Located in the department of Ica, the Cañón de los Perdidos is a natural wonder that impresses with its size and geological formation. It was officially discovered in 2011 and has since become one of the most striking destinations in southern Peru.
This canyon extends for almost 6 kilometers and reaches a depth of approximately 200 meters, with three well-defined levels that allow you to descend to its base. On the first two levels is the famous "Mirador", a strategic point from where you can appreciate rock formations and figures sculpted by time, wind, and erosion: some visitors claim to see naturally carved animal shapes and human faces in stone and sand.
Origin of the Cañón de los Perdidos
The canyon was formed following the channel of the now-extinct Seco River, an ancient waterway that slowly shaped this desert landscape. Intense rains, winds, and geological movements ended up sculpting its imposing walls.
Paleontological studies estimate that its formation dates back between 20 and 30 million years, when the entire area was a seabed. This is confirmed by the fossil remains found in the area: whale vertebrae, shark teeth, shells, remains of penguins, seabirds, and more.
Why is it called the Cañón de los Perdidos?
The curious name has a recent and anecdotal history. In an expedition carried out by the former mayor Pablo Alvites, residents of the district, and journalist Maycol Herrera, the group got lost for several hours before reaching the canyon. Due to the lack of signage and the complexity of the terrain, the journey became confusing and exhausting. When they finally managed to reach the site, the journalist titled his report "El Cañón de los Perdidos" (The Canyon of the Lost), a name that not only was remembered locally, but also quickly became popular among visitors and tour operators.
Where is the Cañón de los Perdidos located?
This formation is located southeast of the district of Santiago, in the province of Ica Peru, approximately a three-hour drive from the city. To get there, it is necessary to take a route that combines paved sections and dirt roads through the desert, so it is recommended to go in 4x4 vehicles and with a guide. The journey is part of the experience, as it allows you to admire the desert landscape and see other nearby spots like the Ocucaje desert. This isolation also contributes to the feeling of mystery and adventure that surrounds the Canyon.
5 reasons to visit the Cañón de los Perdidos in Ica
The Cañón de los Perdidos has become one of the most surprising destinations in the Ica desert. Its combination of arid landscape, natural formations, and local legends make it an incredible experience. Here are five reasons to include this place on your next trip to southern Peru. Get your camera and adventurous spirit ready!
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A journey through dunes, silence, and mystery
The path to the Cañón de los Perdidos is a true adventure. Starting from the city of Ica, the journey takes about two hours and crosses desert landscapes. You take the Panamericana Sur to kilometer 339, where a detour towards Callango introduces you to the heart of the desert. From there, a dirt road leads to the mysterious "Boca del Río," the starting point of the experience.
During the tour, you will be surprised by the solitude of the landscape, interrupted only by birds like vultures or Andean crows, which fly over the canyon. In the lower area, a descent of about 30 minutes will allow you to explore the depths of this natural colossus. -
Resilient fauna adapted to the desert
Although it seems like a lifeless place, the canyon's environment is home to interesting biodiversity. Along the way and in the canyon itself, it is common to see carrion birds like vultures, as well as small species of reptiles that hide among the stones and dunes. The scarce but resilient vegetation is also part of the attraction, especially in the area of the mouth of the Ica River, where small temporary oases are formed. -
A fascinating landscape
Beyond the name, the beauty of this place impresses from the first level, where the viewpoint is located. From there you can see naturally formed figures in the rock, such as the famous "Ojo de Pez" (Fish Eye), a temporary lagoon that forms from water filtration. Also noteworthy are the "Cara del Puma" (Puma's Face) and the mysterious "Plaza Caracol" (Snail Square), with its natural semi-roof and formations that seem to be from another planet. -
Layers of geological history in every step
The formation of the place is related to the course of the disappeared Seco River, whose erosion, along with the wind and the passage of time, sculpted the levels of the canyon. The first, more accessible and green, becomes a small oasis with seasonal vegetation and the presence of herons.
In the intermediate levels are the most famous figures, while the deepest part of the canyon, with its breaks and high walls, gives you a true dimension of what nature can create over time. Access to these areas requires caution and good footwear. -
A natural museum of fossils hidden in the sand
Finally, one of the most fascinating aspects of the Cañón de los Perdidos Peru is its paleontological importance. Research has determined that this area was part of an ancient seabed that existed between 20 and 30 million years ago. Over the years, fossil remains of whales, sharks, marine shells, birds, and even prehistoric penguins have been found.
One of the most amazing findings was the fossil of a whale more than 30 meters long. Although there is currently no museum on site, the remains and studies continue to be a source of interest for researchers and lovers of natural history.
#The Data
Tours are usually taken by authorized agencies that include a trekking circuit. These services have a price that ranges between S/.150 soles, which include transportation, guiding, and refreshment costs.
The minimum recommended age to take the tour in the Canyon of the Lost is 14 to 16 years old, due to the demands of the walk.
Recommendations for this “Desert Adventure”
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Wear appropriate clothing
For this adventure it is important that you wear fresh and comfortable clothing. Remember that you will be in the heart of the Ica desert. Ideally, you should wear a hat, a thin long-sleeved polo shirt, sunglasses with UV protection, trekking shoes and pants that allow you to move easily. -
Keep hydrated
Don't forget to bring enough bottles of water (minimum two liters per person), as well as small fruits and brain bars. This is necessary so that you maintain the energy (and enthusiasm) you will need during the day. -
Put on a good sunscreen
It is vital that you not only put on protection before starting the trip but also that you carry one with you. Make sure it is highly protective, because you will be outdoors for several hours and the sun's rays are intense. -
Take care of the cannon
During your visit you should be careful not to do anything that harms the ecosystem of the place. That is, no camping, drinking alcohol or littering. The canyon is home to a variety of animals. During your expedition you will be able to find lizards, buzzards, different types of insects and wild plants.
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