Arequipa, Peru

6 min read

May 21

Arequipa, Peru

Arequipa, Peru: The White City at the Foot of a Volcano

Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Andes Mountains, Arequipa, Peru, nicknamed "La Ciudad Blanca" (The White City), is a captivating blend of colonial charm, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant indigenous culture. Renowned for its iconic white buildings constructed from volcanic sillar stone, Arequipa offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

This comprehensive guide equips you with the knowledge to navigate Arequipa's charming streets, savor its delectable cuisine, and experience its rich cultural heritage. Packed with SimpleSmarties Travel pro tips and hacks, this guide ensures an enriching and unforgettable adventure in Arequipa.

Unveiling Arequipa's, Vibrant Districts:

Centro Historico: Step back in time and explore the heart of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander along narrow cobblestone streets lined with magnificent colonial architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and wrought-iron balconies. Marvel at the imposing Catedral Basilica Mayor de Arequipa, the Plaza de Armas, the lively Santa Catalina Monastery, and the Museo de la Momia Juanita, where a frozen Inca mummy is displayed.

Yanahuara: Escape the bustling city center and find tranquility in the charming district of Yanahuara. Located on a hilltop overlooking the city, Yanahuara boasts stunning views of the Misti volcano and colonial-era mansions built from volcanic sillar stone. Visit the Museo de Momias Juanita, an alternative museum showcasing additional mummies from the Inca period.

San Lázaro: Immerse yourself in Arequipa's vibrant culture in the lively district of San Lázaro. Explore the bustling Mercado San Miguel, overflowing with fresh local produce, traditional handicrafts, and delicious street food. Catch a performance of traditional dances like the Marinera or the Alpahaca at the local plaza and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Arequipa Valley: Venture beyond the city walls and discover the scenic Arequipa Valley, a fertile oasis adorned with snow-capped volcanoes and traditional villages. Explore the serene landscapes, visit the pre-Inca agricultural terraces of Andenería de Moray, or take a relaxing dip in the hot springs of Yura.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits: Must-Try Arequipa Restaurants

Arequipa's culinary scene is a fusion of indigenous Andean flavors and Spanish influences. From hearty stews to fresh seafood dishes and delectable desserts, Arequipa offers a diverse range of options to tantalize your taste buds:

El Trinque: Indulge in a fine-dining experience with breathtaking views of the Plaza de Armas at El Trinque. Savor innovative takes on Arequipean cuisine prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Chicha: Experience authentic Arequipa fare in a warm and inviting atmosphere at Chicha. Try the "Ají de la Casa" (spicy stew), "Rocoto Relleno" (stuffed pepper), or "Chupe de Camarones" (shrimp chowder) and delve into the heart of Arequipa's culinary heritage.
La Trattoria: Enjoy a taste of Italy in the heart of Arequipa at La Trattoria. This cozy restaurant serves delicious pizzas, pastas, and other Italian classics with a local twist.
Qayku: Sample Arequipa's renowned street food scene at Qayku, a popular market stall specializing in "pastel de papas" (potato pie), "choclo con queso" (grilled corn with cheese), and other local delicacies.
Mundo Alpaca: Indulge in Arequipa's signature sweet treat, "queso helado" (ice cream cheese), at Mundo Alpaca. This unique dessert combines creamy ice cream with a sweet cheese topping for a delightful taste sensation.

SimpleSmarties Travel Tip: Consider participating in a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Arequipean dishes like "Ají de la Casa" or "Chupe de Camarones." This is a fun and interactive way to experience the local cuisine.

A Celebration of Culture: Festivals and Events in Arequipa

Arequipa's cultural calendar is brimming with vibrant events throughout the year. From lively religious processions to traditional dance performances, there's always something happening in this culturally rich city:

Festival del Señor de los Milagros (October): Witness a captivating religious procession honoring the Lord of Miracles. Thousands of devotees participate in this colorful and emotional celebration, carrying a statue of Christ through the streets.
Santa Catalina Monastery Festivities (November): Immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities honoring St. Catherine of Siena, the patron saint of the Santa Catalina Monastery. Enjoy traditional dance performances, music, and colorful decorations throughout the district.
Aniversario de Arequipa (August): Celebrate Arequipa's founding anniversary with a week-long festival filled with parades, cultural performances, food fairs, and fireworks displays. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and experience the city's vibrant spirit.
Carnaval Arequipeño (February): Don your most colorful attire and join the lively celebrations of Arequipa's Carnival. Participate in water fights, dance to traditional music, and witness elaborate parades filled with costumes and floats.

SimpleSmarties Travel Tip: Plan your trip around a festival that interests you. Many festivals offer free outdoor activities, providing a budget-friendly way to experience Arequipa's vibrant culture. Book your accommodation well in advance, as hotels tend to fill up during major festivals.

Can't-Miss Experiences in Arequipa: Unforgettable Sights and Activities

Santa Catalina Monastery: Step back in time and explore the awe-inspiring Santa Catalina Monastery, a "city within a city." Wander through its colorful cloisters, courtyards, and ornately decorated rooms, and delve into the lives of the cloistered nuns who once resided here.

Santa Catalina Monastery: (Yes, it's listed twice, but for a reason!) Consider taking a guided tour of the Santa Catalina Monastery to gain deeper insights into its history, architecture, and the daily life of the nuns. Guides can share fascinating stories and hidden details you might miss on your own.

Misti Volcano: Embark on an adventurous hike or horseback riding tour to the summit of El Misti, a majestic volcano overlooking Arequipa. Witness breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, but be prepared for the challenging altitude.

Colca Canyon: Venture beyond Arequipa and explore the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, even deeper than the Grand Canyon! Witness the majestic flight of the Andean Condor, a bird with a wingspan of up to 10 feet, and discover the traditional villages nestled within the canyon.

Mundo Alpaca: Learn about the importance of alpacas in Arequipa's culture and economy at Mundo Alpaca. Visit a working alpaca farm, witness the shearing process, and shop for high-quality alpaca wool clothing and souvenirs.

SimpleSmarties Travel Tip: Purchase the Boleto Turístico Arequipa (Arequipa Tourist Ticket) for discounted entry to popular attractions like the Santa Catalina Monastery, Mundo Alpaca, and several museums. This card can help you save money and maximize your sightseeing time.

Beyond Arequipa: Unveiling Peru's Gems with Day Trips

Arequipa's strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring other captivating destinations in Peru. Here are a few exciting day trip options:

Chivay and the Colca Canyon (Full Day Trip): Embark on a full-day adventure to Chivay, a traditional village located at the Colca Canyon's edge. Witness the majestic flight of the Andean Condor, explore the scenic landscapes, and soak in the relaxing hot springs of La Calera. (Distance: 160 km / Time: 3 hours)
Salinas de Maras and Moray (Half Day Trip): Discover the surreal beauty of the Salinas de Maras, thousands of salt evaporation ponds nestled in the mountains. Marvel at the geometric patterns and traditional salt-harvesting techniques. Continue to Moray, a fascinating site with pre-Inca agricultural terraces used for experimentation with different crops. (Distance: 70 km / Time: 1.5 hours)
Arequipa to Cusco (Multi-Day Trip): Embark on a multi-day journey through the Peruvian Andes, connecting Arequipa with the historic city of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. This journey allows you to experience diverse landscapes, charming villages, and fascinating archaeological sites along the way. (Distance: 630 km / Time: 10-12 hours)

These day trips offer a glimpse into Peru's rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and breathtaking natural wonders. Consider incorporating them into your itinerary to experience the best of what Peru has to offer.

Embracing Arequipa's Charm: SimpleSmarties Travel Hacks

Learn a Few Basic Spanish Phrases: While Arequipa offers tours and signs in English in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases like "Hola" (Hello), "Gracias" (Thank you), and "Por favor" (Please) goes a long way in showing respect for the local culture and can enhance your interactions with locals.
Embrace the Walking Culture: The historic center of Arequipa is pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within walking distance. Explore the charming streets at your own pace, soak in the atmosphere, and discover hidden gems along the way. For longer distances or reaching viewpoints, consider taking a taxi, which are readily available and affordable.
Bargain at the Markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Arequipa's markets like Mercado San Miguel. Don't be afraid to bargain politely for souvenirs, handicrafts, and textiles. This is a common practice and can help you score good deals.
Sample Local Specialties: Don't limit yourself to familiar cuisine. Embrace the opportunity to try Arequipa's unique dishes like "Ají de la Casa" (a spicy stew), "Rocoto Relleno" (stuffed peppers with a creamy filling), and "Cuyes" (guinea pig – a local delicacy).
Respect Local Customs: Arequipa is a city steeped in tradition. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be mindful of local customs. Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
Altitude Acclimatization: Arequipa sits at a high altitude (around 2,335 meters or 7,660 feet). Take it slow upon arrival, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity for the first 24-48 hours to allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Drinking coca leaf tea, a traditional remedy, can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
Enjoy the Siesta: Many businesses in Arequipa observe a siesta time in the afternoon, typically between 1 pm and 4 pm. Plan your sightseeing accordingly or use this time to relax at your hotel or enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Arequipa Awaits: Unveiling Your Unforgettable Peruvian Adventure

Arequipa, with its captivating blend of colonial architecture, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant indigenous culture, offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. This comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate the city, discover its hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the Peruvian way of life. From exploring charming colonial streets to indulging in delectable cuisine and participating in vibrant festivals, Arequipa offers something for every traveler.

Enjoy some additional photos of Arequipa, Peru below: