Arequipa: Peru’s White City in the Spotlight | The beautiful white city of Arequipa, located in Southern Peru, has it all! Eternal spring, a nearby beach, and on top of that, fantastic architecture, excellent shopping opportunities, great gastronomy, beautiful surroundings, and… the deepest canyon in the world, the Colca Canyon!
Suppose you are interested in history and love to visit impressive architectural structures. In that case, Arequipa has a lot to offer. But also, nature-lovers won’t miss out on the White City! What to do in Arequipa? Read more about Why the White City of Peru is Worth a Visit in our article Arequipa: Peru’s White City in the Spotlight.
What to see in Arequipa?
| Do you know why Arequipa is called the “White City”? The city’s nickname comes from the white volcanic rock, from which many of its buildings are made. The giant volcano close to the town is called El Misti. |
The Cathedral of Arequipa is considered unique in Peru. It takes up the entire side of the Plaza de Armas. Its construction began in 1629, but it took its present form after the 1844 reconstruction. It was destroyed by a fire. A few years later, the Cathedral was again heavily damaged by a strong earthquake in 1868. The Cathedral of Arequipa is one of the few churches worldwide with fewer than 100 that are allowed to hoist the Vatican flag!
Arequipa was established by the Spanish back in 1540. There is a distinct “European” feel to the city for that very reason. Its architecture boasts a beautiful blend of European and native characteristics, as represented by the ornate temples and religious convents. The best example of this is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina or Santa Catalina Convent).
The convent of Santa Catalina is one of the most important religious buildings preserved from the colonial era. During this time, many wealthy Spanish families gave their second daughters to the monastery for “God and the kingdom of heaven”. As a result, up to 150 nuns lived there along with their servants in strict enclosures.
It is probably the most striking and fascinating feature of the historic centre of Arequipa, where you experience Peruvian history from four hundred years ago. To truly appreciate the history and understand the different rooms within the monastery, you can hire a guide at the entrance. Inside, you will find narrow streets painted in bright colors, peaceful courtyards, and historic chapels. The monastery remained largely closed to the public for centuries, which helped preserve its unique atmosphere.
Today, visitors can walk through the complex and learn about the lives of the nuns who lived here in near isolation for generations. Most Santa Catalina Convent Tours finish by eating some delicious cookies made by the current nuns!
| World Heritage Site Designated a Cultural World Heritage Site by UNESCO almost twenty years ago, the historic centre of Arequipa was described by the UN as “an example of ornamented architecture, representing a masterpiece of the creative coalition of European and native characteristics. A colonial town challenged by the conditions of nature, the indigenous influences, the conquest process and evangelism as well as for a spectacular natural scenario.” |
The Iglesia de la Compañía is located at the lower end of the Plaza de Armas. It was built from 1595 to 1698 and is considered a perfect example of the blend of baroque and mestizo architectural styles. The facade shows many elements of both indigenous and Spanish-Catholic cultures.
Don’t miss out on the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries. The Museum hosts one of the most important archaeological discoveries in South America in recent decades: la ‘momia Juanita’, The Mummy of a young Inca woman, was found in September 1995 at the top of the volcano Ampato by members of the American archaeologist Johan Reinhard Expedition. She was given the name Juanita.
Arequipa: Peru’s White City in the Spotlight:
The historic center of Arequipa is perfect for exploring on foot. The city’s architecture is characterized by white volcanic stone buildings, elegant balconies, and beautiful colonial courtyards. As you walk through the streets, you will pass by the above-mentioned historic churches, charming plazas, and traditional houses that reflect the city’s colonial past.
The area around Calle Mercaderes is particularly lively, with shops, cafés, and restaurants that make it a great place to experience the local atmosphere.
Take the Dos Manos Arequipa City Tour to visit all these impressive sites in the White City and know more about the history of Arequipa: Peru’s White City in the Spotlight!
Shopping in Arequipa!
| Arequipa is a particular city in Peru. In 1540, the “White City” was founded by the Spanish Lieutenant Garcí Manuel de Carbajal. Today, Arequipa is Peru’s second-largest city and offers many great activities for visitors! |
Looking for Souvenirs? Arequipa is a great place for souvenir hunting and the number one spot in Peru for top-quality (baby) alpaca and other woollen goods. Here you will find the nicest designs and export-quality shawls, sweaters, and others.
The Mercado San Camillo near the centre is one of the city’s most famous markets. Here you will find everything you need, from groceries to small restaurants to souvenirs! (read more below). Another artisan market is located at Plazuela de San Francisco. But also in the small and beautiful streets around the Plaza de Armas, as in the Pasaje Catedral and Calle Santa Catalina, you will find really excellent shopping opportunities.
More about souvenir hunting in Cusco: where to buy the best souvenirs?
Want to take a trip into nature?
| Did you know that Arequipa is considered the world capital of alpaca? Here, you will see hundreds of craft shops and stalls selling goods made from the delicate, soft alpaca wool, which is said to be of especially high quality! |
Apart from the impressive colonial and religious buildings, you shouldn’t miss out on the beautiful surrounding nature in Arequipa! Within walking distance from the Plaza de Armas, you find the relaxing neighbourhood of Yanahuara. Visit the mirador to enjoy the breathtaking view of Volcano El Misti, which gloriously dominates the cityscape.
Take a day trip to Puente Bolognesi or go and visit the water mill, el Molino de Sabandina, which is over three centuries old. The surrounding valleys provide many opportunities for adventure sports, camping, and hiking!
Admire the Volcanoes Around the City
Arequipa is surrounded by spectacular volcanic landscapes. The most famous volcano is El Misti, which rises dramatically above the city and is often visible from many viewpoints. Two other impressive volcanoes near Arequipa are Chachani and Pichu Pichu.
These mountains create one of the most scenic city backdrops in Peru and are a defining feature of the Arequipa landscape.
Visit the San Camilo Market
For a taste of local life, the San Camilo Market is one of the best places to visit in Arequipa. This traditional market is filled with colorful fruit stands, fresh produce, and local dishes. You can try typical Peruvian dishes, fresh juices, and local specialties while observing the city’s daily rhythm.
Markets like this offer an authentic glimpse into everyday life in Arequipa.
Would you like to see the landmarks in Arequipa and relax with beautiful views outside of the city? Then the Arequipa Campiña Tour is perfect for you!
Colca Canyon: the deepest canyon in the world
| Misti The most famous symbol of Arequipa, the Misti, peaks at an altitude of almost 6,000 meters. The altitude makes the climb to the top more about avoiding the effects of ‘soroche‘ (altitude sickness) and less about the technical aspects of climbing. For this reason, many people who feel strong at altitude (but are not necessarily killed climbers), try their luck. Ultimately, they are rewarded with what may be the best view in Arequipa! |
Close to Arequipa (about 3-4 hours by bus), you will find the Colca Valley and the deepest canyon in the world: Colca Canyon! Many travelers use Arequipa as a base for visiting the famous Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons.
From Arequipa, you can join tours to the canyon, where you can see:
spectacular canyon landscapes
traditional Andean villages
The famous Andean condor soaring above the canyon
At 4,160 meters (13,650 ft.) depth, the Colca Canyon is more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States! The Colca Valley gets its name from the mud and stone granaries carved into the cliffs or caves, called “colas”, where pre-Incan cultures would store crops and seeds.
Today, the Colca Valley features small, colourful villages where indigenous people maintain their ancestral traditions through festivals, handicrafts, and agricultural terraces. You can also observe the mighty Condor here (at Cruz del Condor, see below), circulating above your head in the simmering heat – this animal used to be one of the three holy animals to the Inca.
This sounds like something you don’t want to miss.
Take the 2-day Colca Canyon Tour or dive ultimately into nature
and do the 3 – day hike in the beautiful Colca Valley!
| Lovely climate It’s pleasant to walk through the streets of Arequipa thanks to its warm, sunny climate, the relative lack of hills, and the delicious traditional restaurants, or “picanterias,” that line every street. The historic district is also built almost entirely from “sillar”, or ashlar, a white stone formed by the lava of the volcanoes that preside over the city (the aforementioned Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu). This makes Arequipa brighter and provides a magnificent contrast against the perfectly blue sky. |
Villages, and evangelism, in the Colca Canyon
Most Colca Canyon hikes begin in the sleepy town of Cabanaconde. You wind down rocky switchbacks until you make it down to a bridge overlooking the Colca River. Travelling down into the canyon and enjoying the accompanying rise in temperature, the guide provides local myths and information about the canyon’s flora and fauna.
Another famous village in the Colca Canyon is Chivay, located at 3,600 meters above sea level and known for its incredible trails. Chivay is the perfect place to get in touch with the Andes’ natural beauty. The people of Chivay are a community attached to its traditions; they speak Quechua. Chivay women dress in beautiful long skirts, blouses, and baroque-style vests, with patterns of flowers and birds.
Viewpoint “Cruz del Condor”
Don’t miss the opportunity to see the condors in the Colca Canyon in Peru. At the famous viewpoint Cruz del Condor, or “Condor’s Cross”, you can watch condors spreading their wings as they roam the canyon. It is truly a fascinating sight to see the world’s largest flying bird glide through the canyon as it searches for prey.
There is another mirador, Antahuilque.
Here are two beautiful lakes, one of which is well known for its shape resembling Peru. And the second one was Hauyya Kpuncu (the door of the wind), which offered spectacular views of the Inca and Pre-Inca terraces where potatoes and corn were grown.
Enjoy Arequipa’s Famous Gastronomy
Arequipa is considered one of the gastronomic capitals of Peru. The city is famous for its traditional restaurants, called picanterías, where you can taste regional dishes prepared using old recipes.
Some of the most famous dishes include:
Rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper)
Adobo arequipeño (traditional pork stew)
Ocopa (potatoes with a rich cheese and chili sauce)
Trying these dishes is an essential part of visiting Arequipa.
How do I get to Arequipa?
Arequipa has an airport 8km from the city.
You can arrive by several airlines from Lima, Juliaca, and Cusco.
Alternatively, you can take an overnight bus from Cusco (10 hrs), Lima (17 hrs), or Puno (8 hrs).
| Contact Dos Manos to plan your trip to Arequipa or write info@dosmanosperu.com |
