Planning an Arequipa trip? Discover the “White City,” a Peruvian gem nestled amongst volcanoes. This Arequipa travel guide has must-see attractions including Arequipa’s colonial architecture and exploring the breathtaking Colca Canyon.
A Quick Look at Arequipa
Country: Peru
Population: 1,296,278
Language: Spanish
Currency: Sol
Best Month to Visit: August
Must See: Plaza de Armas
Must Eat: Queso Helado
How to get to Arequipa
Plane: Flying is the fastest and easiest way to get to Arequipa. The Arequipa Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon airport (AQP) has flights mostly originating from Lima(1.5h) and Cusco(1h). Served by LATAM, Iberia, Aeromexico, Sky Airline and Jetsmark among others. The airport is about 9km from Arequipa centre. You can take a taxi from outside arrivals and it should cost around 20 Soles.
Bus: There are bus services from all over Peru including Lima(16), Cusco(10h), Nazca(10h) and Puno(6h). You can book online or check the Schedule from the busbud website.
Getting Around
The City is very walkable for the most part with all attractions within the city are easily walkable if staying in the Central historical area.
Taxi: Taxis are everywhere around the city constantly driving around looking for a fare. They are reasonably cheap if you need to get somewhere not easily walkable. Don’t forget to agree on the price before getting in and have correct change.
Group Tour: Activities outside of the city like Colca canyon you will need to book a group tour. You will find tour operators all around Plaza de Amas and in the surrounding streets.
When is the best time to visit Arequipa
Arequipa is very dry and has a steady warm temperatures all year round with a couple of months with rain at the end of summer.
Where to stay?
Like most large cities you have options for all tastes and budgets. Stay in the Central historical area around Plaza de Armas this is where all the tourist attractions, restaurants and shops are located.
Things to do in Arequipa
Plaza de Armas
Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas, is the heart of the city and is a perfect starting point for exploring the city. This stunning square is framed by elegant colonial architecture and the majestic Arequipa Cathedral stands tall above everything else. This was one of our favourite squares in Peru it’s a really beautiful place to sit back and soak in the atmosphere.
Santa Catalina Monastery
The Santa Catalina Monastery is a city within a city offering a unique glimpse into the lives of cloistered nuns for centuries. Wander through its colourful, narrow alleyways, painted in striking shades of terracotta and indigo, and discover hidden courtyards and serene cloisters.
Mercado San Camilo
Mercado San Camilo is a super local market and a must-see for any traveller seeking authentic Peruvian culture. This bustling market is a sensory overload, offering everything from fresh Andean produce and local cheeses to traditional crafts and street food. Explore the labyrinth of aisles full of colourful fruits and vegetables and see the daily life of Arequipa’s residents.
Yanahuara Scenic Overlook
The Yanahuara Scenic Overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the majestic Misti volcano. This charming plaza, framed by iconic white sillar arches, provides commanding views and the perfect photo opportunity. Capture the city’s colonial beauty and the dramatic Andean landscape in a single frame. Yanahuara is located quite a distance from the city center, you can walk it(we did) but if you are going for sunset or just don’t fancy the walk, catch a taxi.
Visit Colca Canyon
Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world and has some of the most breathtakng vistas in Peru. Famous for being a place where you can witness the majestic condors soaring high above and the dusty rugged Andean scenery dotted with lone cactus.
Thee are 2 options for visiting Colca Canyon a day trip and a 2 day trek.
Day Trip: The day trip has multiple stops on the itinerary where you visit a local village, stop at some viewpoints overlooking Colca Canyon and a short hike on the rim of the canyon to Condor Cross. The tour finishes at some thermal springs so bring along your swimmers if you fancy going in.
2 Day Trek: The 2 day trek has you hike down to the canyon floor and stay in the canyon overnight before hiking out the next day. This is the ultimate Colca Canyon experience and we would definitely recommend doing this one if you have the time to do so.
There are loads of tour operators in the Plaza de Armas area and they all offer the same packages.
Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve
Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve boasts stunning landscapes, from salt flats to volcanic peaks like Misti. Witness wildlife, including vicuñas, llamas, and vibrant Andean flamingos. Discover the raw beauty of the Peruvian highlands and experience the unique puna ecosystem.
Free Walking Tour
Walking tours are always a great way to see a city and get your bearings, the free walking tour in Arequipa is no exception! The guide was very knowledgeable telling us the history of the city with interesting stories and pointing out some important landmarks that we would have never known about without the tour. The guide also told us about local food to try and some local places to try them. Highly recommended even though it’s “free” you are expected to tip but the guide earned every sol!
Where/What To Eat & Drink
You will find loads of places to eat around the Plaza de Armas area from high end to cheaper local places. If you are on a budget check out some of the “Chifa” (Peruvian Chinese food) restaurants off the main square.
Queso Helado
Cheese ice cream sounds kind of funky but tastes just like vanilla ice cream! You will see ladies in traditional clothes serving it up all around the centro historico area.
Balcón
Serving delicious Peruvian food and drinks with stunning views over looking Plaza de Armas. There are loads of other restaurants along here with views of the Plaza but this one was our favourite.
Next Stop:
- Explore Cusco! The capital of the Inca
- Trujillo: A truly local experience!
- Walk the ancient Ican trails at Huchuy Qosqo
Also check out our YouTube video below 👇
