Colca Canyon - May 27

Woke up early for our departure for the Colca Canyon - the world's deepest canyon. Our tour bus was a 30 seater, and we had requested being in a group of 15 max... oh well. After all the tourists were picked up, we finally left town at 9,30 a.m.
Leaving Arequipa, we saw several slum area homes being built on the latest lava flows, and Lord knows that if one of the volcanoes erupts again, all these homes will be gone in a jiffy. We do not think the people will even have the time to run.
The volcanoes surrounding Arequipa are simply stunning. They contrast the arid desert, and frankly, it is a beautiful site. Due to the altitude, we purchased addtional water, and coca candies for the change. I took Ibuprofen and left it at that.
Saw vicunas frolicking in the desert - small alpacas, which resemble our fawns. Their wool is extremely valuable, and vicuna knits are expensive. Saw many alpaca and llama herds. Stunning. Saw different rock formations, the stone forest, created by water, melting on stones. Peruvians are still selling their wares at each bus stop we make.
Arrived at the main town of Chivay, where we had to pay an entrance fee. This is how the town makes money to support the infrastructure it has. Stayed at the Colca Inn, but we had trouble with our room, the toilet was not working, and it was in a backpacker wing. The people did not want us to change rooms, but we insisted, for we had paid for an upgraded room. They said they had no such room. Finally, they gave us what we wanted, in another wing, and apoligized profusely. We could not understand why the fuss was made in the first place...
Visited the Hot Springs, La Colera, and it was so nice to feel the hot water take away all the tensions of the day. Some pools did not work though, so most people were in one pool. Let's just say tha we did not dunk our heads! Peru is still getting used to tourism, and are trying to keep up with the pace. Many places need upkeep and repair, and I'm sure that in a couple of years, all will be ok.
Had a nice dinner, which included Peruvian band music and folk dancing of the area. I was up dancing! The dances are beautiful, yet simple. The costumes are extravagent, and very well done.
We are taking lots of photos but just do not have the time to upload them, and we're not sure if we would know how on the computers that we are working with. We will do this when we arrive back in Alberta, then the story will be complete.