What to see and do in Arequipa, unforgettable White City

Explore the Historic Center and its Plaza de Armas

The heart of Arequipa is its Plaza de Armas, considered one of the most beautiful in South America. Surrounded by colonial arches and dominated by the majestic Cathedral Basilica, it is the ideal place to start your visit.

 Walking through its streets will allow you to discover gems of mestizo architecture, colonial churches, and old mansions such as the Casa del Moral.

Explore the Monastery of Santa Catalina

Known as a “city within a city,” the Monastery of Santa Catalina is one of the most emblematic sites in Arequipa. Founded in 1579, it surprises visitors with its narrow streets, colorful courtyards, and an atmosphere steeped in history. Walking through it will take you back in time and give you an understanding of the life of cloistered nuns during the colonial era.

Admire the volcanoes from the viewpoints

Arequipa is surrounded by imposing volcanoes such as Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. For unforgettable views, visit the Yanahuara Viewpoint, famous for its stone arches and perfect view of the city, and the Carmen Alto Viewpoint, where you can see the agricultural valley and the Chili River.

Take the Sillar Route

Sillar is the white stone that gave Arequipa's architecture its identity. The excursion to the quarries of Añashuayco and Quebrada de Culebrillas is ideal for discovering how this volcanic rock has been worked for centuries and enjoying a unique landscape.

Visit museums and cultural sites

• Andean Sanctuaries Museum: here you can see Juanita, the famous “Lady of Ampato,” a perfectly preserved Inca mummy that provides insight into ancient rituals.
• Santa Teresa Viceregal Art Museum: home to a valuable collection of religious art and colonial objects.

Sample Arequipa's cuisine

Arequipa is renowned for its varied and tasty food. Be sure to try:

• Rocoto relleno: an iconic dish, spicy and full of flavor.
• Chupe de camarones: a traditional soup perfect for cool days.
• Adobo arequipeño: marinated pork cooked slowly, ideal for Sunday breakfasts.
• Queso helado: a fresh and creamy dessert enjoyed all year round.

 For an authentic experience, visit the picanterías, traditional restaurants where food is still cooked over a wood fire.iencia auténtica, visita las picanterías, restaurantes tradicionales donde aún se cocina a fuego de leña.

Excursion to Colca Canyon

A few hours from Arequipa is Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world (3,400 m). There you can watch the majestic Andean condor soaring through the sky from the famous Cruz del Condor viewpoint.

 The tour also includes picturesque villages such as Chivay, Yanque, and Maca, where you can relax in hot springs and learn about rural Andean life.

Adventure activities

Si buscas adrenalina, Arequipa es ideal para:

• Trekking en el Cañón del Colca o el Valle de los Volcanes.
• Rafting en el río Chili.
• Ascensos a volcanes como el Misti o el Chachani para viajeros con experiencia.