Arequipa, known as the 'White City,' captivates with its distinctive colonial architecture crafted from white sillar volcanic rock and its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It serves as a prime base for exploring the majestic Colca Canyon and engaging in various adventurous outdoor activities.
The Plaza de Armas stands as a lively central hub for socializing, often bustling with activity. For those seeking to connect with other travelers, numerous hostels, such as Arequipay Hostel, Lonko Hostel, and Econunay, are known for their social atmospheres, offering communal spaces, bars, and organized tours. Additionally, the city boasts many coffee shops that provide a pleasant environment for relaxation and interaction.
Top 5 Things to do in Arequipa
Activities range from exploring ancient convents and historical sites to embarking on adventurous canyon treks and savoring local cuisine.
1. Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery
Step into a vibrant 'city within a city' at the Santa Catalina Monastery, a sprawling 16th-century convent. Its narrow, colorful streets, courtyards, and cloisters offer a serene escape and a deep dive into colonial history. Wandering through its meticulously preserved spaces provides a unique glimpse into the lives of cloistered nuns for nearly 400 years. There is also a Pinacoteca with approximately 400 pieces of religious art within its walls.
Cost: The general entrance fee for foreigners is S/ 45.00 (approximately $12 USD). Guides are optional and cost extra (around S/ 75.00 or $20 USD), but you can explore independently.
Transport: Located within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas in the historic city center, no additional transport is needed.
2. Visit Museo Santuarios Andinos (Juanita Mummy Museum)
Discover the compelling story of 'Juanita,' the remarkably preserved frozen body of a young Inca girl sacrificed to the gods centuries ago. The museum offers a theatrical presentation, including a National Geographic video about her discovery, and displays artifacts found with her. It provides profound insight into Inca rituals and beliefs.
Cost: The entrance fee is approximately S/ 30.00 (around $8 USD). A compulsory guided tour is included, for which a tip is expected.
Transport: Situated just off the Plaza de Armas, a short walk from most central accommodations.
3. Journey to Colca Canyon
Embark on an adventure to Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, located about four hours from Arequipa. This excursion provides breathtaking landscapes, opportunities to spot the majestic Andean condors soaring above (especially at Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint), and insights into local villages. Options range from a full-day tour to multi-day treks.
Cost: Tour prices vary: a full-day tour starts from approximately S/ 65.00 (around $17 USD) not including entrance fees , while multi-day tours can range from $153 to $282 USD. The mandatory Colca Tourist Ticket (entrance fee to the canyon) costs S/ 70.00 (approximately $20 USD) for foreigners and is usually not included in tour prices.
Transport: Tours typically include hotel pickup and drop-off from Arequipa's central areas, using shared or private transport. Self-serving is possible but less common due to the distance and complex logistics.
4. Explore the Historic Center and Yanahuara Mirador
Stroll through Arequipa's UNESCO World Heritage historic center, admiring its unique colonial architecture crafted from white sillar volcanic rock. The Plaza de Armas is a lively central hub surrounded by the grand Basilica Cathedral. From here, venture to the Mirador de Yanahuara, a picturesque viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the city framed by its surrounding volcanoes, including El Misti. It's especially charming at sunset.
Cost: Exploring the historic center and Plaza de Armas is free. Access to Mirador de Yanahuara is also free.
Transport: The historic center is best explored on foot. Mirador de Yanahuara is about 2 km from the city center, reachable by a 24-minute walk, a short bus ride (around S/ 1.00 - S/ 2.00, runs frequently, 18 min journey), or a taxi (around S/ 3.00 - S/ 7.00, or $1-$2 USD, 3 min journey).
5. Participate in a Peruvian Cooking Class
Immerse yourself in Arequipa’s rich culinary scene by joining a cooking class. Known for having more local dishes than any other city in Peru, you can learn to prepare iconic dishes such as Peruvian Ceviche, Rocoto Relleno (stuffed spicy peppers), or Papa a la Huancaína. These classes often begin with a visit to a local market to source fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on preparation and a delightful tasting of your creations, sometimes accompanied by a Pisco Sour.
Cost: Cooking classes generally range from $25 to $45 USD per person, depending on the duration and what is included.
Transport: Many cooking classes are located in or near the city center, often within walking distance or a short taxi ride from central accommodations. Some include hotel pickup.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
