Arequipa

Peru, South America

Arequipa, known as the White City due to its stunning sillar stone architecture, is a cultural gem in Peru. It's famous for the majestic Misti Volcano, breathtaking Colca Canyon—home to the Andean condor—and the vibrant Plaza de Armas. The city offers a rich colonial history with captivating museums, delicious local cuisine featuring rocoto relleno, and a vibrant artisan scene. Arequipa’s unique blend of stunning landscapes and rich heritage makes it a must-visit destination for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Rodriguez Ballon

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Arequipa

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Santa Catalina Monastery

A vibrant convent showcasing colonial architecture and art.

No booking required
2

Est. 6 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit Colca Canyon

One of the world's deepest canyons, great for trekking.

Booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Admire the Plaza de Armas

The main square with stunning architecture and vibrant culture.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the local cuisine

Taste Arequipeña dishes like rocoto relleno and chupe.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Museo Santuarios Andinos

Learn about the Ice Princess, Juanita, and Inca culture.

No booking required
6

Est. 12 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike up El Misti Volcano

A challenging trek to a stunning volcano summit.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Juanita Museum

See the famous frozen Inca mummy, Juanita.

No booking required
8

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Caylloma Province

Discover breathtaking landscapes and traditional villages.

Booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the San Camilo Market

A colorful market filled with local produce and crafts.

No booking required
10

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at the Yanahuara viewpoint

A stunning view of Arequipa's skyline and volcanoes.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cathedral of Arequipa

A magnificent cathedral showcasing stunning architecture.

No booking required
12

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a hot springs day trip

Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by mountains.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Nuevo Sol

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice. (National dish)

Lomo Saltado

Stir-fried beef with vegetables and rice.

Aji de Gallina

Shredded chicken in a creamy sauce.

Anticuchos

Grilled skewered beef heart with spices.

Pisco Sour

VE

Cocktail made with Pisco and lime juice.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)