Unfortunately we only had one day in Arequipa and most of that was spent shopping after my bag was stolen. We managed to visit some of the churches in the area and ended up buying half a souvenir shop, so be prepared England to see some funky Alpaca clothing!

The following day we were off to the Colca Canyon for a three day trek. The tour started at four in the morning and took us straight to view the Condors flying low to the mountains in the jet streams of the Canyon. These huge birds flew within 5m of us and although they are the ugliest of birds on the ground, in flight they are quite something to behold.

The trek was surprisingly challenging especially as we over packed and I ended up carrying about 20 kg up 1200 meters on the second day. On the first night we spent it with a local family who cooked us our meal in a kitchen that looked liked it dated back to the 16th century. They had only just got a fridge three years ago and that had to be bought to the town via two donkeys as cars cannot reach this part of the canyon. On the second day we got to spend part of our time relaxing in the swimmming pools surrounded by massive mountains. And then to the matter of a 1200 meter climb, which by the end of it I was cursing every step, but it was good training for Macchu Picchu. After a much needed shower we had dinner and our guide then taught us the art of spanish dancing! Its all in the hips, its all in the hips.

The third day was met with a trip to some hot pools to sooth the aching muscles and then a 4 hours bus ride to Arequipa. We then had two hours to wait for the night bus ride from hell!