Experience Arequipa Peru: 10 Best Things To Do in 2025

Have you heard of Arequipa? This underrated Peruvian treasure of a city should be on everyone’s bucket list for a wondrous travel experience found only in Arequipa Peru.

Arequipa is famous for its local cuisines, colonial architecture, buildings, and volcanoes. It is also home to the second-deepest canyon in the world. The Historical Center of Arequipa, located at the city center, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its fascinating colonial architecture and Baroque-style façades combined with Criollo and Indian masonry.

Most people visit this place to experience its white architecture built from sillar, petrified ash from erupted volcanoes. For that reason, the city is also known as La Ciudad Blanca (the white city). 

Another major reason for visiting this place is its pleasant weather. Most of the year, the temperatures remain between 48 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit (8.9 to 22.8 degrees Celsius). 

If you want to know more about Peru’s second-largest city with its awe-inspiring historical ambiance, stunning sights, and delectable food in a wondrous volcanic backdrop, continue reading this Arequipa overview and take a peek at the best of what it offers.

Best Things To Do in Arequipa, Peru – Activities

1. Colca Canyon Hike 

Colca Canyon is located only 3 hours away from Arequipa. The canyon is the second on the list of deepest canyons in the world, with an overall depth of about 1.86 miles (3 kilometers). 

The hike is relatively easy; you can get the ultimate experience of mesmerizing views even as a beginner. We highly advise you to take a tour as they are extremely cheap and improve the overall experience. 

On day 1 of your hike, you will mostly be descending into the canyon for almost 6 hours. Once you complete this part of the hike, you will be given a break. You won’t start again until the next morning. 

On day 2, a 3-hour hike will be ahead of you, so be prepared to give your legs a shake. 

Breakfast with views after reaching the top of Colca Canyon is a treat worthy of a lifetime. 

2. Hiking Famous Volcanoes 

There are plenty of spots to hike famous volcanoes. The volcano valley just 218 mi (350 km) northwest of Arequipa is a famous viewpoint that beats them all. The place has over 80 volcanic cones for you to view. 

Near this city, there are 2 amazing hikes on the volcanoes of Misti and Chachani.

The Misti volcano hike is not for beginners. The hike can be completed in around 2 days, but reaching the summit would require much more than a physically fit body. The total height of the volcano is around 19,101 feet (5,822 meters), so the views from the top would allow you to see all the way to the ocean. 

The accent of such high mountains requires professional gear and guidance, and the best way to experience this adventure is to hire a tour operator. We highly recommend this 2-day tour, including a dinner and tent as accommodation.

3. Free Walking Tour 

Free walking tours are a great way to know some history of the city. Tour guides take you to the most popular sights, such as museums, cathedrals, and other historic places. One place that we highly recommend taking some pictures of during or after the walking tour is the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa. 

Another historic place to view is the Museo Santuarios Andinos. You can learn about the story of Juanita, an Inca Ice Maiden and one of the oldest residents of Arequipa. 

Best Things To Do in Arequipa, Peru – Sights

4. Santa Catalina Monastery 

The monastery of Santa Catalina is at the top of our list of must-visit places in Arequipa. The place was once home to more than 450 nuns. The monastery is built over 4.9 acres (20,000 square meters) of space. 

Only 20 nuns live in the establishment, which has opened doors for tour guides to enjoy this amazing piece of historical architecture. 

There are several homes decorated with more than 400 religious art pieces. Visit the place with a guide to learn more about the past culture and traditions practiced in the area. 

5. Aguada Blanca and Salinas Reserve 

Aguada Blanca & Salinas National Reserve is an amazing spot for people who love to experience wildlife in the open. The place is filled with natural beauties such as wetlands, flora and fauna, volcanoes, and lagoons. These attract a lot of wildlife, such as flamingos, alpacas, vicunas, and more. 

Flamingos travel to this place only in the rainy season, from December to March, so look out for them if you are traveling that season. The national reserve is over 367,000 hectares (3,670 square kilometers), so you can experience the great outdoors and immerse yourself in nature and scenic landscapes.

6. Plaza de Armas 

Plaza de Armas is one of the most beautiful squares in Arequipa. The whole plaza is decorated with huge palm trees and fountains. It is located just in front of the Arequipa Cathedral, making it a perfect spot to relax while visiting some historical places nearby.

The best way to enjoy this place is to grab a cup of coffee on one of the balconies nearby and enjoy the atmosphere. If you love socializing, you can talk to the locals, as many people come here to read the newspaper under palm tree shadows and feed birds. 

7. Sunset at Rooftop Bars and Cafes

Arequipa has plenty of rooftop bars that provide an amazing opportunity to experience the sunset between the mountains. Visit Puku Puku for a delicious coffee and mesmerizing sunset view. Another great option if you love beers and cocktails is Sunset Rooftop Bar. 

However, if you only care about the best views without eating or drinking, the Waya Lookout Rooftop Bar would be ideal. It is located near Plaza de Armas and has an amazing view of the sunset overlooking the cathedral and El Misti Mountain. 

Best Things To Do in Arequipa, Peru – Food

8. Chaqchao Chocolate

After exploring all the beautiful mountains and strenuous hikes, the best place to treat yourself is to get some chocolate at Chaqchao. The place is a workshop that produces organic chocolate. Here, you will be able to learn all the core ingredients required to prepare the chocolate. 

You can also participate in a blind taste test, which is equally fun. 

9. Primer Puerto Cevicheria

For a seafood lover, ceviche is undoubtedly one of the best seafood dishes. We highly recommend Primer Puerto Cevicheria for the best ceviche in Peru. All the food is high quality and freshly made. 

While the restaurant’s décor is not so modern, the food is delicious. 

10. Picantería La Capitana

For people who want to try traditional Peruvian local dishes, Picanteria La Capitana is worth a try. 

The only downside of this place is its seating availability. As soon as the restaurant opens in the morning, locals and tourists rush to book seats to experience some high-quality local cuisines. 

If you’re lucky enough to get a table here, we recommend you try Pastel de Papa and Rocoto Relleno. 

We have an alternative option for you if you can’t experience this amazing restaurant. Head to the restaurant of Gastón Acurio, a famous local chef. The restaurant’s name is Chicha, offering similar quality food at a very reasonable price. 

How To Get to Arequipa, Peru? 

Arequipa is an extremely beautiful city packed with activities and sights. It is located on the southern side of Peru. Volcanoes and a high desert surround the city. One of its unique characteristics is its isolation from other big cities in the country, which also contributes to the overall safety level of this place. 

Arequipa is around 7,661 feet (2,335 meters) high, which makes it only 3,000 feet (914.4 meters) lower than Cusco. You can reach this place easily by taking a bus or a direct flight to the international airport within the city.

Route to Arequipa, Peru

By Bus

Public transport is by far the cheapest option for visiting the city. Many bus services offer direct travel from Lima, Cusco, and other major cities of the country. We advise you to travel with Peru Hop due to its flexibility, pricing, and safety. 

Another great bus service is Cruz Del Sur, which offers most departures daily to the city at affordable prices.

If you are traveling by bus from Cusco, reaching Arequipa will take around 10 hours. The total bus fare will be 69 Peruvian soles (17.75 US dollars). However, if you take a bus from Lima, the total traveling time will be around 17 to 20 hours, depending upon the number of stops in your route. The total price of the ticket will be around 89 to 97 PEN ($23 to $25).

By Airplane

Traveling by airplane is a bit expensive, but it will save you a lot of time. We advise you to choose LATAM airlines as they provide the most value-to-money experience on their flights. The total flight time from Cusco to Arequipa is 1 hour and 5 minutes, costing around 193 to 232 PEN ($50 to $60) for a 1-way trip. 

A flight from Lima to Arequipa would take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the destination, and the total cost will be the same. However, there are various airlines other than LATAM offering direct flights. These include Sky Airline and JetSmart.

Where To Stay in Arequipa, Peru?

Vallecito (The Historical Center)

The Historical Center is one of the best places to visit Arequipa, Peru. There are many hotels to choose from, and the quality of services is great, considering the competition. Vallecito is located south of Plaza de Armas, considered a part of the Historical Center. 

In this place, you can experience the white architecture the city is famous for. The best part about staying at hotels in this area is the view of El Misti Mountain. There are multiple art galleries, museums, and theaters for you to enjoy as well. 

Some of the best hostels and hotels in this area include:

• Terramistica Vallecito 
• Adriana Monet Hotel 
• EL Monarca Arequipa

Selva Alegre 

Selva Alegre is the name given to this neighborhood due to the huge park in the area. It is located north of the Historical Center and is one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. The area is perfect for people who want to stay in a relatively quiet environment. 

For entertainment, there are plenty of places to visit, such as Museo PuriqRuna, Selva Alegre Park, and Mundo Alpaca. 

Some of the highly-rated hotels and hostels in this area include:

• Hotel Boutique Selva Alegre 
• Hotel Boutique Villa Elisa 
• Le Foyer Arequipa

Plaza de Armas

A perfect spot to enjoy the nightlife in Arequipa, Plaza de Armas has some of the best atmospheres in the city. The nightlife in this place is more of a laid-back ambiance experience than electric bars and nightclubs. However, there are still nightclubs in the area. 

Besides nightlife, you can enjoy restaurants, cafés, and a famous cathedral just around the corner. 

Accommodation options in Plaza De Armas include:

• Hoteles Gutiérrez Mansion
• Hotel Casona Solar
• CIRQA – Relais & Châteaux 

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Important Tips to Enjoy Arequipa, Peru 

To enjoy your Arequipa visit to its fullest, here are some quick tips to help you get the best out of your trip:

• While visiting volcanoes, pack all the necessary clothes to keep yourself warm. The temperature on El Misti and Chachani can get below 32°F (0°C).
• The locals in the city are quite friendly, so remember to make a lot of friends during your time here. Making local friends can also help you get a better city experience. 
• Trekking in the mountains can be exhausting, leaving you too tired to enjoy the rest of the city, so make sure you plan a 5 to 10-day trip. 

Tips To Stay Safe In Arequipa, Peru

Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and keep your belongings secure at all times. Additionally, avoid walking alone at night and opt for reputable transportation services to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to this charming Peruvian city.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Arequipa, Peru 

Why Do People Go to Arequipa? 

Arequipa is a hub of indigenous Peruvian culture and history, and is home to several museums and cultural centers showcasing the rich history and traditions of the area. The city is also famous for its cuisine, which blends traditional indigenous ingredients and flavors with Spanish colonial influence. 

There are many adventure activities in and around Arequipa, like hiking, trekking, mountain biking, and more.

How Many Days Do You Need in Arequipa?

To see the best of Arequipa, 1 to 2 days would be sufficient for experiencing the city’s top attractions. 

However, suppose you wish to delve deeper into the city’s culture and history, spending a week or more exploring museums, trying delicious cuisine, and discovering the surrounding area’s natural beauty is recommended. 

If you’re interested in visiting Colca Canyon, you will need an extra 1 to 3 days to fully experience this natural wonder.

Can You Get Altitude Sickness in Arequipa?

Yes, altitude sickness can be a serious problem for some visitors as Arequipa is at an elevation of 7,661 feet (2,335 meters). 

Why Is Arequipa Called the White City?

The city’s architecture is the main reason it is called the white city. The white buildings represent the color of petrified ash from volcanoes erupting for many years. 

Conclusion – Arequipa, Peru

The serene city of Arequipa deserves to be everyone’s next must-visit destination not only because of its distinct charm but also because of the numerous attractions that will delight various travelers: from the architecture and history buffs to the nature trippers and adrenaline junkies to the gourmands. 

We hope this brief guide to La Ciudad Blanca can help you prepare for your dream trip to this fantastic South American gem. May you have safe and memorable travels! 

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