Things To Do
in Arequipa
Arequipa, known as the 'White City' due to its stunning sillar stone architecture, is nestled in the Andes mountains of southern Peru. This vibrant city boasts a rich colonial history, a thriving culinary scene, and breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes, including the iconic El Misti. The historical center of Arequipa is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing beautiful plazas and churches that reflect its Spanish influence.
With a warm climate and friendly locals, Arequipa offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation for travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Santa Catalina Monastery, a stunning complex that feels like a small city within a city. Explore its colorful streets, chapels, and gardens.
Head to the Plaza de Armas, where you can admire the beautiful cathedral and enjoy lunch at a nearby café. Afterward, visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to learn about the Inca mummies discovered in the region.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional picantería, where you can try local specialties like rocoto relleno. End your day with a stroll through the lively streets of Arequipa.
Take a morning trip to the breathtaking Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, and watch the majestic Andean condors soar.
Enjoy a packed lunch overlooking the canyon before visiting nearby traditional villages like Chivay, where you can experience local customs and crafts.
Return to Arequipa and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of El Misti, followed by a visit to a local bar for a taste of pisco sour.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within the city | $3 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2 |
| 🏨Night in a budget hotel | $20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.
- Delicious and unique culinary offerings.
- Close proximity to natural attractions like Colca Canyon.
- High altitude may affect some visitors.
- Limited public transport options within the city.
- Occasional safety concerns in crowded areas.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Me gustaría" - I would like
Places to Visit in Arequipa
Visit one of these nice places.
A colorful and sprawling complex that offers endless opportunities for stunning photographs.
Capture the beauty of the cathedral and the surrounding architecture, particularly at sunset.
A panoramic viewpoint overlooking the city with the Andes mountains in the background, perfect for sunset shots.
Food in Arequipa
Arequipa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy stuffed pepper dish filled with meat, cheese, and spices, baked to perfection.
Must-Try!
A hearty pork stew marinated in chicha and spices, served with bread.
A rich shrimp chowder made with potatoes, cheese, and a variety of spices.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food stalls serving traditional snacks.
Try local treats like picarones (sweet potato doughnuts) and empanadas from vendors around the plaza.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common, and it's polite to greet people with 'buenos días' (good morning) or 'buenas tardes' (good afternoon).
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual but neat clothing is appreciated.
Maintain a respectful distance when conversing, as personal space is valued in local culture.
Safety
Tipping in Arequipa
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of 10% is customary in restaurants; however, check if service is included.
Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but carry cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.
Cooler temperatures and clear skies, ideal for sightseeing and hiking.
Chilly nights and pleasant days; pack layers as temperatures can drop significantly.
Mild weather with blooming flora, excellent for photography and outdoor exploration.
Arequipa at Night
Hiking in Arequipa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of one of the world's deepest canyons, with opportunities to spot condors.
A moderately difficult trek that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Arequipa and the surrounding mountains.
Airports
How to reach Arequipa by plane.
Located about 8 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights. It serves as the main gateway for visitors to Arequipa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Arequipa is home to various indigenous groups, including the Aymara and Quechua, who contribute to the region's cultural diversity.
The city has a predominantly mestizo population, reflecting a blend of indigenous and Spanish ancestry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is extremely popular in Arequipa, with local teams like FBC Melgar drawing large crowds during matches.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women, with many local clubs and schools participating in competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arequipa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Arequipeña cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially pasta and salads.
Gluten-free options are available, but it's advisable to communicate clearly and check with restaurant staff.