Arequipa is a colonial city in southern Peru, known as the White City and an ideal starting point to visit the Colca Canyon. If you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa on your first trip, this guide brings together the most important activities and places so you can make the most of your time.
Table of Contents
Here you’ll find what to do in Arequipa by day and by night: squares, viewpoints, monasteries, museums, traditional neighborhoods, local picanterías and the best excursions from the city, all explained in a simple way with practical tips to organize your visit according to how many days you have and your travel style.
Quick overview of Arequipa
Arequipa is one of the most important destinations in southern Peru and is usually part of almost every travel route through the country. Before diving into things to do in Arequipa, it’s worth understanding where it is located, why it is known as the “White City,” and what makes it different from other Peruvian cities. In this section, you’ll also see, in a quick and direct way, whether visiting Arequipa is really worth it on your next trip.
Where is Arequipa and why is it called the “White City”?
Arequipa is located in the south of Peru, between the coast and the high plateau, at around 2,300 meters above sea level and surrounded by the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. It is a key stop between Lima, Cusco, and Puno, which is why many travelers include it in their route through the country.
It is called the “White City” because much of its historic center is built with sillar, a white volcanic stone extracted from nearby quarries. This material gives the churches, mansions, and colonial streets a very distinctive look, especially when the sun hits them. Walking through these streets is one of the first things to do in Arequipa to understand the essence of the city.
What makes Arequipa different from other cities in Peru?
Arequipa combines several things that you don’t always find together in other destinations in Peru:
- A very well-preserved colonial historic center, declared a World Heritage Site.
- Constant views of the volcanoes, which frame the city and create a unique landscape.
- One of the strongest culinary scenes in the country, with very distinctive traditional dishes and classic picanterías.
- Quick access to dramatic nature, such as the Colca Canyon and the Salinas y Aguada Blanca Reserve.
Unlike Lima or Cusco, Arequipa usually feels calmer, with good weather most of the year and a pace that lets you enjoy the city without rushing.
Is Arequipa, Peru worth visiting?
Yes, Arequipa is definitely worth visiting. It’s a safe city, with good weather almost all year round, very well-preserved colonial architecture, and constant views of the surrounding volcanoes.
If you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa or wondering what things to do in Arequipa on your first trip, you’ll find a bit of everything here: a historic center, viewpoints, monasteries, museums, traditional picanterías, and the main gateway to the Colca Canyon. With 2 to 3 days, you can already make the most of the city.
Reasons why Arequipa is worth visiting
There are 5 amazing reasons worth knowing if you’re planning to visit Arequipa:
- Unique historic center: It has a historic center built in white sillar stone, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Santa Catalina Monastery are some of the main things to do in Arequipa.
- Volcano landscapes: The city is surrounded by the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes, visible from viewpoints like Yanahuara and Cayma, perfect for photos and sunsets.
- Powerful gastronomy: Dishes such as rocoto relleno, chupe de camarones, and adobo make food a key part of what to do in Arequipa for any traveler.
- Access to the Colca Canyon: It’s the main starting point to visit the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world and home of the Andean condor.
- Good weather and value for money: There are sunny days most of the year, and prices for accommodation, tours, and services are competitive compared to other tourist destinations in Peru.
What type of traveler will enjoy Arequipa the most
Arequipa is ideal for several types of travelers: those who love colonial cities with squares, churches, and old mansions; those who travel for food and want to try typical dishes in every destination; those who enjoy walking and taking photos from viewpoints and traditional neighborhoods; and also those who prefer nature, trekking, and a calmer city pace, with good weather for most of the year.
For all of them, Arequipa can be a perfect destination: you can stroll through the sillar stone historic center, visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, climb to viewpoints like Yanahuara, eat in traditional picanterías, and use the city as a base for excursions to the Colca Canyon and other Andean landscapes. If you identify with any of these profiles, many of the things to do in Arequipa match exactly what you like to experience on a trip.
Is Arequipa safe for tourists right now?
In general, Arequipa is a relatively safe city for tourists, as long as you take the basic precautions you would use in any Latin American city. In the historic center and main tourist areas there is police presence, people around, and good infrastructure to receive travelers.
The most common advice is to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places (plazas, markets, bus terminals), use official taxis or apps, avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night, and always follow the instructions of your agency or guide. At a national level, protests or roadblocks can occasionally occur in Peru, but normally the main things to do in Arequipa (city tour, viewpoints, monasteries, picanterías, etc.) run as usual when there are no special alerts. Before traveling, it’s a good idea to check recent news and the official recommendations from your country.
Top 15 things to do in Arequipa
If you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa and don’t want to waste time on weak plans, here is a clear selection of the best experiences in the city. In the following points you’ll see what things to do in Arequipa on your first visit: from walking around the Plaza de Armas and the historic center, visiting the Cathedral and the Santa Catalina Monastery, going up to viewpoints like Yanahuara, discovering traditional neighborhoods, trying typical picanterías, and heading out to the Chili River Valley. These are activities that are easy to combine in 2 or 3 days and give you a very good idea of what the White City has to offer.
Stroll around Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas and its colonial architecture
Strolling around the Plaza de Armas is one of the first things to do in Arequipa. Here you can see the colonial sillar stone architecture up close, with the Basilica Cathedral in front, the arcades around the square, and the volcanoes appearing in the background on clear days. It’s a great place to start your visit: you can sit on the benches, take photos, go inside the Cathedral, watch the city’s movement, and then continue walking toward the historic center, the Santa Catalina Monastery, or other nearby points of interest. If you want to know what things to do in Arequipa on your first day, the Plaza de Armas is the best starting point.
Visit the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa and climb its towers
Visiting the Basilica Cathedral is another one of the things to do in Arequipa that you simply can’t miss. From the Plaza de Armas you can go inside to see its altars and colonial details, and, if the schedule allows, go up to the towers. From the top you’ll have one of the best views of the square and, on clear days, of the Misti and Chachani volcanoes. It’s an easy plan to include on your first day if you’re wondering what things to do in Arequipa without leaving the historic center yet.
Get lost in the Santa Catalina Monastery
Getting lost in the Santa Catalina Monastery is one of the most important things to do in Arequipa. This religious complex feels like a small city within the city, with colorful streets, courtyards, cells, and very photogenic viewpoints. The visit is done on foot and takes about 1 to 2 hours, making it ideal if you’re wondering what things to do in Arequipa on a quiet afternoon. Besides the historical side, it’s a perfect place to take photos and better understand Arequipa’s colonial past.
Enjoy the views from the Yanahuara Viewpoint
Enjoying the views from the Yanahuara Viewpoint is another one of the things to do in Arequipa that is really worth it. From this spot you get a great view of the Misti volcano and part of the city, as well as the sillar stone arches with engraved phrases. You can get there by taxi or as part of a city tour, walk around the small square, take photos, and watch the sunset. It’s a simple plan, ideal if you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa without going too far from the city center.
Discover Cayma and other traditional neighborhoods
Discovering Cayma and other traditional neighborhoods is one of the things to do in Arequipa if you want to see the city beyond the historic center. In Cayma you’ll find a quiet square, a colonial church, and great viewpoints over the valley and the volcanoes. Other traditional neighborhoods also preserve old mansions, narrow streets, and everyday local life. Walking through these areas helps you better understand how people in Arequipa live and is a good option if you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa away from the most touristic spots.
Visit the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries and meet “Juanita”, the Lady of Ampato
Visiting the Andean Sanctuaries Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Arequipa if you like history. Here you can see “Juanita,” the Ice Maiden of Ampato, a young Inca girl found in the ice of a volcano, very well preserved. The visit is guided, lasts about an hour, and helps you better understand the ceremonies, beliefs, and sacrifices in Inca times. It’s a great plan if you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa indoors and with strong cultural content.
Admire local art and handicrafts in San Lázaro and artisan streets
Admiring local art and handicrafts in San Lázaro and on the artisan streets in the center is another one of the things to do in Arequipa if you like local culture. The San Lázaro neighborhood, with its narrow streets and sillar stone houses, is ideal for walking slowly, taking photos, and stepping into small workshops or shops where you’ll find ceramics, textiles, paintings, and souvenirs made by Arequipa artisans. Strolling through these areas is a great option when you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa beyond the most famous attractions and want to take home a souvenir with real local identity.
Relax in the green areas of Selva Alegre Park
Relaxing in the green areas of Selva Alegre Park is one of the things to do in Arequipa when you want to slow down. This park is close to the city center and offers wide open spaces to walk, sit on the grass, read, have a simple picnic, or just enjoy Arequipa’s pleasant weather. It’s a good option if you’re traveling with family, with children, or if you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa without museums or churches, just a quiet moment outdoors.
Try a traditional Arequipa picantería
Trying a traditional Arequipa picantería is one of the things to do in Arequipa that you just can’t skip if you love good food. Picanterías are typical restaurants where hearty local dishes are served, such as rocoto relleno, chupe de camarones, adobo, solterito, or malaya frita, often at long tables and in a simple but very authentic setting. It’s the perfect place to try strong flavors, pair them with chicha de jora or a cold beer, and understand why gastronomy is such an important part of the experience for most travelers.
Join a walking tour or city tour to learn the history of the city
Joining a walking tour or a city tour is one of the most practical things to do in Arequipa if you want to understand the city in a short amount of time. With a local guide, you’ll walk around the Plaza de Armas, the historic center, some viewpoints, and traditional neighborhoods while they explain the history, fun facts, and useful recommendations. It’s a very good option for your first day if you’re not sure what things to do in Arequipa and want an overview before exploring on your own.
Visit the Founder’s Mansion
Visiting the Founder’s Mansion is another one of the things to do in Arequipa if you’re interested in the colonial era. This old manor house, located in the Arequipa countryside, preserves courtyards, furnished rooms, a chapel, and architectural details that show how the city’s elite lived centuries ago. You can walk through it calmly, take photos, and combine the visit with other spots in the area, making it ideal if you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa outside the city center, but without going too far.
Explore the Sabandía Mill
Exploring the Sabandía Mill is one of the things to do in Arequipa if you want to see greener landscapes and traditional countryside. This old sillar stone mill, surrounded by trees, canals, and terraces, shows how water power was used centuries ago and offers a very photogenic setting. You can walk through the gardens, see the mill in operation, and relax for a while away from the noise of the city center. It’s a good option when you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa that complement the historical visits with a more natural environment.
Explore the Chili River Valley and its rural landscapes
Touring the Chili River Valley is one of the things to do in Arequipa if you want to see its more rural side. In this area you’ll find farmland, terraces, traditional houses, and great views of the volcanoes as you follow the course of the river. You can visit on a tour, by bike, or by vehicle, stopping at viewpoints and rural spots along the way. It’s a great addition when you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa beyond the historic center.
Experience Arequipa’s nightlife: bars, rooftops and live music
Experiencing Arequipa’s nightlife is another one of the things to do in Arequipa if you want to end the day in a good atmosphere. In the historic center you’ll find bars, pubs, and rooftop venues with views of the Cathedral and the volcanoes, where you can have a cocktail, a craft beer, or listen to live music. It’s not an extreme party city, but it does have nice options for going out at night, talking, and relaxing after a day of sightseeing—perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa once the sun goes down.
The best day trips and tours from Arequipa
If you already know the main things to do in Arequipa within the city, the next step is to look at its surroundings. From this city in southern Peru, some of the best excursions in the country depart: the Colca Canyon, the Salinas y Aguada Blanca Reserve, trekking routes, and climbs to volcanoes such as Misti and Chachani. In this section, you’ll see which are the best day trips and tours from Arequipa, who they are recommended for, how demanding they are, and which lesser-known alternatives you can include in your itinerary.
Colca Canyon: the most popular excursion from Arequipa
The Colca Canyon is the most popular excursion from Arequipa and almost always appears on the list of things to do in Arequipa. From the city, tours depart that take you to viewpoints such as Cruz del Cóndor, where you can see Andean condors flying, as well as traditional villages, agricultural terraces, and hot springs. It’s an ideal outing if you’re wondering what things to do in Arequipa to see wider Andean landscapes without straying too far from the classic tourist circuit.
One-day vs two-day tour to Colca Canyon: which is better?
If you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa outside the city, the Colca Canyon can be visited on a 1-day or 2-day tour. The one-day tour is quicker and cheaper, but it means waking up very early, spending several hours on the bus, and having less time at viewpoints and villages. The two-day tour is more relaxed: you sleep in the valley (usually in Chivay or Yanque), can enjoy the hot springs more calmly, see the sunrise without rushing, and make additional stops. If you have little time, the one-day option does the job; if you want to enjoy the place more and get less exhausted, the two-day tour is usually the best choice.
Trekking in Colca Canyon: who is it for and how difficult is it?
Trekking in the Colca Canyon is a different option from the classic tours and can be one of the most intense things to do in Arequipa. These treks usually last 2 to 3 days, with long descents into the canyon and demanding ascents at the end, so they are recommended for travelers in good physical condition and used to walking at high altitude. It’s not ideal for those with knee problems, low stamina, or who are very affected by altitude. If you enjoy hiking and are looking for something more adventurous than a panoramic tour, trekking in the Colca can fit very well on your list of what things to do in Arequipa.
Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve: vicuñas, flamingos and landscapes
The Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve is another recommended excursion when you’re looking for things to do in Arequipa outside the city. In this high-altitude area you can see wild vicuñas, flamingos in Andean lagoons, salt flats, and wide-open landscapes with volcanoes in the background. Tours are usually half-day or full-day and include stops at viewpoints and key photo spots. It’s a great option if you want nature, Andean wildlife, and views that are different from the Colca Canyon.
Climbing Misti and Chachani for adventure travelers
Climbing the Misti and Chachani volcanoes is one of the things to do in Arequipa only for adventurous travelers in good physical condition. These are high-mountain routes that usually take 1 or 2 days, with hikes at altitude, intense cold, and demanding sections. It’s not a basic tourist activity, but an experience for those who already have some trekking experience and want to add a major challenge to their list of things to do in Arequipa. It’s always recommended to go with an authorized agency, proper gear, and to respect weather conditions.
Other lesser-known tours from Arequipa
Besides the most famous routes, there are other lesser-known tours you can consider when looking for things to do in Arequipa. Some options include visits to small countryside villages, rural experiences with local families, bike routes through the Chili River Valley, or photo tours at sunrise and sunset. These alternatives usually have fewer people, a more relaxed pace, and allow you to see a more authentic side of the Arequipa region.
How many days do you need in Arequipa?
When you start looking up things to do in Arequipa, one of the first questions is how many days are really worth spending there. In this section, we’ll briefly explain how many days you need in Arequipa depending on your time and travel style: whether you only want to see the basics in the city, if you want to include the Colca Canyon, or if you’re interested in going further with nature or adventure routes. This way, you can better decide what things to do in Arequipa in 1, 2, 3 or more days.
How many days should you stay in Arequipa?
In general, it’s recommended to stay between 2 and 4 days in Arequipa, depending on what you want to include in your trip.
- 1 day in Arequipa: just enough to see the basics of the historic center (Plaza de Armas, Cathedral, some of the Santa Catalina Monastery). Very tight.
- 2 days in Arequipa: a good amount of time for the main things to do in Arequipa within the city: historic center, monastery, viewpoints, and a picantería meal.
- 3 days in Arequipa: ideal if you want to combine what things to do in Arequipa in the city plus a short excursion (for example, the Salinas Reserve or the Chili River Valley).
- 4 days or more: if you want to add the Colca Canyon more calmly, trekking, or adventure activities.
Is it better to visit Arequipa before or after Cusco?
If we look only at altitude, it’s better to go to Arequipa before Cusco. Arequipa is at about 2,300 m a.s.l., while Cusco is over 3,300 m, so your body adapts better if you first spend time in Arequipa and then continue going higher.
In practice, many travelers follow this route: Lima, Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Puno, Cusco. That way you can enjoy the main things to do in Arequipa (city + surroundings), gradually gain altitude, and arrive in Cusco a bit more acclimatized for Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. If your flights are already booked and you have to do it the other way around, it’s not a problem, but if you can choose, going to Arequipa before Cusco is usually the most comfortable option.
Suggested itinerary for Arequipa
When you start looking for things to do in Arequipa, the next logical question is how to organize your days. To help you, if you have 1 to 4 days for your visit to Arequipa, you can plan your stay so that each day has a different focus: city, history, viewpoints, and nature. Here is a clear proposal that’s easy to adapt depending on how much time you have.
- Day 1: First contact with the White City
The first day is ideal to get to know the heart of Arequipa. Start at the Plaza de Armas, go inside the Basilica Cathedral, and take some time to appreciate the arcades, the city life, and the views of the volcanoes. Then, dedicate a good part of the day to the Santa Catalina Monastery, one of the most iconic places in Arequipa, almost a city within the city. When you finish, keep walking through the Historic Center, visit a cloister or an old mansion, and end the day having dinner in a picantería or traditional restaurant. - Day 2: Charming neighborhoods and viewpoints
The second day can be focused on quieter corners. In the morning, explore the San Lázaro neighborhood, with its narrow streets and sillar stone houses, perfect for photos and slow walks. Later, head to Cayma or another traditional neighborhood to get a different perspective of the city and the valley. In the afternoon, take a break at Selva Alegre Park and finish the day at the Yanahuara Viewpoint, where you’ll have one of the best views of the Misti volcano and downtown Arequipa at sunset. - Day 3: Andean nature and Colca Canyon
The third day can be reserved for a full-day excursion to the Colca Canyon. You’ll leave early from Arequipa towards the valley area, passing by natural viewpoints, Andean villages, and agricultural terraces. One of the most anticipated moments is usually the visit to Cruz del Cóndor, where, with a bit of luck, you’ll be able to see condors in flight. Many tours include breakfast and lunch in one of the valley towns, stops at hot springs, and free time to walk around the viewpoints and take photos. At the end of the afternoon, you’ll return to Arequipa via the high route, passing through areas where you can see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas, closing the day with one of the most complete nature experiences you can add to your list of things to do in Arequipa.
When is the best time to visit Arequipa?
When you’re planning things to do in Arequipa, knowing the best time to travel is key. Arequipa has a dry climate and sunny days for most of the year, but some months are better than others for combining the city, viewpoints, and excursions to the Colca Canyon or the Salinas Reserve. In this section, we’ll look at the best time to visit Arequipa, what the weather is like month by month, the differences between high and low season, what happens during the rainy season, and which festivals or events might influence your trip.
Weather in Arequipa throughout the year
Arequipa has a dry, mild climate almost all year round, with mostly sunny days. Temperatures usually range between about 10°C and 22°C, with cool mornings, strong sun at midday, and cold nights, especially in winter.
In general, the dry season runs from April to November, with very little rain and clear skies for viewpoints and excursions; while from December to March there can be more rain, mainly in the afternoons, although it’s usually still possible to do most of the main things to do in Arequipa without problems if you plan your day properly.
High season vs low season: pros and cons
In Arequipa, the high season usually coincides with the dry months from June to August and with holiday periods or long weekends. The advantage is that you’ll have better weather for viewpoints, the Colca Canyon, and other excursions, as well as a livelier atmosphere in the city. The downside: more people at the main attractions, higher prices for hotels and tours, and the need to book in advance.
The low season generally runs from March–May and September–November (and part of the rainy period). The advantages are fewer tourists, better deals, and more peace and quiet to enjoy the main things to do in Arequipa. The downside is that you may get some rainy days or cloudier skies, although it’s usually still possible to visit the city and do most tours as normal.
Arequipa in the rainy season: what to expect
In Arequipa, the rainy season generally runs from December to March. It usually doesn’t rain all day, but there can be moderate or heavy showers in the afternoons, with cloudier skies. Most of the main things to do in Arequipa within the city (historic center, monasteries, museums, picanterías, nearby viewpoints) can still be done; you just need to bring a waterproof jacket and appropriate footwear. On excursions such as the Colca Canyon or the Salinas Reserve, there may be a higher chance of fog, delays, or route changes, so it’s important to travel with a reliable agency and always check the weather before confirming tours.
Festivals and events in Arequipa you shouldn’t miss
Throughout the year, Arequipa has several festivities that can add an extra touch to your trip. The most important one is Arequipa’s Anniversary, around August 15th, with parades, concerts, street performances, and a lively atmosphere in the historic center. Another key date is the feast of the Virgen de Chapi (early May), which brings many pilgrims to the sanctuary and shows the more religious side of the region.
Holy Week also stands out, with processions in the center, as well as different food and cultural festivals where picanterías and typical dishes take the spotlight. If you’re interested in experiencing the city when it’s more lively, these dates combine very well with the main things to do in Arequipa—just keep in mind that during major holidays there are more people and it’s better to book in advance.
Food and drink: what to eat in Arequipa
Gastronomy is one of the main reasons to visit the city, so eating well should always be on your list of things to do in Arequipa. In this section, we’ll look at what to eat in Arequipa: the most important traditional dishes, how picanterías work, which drinks and desserts to try, and some basic tips to enjoy the local food without any problems.
Typical Arequipa dishes you must try
When thinking about what to eat in Arequipa, there are several dishes that almost always appear on the list of things to do in Arequipa for any traveler who loves good food. Some of the most important ones are:
- Rocoto relleno: a large, spicy pepper stuffed with meat, cheese, and spices, baked au gratin.
- Chupe de camarones: a thick shrimp soup (made with river shrimp) with potato, milk, egg, and other ingredients; very filling.
- Adobo arequipeño: pork marinated in chicha de jora and spices, slow-cooked, typically eaten on Sunday mornings.
- Ocopa arequipeña: boiled potatoes with a creamy sauce made of chili, cheese, and herbs, similar to papa a la huancaína but with its own flavor.
- Solterito de queso: a fresh salad with cheese, fava beans, onion, corn, and olives, ideal when you want something lighter.
- Cuy chactado: fried, crispy guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish that you can also find in Arequipa.
Trying at least 2 or 3 of these dishes in a picantería or typical restaurant is an important part of the culinary experience in the city.
Desserts, drinks and local specialties
When thinking about what things to do in Arequipa, it’s also worth leaving some room for typical desserts and drinks, because they’re an important part of the local experience. Besides the main dishes, the city has several traditional sweets and specialties that you can try in ice cream shops, picanterías, or even on the street.
Some must-tries are:
- Queso helado arequipeño: the most famous dessert in the city. It doesn’t contain cheese, but milk, cinnamon, and coconut. It has a creamy texture and is served very cold, ideal after walking around the center.
- Buñuelos and picarones: fried doughs served with chancaca syrup, perfect as an afternoon treat.
- Chicha de jora: a traditional fermented corn drink with a light alcohol content, very common in picanterías.
- Chicha morada: made with purple corn, cinnamon, and fruit; refreshing and non-alcoholic, a great option to go with your meals.
- Kola Escocesa and other local drinks: soft drinks that are very popular in the region, fun to try if you like discovering local products.
Tasting some of these desserts and drinks while you walk through the center or visit a picantería is a simple way to add more flavor to your list of things to do in Arequipa.
Where to stay in Arequipa
Choosing the right area to stay is key to organizing your things to do in Arequipa without wasting time on transfers. In this section, we’ll look at where to stay in Arequipa, explaining the best areas for tourists (especially the Historic Center and its surroundings), what types of accommodation you can find (hostels, mid-range hotels, boutique options, and higher-end stays), and in which cases it makes sense to be close to the Plaza de Armas, traditional neighborhoods like San Lázaro, or quieter areas. This way, you can decide which area best fits your travel style and budget.
Is Arequipa safe for Americans and other international travelers?
Safety is one of the first concerns for many international travelers before deciding what things to do in Arequipa and how many days to stay. In this section, we’ll look at how safe Arequipa is for U.S. visitors and other tourists, what general safety is like in the most visited areas, which scams or situations you should avoid, basic tips to move around with peace of mind, and some important points about health, altitude, and sun exposure. This way, you’ll have a realistic idea of the destination before planning your route through the White City.
Frequently asked questions: quick answers about things to do in Arequipa
What are the must-see attractions in Arequipa?
The must-see attractions in Arequipa are mainly concentrated in its historic center. The Plaza de Armas and the Basilica Cathedral are the natural starting point: here you can appreciate the white sillar stone architecture and the everyday atmosphere of the city. Very close by, the Santa Catalina Monastery works almost like a walled city, with colorful inner streets and spaces that sum up much of the colonial history.
Walking through the Historic Center—streets like Santa Catalina, San Francisco, or Mercaderes—completes the urban experience, surrounded by old mansions, cloisters, and arcades. The Yanahuara Viewpoint offers another perspective of the city, with views of Misti and the other volcanoes. To connect with the Andean past, the Andean Sanctuaries Museum and the famous “Juanita” help you understand the Inca context of the region. And to close the circle, a meal in a traditional picantería lets you taste the local cuisine, an essential part of any travel list.
Can you visit Colca Canyon without a tour?
Yes, you can, but it’s not the most practical option. You need to arrange transportation, schedules, entrance tickets, and accommodation on your own.
For most travelers, an organized tour (1 or 2 days) is more comfortable, safer, and ends up costing about the same, especially if you have limited time.
Is travel insurance necessary for Arequipa?
In Arequipa, you won’t be required to have travel insurance to enter, but in practice it is highly recommended. You’re in a high-altitude city, from where most people do long excursions to the Colca Canyon, the Salinas Reserve, or even treks and volcano climbs. All of these activities involve walking, weather changes, and road journeys; nothing extreme for most travelers, but enough that a sprain, strong altitude sickness, or a stomach infection could ruin your trip if you don’t have coverage.
In addition, any private medical care, ambulance transfers, or flight changes due to unexpected events can be expensive without insurance. That’s why the smartest option is to travel with a policy that covers medical assistance, accidents, repatriation, delays, and cancellations. This way, you can enjoy all the things to do in Arequipa (city, Colca, nature) with more peace of mind, knowing that if something happens, you won’t also face a financial problem.
Is Arequipa a good destination to visit with children and as a family?
Arequipa is indeed a good destination for traveling with family and kids. The weather is usually pleasant for most of the year, the historic center is compact and easy to walk around, and there are several open spaces such as squares, parks, and viewpoints where children can move around more freely. Activities like strolling through the Plaza de Armas, visiting the Santa Catalina Monastery, going up to the Yanahuara Viewpoint, or relaxing in Selva Alegre Park fit very well into a calm family itinerary.
That said, it’s important to take some basic precautions: protect children properly from the sun (sunscreen, hat, and water always on hand) and avoid days that are too long, especially full-day excursions like Colca, which can be tiring for the little ones due to the hours of travel and the altitude. With a suitable pace, Arequipa offers many things to do that both adults and children can enjoy without stress.
Ready to discover them? Traveling is about discovering, learning, and creating unforgettable memories, and Peru is the perfect destination for all of that. Its landscapes, history, and culture make every experience unique, filled with moments that will change your life.
We invite you to explore our Peru packages. Your experience in Peru is just one step away. Contact us now and start living the unique adventure you’ve always dreamed of.
More information:
- Visit our English website: Peru Grand Travel
- Visit our Spanish website: Viajes Machu Picchu Tours
- Visit our Portuguese website: Machu Picchu Pacotes
