Chivay Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids

Chivay

Town

View of Chivay

Flag

Chivay

Location in Peru

Country

Peru

Region

Arequipa

Province

Caylloma

District

Chivay

Elevation

3,635 m (11,926 ft)

Population

• Total

5,000

Time zone

UTC-5 (PET)

Chivay is a town in the beautiful Colca Valley in Peru. It is the main town of the Caylloma Province in the Arequipa Region. Chivay is located very high up, about 3,600 meters (12,000 feet) above sea level! It is found just before the famous Colca Canyon, which is one of the deepest canyons in the world. The town has a lively main square and a busy market where you can find many interesting things.

Things to Do in Chivay
Chivay's Climate
- Wet and Dry Seasons
- Temperatures Throughout the Year
Gallery
See also

Things to Do in Chivay

Relax in Hot Springs

Just 3 kilometers (about 2 miles) from Chivay, you can find warm, natural springs. These springs have heated pools where you can relax and enjoy the warm water. It is a great way to unwind after exploring the area.

Visit the Inca Bridge

A special stone bridge, sometimes called an "Inca" bridge, crosses the Colca River. It is located just north of the town. This bridge shows the amazing building skills of ancient people.

Spot Condors at Condor Cross

Chivay is a popular starting point for visitors heading to Condor Cross, also known as Cruz Del Condor. This spot is a few kilometers downstream from Chivay. Here, you can often see giant Andean condors flying high in the sky. They use the warm air currents to glide effortlessly. It is an amazing sight to see these huge birds in their natural home.

Chivay's Climate

Chivay has a special kind of mountain climate. It has mild days and cold nights. The year is divided into two main parts: a wet season and a dry season.

Wet and Dry Seasons

The wet season in Chivay lasts from December to March. During these months, the town gets most of its rain. The dry season runs from May to November. In these months, there is much less rain.

Temperatures Throughout the Year

Daytime temperatures in Chivay stay pretty steady all year. The average high temperature is usually around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the nights are much colder during the dry season. From May to August, the average low temperatures can even drop below freezing. During the wet season, nights are warmer, with temperatures usually above 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit).

Gallery

Church in Chivay
"Puente Inca" near Chivay
Chivay market
Temple Santiago Apostol de Caporaque in Chivay
Ruins of a ring of terraces often incorrectly called a "bullring" or amphitheater; part of the Chivay Ruinas park overlooking Chivay, north side of Rio Colca