Is Arequipa Worth Visiting?

If you’re planning to visit Peru, you’ve probably already heard of Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city nestled high in the Andes mountains. But Peru has much more to offer than just Machu Picchu. One of the lesser-known gems of Peru is the city of Arequipa.

Located in the picturesque southern region of Peru, Arequipa sits at the base of three towering Volcanoes – Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu – making it a unique and stunning destination to visit. But, is Arequipa worth visiting? In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why Arequipa should be on your travel list.

The History of Arequipa

Arequipa, also known as the “White City,” was founded in 1540 by the Spanish Conquistadors. It quickly became an important commercial and cultural center, due to its proximity to the coast and abundant agricultural resources. Today, Arequipa is Peru’s second-most populous city, with over 1 million inhabitants.

Things to Do in Arequipa

One of the main attractions in Arequipa is the historic city center, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. The center is renowned for its stunning colonial-era buildings made from white volcanic rock, which give the city its nickname.

Another must-visit attraction in Arequipa is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. This 16th-century monastery was built to accommodate noble Spanish women and was only open to the public in 1970. It covers a vast area of over 20,000 square meters and has numerous gardens, churches, and living quarters to explore.

Arequipa also has a thriving culinary scene, with traditional Peruvian and Andean dishes, as well as international options. The city’s signature dish is Rocoto Relleno, a spicy pepper stuffed with meat, cheese, and spices.

Arequipa’s Natural Beauty

Arequipa’s stunning location makes it an excellent destination for nature lovers. The three surrounding volcanoes offer great hiking opportunities, including a challenging climb to the summit of Misti, which stands at 5,820 meters. If you prefer something less strenuous, there are plenty of other natural attractions to explore, including Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Climate

Arequipa is an ideal destination to visit year-round. Due to its location at 2,300 meters above sea level, the climate is relatively stable throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 14°C and 24°C (57°F to 75°F). Peak travel season is between June and September when the weather is dry and sunny.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Arequipa is undoubtedly worth visiting, with its rich history, cultural sights, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re an outdoors enthusiast or more interested in relaxing in a beautiful city, Arequipa has something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover this hidden gem in Peru!

Arequipa: An Insider’s Guide

Are you planning on visiting Peru and wondering if Arequipa is worth adding to your itinerary? Let us tell you that it absolutely is. Known as the ‘White City’ due to its iconic white volcanic stone architecture, Arequipa offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, colonial charm, history, culture, and delicious food. In this insider’s guide, we will share all that Arequipa has to offer visitors.

Local Attractions

Arequipa has many impressive local attractions that should not be missed. One of the main highlights is the Santa Catalina Monastery, a stunning 16th-century monastery that covers an entire block and has been kept very well-preserved. Another must-visit is the main square, Plaza de Armas, surrounded by gorgeous colonial buildings, including the Cathedral of Arequipa, which boasts an amazing display of religious art. Another impressive colonial building is the Casa del Moral, a museum inside a mansion that features exhibits of period furniture and antique art.

Outside of the city, the Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and offers spectacular views and hiking trails. The nearby Misti Volcano is also a popular destination for adventurous visitors.

Dining Spots

Arequipa is famous for its delicious cuisine, which reflects a mix of Spanish, indigenous, and modern influences. One of the best places to try local fare is at the Mercado San Camilo, which showcases a variety of traditional food vendors. Make sure to try the rocoto relleno, a spicy pepper stuffed with beef and vegetables, and chupe de camarones, a hearty Peruvian shrimp chowder.

For fine dining experiences, La Nueva Palomino offers meat dishes cooked over a wood fire, and Zig Zag Restaurant has a diverse selection of international and local cuisine with stunning views of the city.

Cultural Experiences

Arequipa is home to many cultural experiences unique to the city. The Andean Sanctuaries Museum displays mummies and ancient textiles from cultures like the Nazca, Moche, and Tiawanaku. Traditional “peñas,” music and dance venues, offer lively displays of traditional Peruvian dance, music, and song. Historical tours of the city showcase many of the colonial buildings, art museums, and cathedrals. Participating in Puno’s Judgement Parade is also a unique cultural experience and involves dressing up in flamboyant costumes and joining locals in a playful procession aimed to judge the year’s social and political events.

Local History

Arequipa has a rich history, from pre-Columbian civilizations to colonialism and government and social evolution. A visit to the Casa Museo del Fundador (Founder’s Mansion) and Juanita, the Inca Ice Princess exhibit, displays rare, precious, and austere artifacts and elucidates indigenous ancestor worship, history, and legacy. The Arequipa Historical Center highlights socio-political history in the region, religious and military art, and culture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Arequipa won’t disappoint. The Yanahuara district has stunning views of the city and accommodates picturesque churches, delicious food joints, and local markets. The Sabandia Mill and its surroundings offer scenic views, and La Casa de La Moneda is a unique place to visit and is home to one of the Americas’ earliest coining pyramids.

Conclusion

Arequipa is undoubtedly worth visiting for anyone looking to experience the perfect combination of natural beauty, colonial charm, history, and culture. Make sure to take in all that the White City has to offer by spending time at the local attractions, dining at top-notch restaurants, and making time for unique cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures.