El Codo de los Andes hike from Samaipata: Sunrise tour
Pick the timing that fits your Samaipata itinerary and hike to the bend.
El Codo de los Andes is a full-day or half-day hike from Samaipata to a mountain viewpoint where the Andes ridge shifts direction, with transport from your hotel or the central plaza, a guide in English or Spanish, and entry included. The route starts easy, then climbs steeply for 45 minutes to the summit. You can book a sunrise departure for early light, a half-day morning option, or a full-day tour that leaves more time at the top. Children from age 12 are welcome.
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Step-by-step itinerary
Hike to El Codo de los Andes viewpoint
- Pick up from Samaipata hotel or plaza
- Walk narrow mountain trail
- Hike uphill for 45 minutes
- Enjoy views of valleys and Andean peaks
- Spot condors, hummingbirds, and parrots
- Return to Samaipata
The experience
What makes this hike different is the destination itself: El Codo de los Andes is the exact point where the mountain range bends, and the views from the top frame both the valleys below and the peaks that stretch away in two directions. The trail follows a narrow mountain path with Andean ridges on all sides. Transport picks you up from your Samaipata hotel or the central plaza, so you don't arrange your own way to the trailhead.
The climb itself is the real work: the first stretch is gentle, but the final 45 minutes is a steady uphill push to reach the summit. The operator rates it as easy-to-moderate, and you'll need at least a moderate level of fitness to make it comfortably. On a clear day, you might spot condors, hummingbirds or parrots moving through the peaks. The views are the kind people photograph for social media, but they're real: the bend in the ridge and the drop of the valleys make the geography visible in a way it isn't from anywhere else around Samaipata.
Three options let you shape the day around the rest of your itinerary. The sunrise tour departs around 3:30 or 4 am and reaches the top by early light, finishing around 10:30 am. The half-day option leaves at 8 am and wraps by midday. The full-day tour gives you the most time to sit at the viewpoint and move at your own pace, running from 8:30 am to 4:30 or 5:30 pm. Your guide speaks English or Spanish depending on availability. Bring sturdy shoes, a camera and water. The operator does not provide meals or drinks, so pack snacks if you're doing the full day.
What’s included
- Transport from your Samaipata hotel or central plaza.
- entrance fee to El Codo de los Andes.
- guide in English or Spanish.
Options for this experience
3 optionsYou pick the guide language when booking.
Before you book
Prices and times updated 16 days ago
Operated by No Hay Vida Mejor
Is this one for you?The three tour lengths let you match the hike to your schedule: sunrise if you want early light and a full morning free, half-day if you have only a few hours, or full-day if you want to linger at the viewpoint and move without rushing. The 45-minute uphill climb is the main physical demand, so book this if you're comfortable with steady climbing and have at least moderate fitness.
Traveler reviews
Top questions
What languages is the tour guided in?
Live guide in English and Spanish.
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years). Children under 12 can't be included in the booking.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What is El Codo de los Andes and why is the viewpoint special?
El Codo de los Andes is the point where the Andes ridge changes direction, and the summit viewpoint shows both the bend itself and the valleys dropping away on either side. The narrow mountain trail winds along the ridge with Andean peaks visible in multiple directions, making it a rare vantage point for seeing how the range actually shifts.
How hard is the hike and what kind of fitness do I need?
The trail starts easy but includes a 45-minute uphill climb to the summit that is steady and steep. The operator rates it easy-to-moderate and requires at least a moderate level of physical fitness. It is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnant travelers.
Which tour option should I pick if I only have a morning free?
The half-day tour departs at 8 am and finishes by noon or 12:30 pm, leaving your afternoon open for other activities in Samaipata. The sunrise option also ends by mid-morning around 10:30 am if you want to start very early.
Does the price include transport from my hotel?
Yes, transport is included in all three options. Pickup happens from your Samaipata hotel or the central plaza, depending on where you're staying, and the guide and entrance fee are also included.
What should I bring and what is not provided?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, a camera, water and snacks, as meals and drinks are not included. The operator provides transport, the guide and entry to the site, but you'll want to pack food and beverages for the duration you choose.
El Codo de los Andes hike from Samaipata: Sunrise tour
8h · EN · ES
from US$ 78 per person
4.758 reviewsVerified traveler reviews via our booking provider