Destination
Arequipa
White stone, volcano behind
Why Visit Arequipa
Arequipa earns the nickname 'White City' from the sillar, a whitish volcanic rock extracted from Mount Misti with which its churches, convents and colonial mansions were built. The Historic Center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 and is considered one of the best-preserved historic centers in Latin America.
The Santa Catalina Monastery is Arequipa's most valuable treasure: a city within a city spanning over 20,000 m² where Poor Clare nuns lived for 400 years in complete isolation. Its ochre, cobalt blue and brick red streets form one of the most photographed architectural ensembles in Peru.
Some 160 km from Arequipa, the Colca Canyon (twice as deep as the Grand Canyon) is where Andean condors spread their wings up to 3 meters wide. The Cruz del Cóndor observatory, at 3,287 meters above sea level, is one of the best places in the world to see these majestic birds in free flight.
What to See and Do in Arequipa
Hotels in Arequipa
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A Relais & Châteaux set inside 16th-century sillar walls, one block from the Santa Catalina Monastery. Eleven rooms, chef-led kitchen and volcanic-stone courtyards.
18th-century colonial mansion transformed into a luxury boutique hotel. Interior cloister, Arequipeñan cuisine restaurant and steps from Santa Catalina Monastery.
Tours in Arequipa
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Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery, a 400-year-old city within a city, and gaze upon the imposing Misti volcano from the White City.
The world's deepest canyon and the majestic condor flight. Departure from Arequipa, the White City.
Pedal from Arequipa's volcanoes to the edge of the world's deepest canyon. Epic 2-day route through altiplano, terraced fields and condor flight.
The most iconic climb in southern Peru. 2-day route to the summit of the active volcano that watches over Arequipa, with 360° panoramic views.
Restaurants in Arequipa
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Alpine and Peruvian cuisine in a two-story colonial mansion. Alpaca and llama meats on volcanic stone, views of Misti volcano and high-altitude wine list.
Peru's first döner kebab, on San Francisco street. Turkish cooking with a Peruvian twist: kebabs, sandwiches, burgers and desserts, open into the small hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
Quick facts
When to Go
April to November (dry season). Best condor sightings are in July and August. December–March brings rain to the Colca Canyon.
Getting There
Flight from Lima to Rodríguez Ballón Airport (AQP), 1h 20min. Or overnight bus from Lima (16h). The airport is 8 km from the center.
