Arequipa
Arequipa, the ‘White City,’ shines bright with its stunning baroque architecture made from white volcanic sillar stone. Shadowed by Misti Volcano, this city surprises with gems like Santa Catalina Monastery. Come evening, relax in a local picantería, tasting dishes like rocoto relleno.
Chapters
Local Tips
• Santa Catalina Monastery
• Colca Canyon
• Plaza de Armas
• El Misti Volcano
• Andean cuisine
• Altitude sickness
• Urban pollution
• Limited international connectivity
Currency: –
Festivities: –
Arequipa Guide
Guide for 1 Day
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Despensa Café and enjoy the local specialty, queso helado.
- Visit the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery, a colorful and historic complex dating back to the 16th century.
- Take a stroll through the bustling San Camilo Market and discover the variety of fresh local products on offer.
Midday
- Head to La Nueva Palomino and indulge in a traditional and mouth-watering Arequipeño dish, such as rocoto relleno or chupe de camarones.
- Explore the incredible Mirador de Yanahuara and take in the panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Afternoon
- Visit the lesser-known but equally fascinating Mundo Alpaca and learn about the production of alpaca wool and the history of this important industry in Arequipa.
- Take a short taxi ride to Los Palomares de Cayma, a unique and beautiful colonial neighborhood with stunningly preserved houses and narrow streets.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at La Trattoria del Monasterio, a cozy restaurant with a fantastic ambiance and a varied menu.
- Sip on a pisco sour and relax at El Portal de San Lázaro, a charming bar with a lively atmosphere and great music.
- End your night at Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, and admire the stunning architecture and lively nightlife.
Guide for 2 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious Peruvian breakfast at Café Tradicional.
- Explore the stunning architecture of Plaza de Armas.
- Discover the fascinating history of Arequipa at Museo Santuarios Andinos.
Midday
- Savor a traditional Peruvian lunch at La Nueva Palomino.
- Experience the local culture by visiting the vibrant San Camilo Market.
Afternoon
- Take a scenic walk along the historic streets of Yanahuara.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from Mirador de Yanahuara.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Zig Zag Restobar.
- Experience the buzzing nightlife at Fuego y Sangre.
- Unwind and relax at the cozy Café Terrace.
Day 2
Morning
- Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at La Despensa.
- Explore the unique architecture of Monasterio de Santa Catalina.
- Immerse yourself in local history at Museo Historico Municipal de Arequipa.
Midday
- Taste the flavors of Arequipa with a traditional lunch at La Benita.
- Discover the hidden gem of La Recoleta and its picturesque surroundings.
Afternoon
- Visit the lesser-known Barrio de San Lázaro and explore its charming streets.
- Enjoy the tranquility of Molino de Sabandia and its beautiful gardens.
Evening
- Dine at the famous Chicha por Gastón Acurio for a taste of Peruvian cuisine.
- Enjoy a drink at the trendy Chelawasi Public House.
- End your day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Rio Chili.
Guide for 3 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Panaderia y Pasteleria San Camilo, a local bakery that serves fresh bread and pastries.
- Explore the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery, a colorful 16th-century complex that was once home to nuns.
- Admire the stunning architecture of Plaza de Armas, the main square of Arequipa.
Midday
- Savor a traditional Peruvian lunch at La Nueva Palomino, a cozy restaurant that offers local specialties like rocoto relleno and adobo.
- Visit the Mercado San Camilo, a bustling food market where you can find exotic fruits, Andean grains, and regional spices.
Afternoon
- Discover the fascinating history of Arequipa at the Museo Santuarios Andinos, a museum that exhibits the mummified remains of Inca children discovered atop a nearby mountain.
- Take a relaxing stroll through the picturesque Yanahuara neighborhood, known for its charming colonial architecture and stunning views of Misti Volcano.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Chicha por Gastón Acurio, a trendy restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Peruvian cuisine.
- Enjoy a cocktail at Misky Mikuy, a cozy bar that features live music and a wide selection of pisco-based drinks.
- Experience the local nightlife at Calle San Francisco, a lively street filled with bars and nightclubs.
Day 2
Morning
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at La Despensa, a trendy café that serves delicious coffee and homemade pastries.
- Explore the stunning Mirador de Yanahuara, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, a museum that showcases contemporary art from local and international artists.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with a delicious lunch at La Benita, a rustic restaurant that serves traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado.
- Discover the hidden gem of Barrio de San Lázaro, a charming neighborhood that features colorful houses and narrow streets.
Afternoon
- Explore the impressive Andean Sanctuaries Museum, a museum that displays artifacts from the Inca civilization and showcases their way of life.
- Discover the beautiful Plaza Yanahuara, a charming square that features a stunning church and a traditional archway.
Evening
- Indulge in a romantic dinner at La Trattoria del Monasterio, a cozy Italian restaurant that offers homemade pasta and delicious wine.
- Enjoy a drink at Arequipa Brew Pub, a craft brewery that offers a wide variety of beers and live music.
- Experience the local culture at El Tío Dario, a traditional bar that features folk music and dance performances.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Bistró, a trendy café that offers fresh juices and organic food.
- Explore the stunning Mirador de Carmen Alto, a viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the Chilina Valley.
- Visit the Museo Histórico Municipal, a museum that showcases the history and culture of Arequipa.
Midday
- Savor a delicious lunch at La Capitana, a seafood restaurant that offers fresh fish and seafood from the Pacific Ocean.
- Discover the hidden gem of La Recoleta neighborhood, a charming area that features colonial architecture and narrow streets.
Afternoon
- Explore the impressive Catedral de Arequipa, a stunning cathedral that features beautiful stained glass windows and a baroque façade.
- Discover the fascinating Casa del Moral, a colonial mansion that features beautiful gardens and antique furniture.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Zig Zag, a trendy restaurant that offers a fusion of Peruvian and international cuisine.
- Enjoy a cocktail at Café-Bar Palacio de Goyeneche, a historic bar that features a beautiful colonial courtyard and live music.
- Experience the local nightlife at Calle San Camilo, a vibrant street that features bars and clubs with live music and dancing.
Guide for 5 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start the day with a traditional breakfast of pan con chicharrón, a sandwich filled with crispy pork belly, at Café de la Plaza.
- Visit the impressive Mirador de Yanahuara for stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
- Explore the beautiful Monastery of Santa Catalina and learn about its history.
Midday
- Savor a delicious alpaca steak for lunch at La Trattoria del Monasterio.
- Take a guided tour of the Museo Santuarios Andinos to see the famous Ice Maiden mummy and other artifacts.
Afternoon
- Visit the San Camilo Market to discover the local produce and spices.
- Take a walk around the Plaza de Armas and admire the colonial architecture.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner of rocoto relleno, a spicy stuffed pepper dish, at La Nueva Palomino.
- Sip on a pisco sour, Peru’s national cocktail, at the trendy Chicha por Gastón Acurio.
- Listen to live music at La Casona del Pisco.
Day 2
Morning
- Have breakfast at Café Palomino, where you can enjoy freshly baked bread and pastries.
- Explore the Mirador de Carmen Alto and take in the breathtaking views of the Colca River and the surrounding mountains.
- Visit the Andean Sanctuary Museum to learn about the region’s pre-Columbian history.
Midday
- Taste some of Arequipa’s famous cheeses and meats at La Nueva Palomino.
- Visit the Mundo Alpaca museum and learn about the alpaca fiber production process.
Afternoon
- Take a scenic drive to the Molino de Sabandía, a historic water mill surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- Visit the Paucarpata Archaeological Complex and learn about the Wari culture.
Evening
- Dine on traditional Arequipan dishes like cuy chactado, or fried guinea pig, at La Benita.
- Have a drink at El Quimbocho, a bar with a lively atmosphere and a great selection of cocktails.
- Enjoy a night of dancing at La Iberica, a popular nightclub in the city.
Day 3
Morning
- Enjoy breakfast at Café Tostaduría Capriccio, where you can try some of the best coffee in Arequipa.
- Visit the Yura Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the thermal waters.
- Explore the Puente Bolognesi, a historic bridge over the Chili River.
Midday
- Have a late lunch at El Tío Darío, where you can try local specialties like chupe de camarones, a shrimp chowder.
- Visit the Casa del Moral, a beautifully restored colonial mansion.
Afternoon
- Explore the San Francisco Church, a historic church filled with art and relics.
- Take a stroll through the Barrio de San Lázaro, a charming neighborhood full of colorful houses and street art.
Evening
- Dine on delicious Peruvian fusion cuisine at Chicha por Gastón Acurio.
- Enjoy a drink with a view at El Buda Profano, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
- Listen to live music at El Hábito, a cozy bar with a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 4
Morning
- Have breakfast at Café Palacio del Sandwich, where you can try the famous sanguches de chicharrón, or pork sandwiches.
- Visit the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve to see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas in their natural habitat.
- Explore the Mirador de Chivay, a lookout point with stunning views of the Colca Canyon.
Midday
- Enjoy a hearty lunch of trucha frita, or fried trout, at El Rincón de Miguel.
- Visit the Colca Canyon Interpretation Center to learn about the history and culture of the region.
Afternoon
- Take a dip in the La Calera Hot Springs, natural hot springs with stunning views of the canyon.
- Visit the Cruz del Cóndor, a lookout point where you can see condors soaring over the canyon.
Evening
- Dine on traditional Andean cuisine like chupe de quinua, a quinoa chowder, at El Condor.
- Sip on a cocktail at Terraza del Condor, a bar with panoramic views of the canyon.
- Enjoy a night of dancing at La Casa del Cóndor, a popular nightclub in Chivay.
Day 5
Morning
- Enjoy breakfast at Café Sillar, where you can try the famous queso helado, a frozen dessert made with milk and cinnamon.
- Visit the La Compañía de Jesús Church, a stunning example of Baroque architecture.
- Explore the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo to see works by Peruvian and international artists.
Midday
- Have a late lunch at El Rocoto, where you can try the spicy rocoto relleno stuffed pepper.
- Take a guided tour of the Casona Tristan del Pozo, a historic colonial mansion.
Afternoon
- Visit the Umacollo Cemetery, a historic cemetery with beautiful sculptures and mausoleums.
- Explore the Plaza Yanahuara, a charming square with a colonial-era church.
Evening
- Dine on delicious Peruvian fusion cuisine at La Nueva Palomino.
- Sip on a cocktail at Mamá Africa, a bar with a lively atmosphere and great music.
- Enjoy a night of dancing at La Taberna del Diablo, a popular nightclub in the city.
Guide for 1 Week
Day 1
Morning
- Indulge in a traditional Peruvian breakfast at La Despensa, followed by a visit to the iconic Plaza de Armas to admire the stunning architecture of the Catedral de Arequipa.
- Take a walking tour of the historic San Lazaro neighborhood, known for its colorful buildings and charming atmosphere.
- Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Museo Santuarios Andinos, which houses the famous mummies of the Inca Ice Maiden.
Midday
- Savor a delicious Peruvian lunch at Chicha por Gastón Acurio, a restaurant known for its innovative fusion cuisine.
- Head to the Mirador de Yanahuara for spectacular views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
Afternoon
- Visit the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a stunning 16th-century convent that is considered one of the most important colonial buildings in South America.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Plaza de Yanahuara, which features a lovely garden and a charming white church.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at La Trattoria del Monasterio, a cozy Italian restaurant housed in a historic building.
- Sip on a pisco sour, Peru’s national cocktail, at El Turko, a popular bar with a laid-back atmosphere.
- Cap off the night with a visit to La Iberica, a local nightclub with a lively dance floor and great music.
Day 2
Morning
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Panadería y Pastelería San Antonio, a classic bakery that’s been serving Arequipa for over 60 years.
- Explore the ancient ruins of the Complejo Arqueológico de Pikillaqta, a pre-Inca site located just outside the city.
- Visit the Mirador de Sachaca, a lookout point that offers stunning views of the city and the countryside.
Midday
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at El Tío Darío, a cozy restaurant that serves typical Peruvian dishes.
- Head to the Mundo Alpaca textile museum and factory to learn about the process of making alpaca wool products and see the adorable alpacas themselves.
Afternoon
- Visit the Monasterio de San Francisco, a beautiful colonial-era church and monastery with ornate decorations and a peaceful courtyard.
- Explore the vibrant Barrio de San Camilo, a bustling neighborhood known for its colorful street art and bustling market.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Zig Zag, a trendy restaurant that serves contemporary Peruvian cuisine.
- Sip on craft cocktails at Mercado Boutique Bar, a stylish bar with a great atmosphere and creative drinks.
- Catch a live music performance at Café Bar Cultural Zig Zag, a cozy venue that showcases local talent.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Tostaduría Jardín, a charming café with a lovely garden.
- Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Arequipa, which features a collection of contemporary art from local and international artists.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Parque de Selva Alegre, a lush green space with walking paths and lovely views.
Midday
- Enjoy a tasty lunch at El Buda Profano, a restaurant that serves creative fusion cuisine.
- Visit the Museo Histórico Municipal de Arequipa, which showcases the city’s history and culture through a variety of exhibits.
Afternoon
- Explore the quirky Barrio de San Lázaro, a neighborhood known for its street art and bohemian vibe.
- Visit the Complejo de la Compañía de Jesús, a stunning 17th-century church that features intricate Baroque architecture and beautiful artwork.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at La Nueva Palomino, a traditional restaurant that specializes in Peruvian cuisine.
- Sip on local beers and enjoy live music at Wayra Bar, a popular nightlife spot with a laid-back atmosphere.
- Dance the night away at Manga Rosa, a club that plays a mix of Latin and international music.
Day 4
Morning
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Heladería Yiyi, a classic ice cream shop that also serves breakfast items.
- Visit the Complejo Arqueológico de Cahuachi, a pre-Inca site located just outside the city that features impressive pyramids and other structures.
- Take a scenic drive to the Valle del Colca, a stunning canyon with breathtaking views and great hiking opportunities.
Midday
- Savor a tasty lunch at La Terraza Café & Restaurante, a restaurant with a lovely terrace and great views of the valley.
- Explore the charming town of Chivay, which features colorful buildings and a bustling market.
Afternoon
- Visit the Baños Termales de La Calera, a hot springs complex where you can relax and soak in the natural pools.
- Explore the beautiful Pueblo de Yanque, a picturesque village with traditional architecture and stunning views.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at El Molino, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Peruvian cuisine.
- Sip on local wines at Bodega La Encantada, a winery that offers tastings and tours.
- Enjoy a peaceful night’s rest at a local guesthouse or hotel in the valley.
Day 5
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel or guesthouse in the Valle del Colca.
- Take a scenic drive back to Arequipa, stopping at the Mirador de los Andes for stunning views of the high-altitude landscape.
- Visit the Complejo Arqueológico de Uyo Uyo, a pre-Inca site located just outside the city that features impressive stone structures and intricate carvings.
Midday
- Savor a tasty lunch at La Lucha Sanguchería Criolla, a popular sandwich shop that serves delicious Peruvian-style sandwiches.
- Visit the Catedral de Arequipa, an iconic church with stunning architecture and beautiful art.
Afternoon
- Explore the quirky Barrio de San Agustin, a neighborhood known for its street art and hipster vibe.
- Visit the Museo de Arte Virreinal de Santa Teresa, a museum housed in a beautiful colonial-era mansion that showcases religious art and artifacts.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at La Nueva Palomino, a traditional restaurant that specializes in Peruvian cuisine.
- Sip on craft cocktails at La Comedia de Arequipa, a stylish bar with a great atmosphere and creative drinks.
- Catch a live music performance at Café Bar Cultural Zig Zag, a cozy venue that showcases local talent.
Day 6
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Despensa, a cozy café that serves traditional Peruvian breakfast items.
- Visit the Museo Histórico Municipal de Arequipa, which showcases the city’s history and culture through a variety of exhibits.
- Take a scenic drive to the Reserva Nacional Salinas y Aguada Blanca, a stunning nature reserve with breathtaking views and great hiking opportunities.
Midday
- Savor a delicious lunch at La Casona del Pisco, a restaurant that specializes in Peruvian cuisine and offers a variety of pisco-based drinks.
- Visit the Mirador de Chachani, a lookout point that offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes and high-altitude landscape.
Afternoon
- Explore the charming town of Yura, which features colonial-era buildings and a beautiful church.
- Visit the Complejo Arqueológico de Huaycán de Cieneguilla, a pre-Inca site located just outside the city.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Zig Zag, a trendy restaurant that serves contemporary Peruvian cuisine.
- Sip on craft beers at Cervecería Chelawasi, a brewery that offers tastings and tours.
- Dance the night away at Manga Rosa, a club that plays a mix of Latin and international music.
Day 7
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Tostaduría Jardín, a charming café with a lovely garden.
- Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Arequipa, which features a collection of contemporary art from local and international artists.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Parque de Selva Alegre, a lush green space with walking paths and lovely views.
Midday
- Savor a tasty lunch at El Buda Profano, a restaurant that serves creative fusion cuisine.
- Visit the Museo Histórico Municipal de Arequipa, which showcases the city’s history and culture through a variety of exhibits.
Afternoon
- Explore the quirky Barrio de San Lázaro, a neighborhood known for its street art and bohemian vibe.
- Visit the Complejo de la Compañía de Jesús, a stunning 17th-century church that features intricate Baroque architecture and beautiful artwork.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at La Nueva Palomino, a traditional restaurant that specializes in Peruvian cuisine.
- Sip on local beers and enjoy live music at Wayra Bar, a popular nightlife spot with a laid-back atmosphere.
- Dance the night away at Manga Rosa, a club that plays a mix of Latin and international music.
Where to Stay
Coming soon for Arequipa!
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Best Season
Coming soon for Arequipa!