Arequipa Nexus Institute

By Beatriz Roldan Martinez

What We Can Learn Together: Sustainability in Action from Colca Lodge 

📍 Yanque, Arequipa 

This week we want to share an experience that can inspire us to continue building more conscious tourism in the Colca Valley. 

During a visit to Colca Lodge, we spoke with their Integrated Management System Coordinator, who showed us how sustainability can be integrated into every aspect of hotel operations: 

🌡️ Geothermal Energy for Heating 
They use their thermal pools to heat rooms, reducing electricity and gas usage. 

💧 Reuse of Treated Water 
They have a treatment plant that allows them to irrigate green areas without polluting the river. 

♻️ Collaboration with Communities 
They work with Yanque and Chivay on recycling, festivities, and training, and share their best practices with other ventures in the valley. 

🌱 International Certification 
They are certified by Preferred by Nature and guided by principles of quality, social well-being, environment, and climate. 

What Can We Learn from This Experience? 
Sustainability takes many forms. Sometimes it manifests in large operations like Colca Lodge, with infrastructure and international recognition. Other times, it takes shape in more modest ventures that are equally committed to their surroundings. 
In a few weeks, we’ll share a story that reminds us that impact isn’t always measured by scale, but by intention. Stay tuned! 

Do You Know a Small Business Also Making Sustainable Efforts? 
We’d love to hear about it! Write to us in the comments or send us a message.