Arequipa: The White City
Arequipa is a region of contrasts, where the imposing Misti volcano stands as the guardian of the White City. Its stone streets, sillar architecture, and vibrant culture make it an unmissable destination.
- Minimum Altitude: 9 meters above sea level (Punta de Bombón)
- Maximum Altitude: 4,525 meters above sea level (San Antonio de Chuca)
🏛 Province of Arequipa
Plaza de Armas of Arequipa
Surrounded by the Cathedral and beautiful colonial arcades.
Cathedral of Arequipa
An iconic 17th-century monument, rebuilt after a fire in 1844.
Church and Complex of La Compañía
A fine example of 17th-century religious architecture.
Santa Catalina Monastery
A cloistered citadel founded in 1580, featuring colorful streets and a fine art gallery.
Casa del Moral
A 17th-century baroque mansion with an impressive sillar stone façade.
Yanahuara Viewpoint
A panoramic viewpoint of the city and Misti volcano, framed by sillar stone arches.
San Lázaro Neighborhood
The site of the city’s founding, with charming colonial alleyways.
Sabandía Mill
A historic 1785 mill showcasing traditional sillar architecture.
Misti Volcano
A symbol of Arequipa, offering trekking routes to its 5,822-meter summit.
🏔️ Province of Caylloma
Colca Valley
A 100 km-long valley with pre-Inca agricultural terraces.
Cruz del Cóndor Viewpoint
A prime spot for observing Andean condors in their natural habitat.
La Calera Hot Springs
Natural pools with medicinal waters.
Colca Canyon
At 3,400 meters deep, it is one of the world’s deepest canyons.
🌿 Nature and Adventure
Chachani Volcano
A trek to over 6,000 meters, one of the most accessible mountains at that altitude.
Ampato Volcano
The site where the well-preserved Inca offering, the “Juanita” mummy, was discovered.
Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve
Home to vicuñas, flamingos, and stunning landscapes.
Sumbay Caves
Rock art dating back over 8,000 years.
🎉 Festivals and Traditions
🍲 Arequipa Gastronomic Festival
A showcase of Arequipa’s best dishes, including rocoto relleno, adobo, and queso helado.
📅 Holy Week
Religious processions and traditional cuisine.
🎶 Feast of the Virgin of Candelaria (February)
A celebration filled with dance and music across the region.
🎭 Arequipa Anniversary (August 15)
Parades, concerts, and cultural events.
🏞️ Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Arequipa is from April to November, when the weather is dry and sunny. The days are warm, and the nights are cool, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.
📍 How to Get There?
- From Lima: 1-hour flight / 16-hour bus ride.
- From Cusco: 30-minute flight / 10-hour bus ride.
Arequipa is a destination that blends history, culture, nature, and exquisite gastronomy.
