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Arequipa is one of Peru. Nestled in the foothills of the Andes and surrounded by stunning volcanoes, most beautiful and culturally rich cities. Known as “La Ciudad Blanca” (The White City) due to its many buildings constructed from sillar, a white volcanic stone, Arequipa is a place where history, culture, and natural beauty converge.
As Peru’s second-largest city, it boasts a unique blend of colonial architecture, vibrant local markets, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. This blog will take you on a journey through the heart of Arequipa, exploring its most iconic tourist attractions and offering insights into what makes this city a must-visit destination.
Before diving into the city’s attractions, it’s important to understand the rich history and culture that shape Arequipa. Founded on August 15, 1540, by Spanish conquistador Garci Manuel de Carbajal, Arequipa has always held a special place in Peru’s history.
The city played a crucial role during the colonial period and was an important center for trade and politics. Arequipa’s distinct identity also roots itself in its indigenous Quechua culture, which blends seamlessly with Spanish influences.
The city’s architecture reflects this unique cultural fusion, with stunning churches, monasteries, and mansions that showcase Spanish baroque styles combined with indigenous elements. The local culture is vibrant and lively, with festivals, traditional dances, and a cuisine that is renowned across Peru. Arequipa’s historical significance and cultural richness have earned it the designation of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
No visit to Arequipa is complete without spending time at the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square and a central hub of activity. Surrounded by palm trees and framed by the majestic Andes mountains, the plaza is one of the most picturesque in South America. The plaza is not just a place to relax but also a historical site, with buildings that date back to the colonial era.
The Arequipa Cathedral, which dominates the northern side of the plaza, is a must-see. Built in the 17th century, the cathedral is made entirely of sillar, which gives it a striking white appearance. The cathedral’s twin towers and grandiose architecture make it a symbol of Arequipa. Inside, visitors can explore an impressive collection of religious art, as well as an elaborate Belgian organ that dates back to the 19th century.
The Plaza de Armas is also home to numerous cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy Arequipa’s famous cuisine while soaking in the views of the surrounding mountains. The plaza comes alive at night with locals and tourists alike enjoying the cool evening air, making it the perfect starting point for any exploration of the city.
One of Arequipa’s most fascinating attractions is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. In 1579, they founded this sprawling convent, often describing it as a “city within a city” due to its vast size and complex structure. Covering an area of over 20,000 square meters, the monastery is a maze of narrow streets, colorful courtyards, and beautiful cloisters.
The Monasterio de Santa Catalina initially served as a secluded retreat for wealthy Spanish nuns, but over the centuries, it has opened its doors to the public. Now, visitors can wander through its tranquil passages, which are painted in vibrant shades of blue, orange, and red. The monastery offers a glimpse into the lives of the nuns who lived there, with many of the rooms still furnished with original furniture, religious artifacts, and artworks.
One of the highlights of the monastery is the Plaza Zocodover, a serene courtyard with a central fountain surrounded by orange trees. The Sala Capitular, with its impressive collection of religious paintings, and the Lavandería, where nuns would do their washing, are also worth visiting. The Monasterio de Santa Catalina is a place where history comes alive, and it’s easy to spend hours exploring its many nooks and crannies.
Arequipa is surrounded by three imposing volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. These volcanoes are not just beautiful landmarks; they are also integral to the city’s identity and are popular among adventurers seeking to hike their slopes.
Misti is the most iconic of the three, with its perfect conical shape dominating the skyline. Standing at 5,822 meters (19,101 feet) above sea level, Misti is a relatively accessible climb for experienced hikers. The ascent offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and on a clear day, climbers can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean. The climb usually takes two days, with a night spent at base camp before the final ascent to the summit. While challenging, the climb to Misti’s summit is a rewarding experience that offers a unique perspective on Arequipa and its surroundings.
Chachani, at 6,075 meters (19,931 feet), is the tallest of the three volcanoes. Although higher than Misti, climbers consider Chachani less technically challenging, making it a popular choice for those looking to conquer a 6,000-meter peak. The climb to Chachani also takes two days, rewarding climbers with a breathtaking view from the top that encompasses the entire region.
Pichu Pichu, the third volcano, is slightly less popular among climbers due to its lower altitude of 5,664 meters (18,583 feet). However, it offers a more remote and tranquil experience, with fewer tourists making the trek. The climb to Pichu Pichu is known for its varied landscapes, including arid deserts and lush valleys.
For those who prefer not to climb, the volcanoes can also be admired from various viewpoints around the city. The Yanahuara Mirador offers a particularly stunning view of Misti, with the white sillar arches framing the volcano perfectly.
A trip to Arequipa would not be complete without visiting the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Located about 160 kilometers (100 miles) from Arequipa, the Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States, plunging to depths of over 3,270 meters (10,725 feet). The canyon is a place of breathtaking natural beauty, with terraced fields, traditional Andean villages, and a diverse range of wildlife.
One of the main attractions of the Colca Canyon is the opportunity to see the Andean condor, one of the largest flying birds in the world. The best place to see these magnificent birds is at the Cruz del Condor viewpoint, where visitors often see them soaring above the canyon walls. Watching these massive birds glide effortlessly through the air highlights any visit to the Colca Canyon.
The canyon is also home to several traditional villages where time seems to have stood still. Villages like Chivay, Yanque, and Cabanaconde offer a glimpse into traditional Andean life, with stone houses, local markets, and vibrant festivals. Many of these villages have hot springs nearby, where visitors can relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
For the more adventurous, there are numerous trekking routes that take you deep into the canyon. The most popular trek is the two-day hike from Cabanaconde to the village of Sangalle, also known as the “Oasis,” where you can find rustic lodges and natural pools. The trek offers stunning views of the canyon and the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Arequipa’s historic center is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, with over 500 historical buildings constructed from the distinctive white sillar stone. Wandering through the narrow streets of the historic center feels like stepping back in time, with beautifully preserved mansions, churches, and monasteries at every turn.
La Compañía de Jesús, a Jesuit church located near the Plaza de Armas, is one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Arequipa. Built in the 17th century, the church is renowned for its intricate façade, which features elaborate carvings of saints, angels, and indigenous motifs. Inside, the church is equally impressive, with a stunning baroque altar covered in gold leaf and a series of chapels adorned with religious art.
Casa del Moral, one of the oldest and most important colonial houses in Arequipa. This 18th-century mansion is a prime example of the city’s colonial architecture, with its elegant courtyard, stone walls, and ornate wooden balconies. The house is now a museum, showcasing a collection of antique furniture, religious artifacts, and historical documents.
San Francisco Complex, which includes a church, convent, and museum, is another must-visit site in the historic center. The church’s simple exterior belies the richness of its interior, which features an impressive collection of religious art and a beautifully carved wooden choir.
For a more immersive experience, consider joining a guided walking tour of the historic center. These tours offer fascinating insights into the history and culture of Arequipa, with knowledgeable guides bringing the city’s past to life.
Just a short walk from the historic center, the district of Yanahuara features narrow cobblestone streets, quaint colonial houses, and beautiful churches. The Yanahuara viewpoint serves as the district’s main attraction.
Mirador, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes, particularly the iconic Misti.
A series of sillar arches frames the viewpoint, each engraved with quotations from famous Arequipeños. Tourists and locals especially flock to this popular spot at sunset when the golden light bathes the city. Nearby, you can visit the Iglesia de Yanahuara, a charming church built in the 18th century, for its baroque-style façade and peaceful interior.
Yanahuara is also known for its traditional picanterías, where you can sample Arequipa’s famous cuisine. You shouldn’t miss local specialties like rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper), adobo (pork stew), and ocopa (potatoes in a spicy peanut sauce). The district’s quiet, relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon exploring.
For a unique experience that delves into the very material that gives Arequipa its nickname, take a trip along the Ruta del Sillar (Sillar Route). This route takes you to the stone quarries located just outside the city, where the sillar stone has been extracted for centuries.
The quarries offer a fascinating insight into the traditional methods of stone carving that have been passed down through generations. Here, you can see skilled artisans at work, carving intricate designs into the stone using tools that have remained largely unchanged over time. The quarries themselves are a striking sight, with towering walls of white stone contrasting against the blue sky.
One of the highlights of the Sillar Route is the Añashuayco Quarry, where visitors can explore a canyon-like area that centuries of workmen have carved out of the sillar. The quarry remains active today, and visitors can observe the entire process of stone extraction, from the initial cutting to the final carving.
The Sillar Route is not only a journey into Arequipa’s geological history but also an opportunity to learn about the city’s cultural heritage and the craftsmanship that has shaped its iconic architecture.
Arequipa is home to several museums that offer a deep dive into the region’s history, culture, and art. One of the most important is the Museo Santuarios Andinos, which houses the famous Mummy Juanita, also known as the “Ice Maiden.” Discovered on Mount Ampato in 1995, Juanita is the frozen remains of an Inca girl who was sacrificed to the gods over 500 years ago. The museum provides a fascinating look at Inca culture and the rituals associated with human sacrifice.
Another notable museum is the Museo de Arte Virreinal de Santa Teresa, located in a former Carmelite convent. The museum features an extensive collection of colonial religious art, including paintings, sculptures, and silverwork. The convent itself is a beautiful example of colonial architecture, with peaceful courtyards and well-preserved living quarters.
The Museo Histórico Municipal, housed in the Casa del Moral, offers a comprehensive overview of Arequipa’s history, from its founding to the present day. The museum’s exhibits include historical documents, maps, and artifacts that provide a detailed look at the city’s development over the centuries.
For art lovers, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Arequipa showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art from both Peruvian and international artists. The museum is housed in a striking modern building, and its exhibits are constantly changing, offering something new with each visit.
Arequipa’s vibrant culture is perhaps best experienced during its many festivals, which are a blend of indigenous traditions and Spanish influences. The city’s most important festival is La Semana de Arequipa, which takes place in August to celebrate the city’s founding. The week-long festival features parades, music, dance performances, and fireworks, with the entire city coming together to celebrate its heritage.
Another important festival is Corpus Christi, a religious celebration that takes place in June. Elaborate processions mark the festival, with participants dressing in traditional costumes and carrying ornate religious statues through the streets. The celebrations also include traditional music, dance, and feasting.
The Festival of the Virgen de Chapi, celebrated in May, is another significant event in Arequipa’s cultural calendar. The festival honors the Virgen de Chapi, the patron saint of Arequipa, with a pilgrimage to her sanctuary located in the nearby town of Polobaya. The festival is a time of devotion, with many pilgrims walking long distances to reach the sanctuary.
Arequipa’s festivals are a time of joy and community, offering visitors a chance to experience the city’s traditions and connect with its people.
Visiting Arequipa is a rewarding experience, but it’s important to prepare for the city’s unique conditions. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Arequipa is a city that captivates the senses, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its stunning colonial architecture and vibrant festivals to the breathtaking landscapes of its surrounding volcanoes and canyons, Arequipa is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture, Arequipa has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the White City—Arequipa awaits you! Explore Peru with Pacha Expeditions Travel Peru….
