Codo de los Andes
private tour, full day (half day also possible)

There are two possibilities for a beautiful and scenic hike in the Codo de los Andes (the Andes Elbow). In both cases the walking time is about 4½ to 5 hours.

This is the description of the first option. The hike starts near the municipality of Palermo and ends at the waterfalls of Las Cuevas. By taxi you will be brought to the beginning of the walk in about 45 minutes.

The first part of the trail is easy uphill and soon you will see the first beautiful mountain peaks.
A strenuous climb of 40 minutes on a steep and narrow path will take quite some effort and you should have good footing, especially when it is windy. But you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Codo de los Andes. You can take beautiful pictures or have one taken of you at an excellent viewpoint.

After that you will continue over a mountain ridge and enjoy the view for about 45 minutes. With a bit of luck, you can see the Andes Condor fly.

You take a path that takes you down another mountain slope, into a valley. Here you leave the beautiful view behind you as you follow the stream to the Cuevas waterfalls where you can relax and enjoy the refreshing water.
In 30 minutes you return to Samaipata, with beautiful pictures. 

The alternative is to make a hike with more climbing, to one or two mountain tops.
The description is as above, but instead of walking down to the waterfalls of Cuevas you follow the mountain ridge and depending on the time you climb one or two mountain peaks. You will return to the car on the same path.

Tip: If you only have half a day, this second option can also be done, but without climbing mountain tops.
You will spend two and a half hours hiking in the area then. With the 1 hour 30 minute drive, in total it makes a half day trip.

If you are afraid of heights, this hike unfortunately is not suitable for you.

Included: Transport; Spanish or English speaking guide, depending on availability.

Not included: Entrance fee; Food and drinks; All costs that are not specifically mentioned.