6 Best Thing to Do in Arequipa | The Ultimate Guide
Share my ultimate itinerary and useful information to help make your trip unforgettable.
Arequipa, Peru’s stunning city cradled in the foothills of the Andes Mountains at an altitude of 2,335 meters above sea level. Known as the “White City” for its breathtaking colonial architecture constructed from white volcanic rock, Arequipa is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its UNESCO-listed historic center boasts architectural wonders such as the majestic Santa Catalina Monastery and the iconic Plaza de Armas. With its rich heritage, vibrant markets, and dramatic landscapes, Arequipa promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Peruvian charm and tradition.
How to Get There
By Flight
Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport is located just 30 minutes from the city of Arequipa. It’s a convenient one-hour flight from Lima, providing a quick and easy way to reach your destination. Three airlines operate this route frequently: Latam Airlines, JetSmart, and Sky Airlines. Please note that each airline has a different baggage policy, so be sure to read the policy before purchasing your ticket to avoid any extra costs.
By Overnight Bus
For those looking for an alternative to flying, there are overnight bus options available departing from Ica. The journey takes approximately 12 hours. Bus companies like Peru Hop offer stops at Nazca, allowing passengers to view the Nazca lines. Another option is the local bus company Cruz del Sur, which provides a budget-friendly alternative for travelers looking to save money on transportation.
6 Best Things to Do in Arequipa
Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery
The Santa Catalina de Siena Monastery is a sizable monastery belonging to the Dominican Second Order in Arequipa, Peru. It’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a vital component of the “Historical Centre of the City of Arequipa.”
Take a day trip to Colca Canyon
Explore one of the deepest canyons in the world and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes, ancient terraced fields, and Andean condors soaring overhead. I will suggest you to plan your stay at least 2 days to give you extra time to relax.
Visit the Yanahuara Scenic Overlook
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of this iconic monastery. As you wander through its streets and courtyards, you’ll be amazed by the vibrant colors and beautiful architecture, offering a peek into the city’s colonial past.
The Yanahuara Scenic Overlook is a picturesque destination located in Arequipa, Peru. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the cityscape, including the iconic Misti Volcano in the distance. The overlook is famous for its charming white arches and colonial-era buildings, adding to its allure.
To get there, you’ll walk past the bridge, which takes about 35 minutes from the main square. When I visited, it was cloudy, so I couldn’t capture a photo of the peak of Misti Volcano. This spot is one of the most popular photo spots in Arequipa, so expect crowds. As you explore the area, you might be pleasantly surprised to discover your favorite photo spots.
Learn about alpacas at Mundo Alpaca (Free Entrance)
Mundo Alpaca is a fascinating destination located in Arequipa, Peru. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of alpacas, learning about these gentle creatures and the traditional methods used to work with their soft and luxurious fleece. From guided tours to hands-on experiences, Mundo Alpaca offers a unique opportunity to connect with Peruvian culture and heritage while enjoying the beauty of these beloved animals. Whether you’re a nature lover, an animal enthusiast, or simply curious to learn more, Mundo Alpaca promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Wander around Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas in Arequipa is always busy, especially during the breathtaking sunset when the historic buildings shine in golden light. While exploring, I found the cozy Waya Lookout, tucked away in the heart of the plaza. There, I enjoyed the famous Pisco Sour while admiring the panoramic views from the rooftop. It was a perfect spot to capture the beauty of the plaza and its surroundings. Remember to make a reservation ahead of time to ensure you don’t miss out on this memorable experience.
Explore the San Camilo Market
Experience the lively spirit of Arequipa’s largest market, the San Camilo Market. It’s a vibrant place buzzing with energy and culture. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh fruits and veggies to beautiful handmade crafts and souvenirs. As you wander through the maze of stalls, you’ll meet friendly vendors ready to chat and show off their goods. Whether you’re craving local flavors or looking for a unique gift, this market has it all. It’s an exciting experience that will leave you with lasting memories of the sights, sounds, and smells of Arequipa.
Where to Eat in Arequipa
Arequipa is known as a foodie hub in Peru, a country famous for its delicious cuisine. It’s considered one of the best places in the world to try some of Peru’s most famous dishes. We discovered a wealth of iconic Peruvian cuisine, ranging from street food to high-end restaurants, and even various vegetarian options. Many restaurants and cafés are hidden within the city’s architecture, catching my eyes as soon as I step inside. I fell in love with the dining experience while exploring the city.
Here are some restaurants that I discovered and recommend:
Oso Café Arequipa
Nestled within a charming building, Oso Café in Arequipa offers a delightful array of brunch options, making it the perfect spot to kickstart your day of exploration in Arequipa. What sets this café apart for me is its inviting bohemian vibe, which adds a unique touch to the dining experience. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast burrito or a refreshing açai bowl, Oso Café has something to satisfy every palate.
Kafi Wasi Café Tostaduría
If you’re anything like me, starting the day with a good cup of coffee is a must. That’s why I recommend checking out this place. After seeing its high rating on Google Maps, I decided to give it a try. What I found was not only excellent coffee but also friendly baristas who made me feel welcoming, despite not speaking Spanish. Whether you’re into bold espressos, creamy lattes, or rich pour-overs, they’ve got just what you need to satisfy your caffeine fix.
Kao Thai and Peruvian Cuisine
As someone who’s always on the lookout for tasty Asian dishes while traveling, this place is a real gem. With its mix of Asian spices and Peruvian ingredients, Kao Thai serves up dishes that are both comforting and full of surprises. From classic ceviche to mouthwatering Thai curries, I ordered the Pad Thai and that was delicious, every bite feels like a culinary adventure.
Victoria – Picantería democrática
I discovered this place through recommendations on YouTube. Sadly, I couldn’t visit due to time constraints. However, don’t miss out on trying the famous chicha morada, made from purple corn abundantly grown in the Andes Mountains. Also, the Chupe de Camarones (Peruvian Shrimp Chowder) is a must-try, especially if you’re a seafood lover. Be sure to add it to your list!
Queso Helado Charito
Queso Helado is a frozen dessert made with milk, cinnamon, and coconut (yes, it contains no cheese). You can easily find it at street vendors. I stumbled upon this particular one while visiting the Yanahuara Scenic Overlook. Don’t miss out on trying it when you visit Arequipa!
Where to Stay in Arequipa
Estancia El Solar
With various options to stay in Arequipa, from budget-friendly hostel to luxury 5-star hotel, I personally like to take a look on TripAdvisor, the platform that has the mortar realistic common from travelers, besides the budget, I am the person more concerned about the safety, cleanliness and location. By using TripAdvisor I was able to find the stay that met my expectations.
This time, I chose to stay at Estancia El Solar, which we found on Airbnb and also can be booked through booking.com
Location
Located in the center of Arequipa and just two blocks from Plaza de Armas, this hotel is surrounded by numerous cafes and restaurants. Additionally, it’s conveniently close to the pick-up point for day tours. Despite the front entrance facing the main road where buses frequently honk their horns, the rooms are surprisingly quiet, with no noise at all.
Amenities
Walking into the room, I noticed how spacious it was, which was a pleasant surprise. The queen-sized bed looked comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep. For entertainment, there was a TV with Netflix and YouTube, perfect for relaxing after a long day. I appreciated having a full-length mirror available for a quick check before leaving. And they provided bathrobes, towels, and a hairdryer for shower time, which was convenient. Overall, these little touches made my stay even more enjoyable.
Cleanliness
As someone who values cleanliness and pays attention to detail, I can confidently say that this place exceeded my expectations. It’s immaculate in every aspect, scoring a perfect 10 out of 10 on my cleanliness scale.
Unique Features
The room I stayed in had its own garden, adding a touch of tranquility and greenery to my stay. The use of white bricks in its construction not only lends a distinctive charm but also contributes to the room’s cool ambiance, providing a refreshing retreat from the heat outside.
Dining Experience
They offer breakfast from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM, for those with early check-outs, they thoughtfully prepare a snack bag, ensuring you’re fueled up and ready to go. One of my favorite moments was enjoying breakfast while soaking in the breathtaking view of the Chachani volcano – it was a truly unforgettable experience that made my stay in Arequipa even more special.
Overall Experience
Arequipa has its own unique beauty and is definitely worth a visit. Plan at least 3 days to fully immerse yourself in this captivating city. Wander through its historic streets, savoring every moment. Whether admiring its architecture or sipping on Pisco Sour, Arequipa promises an experience unlike any other. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the wonders of Arequipa. If you are planing your trip to Peru, please read our:
OMG!!! I was there, too!!!