How to Explore Arequipa on the City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery

Are you planning to visit Arequipa, also known as the White City, in Peru? If you are, don’t miss the chance to explore its historical sights and attractions on a half-day city tour with a knowledgeable guide. In this guide, we will walk you through the Arequipa City Tour including St Catherine Monastery, giving you all the details you need to know before booking this amazing adventure.

Overview of the Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery

The half-day Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery is an excellent opportunity to admire the beauty of one of the most important cities in Peru. This tour takes you on an air-conditioned coach ride to see spectacular viewpoints such as the Mirador de Yanahuara, which offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of Arequipa. Your guide will take you through two colonial areas, St Lazarus and Yanahuara, and show you the pearl-colored buildings that give the city its nickname, “the White City.” During this tour, you will also visit the Monastery of St Catherine, which was closed to the public for almost 400 hundred years. You will have the opportunity to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this beautiful monastery while learning about the city’s cultural and historical background.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery is a fantastic way to explore the city’s history and culture. The following items are included in the tour:

• An air-conditioned vehicle to take you to all the attractions
• A professional guide who will provide you with all the necessary information about each attraction
• Hotel pickup and drop-off for your convenience
• Gratuities for the guide and driver included in the price

Please note that food and drinks are not included in the tour’s price, and you should plan accordingly.

Itinerary of the Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery

The Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery takes approximately 5 hours and starts at 2:00 PM. During the tour, you will visit the following attractions:

1. Mirador de Yanahuara

This viewpoint offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Arequipa. From here, you can admire the city’s architecture and the impressive Misti Volcano in the background. You will have time to take photographs and enjoy the scenery.

2. Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa

Considered one of the city’s most important landmarks, the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa is a stunning example of baroque architecture. The church is known for its impressive size, and you will have time to walk around and admire its intricate details.

3. Yanahuara and St Lazarus

The colonial districts of Yanahuara and St Lazarus are famous for their pearl-colored buildings and unique architecture. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of both areas, giving you a chance to admire the beauty of these well-preserved districts and learn about their history and cultural significance.

4. Monastery of St Catherine

The Monastery of St Catherine is one of the most popular attractions in Arequipa. The monastery was closed to the public for almost 400 hundred years and was inhabited by nuns who lived in seclusion. Today, visitors can enjoy the monastery’s tranquil atmosphere and walk around its narrow streets and gardens.

How to Book the Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery

If you plan to visit Arequipa soon, you must add the Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery to your itinerary. To book this tour, visit the Viator website, and follow the instructions to reserve your spot. The tour’s price is affordable and includes all the attractions mentioned above. To book the tour, click here and follow the instructions.

Book Your Tour Now

The Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery is a fantastic opportunity to explore the White City’s history and cultural significance. During this half-day tour, you will visit the most important landmarks and attractions, accompanied by a professional guide who will provide you with all the necessary information. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to explore Arequipa and learn about its unique cultural background. Reserve your spot on the Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Arequipa

1. What is Arequipa?

Arequipa is a city located in the southern part of Peru, near the Andes Mountains. It is the second most populous city in Peru and has a rich history and culture. Arequipa is known for its colonial architecture, including the famous Santa Catalina Monastery, as well as its proximity to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.

2. What is the best time to visit Arequipa?

The best time to visit Arequipa is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, temperatures are mild, and there is little chance of rain. However, it can be quite chilly at night, so be sure to pack warm clothing. If you want to see the Colca Canyon, it is best to visit during the dry season as well, as the rainy season can make hiking difficult and dangerous.

3. What is the currency in Arequipa?

The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol. It is recommended to exchange money at authorized exchange bureaus or banks. It is also possible to withdraw money from ATMs but be aware of fees associated with international transactions. Credit cards are widely accepted in Arequipa.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Arequipa?

1. Santa Catalina Monastery

   Arequipa’s most famous attraction is the Santa Catalina Monastery. This historic monastery was founded in the 16th century and is known for its brightly colored buildings and picturesque courtyards.

2. Colca Canyon

   Arequipa is the gateway to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. It is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and seeing the Andean condor.

3. Plaza de Armas

   The Plaza de Armas is the central square of Arequipa and is surrounded by historic colonial buildings, including the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa.

4. San Camilo Market

   The San Camilo Market is the largest and most popular market in Arequipa. Here you can find fresh produce, meats, and handicrafts.

5. Yanahuara

   Yanahuara is a historic district located just outside of Arequipa that is known for its colonial architecture and beautiful views of the El Misti volcano.

5. What are the best dishes to try in Arequipa?

Arequipa is known for its unique cuisine, which blends indigenous and Spanish flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Adobo

  A spicy pork stew that is marinated in chicha de jora, a fermented corn beverage.

• Rocoto Relleno

  A spicy dish made with stuffed peppers and cheese.

• Chupe de Camarones

  A creamy shrimp soup made with local ingredients.

• Queso Helado

  A traditional dessert made with milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.

6. Is it safe to travel to Arequipa?

Arequipa is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any city, it is important to take precautions to avoid theft or scams. It is recommended to keep valuables hidden and to be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. Additionally, it is important to take precautions when hiking in the Colca Canyon, as the terrain can be challenging and first-aid supplies may be limited.

7. How do I get to Arequipa?

Arequipa has its own international airport, Rodriguez Ballon International Airport, which has daily connections within Peru and to some international destinations such as Santiago (Chile). It is also possible to travel to Arequipa by bus, with connections from Lima, Puno, and Cusco. Bus travel can be quite long, with journeys from Lima taking around 16 hours.

Book Your Tour Now

Arequipa is a beautiful city full of history, culture, and delicious food. Whether you are interested in colonial buildings, hiking in the Andes, or trying new dishes, Arequipa is the perfect destination. Just be sure to take precautions to ensure your safety and have a fantastic trip.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Arequipa

Arequipa is a beautiful city in Peru that offers a rich cultural experience for tourists. From the historic buildings in the city center to the stunning natural landscapes, there is so much to see and do in Arequipa. In this guide, we will go over some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Arequipa.

1. Explore the Historic City Center

Arequipa’s historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many important buildings and landmarks. Some of the must-see attractions in the historic center include:

The Santa Catalina Monastery

This stunning monastery was founded in 1580 and covers over 20,000 square meters. It features beautiful colonial architecture, brightly painted walls, and peaceful courtyards. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and daily life of the nuns who live there.

The Plaza de Armas

This is the main square in Arequipa and is surrounded by important buildings, including the Cathedral of Arequipa, Palacio de Gobierno, and the Jesuit Church. It’s a great place to people-watch, admire the architecture, and take photos.

The Casa del Moral

This historic mansion dates back to the 18th century and is known for its ornate Baroque architecture. Inside, visitors can see the beautiful frescoes, carved wooden ceilings, and antique furniture.

The Mercado San Camilo

This bustling market is a great place to buy souvenirs, try local foods, and see the daily life of the people of Arequipa. Visitors can try local specialties like rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy peppers) and chicha (corn beer).

2. Visit the Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and is a popular day trip from Arequipa. The canyon is home to many species of birds, including the Andean condor, and offers stunning views of the Andes mountains. Some of the activities you can do in the Colca Canyon include:

Hiking

There are many hiking trails in the Colca Canyon that offer varying degrees of difficulty. Some of the most popular trails include the Mirador Cruz del Condor, where visitors can see the Andean condors flying overhead, and the San Juan de Chuccho trail, which takes you through traditional villages.

Hot Springs

After a day of hiking, visitors can relax in the hot springs located in the canyon. The most popular hot springs are located in the town of Chivay and are known for their therapeutic properties.

Cultural Events

The Colca Canyon is home to many traditional communities that still maintain their customs and traditions. Visitors can attend cultural events like festivals and dances to learn more about the local culture.

3. Trekking Through the Misti Volcano

The Misti Volcano is the symbol of the city of Arequipa and is a popular trekking destination for tourists. The peak stands at 5,822 meters (19,101 feet) above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the activities you can do when trekking through Misti Volcano include:

Hiking

The Misti Volcano offers trails of varying difficulty, some of which include camping overnight. The trek to the summit is challenging and requires an experienced guide.

Sightseeing

The Misti Volcano offers stunning views of the Arequipa region. Visitors can see the city from above, as well as the surrounding mountains and natural landscapes.

Cultural Experiences

The towns near the Misti Volcano offer cultural experiences, such as visiting traditional markets, attending festivals, and seeing local crafts.

4. Try the Local Cuisine

Arequipa is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes many unique dishes that are not found in other parts of Peru. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Rocoto Relleno

This is a spicy dish made with rocoto peppers stuffed with meat, vegetables, and cheese. It’s a popular dish in Arequipa and is known for its fiery flavor.

Chupe de camarones

This is a hearty soup made with shrimp, vegetables, and spices. It’s a favorite among locals and is often served for special occasions.

Adobo de chancho

This dish is made with pork that is marinated in spices, then slow-cooked in a clay pot. It’s often served with potatoes and corn.

Chicha

This fermented corn drink is a traditional beverage in Peru and is often served in Arequipa. It has a slightly sour taste and is often consumed during festivals and celebrations.

Book Your Tour Now

Arequipa is a city that offers a rich cultural experience for tourists. From the historic buildings in the city center to the stunning natural landscapes, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Arequipa and create unforgettable memories.