Quechua Missions
Proclaiming the Glory of God in Peru
The deepest canyon in the world.
The Cotahuasi Canyon is located in the Andes Mountains of southern Peru, in the northern part of the state of Arequipa, in the province of La Union.
The canyon is almost twice the depth of the Grand Canyon in the United States, and NASA satellite topography studies indicate that it is officially the deepest canyon feature in the world at 11,004 feet.
The village of Cotahuasi is 8,700 feel in elevation, and is only 60 miles from the Pacific Ocean (as the "crow flies").
The extreme differences of altitudes and diversity of climates in this region leaves unique habitats for a variety of different animals and plants. Among these, the huge Andean condor and the small lama-like wild vicuna, are frequently seen here. The rabbit-like Viscacha has a long tail and is often seen in rocky high altitude areas. Impressively, it maneuvers and dodges quickly through bolder fields with ease. Venado (deer) are rare in very remote and high areas.
For many centuries the Quechua people have inhabited the canyon area and built terraces to farm the more level areas. Many old trails are present throughout the canyon, connecting the villages and farm fields. One will find goats, sheep, and cattle, grazing close to the villages of the canyon, as well as alpaca and llama herds on the highlands, above the canyon.
Water for irrigation comes from springs and cascading streams, flowing from the highlands, and is a precious commodity during the dry months of May through December. The rainy season brings afternoon showers during the summer months of January through April.
