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7 Things To Know Before Visiting Arequipa, Peru

Affectionately known as the Ciudad Blanca (White City), Arequipa is famed for being almost entirely carved out of white volcanic sillar stone. But its beautiful architecture isn’t the only draw. Boasting its own gastronomical and cultural scene, as well as plenty of outdoor adventures amid canyons and volcanoes, Arequipa is bound to be a highlight of your trip through southern Peru.

It’s got its own food scene going on.

Arequipa may only be one tenth of the size of Peru’s capital, but that doesn’t stop it from giving Lima a run for its money when it comes to food. While you will find Peruvian classics like lomo saltado (beef stir-fry) and ají de gallina (chicken stew), the White City is most famous for its Picanterías: no-frills, hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving hearty, home-cooked comida arequipeña (Arequipan cuisine). If you do nothing else here, be sure to schedule in a lunch at La Nueva Palomino for your fill of the city’s best rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers), chupe de camaron (shrimp chowder), and Sunday adobo.

Warmer weather awaits

Compared to the very chilly Cusco and Lake Titicaca, Arequipa feels tropical. Situated at a lower elevation and blessed with plenty of days of sunshine, the city stays at a very pleasant 20C to 23C (65F to 75F) year-round. Having said that, in the evenings it does drop to around 9C to 10C (45F to 50F), so you’ll still need a jacket.

Be careful with taxis

For the most part, Arequipa is a very safe city. However, there have been cases where tourists have been scammed or robbed after hailing a taxi from the street, particularly late at night or early morning. If you need a ride, ask your hotel or Airbnb host to send you a number of a trusted taxi company.

It’s rooftop heaven

At around 6pm, there’s only one place you want to be in Arequipa: a rooftop bar. Many hotels and hostels , as well as bars and restaurants around the main square, have lively rooftops from which to watch the fading sun turn the White City golden. This, along with the pink-and-orange-hued Misti volcano backdrop, makes for one of the most beautiful sunsets in Peru.

Make time for Juanita

Known as the Inca Ice Maiden, Juanita – a frozen 500-year-old mummy – is considered one of the world’s greatest discoveries. Found in 1995 atop the nearby Mount Ampato, the perfectly-preserved 12-year-old girl (her hair, teeth and skin still intact) is thought to have been a sacrifice to the gods sometime between 1450 and 1480. Today, Juanita, as well as the many artifacts that were found with her body, is on display at Arequipa Andean Sanctuaries Museum.

Bring your best hiking boots

Colca Canyon is perhaps the best-known hiking destination near Arequipa. However, there is an even bigger outdoor adventure awaiting nearby: climbing to the top of El Misti Volcano. With a snow-capped summit of 19,101 feet (5,822 meters), this is no easy feat, but those up for the challenge will be rewarded with some of the best views in the region. If a hike that involves crampons, helmets and harnesses doesn’t sound like your thing, opt for the equally stunning Chachani volcano or Cotahuasi Canyon trek instead.

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You’ll need longer than you think

With much of the focus on Colca Canyon, many visitors only use Arequipa as an overnight base. However, Colca Canyon aside, Arequipa is worth a visit in its own right. With tons of fantastic restaurants, bars and cafés, as well as several must-see attractions like Santa Catalina Monastery, Juanita and the Basilica Cathedral, you can easily fill several days of fun here.

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The 15 Most Unmissable Things to Do in Arequipa, Peru’s Striking White City

By Author Graham Minser

Posted on Last updated: 6th October 2023

“You should have been here fifteen years ago, before everyone found out” says a jaded traveler, bellied up to the bar in any popular tourist destination. While some destinations may have lost a bit of their allure as more and more travelers descend on them, the same cannot be said for Arequipa (ar-ay-KEE-pa), Peru’s most beautiful city.

If you’re seeking a place away from the crowds yet full of unique things to do, Arequipa is among the must sees in Peru.

If you ask Peruvians across the country about the city, the first things they will likely mention are the beautifully stark architecture, built with the white volcanic rock called sillar , and the cuisine, which stands out in a country already renowned for its range and quality of food.

This and more should put Arequipa on nearly any traveller’s itinerary. The White City often convinces its visitors to stay longer than originally planned, and for good reason.

While the atmosphere is generally laid-back, the city and surrounding region offer plenty of sights and adventures to keep visitors busy for days or even weeks on end. Without further ado, here are my recommendations for the best things to do in Arequipa.

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1. Take in the beautiful Plaza de Armas

The city’s Plaza de Armas , arguably the most picturesque in the country, is a great place to begin your exploration of the city. The well-manicured square features a large fountain, towering palm trees, is surrounded by a handsome colonnaded arcade and is directly in front of the striking Basilica Cathedral de Arequipa .

The plaza is more relaxed than others in Peru, with fewer vendors and hawkers than in Cusco or Lima. Locals and tourists alike enjoy finding a shady bench with a book or camera to while away an afternoon. The streets surrounding the Plaza de Armas are closed to motor traffic, further adding to its status as the social hub of the centre. Many options of what to do in Arequipa are within a short walk of the plaza.

2. Check out the gorgeous Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa

When it comes to architecture, Arequipa possesses an astounding collection of beautiful structures, the foremost of which are its churches. The massive Basilica Catedral de Arequipa is the oldest and most significant of the city’s buildings. Originally built in the 1540s, the cathedral has been leveled and rebuilt a number of times due to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Like most buildings in the historic centre, the cathedral is carved ornately from the white volcanic sillar stone. The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive with its vaulted ceilings, ornate altar, and well-maintained pipe organ. The cathedral is particularly stunning when it is illuminated at night.

3. Visit the other beautiful churches in the city centre

Although the cathedral is certainly the crown jewel of the city, the centre has many other beautifully built and maintained churches that warrant a visit.

Among these are the Iglesia Santa Teresa , Iglesia de La Compañia , Iglesia de San Agustin and Iglesia de San Francisco . Some are spartan in construction while others have gold-leaf altars and walls of imported marble.

4. Tour the Monasterio de Santa Catalina

Of special note is the Monasterio de Santa Catalina , a centuries-old working monastery, occupying spacious grounds a couple blocks north of the Plaza de Armas. Built over four hundred years ago, the monastery has been a central feature of the city’s cultural and spiritual character since its foundation.

The complex houses more than four hundred pieces of religious art, many of which are showcased in the lovely gallery exhibit. The monastery is largely self-sufficient and is effectively a city within a city. Visitors may enjoy the cafe as well as a trattoria specialising in both local and Italian cuisine. Tours of the grounds are interesting and informative, and are offered in several languages.

5. Treat yourself to an outstanding meal at a local picantería

Although Peruvian cuisine is perhaps most famous for its ceviche, the food in Arequipa is well-known throughout the country. Among the most famous local dishes is chupe de camaron , a hearty broth not dissimilar to a Thai yellow curry, with prawns and potatoes. Another popular choice is rocoto relleno , a spicy local pepper stuffed with mince, veggies and melted cheese.

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On Sundays, locals flock to their favorite spot for adobo , a rich broth over slow-roasted pork. Wash it all down with some locally-brewed chicha , a sweet fermented corn drink often flavoured with cloves.

For an excellent local experience, we recommend heading to Picantería Victoria in the centre, or alternatively Picantería la Dorita or La Nueva Palomino across the river in Yanahuara. On Sundays, a reservation is recommended, as the popular restaurants fill up early with families.

6. Peruse the local goods at Mercado San Camilo

At the southeast end of the centre lies the city’s primary marketplace. Mercado San Camilo specialises in local fruit, vegetables, chocolate, meat, and dairy. There are also stalls for locally-made hats, shoes and textiles.

The market is also a good place to grab a quick local lunch, from grilled chicken and sandwiches to ceviche and rocoto relleno , best paired with a freshly-made fruit juice. It opens daily from 6am to 6pm, but is most lively in the mornings.

7. Visit Plaza de Yanahuara

Across the Río Chili from the centre is the lovely and peaceful district of Yanahuara . Its heart is the idyllic plaza of the same name, shaded by palm trees and encircled by cafes and restaurants. On the eastern edge of the square is the popular Mirador de Yanahuara , which affords breathtaking views of the historical city centre and El Misti in the distance.

A block north of the viewpoint is Tío Dario , a superb spot for lunch or dinner which specialises in both local dishes and seafood brought in fresh from the coast.

8. Taste and learn about pisco , Peru’s national spirit

Greece has ouzo and Scotland its whisky, and Peru is equally proud of its local distillation, pisco . Made with local grapes, pisco is distilled in small to medium batches and bottled without additives to ensure superior quality. The name derives from the clay amphorae made by the native population in coastal Peru for over two thousand years, which happened to be ideal for storing and aging the liquor.

The best place to both learn about and sample the spirit is Museo del Pisco , just behind the cathedral in the city centre. With an impressive collection of local and regional vintages, the knowledgeable staff will talk you through their collection, make a recommendation or whip up an expertly-crafted cocktail.

9. Spend an afternoon touring the local museums

Although the temperatures in Arequipa are pleasant, the midday sun takes it toll while you walk around. Beat the heat and head to a local museum or two in the hours when the shade disappears. The city has a number of archaeological museums with interesting exhibits. Among them are El Museo San Agustín and the Museo Arqueol ógico UNSA . Other museums worth visiting are the Museo de la Catedral and the Museo de Arte Virreinal Santa Teresa .

10. Marvel at Juanita, the famous Incan mummy

Museo Santuarios Andinos houses the world-famous mummy dubbed Juanita , the remains of a 12 to 15-year-old girl sacrificed and offered to the Incan gods at the top of Mount Ampato over five hundred years ago. The freezing temperature kept her remains remarkably well-preserved.

11. Walk around the city with a camera at dusk

By late afternoon, the lighting in the old city is perfect for a stroll with a camera. The Plaza de Armas and Monasterio de Santa Catalina are great spots, but perhaps the best place is around Plaza Campo Redondo in San L ázaro , the oldest area in the city with its narrow streets winding past whitewashed sillar walls beneath wooden balconies.

Good opportunities for photography are not limited to the old town. Yanahuara and Parque Selva Alegre showcase lovely scenes at dawn or dusk, especially towards El Misti and Chachani , another imposing volcano north of the city. Without a doubt, capturing the White City behind the lens is one of the top activities in Arequipa.

12. Organise an old town pub crawl

As it has in many cities around the world, craft beer has taken off in Arequipa. The burgeoning microbrew scene offers no shortage of options for those looking to tie one on. The best brewpubs are all located on or near Plaza Campo Redondo on the northern edge of the city centre.

Melkim Taproom features at least ten beers on tap, both their own and of other local brewers. Nowhere also offers several options from the barrel, with a focus on fruit beer. Nearby is Chelawasi Public House with a large and varied offering of local brews, as well as exceptional pub food. Last is Pataccala , a Belgian-owned operation with an impressive list of rare imported draft and bottled beers not easily found outside Belgium.

13. Climb El Misti

Dominating the city skyline at 19,101 feet (5822m), El Misti is a spectacular sight for many miles in all directions. Intrepid travelers may wonder if its climbable. It is indeed! Companies focused on Arequipa tourism operate in the city centre and organise two-day ascents to the summit.

Not for the faint of heart, El Misti is a challenging climb, if not a terribly technical one. We recommend going with Pablo Tour , which offers transport, camping and climbing gear, food and water, and expert guides. You will need to bring your own water, sleeping bag (available for hire), sunglasses, sun cream, toilet paper, and multiple layers of warm clothes as it gets quite cold near the summit.

Most groups reach the summit around noon on the second day, and the views are truly spectacular.

14. Enjoy the beauty and isolation of Reserva Nacional de Salinas y Aguada Blanca

Another day trip a couple hour drive from the city centre is the Reserva Nacional de Salinas y Aguada Blanca . This stunning national reserve showcases otherworldly high-altitude landscapes, wild herds of alpacas and llamas, flocks of flamingos, and the moss-like yareta plant.

Accessible by driving northeast around El Misti, the reserve covers a huge tract of land, meaning you’ll probably have a large area to yourself. This also means you’ll need to come prepared, either by hiring a capable 4WD vehicle in good condition, or going with a reputable tour company.

For the DIY option, we recommend going with Mountain Rent a Car , who offer well-maintained cars and trucks capable of getting you to and from remote locations outside the city.

For a guided tour, we again recommend Pablo Tour , who take travelers to Salinas Lagoon , but also offer the option to tailor a trip across the reserve.

15. Take in the sunset at a rooftop bar or cafe

The ideal way to end the day and begin your evening in Arequipa is on one of the many rooftop terraces facing the setting sun. For a coffee head to Puku Puku for anything from a flat white to a cold brew. For a beer or cocktail, try Sunset Rooftop Bar for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains – certainly one of the best things to see in Peru.

Alternatively, terraces facing northeast towards El Misti and Chachani offer an equally mesmerizing view as the westering sun paints the landscape. Waya Lookout Rooftop Bar on the Plaza de Armas is an ideal place for a sundowner, overlooking the Cathedral and El Misti. Pataccala also has a terrace, facing north towards Chachani.

Things to know before visiting Arequipa

Inspired by our guide? Here are some of the key things to consider before planning a trip to Arequipa. It’s also worth checking out our selection of one-week to one-month travel itineraries for visiting Peru as well as finding out t he best time to visit Peru according the weather .

Where is Arequipa?

In an isolated valley in Southern Peru, nestled between towering volcanoes and high desert, bisected by the Río Chili , sits Peru’s second-largest city. The first thing you’ll notice when walking around is Arequipa’s volcano, El Misti , visible from everywhere in the city. A world away from Lima, Arequipa is safe at night and its locals are welcoming to visitors. It is closer geographically and climatically to northern Chile and Bolivia than to the rest of Peru. It sits at 2,335 metres (7661 feet), which is around 900 metres (3,000 feet) lower than Cusco. Arequipa is well-connected with Lima, with several direct flights linking the cities. There are also several direct flights each week between Arequipa and Cusco. For those who prefer overland travel, Cruz del Sur has comfortable buses connecting the city to Lima, Cusco, and Puno on Lake Titicaca.

Is Arequipa worth visiting and what is it known for?

If you were to make a list of cool places in Peru, Arequipa should be at or near the top for most travellers. It is a destination made for those seeking adventure and the outdoors, top-quality gastronomy, unique architecture, a stunning natural setting, and is a relaxed, easily navigable city to explore. It’s also packed full of history. During the years of the Spanish viceroyalty, Arequipa was an important regional capital, a fact reflected in the amount the Spanish crown invested in its architecture. Much of the silver mined in Bolivia passed through the city en route to the coast, ultimately bound for the royal coffers in Spain.

How many days do you need in Arequipa?

That depends on whether you plan on exploring the region beyond the city. For travelers content to enjoy the pleasures of the city, three to five days should be sufficient. If you plan on climbing Misti, visiting the Salinas y Aguada Blanca reserve, or trekking in the Colca Canyon , five to ten days would be about right, depending on how many forays you plan on making outside the city.

When’s the best time to visit Arequipa?

The region has two distinct seasons: the dry season from April through mid-November which sees almost zero precipitation, and the summer wet season which lasts from December through March and is characterised by more frequent cloud cover and occasional rain. The climate in this part of the world is extremely dry, and Arequipa sees over 300 days of sunshine a year. The altitude of Arequipa is 2,335 metres (7661 feet). Although this is rarefied air, it’s around 900 metres (3,000 feet) lower than Cusco.

Is Arequipa a safe place to visit?

Among cities in South America with a sizable population, Arequipa ranks as one of the safest. Violent crime is virtually non-existent and the city centre is safe on foot at all hours. While the city is quite secure, it is of course important to observe common sense and avoid being a target by flashing cash and valuables, and to avoid walking alone in the small hours.

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• SANTA CATALINA MONASTERY
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• NIGHT CLUBS
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• PUNO TO AREQUIPA
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What To Do In Arequipa: 12 Must-Visit Places

Arequipa, the ‘White City’ of Peru, is one of the most important cities in the entire region. Its diverse architectural structures made of volcanic ashlar set it apart from other cities. Furthermore, Arequipa has nothing to envy from other cities because it’s filled with tradition, culture, and history that trace back long before the colonial era.

Situated over 2000 meters above sea level in southern Peru, Arequipa boasts numerous tourist attractions worth exploring. Below, we present our recommendation for what to do in Arequipa and the 12 must-visit places so that you make the most of your time in Peru’s most beautiful city.

Arequipa, at a glance:

• How to get to Arequipa: Taking a flight or by bus with Peru Hop .
• Most popular tourist destination : Colca Canyon. Check out tours on FindLocalTrips.com .

What to do in Arequipa and the 12 Must-Visit Places:

• Santa Catalina Monastery
• Plaza de Armas (Main Square)
• Catedral de Arequipa
• Museo Santuarios Andinos
• San Camilo Market
• Mundo Alpaca
• Yanahuara Viewpoint
• Try the best dishes at a ‘Picantería’
• Visit the Colca Valley
• Ruta del Sillar
• Rafting on the Chili River
• Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve

1. Santa Catalina Monastery:

A faithful representation of Arequipa’s essence, the Santa Catalina Monastery was built in the 16th century. Its walls, made of sillar (white ashlar), colonial relics, and narrow street, transport you to bygone times—a city within a city! You can explore the entire place with a guided tour or on your own.

2. Plaza de Armas (Main Square):

Considered one of the most beautiful in Peru, Arequipa’s Main Square (Plaza de Armas) is a must-visit. In the surroundings, you can find various structures made of sillar, museums, churches, and restaurants to explore during your entire stay. The Renaissance-style portals or arcades and the bronze fountain containing a peculiar elf, famous in the city for its diverse legends, are notable.

3. Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa:

Cathedrals in every city in Peru are worth visiting, and Arequipa’s Cathedral is no exception. Built in the 17th century, it has been affected by many earthquakes and reconstructed for the delight of visitors. It is recommended not only appreciate it from the outside but also from the inside. A guided tour includes a visit to the cathedral, the museum, where you can find relics over 400 years old, and the bell tower, where you can appreciate a panoramic view of the entire main square.

4. Museo Santuarios Andinos

One of the most famous figures in Arequipa city is a mummy! and rest in the Museo Santuarios Andinos. The mummy, known as Juanita, was an ancient Inca inhabitant sacrificed for ritual purposes. Her body was discovered years ago on Mount Ampato, at 6000 meters above sea level. What’s most impressive is that her body was found in perfect condition, and now you can admire it up close in this museum. Here, you’ll also find a variety of antiques, objects, and offerings used in rituals during the Inca era.

5. San Camilo Market

Very close to the Main Square, you’ll find the San Camilo Market, hosting various food stalls where you can discover everything Arequipa has to offer at a very affordable price. We highly recommend trying the cheese ice cream and various fruit juices. Go early in the morning to find the best flavors!

6. Mundo Alpaca

Peru is well-known for being home to various types of camelids, and one of them is the alpaca. If you’re not familiar, alpacas are relatives of llamas and are known for their beautiful fleece used to create high-quality garments. At Mundo Alpaca, near the city center, you’ll encounter many of these animals and learn about the alpaca fabric manufacturing process.

7. Yanahuara Viewpoint

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful districts in Peru, the district of Yanahuara not only boasts one of the best aesthetics in the city but also houses a perfect viewpoint to appreciate the entire city of Arequipa. The Yanahuara viewpoint is visited by hundreds of tourists each day who come to capture the best panoramic photos of the entire city. Get your camera ready!

8. Try the best dishes at a ‘Picantería’

The best ‘picanterías’ (traditional restaurants) can only be found in Arequipa. For all the foodies, these places are a must-visit to experience the flavors and typical dishes of Arequipa. We recommend going to the ‘picanterías’ in the San Lázaro neighborhood for lunch, so you don’t miss out on trying the famous Rocoto Relleno (stuffed hot pepper), Chupe de Camarones (shrimp chowder), and Arequipa beer.

9. Visit the Colca Valley

One of the main reasons tourists come to Arequipa is because from the city, you can take a tour to the beautiful Colca Valley. Here, you can explore the Colca Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world (even deeper than the Grand Canyon in the United States), and witness the Flight of the Condor. This andean bird showcases its magnificent flight in the morning, so most tours from Arequipa start very early. During the trip to the valley, you can relax in hot springs and take photos in a natural reserve, home to many llamas and alpacas. If you want to see a complete guide to the Colca Canyon, click here .

10. Ruta del Sillar

Arequipa’s most beautiful structures were built with sillar (white ashlar). This exciting route allows you to discover the quarries where sillar takes center stage. You’ll see many sculptures made of sillar, in addition to learning about its extraction process and its use in the construction of various buildings in Arequipa. To immerse yourself in a guided tour along the Sillar Route, check the tour comparison website, Find Local Trips .

11. Rafting on the Chili River

If you’re an extreme sports lover and adventurer, Arequipa has the perfect activity for you. The Chili River is located on the outskirts of the city and is used for rafting by many tourists and enthusiasts. You don’t need prior experience! If you book a tour, you’ll be guided with the necessary information to enjoy the adventure seamlessly, along with all safety measures. To see further information regarding this tour, check our Rafting webpage !

Ready to go? You can book a rafting tour here !

12. Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve

The perfect place to appreciate fauna and beautiful landscapes is in this natural reserve. It features Laguna Salinas, a shallow, salty lake at over 4000 meters above sea level where diverse fauna, such as llamas, alpacas, and flamingos, gather to enjoy nature. It is recommended to visit during the rainy season from January to March or months thereafter to take the best photos in the incredible landscapes and get up close to these lovely animals. Don’t forget to dress warmly for the cold!

Now that you know what to do in Arequipa and the 12 must-visit places, feel free to start your adventure to these unforgettable places. To compare prices for the best tours in Arequipa, don’t forget to check the comparison website, FindLocalTrips.com .

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Why you should visit Arequipa, the underrated gem of Peru

Arequipa, the stunning volcano-ringed 16th-century era city in southwestern Peru, is more than just an underrated gem – it’s an absolute must-visit.

Nicknamed “ La Ciudad Blanca ” for its unique white buildings made from a local volcanic material called sillar , Arequipa will lure you in immediately with its distinct beauty and charm. You may even feel like you’ve left Peruvian borders and any proud Arequipeño would say that you have. Just ask about the former Arequipa passport.

But, if the stunning white, carved facades and snow-capped volcanic peaks don’t capture your heart from the start, Arequipa’s rich traditions, refreshing pace, and thrilling outdoor adventures likely will.

As someone who currently calls Arequipa home, I’ve been able to pinpoint what makes this city so irresistible and it goes far beyond the 300 days of sunshine and quaint, cobble-stoned streets (though those are certainly factors).

The l ocal Arequipeña  c uisine

As a self-proclaimed foodie, I have to start this love letter to Arequipa with a mention of the city’s extensive list of local cuisine. Arequipa has more local dishes than any other city in Peru.

A few of my favorites include rocoto relleno , a spicy meat- and vegetable-stuffed red pepper, adobo, a flavorful pork stew served with a shot of anise liqueur (great for hangovers, I must add), and ocopa , potatoes smothered in a creamy, herb-based sauce. For the seafood lovers, the must-try local dish is chupe de camerones , a seafood soup of tomato, shrimp, hot pepper, cheese, potatoes, milk, and eggs.

READ MORE: OUR GUIDE TO PERU’S TASTIEST STREET FOOD

Dining in Arequipa

The p icanterías

Now that your mouth is watering, the place to try all of Arequipa’s local dishes is a lively and unique establishment called a picantería. The name comes from the fact that most of the dishes on the menu are picante , or spicy. Many of Arequipa’s picanterías are spacious and have an outdoor element to them. Try your luck at getting a table on a weekend and you’ll be knocking elbows with locals and their entire extended families.

My personal favorite picantería is called La Nueva Palomino. It has a great garden patio vibe to it and even better food. Their chupe de camarones is one of the best in town. Also, you can’t go to a picantería without ordering an enormous glass of chicha de jora , the famous corn-fermented beer that’s been enjoyed in Peru since the time of the Incas.

La Nueva Palomino

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Foodie tips from Intrepid local leader, Paola Ramos, who is from Arequipa!:

My favourite local places to eat in Arequipa are Ary Quepay (traditional dishes – like alpaca – in a 16th-century era building with Andean folk music) and Zig Zag (a meat-heavy menu with amazing fondues!).

The queso helado

Okay, I promise this is the last food-focused reason for visiting Arequipa, but I’d be amiss not to mention Arequipa’s unique claim to dessert fame. Queso helado , the creamy local “ice cream” made from coconut, condensed milk, and egg, is a rite of passage for any traveler to Arequipa. You’ll know you’ve found it when you see the signature bucket-like churn and often a traditionally dressed woman standing by it with a free cinnamon-topped sample.

My favorite is a little hole-in-the-wall place just down the hill from the Plaza de Yanahuara on Alfonso Ugarte. The sweet woman who owns the shop makes her queso helado in a variety of flavors including papaya, strawberry, mango, and several local fruits including membrillo, aguaymanto, and chirimoya.

READ MORE: 5 MUST-VISIT HIDDEN GEMS IN PERU, ACCORDING TO A LOCAL

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The cobblestone streets of Yanahuara

When I think back on my first visit to Arequipa, the memory that sticks out to me is my walk up Leoncio Prado, a pedestrian-only, cobblestoned street in the neighborhood of Yanahuara. It’s a tangible reminder of both Arequipa’s Spanish origins and its unique aesthetic. In Yanahuara, the signature white, stone walled streets are always accented with bright pink or red flowers in wall-attached flowerpots. It’s truly a photographer’s dream and any aimless wanderer’s favorite place to get lost.

Arequipa’s beautiful streets

The endless sunshine and perfect temperatures

The sunshine in Arequipa is enough to put a smile on anyone’s face. Throw in year-round spring-like temperatures and it’s really no wonder that Arequipa is home to some of the friendliest Peruvians. The clearest volcano views and the freshest temperatures tend to occur in the morning. Find a seat at one of the open-air balcony restaurants in the arches of the Plaza de Armas, order a coffee, and enjoy the view.

My go-to spot is a restaurant called La Boveda. They have one of the best c hicharrón (fried pork) sandwiches I’ve ever had. It comes served with a carafe of coffee and, yes, it is a breakfast food. If you’re lucky, you may even spot Chachani and Misti poking their snowy heads out from behind the plaza’s main cathedral.

The sunsets

I’m not sure why Arequipa has some of the best sunsets. Maybe it’s the altitude (Arequipa sits at 7,661 feet) or the way the sun hits the white sillar stone, but whatever it is, it’s always an entertaining show of pink, purple, and orange hues. The best place to catch the sunset is from one of the rooftop bars in the Plaza de Armas.

My favorite is a place called On the Top Terrace. It’s located adjacent to the cathedral, which only adds to the experience as you sit there sipping an Arequipeña (the local beer) or pisco sour at eye level with the 17 th century cathedral bell towers.

The local attractions

From the volcano-framing Mirador de Yanahuara, to an Incan ice mummy named Juanita found at the top of the volcano, Ampato, the attractions in Arequipa are vast and varied. Maybe you’ve heard of the famous Peruvian author Mario Vargas Lllosa? It turns out he was born in Arequipa and that his childhood home is now the highly interactive and entertaining Casa Museo Mario Vargas Llosa. The Santa Catalina Monastery is another bucket list item, and one of the most Instagram-worthy places I’ve ever visited.

READ MORE: WHY TO VISIT NORTHERN PERU, HOME TO THE “NEW MACHU PICCHU”

The nearby adventures are of epic proportions

We’re talking scalable 5,000+ meter high volcanoes and a canyon double the depth of the Grand Canyon to trek…just to name a few of the adventures available from Arequipa.

Hiking in the Colca Canyon

There’s also mountain biking, horse back riding, and white-water rafting down the Rio Chili to consider. I, myself, have trekked the Colca Canyon twice now and would do it again in a heartbeat (guide here ). This part of Peru is truly stunning and the terrain is like nowhere else in the country.

Arequipa is the perfect place to indulge your adventurous side.

Ready to visit this stunning Peruvian city? Explore it with Intrepid on our Essential Peru , Majestic Peru or Cuzco to Lima tours.

(Image credits from top to bottom: hero image c/o iStock/hartmanc10, Amber Dunlap x4, Caroline Joseph x2, Amber Dunlap.)

Feeling inspired?

Amber Dunlap

Amber Dunlap is a digital nomad currently parked in South America, originally from Colorado USA. Between writing in coffee shops (or wherever the wifi proves functional), she’s happiest exploring new places, especially through the local cuisine. She’s traveled to 16 countries already and has no plans of stopping anytime soon. Follow her nomad lifestyle and adventures on Instagram @amber_dun.

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