Arequipa is a colonial-era city in Peru, that lies between three towering volcanoes, most of which are inactive.
It is known as the ‘white city’ because of the old architecture which is constructed primarily out of a white stone called sillar, which is a volcanic material found all around the region.
This volcanic city is a one-of-a-kind holiday destination, where nature meets history and beautiful landscapes meet incredible architecture.
The culture here is colourful and full of variety, making it an exciting and unique destination.
Here’s a list of the top attractions of Arequipa…
Volcan Misti
This magnificent volcano is one of Peru’s finest landmarks. It looms high above the city, casting a shadow over Arequipa’s colourful streets.
Volcan Misti is equally impressive whether you view it from the ground or you climb up and overlook the city below. If you like outdoor holidays, with a bit of risk since Misti is technically only dormant, then this is the place for you.
Pichu Pichu
Pichu Pichu is another of Arequipa’s famous volcanoes. It is part of the Blanca National Reserve, home to some fascinating Inca ruins, and reaches a towering height of 5,664 metres at its summit.
Just like its sister Volcan Misti, Pichu Pichu volcano is always a popular destination for tourists, especially during summer when the weather is at its best and the views are free from clouds.
Chachani
Found a few miles outside of Arequipa is Chachani, a 6,057 metre tall volcano that is part of the Central Volcanic Zone of the Andes.
This beautiful mountain is made up of several lava domes, a number of lava shields and individual volcanoes that combine to create an impressive, must-see landmark that you can’t possibly miss.
Ampato
Arequipa really goes to show that you can never have too many volcanoes. Ampato is another dormant volcano that is close to the city. Although it is further away from the city, the spectacular views are definitely worth the journey.
Ampato is a stratovolcano that reaches a height of 6,288 metres and is part of a nearby chain of volcanoes including Hualca and the famous Sabancaya, which last erupted very recently.
Coropuna
Coropuna is yet another famous local volcano. This beautiful mountain has earned itself the nickname ‘Nevado Coropuna’ meaning ‘Snowy Coropuna’ because of its perpetually snow-covered summit.
Reaches a height of 6,425 metres, it is no surprise that the snow never melts here. Out of all the volcanoes in and around Arequipa, Coropuna is perhaps the most photogenic mountain.
Historic Centre
Arequipa’s historic centre is a bustling, busy place that is filled with locals and tourists alike. Many people come here to enjoy the variety of restaurants and cafes on offer along with the lovely views.
You will also find plenty of market stalls that sell everything from Alpaca wool to fresh flowers and handcrafted souvenirs.
Plaza de Armas
Arequipa’s Plaza is home to some of the city’s most wonderful architecture. It is located inside Arequipa’s historic centre.
Here you will find beautiful cafes and bistros housed inside grand colonial-era houses. If you’re looking for somewhere that has history and culture in equal measures, Plaza de Armas is the place to go.
Cathedral Basilica
The Basilica Cathedral is found in the Historic Centre, in the Plaza de Armas, where it stands proudly and acts as, among other things, a museum for exhibitions of religious artwork and other relics and artefacts.
The Basilica is an iconic part of Arequipa, and it is also the city’s largest Roman Catholic church to this day and serves as the base for the Archbishop and Metropolitan council.
Arequipa Markets
Arequipa is home to many traditional markets, each with its own unique flavour and style. As you explore the city, you will come across many of them and soon discover which are your favourites.
Among the stalls, you will find local delicacies, handcrafted Alpaca wool jumpers, regional spices, discounted electronic items and everything in between. If you’re looking for souvenirs to take home, you might just find the perfect trinket in one of Arequipa’s many markets.
Santa Catalina Monastery
The Santa Catalina Monastery is a convent of nuns who follow the Dominican Second Order. The convent is located within a vast, 20,000 square metre building, which is almost big enough to be classed as a citadel.
The building itself is renowned as a masterpiece of colonial architecture and draws many visitors from around the world. Here you can see how impressive architecture has merged with a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
Parque Lambramani
The Lambramani shopping centre is one of Arequipa’s most convenient shopping areas. Here you can find supermarkets that sell everything you could possibly need in terms of food and other supplies, as well as smaller, independent shops where you can find that perfect souvenir.
If you’re just looking for lunch, there are a wide variety of cafes, restaurants and eateries in and around Parque Lambramani.
Santuarios Andinos Museum
The Santuarios Andinos Museum in Arequipa’s archaeological museum. Peru is famous for its historical links to the ancient Inca civilization, and the museum has a lot of information about it.
One of the museum’s most famous exhibitions is the remains of Juanita, a young girl from the Inca civilization, whose body was somehow frozen and preserved until it was discovered after a volcanic eruption.
Canteras de Sillar
The Cantares de Sillar are an amazing collection of pure white cliffs, made out of the volcanic material sillar, the same rock that many old buildings in Arequipa are built from.
You can explore the vast quarries, see the towering cliff faces and grab some fantastic photos to add to your holiday photo album since these white sillar expanses make a perfect backdrop.
Casa del Moral
Casa Del Moral is one of Arequipa’s most famous historical houses. It was built around 1730 in the unique Andean Baroque style.
One of the few surviving and well-preserved examples of architecture from that period found in Peru, it always attracts a crowd. If you’re interred in history, then this should definitely be on your itinerary.
Carmen Alto Lookout
The Carmen Alto Lookout is one of the best viewpoints in Arequipa. From here you can see the famous landmarks of Volcan Misti, Pichu Pichu and Chachani all clear as day. Twilight or sunrise are especially good times to come and see this beautiful visage for yourself.
If you’re into photography, the views from here are pretty much unbeatable. From the sparkling city below to the mountains towering just out of reach, you can see all the best bits of Arequipa from here.
