soles, or by local bus for about 1 sole. Most visitors on organised Colca Canyon tours are transported to La Calera directly as the final stop before returning to Arequipa. The entrance is clearly signed from the Chivay town centre.
From Arequipa, the journey to Chivay takes approximately 3 to 4 hours by road north through the high Andes via the Patapampa pass at over 4,900 metres. Bus services from Arequipa land terminal connect to Chivay with tickets costing 10 to 15 soles. Arequipa is served by Rodriguez Ballon Airport, the main arrival point for international visitors heading to the Colca region.
Early morning visits are particularly recommended. Opening at 4 am, La Calera allows visitors to soak as the Colca Valley comes to light, with panoramic views of the canyon landscape and the possibility of spotting Andean condors from the viewpoints near the complex. For visitors seeking hot springs near Arequipa within a Colca Canyon itinerary, La Calera represents the standard thermal endpoint of the region's most popular tour route.
Suitability & Accessibility
Who Should Visit Complejo Turistico Banos Termales La Calera
Complejo Turistico Banos Termales La Calera suits families, trekkers, and visitors passing through the Colca Valley on a canyon tour or multi-day trip. The five pools with different sizes and temperatures work for solo soakers, groups, and families with children. The moderate water temperature of 38 to 40 degrees Celsius is accessible and comfortable for a wide range of visitors.
The complex is a popular recovery stop after long bus journeys through the high Andes or trekking in the Colca Canyon. At 3,610 metres altitude, the warm thermal water and scenic canyon setting provide a restorative stop. The on-site archaeological museum adds cultural depth for those interested in Colca Valley history. The five pools of different sizes allow large tour groups to be spread across the facility without severe crowding.
Wheelchair accessibility is not documented. The high-altitude Andean setting and the complex's facilities have not been confirmed as step-free in official sources for this listing; visitors with mobility requirements should contact Arequipa tour operators. The dry season from April to October is the best time to visit. Families seeking hot springs near Arequipa in a high-Andean setting will find La Calera the most accessible option in the Colca region.
Safety & Etiquette
Banos Termales La Calera Safety Tips
Complejo Turistico Banos Termales La Calera is generally safe for most visitors. The pools are maintained at 38 to 40 degrees Celsius, warm and therapeutic but not dangerously hot. Test the water temperature of each pool before entering, as temperatures vary between pools. Limit soaking sessions to moderate durations and cool down between soaks. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or lightheaded, exit the pool immediately and rest in the open air.
The altitude of 3,610 metres above sea level is the most important safety consideration at La Calera. Combining hot water immersion, high UV exposure, and the physiological demands of altitude can accelerate dehydration and altitude-related symptoms. Drink plenty of water before and during your visit. Apply high-SPF sunscreen as UV radiation at altitude is significantly stronger than at sea level; the clear skies over the Colca Valley intensify this effect. If you are still acclimatising to Andean altitude, limit your time in the hottest pool and keep sessions short.
The complex opens at 4 am, which means early morning visits occur in cold, dark conditions. Bring warm layers for the walk to and from the complex and for waiting outside the pools; at 3,610 metres temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Pools are cleaned daily at the end of the operating day. Cash is required for entry and all services on site; the nearest ATMs are in Chivay. The narrow road between Chivay and La Calera should be navigated carefully at night. Bring insect repellent if visiting in the wet season from December to March.
