Welcome to Arequipa, a charming city located in the southern region of Peru. Known as the “White City” for its beautiful colonial architecture made of sillar, a volcanic white rock, Arequipa is a destination packed with history, breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness. Are you planning to visit this amazing city but don’t know where to start? In this post, we’ll be showing you the best attractions and things to do in Arequipa, so you can make the most out of your trip. From strolling through its stunning historic center, to exploring its picturesque countryside and trying its delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Arequipa. Let’s get started!

The 4 Best Local Experiences in Arequipa

1. Colca Canyon Trekking 2days 1night
2. Arequipa City Tour Airport Pick Up Yanahuara Carmen Alto Santa Catalina
3. Sillar Route
4. Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery

The 4 Best Local Experiences in Arequipa

1. Colca Canyon Trekking 2days 1night

Explore the massive Colca Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of Peru, on a private 2-day tour from Arequipa. Experienced hikers can enjoy challenging trails as they explore part of the canyon, look for Andean condors, meet locals, and soak in natural hot springs. With an English-speaking guide, language barriers are eliminated, making for a hassle-free experience. Enjoy Peruvian food and get to know this beautiful part of Peru at your own pace. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, dinner, lunch, an air-conditioned vehicle, national park fee, hot springs entrance fee, and horse rent for a cost of approximately $20 USD. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and it is important to note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Choose one of the available pickup points to start your adventure in the Colca Canyon.

2. Arequipa City Tour Airport Pick Up Yanahuara Carmen Alto Santa Catalina

Discover the colonial and historical charm of Arequipa on this private city tour. Your adventure begins with convenient airport pick-up before visiting the districts of Yanahuara and Carmen Alto. Next, explore the fascinating Santa Catalina Monastery and learn about its intriguing history while admiring stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes and Andean landscapes. Throughout the excursion, your guide is available to answer any questions for a more personalized experience. Enjoy the exclusivity of a private tour in Arequipa and travel comfortably in a private air-conditioned vehicle as you get a thorough overview of the city’s top attractions. Private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and lunch are included in the tour. Choose a start time that suits your travel schedule and select a pickup point. Confirm the time with the local provider in advance of your experience. The tour is available daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

3. Sillar Route

Discover the beautiful Canteras de Sillar on this tour in Arequipa. Private transportation, umbrellas to protect from the sun, bottled water, lunch, gratuities, and admission tickets are all included. You can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from your hotel. The meeting point is located at C. Moral 229a in Arequipa. The tour starts with a visit to Canteras de Sillar which will last for an hour. This activity is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for pregnant travelers. Infants must sit on laps. The tour operates Monday – Saturday from 08:30 AM – 01:00 PM and on Sundays from 08:30 AM – 01:30 PM. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking and this tour can accommodate a maximum of 15 travelers. The tour ends back at the starting point and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

4. Arequipa City Tour Including St Catherine Monastery

Explore the wonders of Arequipa’s historical sights and attractions on a half-day sightseeing tour of the city, including a visit to the closed-for-almost-400-years Monastery of St Catherine. Your knowledgeable guide will take you through the colonial districts of Yanaahuara and St Lazarus, as well as to spectacular viewpoints such as the Mirador de Yanahuara. Marvel at the pearl-colored buildings that give the city its nickname – the White City. This half-day tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, and an expert guide to provide you with all the information you need to know about Arequipa, making it the perfect way to see the city’s top sights!

Frequently Asked Questions About Arequipa City

Are you planning to visit Arequipa City soon? If yes, then you must be having a lot of questions about this charming city. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Arequipa City that tourists usually have. So, let’s dive in and find out the answers to your queries.

1. What is Arequipa City famous for?

Areqiupa City is famous for its picturesque beauty, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It is often referred to as the “White City” because of the white volcanic stone used in the construction of most of its buildings. The city is also home to some of the most beautiful colonial-era churches, monasteries, and museums that display the region’s unique history and culture. Arequipa’s cuisine is also famous worldwide, and you should definitely try some of the local dishes like “rocoto relleno” and “adobo”.

2. How do I get to Arequipa City?

There are several ways to reach Arequipa City. The easiest and fastest way is to take a flight from Lima, Cusco, or Tacna. There are several daily flights from major Peruvian cities to Arequipa. The city also has a well-connected bus network, and you can take a bus from Lima, Cusco, Puno, or Tacna. The bus journey from Lima takes about 16 hours, while from Cusco it takes about 10 hours.

3. What is the best time to visit Arequipa City?

The best time to visit Arequipa City is from April to November when the weather is dry, and the skies are clear. During this time, the days are sunny and warm, while the nights are cool and comfortable. Arequipa has a mild climate, and the temperature rarely falls below 10 degrees Celsius or rises above 25 degrees Celsius. The peak tourist season in Arequipa is from May to August, so plan accordingly.

4. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Arequipa City?

There are plenty of tourist attractions to visit in Arequipa City, and some of the must-visit places include:

• The Santa Catalina Monastery
• The Plaza de Armas
• The San Camilo Market
• The Yanahuara Viewpoint
• The Arequipa Cathedral
• The Juanita Museum
• The Sabandia Mill

5. What is the currency used in Arequipa City?

The currency used in Arequipa City is the Peruvian sol (PEN). You can exchange your currency at any of the local banks, exchange houses or ATMs in the city. Credit cards are widely accepted in most of the restaurants, hotels, and shops, and you can also withdraw cash from any of the ATMs using your debit or credit card.

6. What is the food culture like in Arequipa City?

Arequipa has a rich gastronomic culture and is often regarded as the culinary capital of Peru. The city’s cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, Incan, and Andean flavors, making it a unique blend of traditional and contemporary dishes. Some of the most popular dishes in Arequipa include “rocoto relleno” (stuffed peppers), “chupe de camarones” (shrimp chowder), “adobo” (marinated meat), and “queso helado” (frozen cheese). You should definitely try some of these dishes when in Arequipa!

7. Is Arequipa City safe for tourists?

Arequipa is relatively safe for tourists, but like any other city, there are some safety concerns that you should be aware of. It is advisable to take precautions like avoiding unlit areas at night, not carrying a lot of cash, and keeping your valuables in a safe place. It is also recommended to not walk alone at night, especially in unknown areas. Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings to avoid any untoward incident.

8. How many days do I need to explore Arequipa City?

You need at least 2-3 days to explore Arequipa City and its surrounding areas. This will give you enough time to visit all the major attractions in the city and also take a day trip to the nearby Colca Canyon. If you have more time, you can spend a few extra days in Arequipa and explore its hidden treasures like the Cotahuasi Canyon, Toro Muerto Petroglyphs, and the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve.

9. What are the transport options available in Arequipa City?

Arequipa City has a well-developed transport system, and you can choose from various options like taxis, buses, or minivans. Taxis are the most convenient way to travel in the city, but make sure to negotiate the fare before boarding the taxi. Buses and minivans are also readily available and are the cheapest mode of transportation in Arequipa.

10. Is it necessary to know Spanish to travel to Arequipa City?

While it’s not necessary to know Spanish, it is recommended to learn some basic phrases before traveling to Arequipa City. Most of the locals speak Spanish, and knowing a few phrases will help you to communicate better and make your trip more enjoyable. You can also download a translator app on your smartphone that will come in handy while you travel.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Arequipa

Arequipa is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru. Known for its stunning colonial architecture and natural splendor, this city has something to offer for everyone. To help you make the most of your time in Arequipa, we have put together a comprehensive guide with all the best things to see and do. Here are some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Arequipa.

1. Visit the Monastery of Santa Catalina

The Monastery of Santa Catalina is one of the most iconic landmarks in Arequipa. This 16th-century monastery was once a self-contained city for nuns and is now open to the public. Take a guided tour to see the bright colored buildings and learn about the unique history of this landmark.

2. Explore the Historic Center of Arequipa

The Historic Center of Arequipa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an excellent place to explore. You can take a walking tour to see the stunning colonial architecture and learn about the city’s history. Don’t miss out on seeing the Plaza de Armas, which is home to the iconic Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa.

3. Try the Local Cuisine

Arequipa is known for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes while you are here. One of the most popular dishes is rocoto relleno, which is a spicy stuffed pepper dish. Another tasty treat is chupe de camarones, which is a shrimp soup with potatoes and cheese. Don’t forget to sample some of the local drinks, such as chicha morada or pisco sour, while you are here as well.

4. Take a Trip to the Colca Canyon

The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and a must-see destination near Arequipa. Take a guided tour to the canyon to see the stunning landscapes and spot local wildlife, such as condors. You can also visit local villages and hot springs while you are there.

5. Visit the Cathedral Museum of Arequipa

The Cathedral Museum of Arequipa is home to some of the city’s most valuable art and artifacts. Take a guided tour to see the exhibits, which include religious artwork and objects from the colonial period. Don’t miss out on seeing the courtyard and bell tower, which offer great views of the city.

6. Relax at the Yanahuara Mirador

The Yanahuara Mirador is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the city. This viewpoint is located in the Yanahuara district and offers panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes and landscapes. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area where you can enjoy a meal or drink with a view.

7. Visit the Casa del Moral

The Casa del Moral is a beautiful colonial mansion that is now open to the public. Take a guided tour to see the stunning architecture and learn about the history of this landmark. Don’t miss out on seeing the beautiful gardens and courtyard while you are there.

8. Take a Cooking Class

If you are interested in learning more about the local cuisine, then consider taking a cooking class while you are in Arequipa. You can learn to make dishes like rocoto relleno or chupe de camarones from local chefs and take home some new skills to impress your friends and family back home.

9. See the Mummy Juanita at the Andean Sanctuaries Museum

The Andean Sanctuaries Museum is home to the famous Mummy Juanita, a well-preserved pre-Columbian mummy that was discovered in the nearby Andes mountains. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of the region and see some of the many other artifacts and exhibits on display.

10. Take a Walking Tour of the San Lazaro Neighborhood

The San Lazaro neighborhood is one of the oldest and most traditional areas of Arequipa. Take a walking tour to see the narrow streets and colorful buildings and learn about the daily life of the locals. Don’t miss out on seeing the San Lazaro church and the traditional market while you are there.Book Your Tour NowArequipa is a beautiful and historic city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning scenery, there is plenty to see and do here. Follow this guide to make the most of your time in Arequipa, and you are sure to have a memorable trip.