The Lodge
While the oasis at Paraiso was the most basic lodging, other than a tent, I stayed in, just up the river was the most luxurious–Colca Canyon Lodge. Located near Chivay where the river valley is wide and terraced, the lodge is pleasantly situated alongside the river.
The setting
The lodge's common areas
There are several places near Chivay where one can visit natural hot springs. This lodge has its own series of hot pools; the warmest was posted as being 37-39 degrees Celsius or 98.6 to 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit. (In the US, the CPSC suggests hot tub temperatures be kept below 104 degrees.) At first, I was the only one in the pool; it was delightful sitting in the warm water and taking in the view. Then a group of St. Olaf College alumni took over the pool, and the serenity was lost.
A pool with a view
The view
Here one got a different perspective on the canyon terraces. Presumably, these were employees enjoying an after-work game of football.
- What a setting for a game of football!