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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

12 Best Things to Do in Arequipa

1. Explore Santa Catalina Monastery

A vibrant convent showcasing colonial architecture and art.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Visit Colca Canyon

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

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

6 hrs

3. Admire the Plaza de Armas

The main square with stunning architecture and vibrant culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Experience the local cuisine

Taste Arequipeña dishes like rocoto relleno and chupe.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Tour the Museo Santuarios Andinos

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

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Hike up El Misti Volcano

A challenging trek to a stunning volcano summit.

Seasonal

Adults only

Booking required

12 hrs

7. Visit the Juanita Museum

See the famous frozen Inca mummy, Juanita.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Explore the Caylloma Province

Discover breathtaking landscapes and traditional villages.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

8 hrs

9. Stroll through the San Camilo Market

A colorful market filled with local produce and crafts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

10. Relax at the Yanahuara viewpoint

A stunning view of Arequipa's skyline and volcanoes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

11. Visit the Cathedral of Arequipa

A magnificent cathedral showcasing stunning architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

12. Take a hot springs day trip

Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by mountains.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

5 hrs

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)