2026 Arequipa Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

#wecreate Arequipa is a hidden gem in all of Latin America! It is such an amazing and charming city located in the south of Peru. It is Known as the "White City" as it's named for the beautiful white volcanic stone, sillar, used to construct its colonial buildings. There is an amazing historic city center and definitely you should marvel at the impressive architecture, including the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery! Arequipa is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Overall, Arequipa is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Peru.

🏔️ Destination snapshot In southern Peru lies a white city embraced by three volcanoes. The entire city is built with white volcanic tuff, Sillar, glowing white under the sun, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. At an altitude of 2,325 meters, it's over a thousand meters lower than Cusco, significantly reducing altitude sickness pressure, making it ideal as the first stop on a Peru circuit or for altitude acclimatization. July is the golden period of the dry season; the sky is as blue as if it were Photoshopped, and the volcano outlines are so clear you can count the snow lines. No filters are needed for photos. ✈️ How to get there ▫️ Flying from Lima takes about 1.5 hours. LATAM and Sky Airline have multiple daily flights. Booking a month in advance, prices range from 200–350 soles. ▫️ Flying from Cusco takes 1 hour, with airfares around 150–280 soles. ▫️ By land, a long-distance bus from Cusco to Arequipa takes about 10 hours. Cruz del Sur and Oltursa offer overnight services, with sleeper tickets costing around 120–180 soles. You'll arrive after a good night's sleep. ▫️ Inner-city transport relies on taxis and colectivo minibuses. The old town area is mostly walkable, and taxi fares start at 5 soles. 🗺️ Core itinerary framework (3–4 days recommended) [Day 1 | Old town exploration day] In the morning, head straight to Plaza de Armas, the soul of the city. The cathedral occupies the entire northern side of the square. Its twin-spired Gothic design paired with white volcanic rock is truly stunning when the light hits it. The admission fee is 10 soles. Be sure to go up to the second-floor bell tower, where you can frame all three volcanoes—Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu—a view unparalleled anywhere else in the city. In the afternoon, set aside 2 hours for the Santa Catalina Monastery. Admission is 45 soles, and it's recommended to spend an additional 10 soles for a guide. This monastery covers over 20,000 square meters, truly a city within a city. Built in the 16th century, its streets and gardens are named after Spanish cities, and the contrasting red and blue walls are incredibly bold. Wear light-colored clothing, as the red walls can sometimes rub off onto clothes. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, it stays open until 8:00 PM. When the sunset light passes through the cloisters, the entire space transforms into a painting. In the evening, visit the Church of the Company of Jesus. Its exquisite Baroque stone-carved facade is a masterpiece of colonial architecture. Admission is free. [Day 2 | Volcanic rock quarry + suburban towns] In the morning, visit the Sillar Quarry route (Ruta de Sillar). Admission is 5 soles. You can see artisans hand-cutting white volcanic rock, from which every brick in this city originates. The handmade white sculptures on site are incredibly detailed, making for excellent photo opportunities. In the afternoon, go to the Yanahuara Viewpoint. The arched colonnade here provides a classic framed composition, perfect for capturing a panoramic view of Misti Volcano through the arches. Next to it is a traditional neighborhood, quiet and full of local life. Then, explore the two suburban towns of Sabandia and Tiabaya. The pastoral scenery combined with traditional watermills offers a completely different pace. [Day 3 | Colca Canyon day expedition] This is the highlight, with detailed arrangements expanded in the second part. 🍽️ What and how to eat ▫️ Many restaurants and cafes are hidden on the second floors around Plaza de Armas. Sit on a second-floor terrace, eat, and watch people come and go in the square. ▫️ Local specialties include adobo, made from stewed marinated meat, and rocoto relleno, which involves hollowing out large chili peppers, stuffing them with meat, and baking them. ▫️ Peru's national drink, chicha morada, is a sweet beverage made from purple corn, available everywhere. ▫️ Mercado San Camilo market is where locals eat. The second floor offers freshly made ceviche and various simple meals, costing 15–25 soles per person. 🛏️ Where to stay ▫️ The old town area is the top choice. The area within a 5-minute walk of Plaza de Armas is the most convenient, with attractions and restaurants right outside. ▫️ It's recommended to find accommodation with a rooftop terrace. In July, the dry season, evening temperatures are around 10 degrees Celsius. Snuggling on the terrace and watching the volcano outlines etched by moonlight is a rare and special experience. ▫️ If your itinerary includes Colca Canyon, consider spending a night at a hot spring hotel in the canyon town to relax after a soak. ▫️ During the peak season in July, rooms need to be booked 2–3 weeks in advance, with prices 30%–50% higher than in the off-season. 📋 Practical memo ▫️ Sun protection is the top priority—UV radiation at 2,300+ meters is much stronger than in coastal cities. Reapply SPF50+ sunscreen every 2 hours. ▫️ Dress in layers. During the day, in direct sunlight, short sleeves might be fine, but temperatures drop sharply in the shade or in the evening. A light down jacket or fleece is essential. ▫️ Do not plan high-intensity activities on the first day to allow your body to acclimatize to the altitude. ▫️ The local currency is the sol. It's advisable to exchange some at the airport upon arrival. Exchange rates are slightly better at exchange points in the old town, but be mindful of safety. ▫️ Spanish is the main language, and English proficiency is generally limited. Download an offline translation pack in advance. ▫️ The old town streets are all cobblestone. Wear comfortable flat shoes; high heels are completely impractical here. 💰 Budget reference (per person per day) ▫️ Budget travel: 150–200 soles/day (including accommodation, dining, admission, transport) ▫️ Comfortable travel: 300–400 soles/day ▫️ Total admission fees: Cathedral 10 soles + Monastery 45 soles + Quarry 5 soles + Colca Canyon admission 70 soles This white city has a magical ability to make you slow down. The interplay of light and shadow in the streets built with volcanic rock is captivating all day long. You look up and see snow-capped mountains, look down and see centuries-old cobblestone streets. Coming here in summer is truly a chosen destination. Now for Article 2 - focusing on Colca Canyon and surrounding areas:

🏜️ destination sketch Driving northeast from the white city for nearly 4 hours, you’ll reach one of the world’s deepest canyons — Colca Canyon. It stretches 90 km long and reaches a depth of 3,400 m, almost twice as deep as the Colorado Grand Canyon in the US. On both sides of the canyon are the Andes plateau and snow-capped peaks year-round. The Colca River winds through the valley floor, scattered with pre-Inca terraces where locals still grow quinoa and corn. July’s dry season is the best time to visit. The clear, bright weather reveals the canyon’s layers, and the chance to see condors is highest during this time. 🚌 transportation breakdown ▫️ From Arequipa to the canyon’s main town, Chivay, it’s about a 3 hour 45 minute drive, with elevation rising from 2,300 m to nearly 4,900 m at the mountain pass ▫️ Two options: join a local day tour (about 45 soles per person, including transport, breakfast, and guide) or take a public bus from Terminal Terrestre (one way about 25–35 soles) ▫️ Day tours usually depart between 2–3 AM and return around 6–7 PM, lasting about 16 hours. It sounds long but there are many stops along the way, so no time is wasted ▫️ If you have time, it’s recommended to stay overnight in the canyon town. Going to see condors early the next morning offers better light and fewer crowds than the day tours 🗺️ recommended itinerary routes [classic one-day route] Depart at dawn → pass through a nature reserve (high-altitude wetlands over 4,000 m, with stunning meadows and distant mountains in the morning light) → reach the highest point at 4,910 m (Patapampa viewpoint, surrounded 360 degrees by snow-capped peaks, the highest elevation of the trip) → descend to Chivay town for breakfast → head to Cruz del Condor condor viewpoint → stop at traditional villages and terrace viewpoints along the way → return [deep two-day route] Day 1: Follow the same route as the day tour to Chivay town but don’t rush. In the afternoon, soak in the Calera natural hot springs (15 soles entrance fee). The water stays around 38 degrees Celsius year-round. The outdoor pools are surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and watching clouds drift through the valley while soaking is incredibly soothing. Stay overnight in town. Day 2: Arrive at Cruz del Condor viewpoint before 6 AM. This is the highlight of the canyon. Condors use the morning updrafts to take off from the valley floor, with wingspans up to 3 meters. The feeling of them gliding overhead can’t be captured in photos. Morning light from the east creates the best silhouette shots of their wings and the canyon’s depth. After watching the condors, you can rent a mountain bike to ride along the canyon edge or hike down to the oasis village at the valley floor. 📍 must-stop hidden gems along the way ▫️ Patapampa pass (4,910 m): surrounded by 6,000 m peaks. On clear days, you can see over a dozen snow peaks in one frame. July has a high chance of clear skies ▫️ Salinas y Aguada Blanca nature reserve: high-altitude wetland meadows with volcanoes reflected in the lakes. Early morning mist makes it feel like a movie set ▫️ Maca and Yanque traditional villages: preserve pre-Columbian stone houses and churches. Yanque’s main square hosts traditional dance performances every Sunday morning ▫️ Uyo Uyo archaeological site: pre-Inca stone settlement ruins, small but well preserved. Entrance fee is very cheap 🌡️ high-altitude survival guide This route reaches a maximum altitude of 4,910 m, more than double Arequipa’s city elevation. Altitude sickness is a real challenge: ▫️ Start drinking coca tea (mate de coca) the day before departure. It’s widely available locally and traditionally used to ease altitude sickness ▫️ Bring a thick jacket for the early morning departure. Temperatures at the pass can drop to -5 degrees Celsius, feeling even colder at night in July ▫️ Move slowly at high-altitude stops. Avoid running or jumping and give your body 5–10 minutes to adjust ▫️ Prepare altitude sickness medication in advance and take it 30 minutes before departure for best effect ▫️ Bring plenty of water and high-calorie snacks, as supply points are far apart ▫️ Oxygen tanks can be bought at pharmacies in Arequipa for about 15–20 soles each, just in case 🍽️ what to eat along the canyon ▫️ Chivay town’s restaurants specialize in grilled trout (trucha). The freshwater fish has firm meat and is served with local potatoes and corn for a complete meal ▫️ Buffet lunch costs about 38 soles. Day tours usually stop at fixed restaurants, but you can also find small local eateries ▫️ Roadside stalls sell queso helado, a traditional ice cream. Despite the name “cheese ice cream,” it’s a sweet dessert made from milk and spices with a unique taste ▫️ Highland soups are very warming. Chuño soup, made from freeze-dried potatoes, is a specialty of the Andes region 🛏️ canyon rest options ▫️ Chivay town is the main accommodation hub, offering options from budget to hot spring resorts ▫️ Strongly recommend choosing a place with hot springs. After a day exploring the canyon, soaking in the springs will recharge you for the next day ▫️ Yanque town has fewer lodging options but is quieter, ideal for those wanting to see condors early in the morning ▫️ July dry season is peak season. Canyon accommodations are more limited than in the city, so book at least 2 weeks in advance 📋 packing list ▫️ windproof jacket (the pass is very windy and feels much colder than the actual temperature) ▫️ warm base layers + fleece mid-layers (layering is especially useful on routes with big altitude changes) ▫️ sunglasses + high SPF sunscreen (high-altitude UV plus snow reflection is intense) ▫️ telephoto lens or binoculars (at least 200mm focal length needed to photograph condors) ▫️ cash in soles (small shops and entrance fees in canyon towns only accept cash) ▫️ power bank + offline maps (signal is weak in some areas) 💰 cost reference ▫️ day tour: 45 soles tour fee + 70 soles canyon entrance + 38 soles lunch = about 153 soles per person ▫️ two-day deep route: round-trip transport about 70 soles + entrance 70 soles + hot springs 15 soles + meals about 80 soles + lodging about 100–200 soles = about 335–435 soles per person ▫️ optional extras: mountain bike rental about 50 soles per half day, horseback riding about 40 soles per hour This canyon trip starts under the starry sky at dawn and ends with golden sunset glow. It crosses highland meadows, volcanic snow mountains, and thousand-meter deep chasms. The grandeur of the Andes is all packed into these 16 hours. If you can only pick one nearby destination on your Peru trip, this is definitely worth setting your alarm for 2 AM.

Peru—a country steeped in mystery and ancient history—has always been my dream travel destination. This 13-day, 12-night journey took me from the Pacific coast deep into the Andes Mountains, crossing deserts, high-altitude plateaus, canyons, lakes, and the ruins of ancient civilizations. Every single day was filled with awe and surprises, offering a true taste of Peru’s incredibly diverse natural landscapes and profound cultural heritage. The journey kicked off in the capital city, **Lima**, where historical colonial architecture and the modern metropolis blend into a unique cityscape. Whether exploring the Plaza de Armas, Plaza San Martín, the Lima Metropolitan Cathedral, or the Larco Museum with its countless ancient artifacts, every step offered a deeper understanding of Peru's glorious past. The underground catacombs and monasteries added an extra layer of mysterious and intriguing cultural charm to the city. Next, we headed to Paracas and took a boat out to the Ballestas Islands, getting an up-close look at sea lions, penguins, and various seabirds resting in their natural habitat. We also spotted the enigmatic Candelabra geoglyph standing quietly on the coastline, a sight that continues to fuel the imaginations of archaeologists today. Afterward, we made our way to the desert oasis of Huacachina. Surrounded by golden sand dunes, the stark contrast between the arid desert and the lush oasis felt like stepping straight into a dreamy movie scene. Arriving in Nazca, we hopped on a small plane for a bird's-eye view of the world-famous Nazca Lines. Massive geoglyphs of a monkey, hummingbird, and spider unfolded perfectly before our eyes. In that moment, I finally understood why these mysterious figures, spanning over two millennia, remain one of the world's greatest archaeological puzzles. It truly leaves you in awe of the wisdom and creativity of the ancients. After touching down in **Arequipa**, affectionately known as the "White City," the pristine volcanic rock buildings gleamed brilliantly in the sunlight. In the distance, the Misti Volcano silently watched over the city, exuding a rich colonial atmosphere. The Santa Catalina Monastery felt like a vibrant, colorful mini-city, while the Plaza de Armas and the ancient churches showcased a different kind of Peruvian elegance and tranquility. The road trip continued to Chivay, passing through the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve. Alpacas, llamas, and alpine grasslands came together to form the ultimate Andean landscape. After soaking in natural hot springs to wash away the travel fatigue, we headed to the Colca Canyon—one of the deepest canyons in the world—the next day. Standing at the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, watching the majestic Andean condors effortlessly gliding on the canyon's thermal currents, was an unforgettable, awe-inspiring experience. We then arrived at Lake Titicaca, one of the highest navigable lakes in the world. Stepping onto the floating Uros islands, made entirely of totora reeds, I witnessed firsthand the traditional lifestyle passed down through generations. A visit to Taquile Island further revealed the locals' warm hospitality, culture, and beliefs, giving me a deeper appreciation for the harmony between humanity and nature. The journey then ventured into the heart of the Inca civilization: Cusco. This former capital of the Inca Empire not only preserves a massive amount of Incan stonemasonry but also seamlessly blends it with Spanish colonial architecture, creating a truly one-of-a-kind cityscape. This was followed by a tour of the Sacred Valley, visiting the Moray agricultural terraces, the spectacular Maras Salt Mines, and the ancient fortress of Ollantaytambo. Each site was a testament to the astonishing ingenuity of the Incas in agriculture, hydraulics, and engineering. After taking the scenic train to Aguas Calientes, the most highly anticipated moment of the entire trip finally arrived: Machu Picchu. As the mist slowly lifted, the lost ancient city hidden among the mountain peaks was fully revealed. The wave of emotion I felt is hard to put into words. After weathering centuries of history, it still stands quietly on the mountaintop, whispering tales of the Inca Empire's former glory. It completely makes sense why it was crowned one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. As luck would have it, I also got to participate in the annual Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun). This grand festival recreates the Inca Empire's most important ritual dedicated to the Sun God. The dazzling costumes, traditional music, and solemn performances made it feel like I had time-traveled back 500 years to witness the Inca Empire at its absolute peak. It easily became one of the most precious and rare memories of the trip. Finally, it was time for the biggest challenge of the trip: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Sitting at an elevation of over 5,000 meters, it was the highest altitude I had ever reached in my life. Although altitude sickness made it a bit uncomfortable and every step was a struggle, the moment I laid eyes on the stunning seven-colored mountains—formed by tens of millions of years of geological evolution—all my exhaustion vanished in an instant. Standing at the summit, overlooking the sweeping Andes, gave me a profound sense of nature's uncanny workmanship and the sheer insignificance of human life. This trip to Peru was more than just crossing borders; it was an exploration through time and civilizations. From the Pacific coast, mystical deserts, volcanic cities, high-altitude canyons, and floating reed islands to the lost Inca Empire and the 5,000-meter-high Rainbow Mountain, every stop had a different story, and every leg of the journey brought a new wave of emotion. What Peru gave me wasn't just world-class scenery, but a deep reverence for history, culture, and nature, along with beautiful memories I will cherish for a lifetime.

We had a great experience with this company. They helped us book our entire trip, and everything turned out fantastic, down to the smallest detail. From hotels, tour guides, transportation, tickets, food, and beyond, everything was perfectly arranged. We would absolutely recommend them. Our journey included visits to Arequipa, Puno, and Cusco, with Machu Picchu and the Inti Raimy celebrations being major highlights. Truly an amazing experience!

Our 11-day experience in Peru, part of Newmarket Holidays’ South American Explorer, was truly exceptional. Our guide, Willington Calderon, accompanied us throughout the journey, introducing us to Peru’s remarkable people, landscapes, cultures, history, food, and drink. He was consistently kind and ensured everyone in our group was well taken care of, organizing each day seamlessly. We were equally impressed by the local guides, including Mijail in Cusco and the Sacred Valley sites, as well as Mirna in the Arequipa area. Their passion and immense knowledge deepened our appreciation of the country. Even the weather astonished us—spectacular every single day! Thank you, Willington, for making our trip to Peru so unforgettable.

I planned a trip through Peru covering Arequipa, Colca, Chivay, Puno, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Lima. Cristian Villa assisted me and was very attentive, taking care of every detail. We arranged all transfers and tours through the agency, and everything was perfect! Fantastic guides in each city. Highly recommended!

Our Peru Odyssey 2026 was truly unforgettable, as six not-so-young Irish ladies enjoyed the journey of a lifetime with our personal guide, Jimmy Jhon Alvarez Huillac from IncaFootsteps. From being picked up at the airport to exploring Lima, Cusco, Puerto Maldonado, Arequipa, and all the adventures in between, Jimmy went above and beyond to care for us, especially when altitude sickness hit each of us (no one warned us about the diarrhea!). Throughout the trip, Jimmy ensured we had unlimited access to water on his bus, and all hotels kindly provided water in our rooms and free muna tea in the lobby. As an archaeologist and Incan descendant, Jimmy's passion for Peru's history, sacred sites, and traditions brought unique energy to every experience. One of the standout moments was a private traditional ceremony Jimmy organized, where we dressed in local outfits and participated in vibrant dances. Peru's diversity amazed us. We only scratched the surface, from canoe trips in the Amazon Jungle to exploring the Inca civilization at Machu Picchu, riding halfway up Rainbow Mountain to 4,000 meters on a mule, and trekking to sacred sites on half-bred Mysotis ponies. We marveled at modern metropolitan cities like Lima (14 million people!), Cusco, and Arequipa, admired Titicaca Lake and its floating islands, rode Peruvian Pasos horses, and reveled in the charm of ubiquitous llamas and alpacas. Seeing Juanita, the mummy of a sacrificed Inca virgin, was a powerful experience—she appears so peaceful. We also encountered protected vicuñas in a reserve, witnessed caimans and condors, played with monkeys, and celebrated through traditional rituals and dances dressed as locals. To top it off, we savored the iconic Pisco Sours. Truly, it was the trip of a lifetime!

The rooftop bar on the 4th floor of the Ariquepay Hotel Boutique is a hidden gem in the town center that can be enjoyed by non-guests without reservations. During the day, you can enjoy panoramic views of the blue sky and volcanoes, and at night, the illuminated cityscape is truly beautiful, offering a completely different atmosphere depending on the time of day. Sunset is especially recommended. From the bar, you can enjoy panoramic views of the town of Arequipa and the surrounding volcanoes, creating a fantastic sense of openness. Drinks are quite reasonably priced for a hotel rooftop, and cocktails are easily enjoyable. There is also a food menu and gourmet pizza, making it perfect for a light meal. Although the temperature drops at night, the staff thoughtfully lends blankets, which is a nice touch. The restrooms are clean, and the overall space is new and stylish. The hotel itself is a relatively new boutique hotel that opened in 2023, and its location in the historic district of #arequipa, just a 1-minute walk from Plaza de Armas, is also a major draw. This rooftop bar is recommended for a break during sightseeing or for relaxing while enjoying the night view.

♨️ Baños Termales de Chacapi Baños Termales de Chacapi · Temperature: Around 38-40°C · Water Quality: Rich in minerals (sulfurous) · Entrance Fee: 15 soles per person A natural hot spring located along the river near the village of Yanque in the Colca Valley, about a 15-20 minute drive from Chivay! It's often included in tours of the Colca Valley. 🎒 What to Bring · Swimsuit (changing facilities available) · Towel · Sandals · Something to wear after getting out There are also activities like walking on the river and cycling across it, so you might want to try those too! 🙆🏻‍♀️ #MustSeeSpot

Why Visit: Known as the White City, Arequipa is built from bright sillar stone and surrounded by volcanoes, offering a mix of colonial charm and dramatic Andean landscapes. Top Sights: Plaza de Armas - The lively city center with gardens, cafés, and the cathedral Arequipa Cathedral - Iconic white façade and rich interior Monasterio de Santa Catalina - Mini city of colorful walls, plazas, and chapels Miradores - Great views of the city and surrounding volcanoes Nearby Nature: Colca Canyon - Deep gorge famous for Andean condors Cataratas de Pillones - Scenic waterfalls in a canyon setting Bosque de Piedras - Unique rock formations outside the city Tips: Walk the historic center for architecture and local life High altitude → stay hydrated and go slow on the first day Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must Morning light is best for photos of the white sillar stone Arequipa is compact, walkable, and a perfect base to explore both cultural highlights and natural wonders in southern Peru. #travel2026 #peru #arequipa

The Arequipa Cathedral dominates Plaza de Armas and is one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. Built from white sillar stone, its bright façade gleams in the sun, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding colonial buildings. Inside, you’ll find a mix of historic architecture, religious art, and ornate altars, reflecting centuries of Peruvian history. The cathedral has survived earthquakes and been rebuilt, making it a symbol of resilience for Arequipa. Tips for Visiting: Check the opening hours - it’s usually open in the morning and afternoon Guided tours explain the history, architecture, and key artworks Best photos are taken from the plaza across the front, capturing the cathedral and its surrounding gardens Visiting the Arequipa Cathedral is a must - it’s the cultural and historical heart of the city and a perfect starting point for exploring the White City. #peru #arequipa #catedral

Plaza de Armas is the central square of Arequipa and the perfect starting point to explore the city. Surrounded by colonial white sillar stone buildings, it’s a lively place filled with cafés, restaurants, and the impressive Arequipa Cathedral. Walking around, you’ll notice flower-filled gardens, historic arcades, and street performers, creating a mix of calm charm and local energy. It’s also where locals gather for events, making it a window into everyday life. Tips: Visit both in the morning for clear light on the cathedral and in the evening for a vibrant atmosphere Plenty of benches for sitting and people-watching Cafés around the square are ideal for a coffee or a traditional Peruvian snack Plaza de Armas is Arequipa’s cultural and social hub, giving a snapshot of the city’s history and contemporary life. #arequipa #peru

After exploring the dramatic cliffs of Colca Canyon, the hot springs near towns like Chivay or La Calera are the perfect way to unwind. These natural thermal pools are fed by geothermal waters and sit in scenic valleys surrounded by mountains. The pools are warm, relaxing, and ideal for soothing tired muscles after hiking or long drives through the canyon. Some are public and simple, while others are part of small resorts with changing rooms and basic facilities. Tips: Go in the late afternoon to avoid crowds Bring a towel and flip-flops Some pools charge a small entrance fee A soak in Colca Canyon’s hot springs is the ultimate reward after a day of adventure, letting you enjoy the Andean scenery in comfort.

Arequipa, Peru's second-largest city ✨ Its charm lies in its white cityscape built with white stone! Here's a great value accommodation I stayed at in Arequipa: 🏨Viajero Arequipa Hostel & Rooftop Bar 📍C. Jerusalén 317, Arequipa 04001 Peru ✨Recommended Points ・Located in the city center, making it easy to walk to tourist attractions ・Friendly staff! Many staff members speak English as well as Spanish ・The building and facilities are very clean! ・Each room has a toilet and shower ・Many events are held 🎵💃 There's a chance to make friends even if you're traveling alone! #BudgetHotel #Peru #Arequipa #WhiteCity

These are the three biggest carnivals in South America 🎭✨ 🇧🇷 ① Rio Carnival (Brazil) 　📍 Rio de Janeiro 　　　Famous for its samba dance, performed in extravagant costumes, and the world's largest. 🇧🇴 ② Oruro Carnival (Bolivia) 　📍 Oruro 　　　UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A festival with a strong religious flavor, blending indigenous culture and Catholicism. 🇨🇴 ③ Barranquilla Carnival (Colombia) 　📍 Barranquilla 　　　　A carnival blending Caribbean culture. This is also a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. However, these are not the only places you can encounter carnivals in South America in February! I encountered a carnival in Arequipa. If you're walking down the street and hear drums and loud music, be sure to approach! ✨

Santa Catalina Monastery (Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena) Located in the heart of the city, this monastery boasts a vast area and retains the strong atmosphere of the Spanish colonial era. Built in 1579, it is now open to the public as a museum. When touring inside, you can opt for a guide for an additional fee, but you can also download an app or refer to the simple explanations at the entrance of each room 🙆♀️ You can observe various aspects of life, such as the chapel, nuns' private rooms, kitchen, and laundry area. The colorful red and blue walls are perfect for photos 👍🏼

A picantería is a popular local restaurant that serves traditional regional cuisine during the day. ✨ This time, I visited the popular local picantería, "Picantería La Capitana." 📍C. los Arces 209, Cayma 04014, Peru ⏰12:00-17:00 (Closed Thursdays) When I arrived at 1:30 PM, there was a huge line! We waited about 40 minutes before finally getting a seat. However, the food arrived incredibly quickly after ordering (lol). This time, I chose the Americano 22sol menu. This allows you to choose three items from the main menu. From left to right, I chose Estofado de res, Locro, and Soltero de queso. ⚠️Arequipa is famous for its Rocoto relleno, but please note that it may not be available on some menu items. [Some Menu Items] ・Americano 22 sol: Choose 3 items from the main menu ・Double 32 sol: Choose 4 items from the main menu →The above two options do not include the Rocoto relleno. 　・Triple 50 sol or 　・Double especial / Americano especial 42 sol are available. The portions were so generous, I took home what I couldn't finish! It's delicious, so I recommend it! 😋 After paying, I purchased a traditional Arequipa dessert, queso helado, for dessert, for 3 sol. 🍨 Although the name includes queso (cheese), it's not cheese-flavored; it's a gentle milk and coconut sorbet!

Arequipa, Peru's second-largest city, is known as the White City due to its buildings made from white sillar stone. The cityscape is absolutely stunning✨ Highlights Photo 1, 2, 3 Basílica Catedral de Arequipa This magnificent cathedral, built in 1540, boasts a beautiful exterior. It is located facing the main square. Photo 4 Plaza de Armas Arequipa Plaza de Armas de Arequipa Situated right next to the cathedral, this plaza is a lively gathering spot filled with people enjoying their time. Photo 5, 6 Church of the Company of Jesus Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús A Baroque-style church. Photo 7 Cloisters of The Company Claustros de La Compañía Located behind the church, these cloisters feature columns made of sillar stone. Each column is adorned with intricate patterns that are truly works of art! All of these attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore them all 🙆♀️

Let us introduce Mundo Alpaca, a place where you can learn about and interact with alpacas without any admission fee. 📍Alameda San Lázaro 101, Arequipa 04001, Peru Peru is home to 80% of the world's alpacas, and Mundo Alpaca combines an alpaca museum with a direct sales shop. Here, you can learn about camelid animals like alpacas, their history, and how alpaca wool is turned into products. You can also see real alpacas and llamas up close and even feed them 🦙. In addition, there is a textile museum in collaboration with Yoshitaro Amano, the founder of the Amano Pre-Columbian Textile Museum in Lima. (Please note that photography and video recording are prohibited.) Although it is small in scale, it is highly recommended as it is very engaging! The visit takes approximately 30 minutes.

📅 Travel Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Arequipa and a relaxed walk around the historic city center. Visit to Plaza de Armas and nearby colonial buildings, followed by a light local dinner. Day 2: Full-day exploration of key attractions, including Santa Catalina Monastery and scenic viewpoints. Enjoy traditional Arequipeñan cuisine and experience the city’s calm evening atmosphere. Day 3: Short morning activities such as local markets or cafés, then preparation for departure or onward travel. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations Comfortable hotels and boutique guesthouses are available near the city center, offering easy access to major attractions, good security, and beautiful views of the surrounding volcanoes. 🍴 Restaurant Recommendations Highly recommended are local restaurants serving traditional dishes such as rocoto relleno, adobo arequipeño, and queso helado, as well as modern cafés with a relaxed ambiance. 📌 Useful Tips · The city is located at high altitude, so take time to acclimatize. · Weather is generally sunny, but mornings and evenings can be cool. · Walking is convenient in the historic center, but taxis are useful for longer distances. · Cash is still useful in small shops and local markets

Colca Canyon is the second deepest canyon on Earth. Though it is not exactly close, it is a popular long day trip from Arequipa. I didn’t do that but decided to rent a car for an overnight trip to the canyon - best decision ever. I didn’t have to get up super early to join a tour and be tried throughout the day. And staying a night meant that I had the Canyon viewpoints to myself as all the tours, and the vendors as well, had already left. The road from Arequipa passes through some awesome sparse papa landscape and the Zona de Vicuñas and Zona de Alpacas🦙. Both domesticated lamas and alpacas as well as wild vicuñas are abundant and can easily be seen and photographed from the road. The landscape is wild and harsh. Stop at ⚑ Mirador de los Andes; in good weather you can see huge mountains in the distance all around. I didn’t because the clouds were so low, but this still made for an interesting and ver eerie stop. Upon reaching the Canyon, you get your ticket from the tourist office just after entering 📍Chivay. Here you can also fill up on petrol. And there are restaurants and a few hostels here. I had my lunch at 🥩 Sabores Andinos Colca Restaurant in 📍Yanque, though. A friendly little place that does not feel overrun with day-trippers. In the village you can also see 🕍 Iglesia Inmaculada Concepción, one of a collection of small colonial churches, few of which can be entered. From here you enter the real canyon. The road gets surprisingly bad, but the views get better and better. There are many viewpoints along the road through the canyon, I would say these are not to be missed: ⚑ Mirador de Antahuilque - nice views of the terrassed Inca fields ⚑ Mirador de Wayrac Punku ⚑ Mirador Cruz del Condor - THE viewpoint from where to see the condors 🦅 in the morning, it is also one of the deepest spots along the canyon And some of the best views can be had at my accommodation, 🏩 La Granja del Colca. I arrived late, but in time for some spectacular sunset views. But canyon views are not all. In the morning, conders🦅 soured so close it felt like you could touch them. And all the time there are cuddly dogs🐕, cats🐈 and even alpacas🦙, since this is also a working farm. Definitely one of the best places I have ever stayed at, La Granja del Colca itself is with the overnight trip! #peru #colcacanyon #realphoto #noAI #travel #naturalwonders #myitinerary #independenttraveller

#falladventures #travel #familytravel A beautiful old town and well maintained, unique in Peru its colonial style palaces and largely built in local sillar (white volcanic stone) for this reason it is called the white city. The large Plaza de Armas the central square is the heart of Arequipa, surrounded by historic buildings, including the Cathedral. We found very interesting the video documentary in the Santuarios Andinos Museum dedicated to the mummy Juanita, where the frozen body of an Inca girl who was sacrificed in 1450ca. is exhibited, it was very instructive. The Monastery of Santa Catalina, vermilion red and cobalt blue, is one of the most beautiful sites and also the most visited attraction in the city. We recommend visiting it with a guide, it was a completely autonomous country in the city and covers about 20,000 square meters, it is a maze of courtyards, otherwise you risk turning empty. The Iglesia de La Compañía is a Jesuit church built in 1590 and completed only in 1698. The baroque facade is the most remarkable element of the church, you can see figures of animals, plants and natural elements typical of Andean culture. At the top, the sculpture of the Archangel St. Michael stands out, carved in stone. Inside, don't miss the room with wall paintings depicting flowers, tropical fruits and birds, angels and warriors. In the historic center there are excellent restaurants but very busy and it is better to reserve before For shopping check out Calle Santa Catalina and Calle San Francisco In the evening there is a lot of movement but the city is quiet and it was pleasant to walk

#falladventures #museums A beautiful and fascinating place to visit, but appreciation is reduced by the fact that you have to have a convent guide to see the place and our guide was rushed and sometimes hard to understand. At least they allow you to walk around without a guide after the tour. I would much prefer going at my own pace and being informed by an audio guide and/or information boards. In order not to wander empty, the monastery covers almost 20,000 square meters and is a maze of courtyards, gardens, streets, cloisters and chapels and an art gallery; join a group or take a private guide (next to the ticket office in several languages) the guided tour can last 1 hour or 1 1/2, then you can stay for as long as you want, be prepared to take lots of photographs. We took a private guide who explained to us the purpose of the creation of the monastery and how life was regulated inside this small fortified citadel built as a convent for the cloistered nuns. The Monastery of Santa Catalina de Arequipa is dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena and was founded by the Peruvian noblewoman Doña María de Guzmán in 1580 to house the daughters of the wealthiest Spanish families in Peru who desired a cloistered life and paid expensive tuition. It was inhabited by as many as 500 women, of whom about only 120 were cloistered nuns, the others were their servants. The Monastery was isolated from the rest of the city until 1970, currently it is divided into two distinct parts, one part is the one that can be visited and is extremely well restored and maintained and only in a small part, called the New Monastery, live about twenty cloistered nuns. The visit is very interesting, among cloisters and chapels colored in white or red and blue intense you can see the apartments of the nuns / novices, which are not small cells, with minimalist furniture, but on the contrary here are real apartments consisting of several rooms, living room, bedroom, kitchen with oven and garden, a comfortable cloister. Sister Ana, Prioress of the Monastery who died in 1686, was beatified in 1985 by John Paul II. Beautiful is the common outdoor laundry, where the Service staff washed laundry in the water of a stream channeled into large terracotta jars.

You can easily spent several hours in Santa Catalina Monastery (Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena), but you could also see it in under one hour. The different courtyards partly represent the stages of prospect nuns on their journey to a life in the monastery. The "cells" of the nuns are poor or rich depending on the affluence of their families, which is especially interesting compared to European monasteries where nuns and monks live in rather austere environs. The bold, complementary colors of the buildings are great for photography and the many nooks and crannies make for a plethora of motives. As if that wasn't enough, the snow covered volcanos loom just outside the walls. #travel#thingstodo#museums#myitinerary#citydaytours

Arequipa is a wonderful city to while away a few days. The climate is great with warm days but cool nights. The scenery is marvelous as volcanos and snowy peaks make the backdrop for delicate colonial architecture. The food is delicious from roadside stalls to high level restaurants. What to visit: Place de Armas (of course) Claustros de La Compañía Pasaje Cañon Casona Tristan del Pozo Mercado San Camilo Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Siena Mundo Alpaca See the sunset from: Mirador de Yanahuara Terrasse of Katari Hotel At Plaza De Armas Where to eat: Omphalos Restaurant Vegetariano -Vegano ~ for vegan food Victoria Museo Picantería ~ for higher class classical Peruvian dishes Las Gringas Pizza ~ for Peruvian inspired sandwiches Red Pig ~ for mean and vegan burgers Pasta Canteen ~ for fantastic pasta Mercado San Camilo ~ for stalls of local food, drinks and dessert (especially Queso Helado at Dona Rosa) If you can, give yourself some time to take it slow, the city is so worth it. #travel#naturalwonders#thingstodo#museums#localfood

Let’s talk Arequipa vibes 🌞⛪ I just explored the Monasterio y Museo de la Recoleta, and it’s easily one of the most underrated cultural gems in town. Western-style architecture meets serene, sunlit gardens, and honestly, you might have the whole place to yourself (no crowds, no noise!)—a rare treat in Peru. Here’s why you need to add this to your Arequipa itinerary: Top Spot: Monasterio y Museo de la Recoleta Address: La Recoleta 117, Arequipa 04013, Peru Hours: 09:00-13:30, 15:00-17:00 (Tues-Sat) This peaceful monastery only costs 15 soles—super budget-friendly! The immersive atmosphere makes it feel like stepping back in time, with exhibition halls filled with rich histories and art. The grounds are stunning, dotted with tall evergreens that provide perfect shade for a contemplative walk. Personal tip: Arrive right at opening to have the place to yourself. Bring your own snack (local bread is ideal!) and soak in the tranquility—there’s something special about munching in the shade surrounded by centuries-old walls. How to get around: Arequipa is very walkable and taxi rides are inexpensive. Monasterio de la Recoleta is a quick stroll from the city center—save on transport and enjoy the route. Extra advice: No need to book in advance, just pay at the gate. Cash is preferred. Weather’s almost always sunny, so lightweight clothes and a bottle of water are clutch. #ArequipaCulture #TravelPeru #HiddenGems #SoloWander #Tripdotcom

The Monastery of St. Catalina in Arequipa, Peru 🇵🇪, is located in the Old Town of Arequipa, a World Heritage Site. ☑️Arequipa is about a 1.5-hour flight from Lima. Unlike Cusco, this beautiful ancient city boasts Spanish-style colonial architecture from the Spanish colonial era in its center. It's also known as the "White City" because it was built entirely out of white volcanic rock. ☑️St. Catalina Monastery A secluded world of blues and reds contrasts strikingly with the chalk. For about 400 years, it was a place of prayer and living for nuns. The elevation isn't high, so even long walks won't tire you out. Lose track of time and get lost in a vibrant, otherworldly world. #0YenTravel2025Autumn