DESTINATION: AREQUIPA

Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city following Lima, boasts a captivating blend of colonial charm and unwavering regional pride among its inhabitants, celebrated across the nation. Immerse yourself in a journey through history with our guided exploration of the main plaza, and utilize the city as a launching point for thrilling excursions to Colca Canyon on our adventurous Arequipa tours.

What To Explore In Arequipa

Historic Center

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Historic City Center of Arequipa charms visitors with its Plaza de Armas adorned in European architectural styles such as Baroque and neoclassical, infused with Andean symbolism. Top restaurants offer views overlooking the Basilica Cathedral, often accompanied by the enchanting sounds of live Peruvian music drifting from the streets.

El Misti Volcano

El Misti Volcano

El Misti Volcano

The presence of El Misti Volcano adds a distinctive charm to the skyline of Arequipa. Rising to a height of 19,098 feet (5,822 meters) above sea level, this impeccably cone-shaped volcano is flanked by the Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.

Chivay

Nestled within Colca Canyon, Chivay serves as the entry point to tours of the canyon. The town boasts the 8th-century Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, situated in the main square, where visitors may chance upon traditional dances and find local vendors offering Peruvian souvenirs.

Cruz del Cóndor

Cruz del Cóndor offers a sweeping vista of Colca Canyon, renowned for its sightings of Andean condors in flight. This multi-level lookout, perched on the cliffside, provides an unparalleled vantage point for observing these majestic birds as they glide gracefully overhead, often coming within close proximity.

Santa Catalina Monastery

The Santa Catalina Monastery in Arequipa sprawls across an expansive area of over 20,000 square meters, resembling a self-contained city within the city. Constructed in 1579, this monastery served as a cloistered residence for Dominican nuns, who crafted a self-sufficient community within its walls and seldom ventured beyond its confines.

Colca Canyon

Close to Arequipa lies Colca Canyon, the world’s second-deepest canyon. To fully appreciate its wonders, plan a two-day excursion, allowing time to luxuriate in the natural hot springs, savor the hospitality of exquisite hotel accommodations, and witness the majestic Andean condors as they gracefully soar overhead.

Restaurants in Arequipa

Arequipa is renowned for its distinctive local cuisine, a culinary experience not to be missed. While Peruvian cuisine is celebrated throughout the country, Arequipa’s culinary flair lies in its incorporation of spice. Dining establishments offering these fiery Peruvian dishes are known as “picanterias.”