Palca Canyon

Palca canyon cuts down from the flanks below Illimani, and the walk goes along its floor: a dry or shallow riverbed between walls of red, ochre and grey rock eroded into fins, columns and overhangs, narrowing in places to a few metres and opening out again, with the mountain appearing at the head of the valley. The route takes three to four hours at around 3,300 metres, dropping gradually, and ends near the village of Palca. It is the best canyon walk within reach of La Paz and sees a fraction of the traffic of the Valle de la Luna. Getting there means a drive up over a pass at nearly 4,500 metres and down the other side, which is scenic in itself. Rain in the catchment can bring water down the canyon.

What you actually see

• Coloured canyon walls - red and ochre rock eroded into columns.
• The narrow sections - the floor closing to a few metres between walls.
• Illimani at the head - the mountain above the top of the valley.
• The high pass - the drive over 4,400 metres to reach the start.

When to go

May to September, the dry season, when the canyon floor is walkable and flash flooding is unlikely. The wet months bring water and real flood risk in the narrows. Mornings are best before afternoon cloud.

Honest expectations

Flash flooding is a genuine hazard when rain falls in the catchment, even if it is dry where you are walking. The walk is three to four hours at altitude with no shade or water. Transport at the far end needs arranging in advance. A guide is sensible.

Nearby

Illimani rises above; La Paz lies northwest.