+1 801 386 7277
+51 84 225 183
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+1 801 386 7277
+51 84 225 183
info@culturalimmersion.org
EN
ES
You will only need one look around, marveling at the beautiful white churches and colonial mansions to the white hills and volcanoes, to understand the reason why Arequipa, the second largest city in Peru, is known as the White City. The buildings, made of a white volcanic stone known as sillar, give Arequipa its distinct and wondrous look.
Blessed with a spring-like climate and nearly 300 days of sunshine throughout the year, Arequipa is an ideal place to enjoy your time outside, with a leisurely walk through the streets, admiring the beautiful architecture, basking in the sun on a bench in one of its many palm tree filled plazas. You may also enjoy one of the miradores, or lookouts, in the city where you can enjoy the views of the lush green valley below, where the Chili River flows beneath the majestic three volcanoes, Misti, Chanchani and Pichupichu, providing an incredible panoramic view.
Arequipas location makes it a great point from which to venture out and enjoy the Colca Canyon, one of the worlds deepest canyons and home to the Andean Condor, the national symbol of Peru.
Situated approximately 630 miles (1115km) to the southeast of Lima, Arequipa is situated at the western foothills of the Andes, bordered to the east by the coastal, desert region. With an altitude of 2,335 meters above sea level (7,660 feet), Arequipa is the perfect spot to acclimatize before heading to the higher altitudes of Cusco or Puno.
The three majestic, snow-capped volcanoes present around Arequipa are Mistiat at 5,825m (19,110ft), Chachani at 6,070m (19,914ft) and PichuPichuat 5,425m (17,798ft). Principle Rivers in the region are the Ocoña, Yauca, Camaná and Quilca (or Chili).
Arequipas year round pleasant climate is legendary. A city of eternal spring-like temperatures; during the day the temperature rarely falls below 68°F/20°C. However, the temperatures can fall drastically at night, especially in the winter months of June, July and August, when temperatures fall to around 50°F/10°C. When packing for Arequipa, its best to think in layers.
As for rainfall, the summer months of January, February and March see the most rainfall, though it rarely amounts to more than one and a half inches per month.
Check out the latest conditions and forecasts with weather.coms trip planner.
One would be remiss to visit the Arequipa region and not taking a day or two to visit the astounding Colca Canyon. With a depth of 9842ft (3000m), the canyon is one of the biggest in South America; second only to Cotahuasi Canyon, which is 11003 ft (3354m) at its deepest a world record. Nearly twice as deep as Arizonas Grand Canyon, the Colca Canyon is a truly awe-inspiring site.
Whether enjoying a private or a shared tour of this natural wonder, all roads will take you through the National Reserve of Salinas and Agua Blanca, a private reserve known for its preservation of Perus wildlife, such as the vicuña and several dozen species of birds.
Using Chivay or Yanque as your base, you can meander the edges of the canyon, heading to where the famous Cruz del Cóndor is situated; undoubtedly one of the areas most popular destinations. From this amazing lookout, you will see several of the giant condors, soaring overhead. During May to December is the best time to spot these magnificent creatures.The 12-foot wing span of the Condor makes it the biggest bird in the western hemisphere.
While there are many overnight trips to Colca Canyon, to truly enjoy the area, you may also choose to hike the canyon or even do a little camping, not to mention taking advantage of the thermal baths around the area. From Arequipa to Colca, you can expect about a five hour drive, making it the perfect overnight stop on your trip through Peru (e.g.) on your way to Lake Titicaca.
Aeropuerto Internacional Rodríguez Ballón is located in the district of Cerro Colorado, about 4 miles (7km) northwest of the city. The airport has daily domestic connections to Lima, Cuzco and Juliaca. Airlines servicing the airport are LanPeru, Star Peru and Peruvian Airlines. A taxi from the airport to downtown hotels costs around S/.15 (or $5), while a shared colectivo service costs approximately S/.6 ($2) per person.
The bus terminal of Arequipa, Terminal Terrestre, is located on Avenida Andres Avelina Caceres, about 2.5 miles (4km) south of downtown Arequipa. Buses here travel within Peru only, such as Cusco (10 hrs) and Puno (6 hrs), as well as coastal cities like Ica (14 hrs) and Lima (17 hrs).
Terrapuerto Internacional Arequipa, located on Avenida Arturo Ibáñez, is nearby Terminal Terrestre. From here you can travel not only within the country, but also to Santiago de Chile, La Paz and Buenos Aires, among other destinations.
We confidently recommend the following companies as they are safe and generally run on time:
Cruz del Sur
Tel. +51 (54) 427375
Oltursa
Tel. +51 (54) 423152
Ormeño
Tel. +51 (54) 424 113
As always, be aware of your surroundings and keep your personal belongings close to you. While the companies listed above are safe and reputable, the terminals may attract more unsavory types.
A staff member is usually stationed at the entrance to the departure platform to check your ticket and any bags you might be carrying aboard. You will either check your luggage in curbside or at a designated area.
It can also get very cold during bus journeys, so be sure to bring a coat, scarf and/or thick socks to wear, especially when traveling to destinations like Puno or Cuzco.
Arequipa, in general, is a very walkable city, with most attractions in walking distance of our hotels or at most reachable with a short taxi ride. Most other sites of visitor interest, including restaurants, are found on the blocks just to the north of the Plaza.
Taxis are an easy option as well. Inexpensive and easy to come by, any trip around the city center should cost no more than S/3 ($1) if hailed on the street, while private taxis called in advance will cost just a bit more. If you plan to go out at night, we recommend asking the hotel reception or the restaurant to arrange a taxi for you, otherwise we recommend the following companies:
Turismo Arequipeña:
458-888, 459-090
Inca Tour:
422-121
Turismo Imperial:
250-575
Turismo Cayma:
458-989
If it is high quality baby alpaca, vicuña and woolen goods you are looking after, Arequipa is quite possibly the best spot in Peru to find export-quality sweaters, shawls, blankets and scarves based on attractive designs not found elsewhere. Three general areas are particularly good for alpaca items. One is the cloisters next to La Compañía church, where you'll find several alpaca boutiques and outlets. Another good place is Pasaje Catedral, the pedestrian mall just behind the cathedral, and a third is Calle Santa Catalina, notably the Casona de Santa Catalina.
While you are able to find excellent antiques and colonial era objects in shops on Calle Santa Catalina, bear in mind that you can not legally remove these antiques from the country.
A general handicrafts market (mercado de artesanía) with dozens of jam-packed stalls in the old town jail is next door to the Plazuela de San Francisco. For fine quality handmade leather goods, make our way along the Puente Bolognesi, which leads west from the Plaza de Armas, and you'll find numerous small stores with handbags, shoes, and other items. A particularly good store is that of Pedro P. Diaz, and Calle Puente Bolognesi, 135.
For Peruvians hailing from other regions, no visit to Arequipa is complete without a quick stop to the famous sweets shop: La Ibérica. Located just a few strides from the Plaza de Armas, on Calle Jerusalem, this high-quality shop has been making its trademark sweets for over 100 years. Here sweet-tooths will find delectable chocolates, picture perfect bonbons, creamy toffees, and marzipan delights, among other delights.
As Peruvian cuisine is becoming known world-wide as one of the top gastronomic offerings, each city has its own specialties that are worth trying. Below are some of Arequipas most famous dishes, a great source of pride for its residents.
Chupe de camarones:
A slightly spicy soup laden with whole shrimp, milk, eggs and herbs.
Rocoto Relleno:
Rocoto (spicy bell pepper) stuffed with minced beef, creamy cheese and chunks of potato.
Soltero:
A spicy salad made predominantly with fresh Andean cheese, broad beans, diced onion, olives and tomato.
Adobo Arequipeño:
Pork marinated in chicha (sweet corn drink) and spices.
Ocopa:
Slices of potato slathered in a sauce of herbs and Andean fresh cheese.
If your trip to Arequipa did not start from Cusco or Puno, this will be your first real opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude. The same recommendations apply as for other highland regions: avoid physical exertion for the first few hours after arriving, have light meals and keep yourself hydrated mate de coca is a great local remedy for light altitude sickness.
Drinking only bottled water is a good idea. There are two types of water you can buy: sin gas meaning un-carbonated, normal water, and con gas which is carbonated. Make sure to eat in good restaurants and buy fruits from quality supermarkets. If you buy fruit from a street market, take extra care to wash it very thoroughly before eating it. Important note: Peruvian tap water is not potable. It is fine to use for teeth-brushing and cooking (provided it is boiled) but should not be ingested directly from the tap.
While petty theft is the most common offense committed against tourist, a healthy dose of common sense does everyone good. As in any big city, while out and about do not flaunt expensive belongings such as cameras, portable media players (ipods) or cellular phones. A few simple precautions can make life a lot easier. A sensible practice is to only carry with you what you will be likely to spend during the day, and keep the rest of your valuables, including documents, back at the hotel in your room safe. If you wish you carry our credit card be sure to leave another one in the safe, just in case.
Arequipa conserves one of the best architectural treasures in the colonial time of Peru, from its temples and religious convents to the stylish mansions of colonial-mestizo architecture. The architecture in the historic center of Arequipa brilliantly demonstrates the integration of European and native personalities. The Plaza de Armas provides the perfect point to start your walk around the city or the perfect bench to rest your feet at the end of the day.On the north side of the plaza is the Basilica Cathedral, positioned flawlessly to frame Misti Volcano between its two spires. Just across the plaza is the Iglesia de la Compañia, showcasing the perfect Peruvian mestizo style and blending traditional frescoes of angels and saints amid a tropical jungle background.
Striking cobalt walls contrasted by the brilliant red orange exteriors makes this monastery not only a feast for the eyes, but a heaven for photographers. This 16th century convent covers an entire city block and is essentially its own city. As was the tradition of the time, the 2nd born of the wealthiest families was to enter religious service and the convent was built with the money from these families. It is easy for one to spend hours within these peaceful walls, meandering around the flower-lined cobblestones pathways and admiring the architecture and art that lines the tiny plazoletas throughout.
The agricultural area surrounding the city is replete with picturesque landscapes. It is a quilt of varying shades of green, where many locals escape for the weekend and enjoy any of the several outdoor dining establishments, fresh air and the scenery. Throughout the centuries, the countryside of Arequipa has been an inexhaustible source of inspiration for artists and poets.
With the surrounding volcanoes and the nearby 100km long Colca Canyon, some of the best sceneries are at your fingertips or hiking boots and ready for you to explore via adventures in rafting, biking, canoeing, trekking and camping.Be sure to ask your travel advisor about your Arequipa adventure options.
La Merced 110
Tel: +51 (54) 200 345 or 222554
This small museum famously houses the frozen mummy of Juanita and her artifacts. Juanita´, a young teenage girl that was sacrificed by the Incas to the mountain gods on Ampato Mountain is the most well-known mummy in the Andes due to her remarkable preservation. She is only on display for a short period during May, as she undergoes preservation and research the rest of the year; however, another young girl, Sarita, is on display in her place. Also on display are some of the superb doll offerings and burial items found alongside Juanita's corpse, as well as three other sacrificial victims also found on the mountain. The mandatory guided visits, which begin with a superb National Geographic film, are very enlightening, and you should allow about an hour for your visit.
Melgar 303
Tel: +51 (54) 3064 8686
Located in the cloisters of the early 18th century Santa Teresa Monastery, this museum of art from the vice royal period contains within its stone walls one of the best collections in whole Peru of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, decorative art and daily objects from this era. The museums Sala Capitular closely retains its original furnishing and décor, with walls entirely covered with an original 18th century mural and wholly unique decorative detailing.
Jerusalén 207, Yanahuara
Tel: +51 (54) 254 148
In the quiet Yanahuara residential district, sits this ever popular, century-old restaurant; famous for setting the standard for traditional Arequipeño cooking. While there are dining rooms inside the sillar stone building, the lovely al fresco dining area here is undoubtedly the best feature. Colonial tables line the propertys picturesque grassy courtyard, which features a small pool, waterfall, and local folkloric musicians. Upscale locals and tourists rub shoulders here over a well made pisco sour and mouth-watering national or regional lunchtime classic.
Av. Dolores 111, Paucarpata
Average $10
Tel: +51 (54) 426 467
The stunning view of the snow-capped El Misti volcano from Tradicions garden balcony is reason enough to make a taxi trip out to this popular restaurant, but a taste of the delicious spread will reassure any doubts! Offering only lunch (or very early dinner options), proof of this restaurants excellent kitchen comes from the fact that much of the tourists who dine here get their recommendations from city natives. Servings of traditional Arequipeño and Peruvian food are substantial and satisfying, with the extensive menu including tasty versions of classic standbys like adobo, ceviche and cuy. Prices are very affordable for such an elegant place.
Santa Catalina 309
Average $10
Tel: +51 (54) 204 062
Divided into three small rooms carved into the white ashy walls of the Santa Catalina Convent, this new addition to the Arequipa dining scene is an excellent antidote to endless recommendations of cuy and alpaca; or for those in search of a less touristic and more intimate candlelit dining experience. Boasting an excellent menu designed by Perus most famous chef, Gaston Acurio of Astrid and Gaston and La Mar, this unassuming café specializes in Italian favorites like lasagne, risotto and ossobucco. Additionally, conoscitore guests also have the option of long or short pasta. With a fine wine list and desert menu to round out the meal, La Trattoria guarantees a memorable evening of a different sort, in downtown Arequipa
Jerusalén 502
Average under $10
Tel: +51 (54) 672 922
www.aryquepay.com/restaurant.htm
This husband and wife - run restaurant has the winning combination of a fun dining atmosphere and a delicious menu. With the great authentic ambiance of a traditional Arequipeñopicanteria, live folklorico music every night and only the greatest classics of Arequipa cuisine on the menu, this rustic garden-themed restaurant is an excellent argument for the popularity of the regions dishes. Not to be missed are the restaurants starters of choclo con queso (white corn with cheese) or egg-based sopa a la criolla, followed by the traditional stuffed pepper, escabeche de pescado (spicy fish stew) or roasted guinea pig. Ideally located in the city center, this restaurant is popular among both locals and tourists in the know; making it a more convenient and cheaper option than those on the outskirts of town.
Calle San Francisco 315
Average $10
Tel: +51 (54) 215-729
A huge favorite known for its delicious cuisine and eclectic menu offering a variety middle eastern specialties such as falafel, baba ganoush and hummus, plus other delicious fusions such as alpaca prepared by wok or smothered in coconut milk sauce, shrimp tagliatelle, crispy Mediterranean salads to cuybathed in spicy chocolate adobo. The surroundings in this classy establishment are a nice escape from what some view as Arequipeño rustic kitsch; the marble tiled cavernous rooms in the chic Turko II lead to a large sunny courtyard perfect for relaxing from hectic travel and merely enjoying the view. With many vegetarian options to choose from as well, this restaurant is a great choice for those unwilling (or unable) to agree on any one type of cuisine!
Portal de Flores Nº 112
Average $10
Tel:+51 (54) 220-301
http://www.elgauchoparrilladas.com
Not for those in search of a light and balanced meal, this rustic-styled restaurant located right off the main Plaza de Armas serves up hearty, stick-to-your ribs meals for the very hungry. In addition to a free salad bar, this restaurant also periodically offers a great lunchtime promotion with wine, soda, fries, open salad bar and any choice of meat for under $9 (S/.25)
This festival honors the patron saint of Arequipa's Santa Catalina monastery, a miracle-working nun who lived there in the early 17th century.
During Arequipas Carnevale, the carnival queen of Arequipa is chosen and friendly water fights often occur
Easter celebrations and festivals in late March or early April, particular to the area, statues of Judas torched in different areas of Arequipa, along with plenty of religious festivities
Holy Catholic pilgrimages trek to the Santuario de la Virgen de Chapi (Sanctuary of the Virgin of Chapi), which lies some 40km/25mi to the south of Arequipa. Expect to find lots of local delicacies, such as fried pork rind (chicharrón)
In the Yanahuara district of Arequipa people fill the streets to enjoy this important festival
The day begins with early morning mass which is followed by street markets, live entertainment, dancing events, 'castle burning' (quema de castillos) and fireworks
June, depending on when Easter falls. This important festival features carpets made of flowers all honoring the Virgin. Thousands will watch the procession of sacred statues around the Plaza de Armas.
A leading musical and theatrical event staged at the AlianzaFrancesa
Late June.Bullfighting and other traditional events in the Characato districts
A national event throughout Peru
Mid-August. This festival lastsroughly two weeks and remembers the date of August 15th, 1538, when the city was officially established
This feast honors the patron saint of both Lima and the Americas
Various events centered around Arequipa's Yanahuara, Yarabamba and Yuraneighbourhoods
November 1st, a religious event and national holiday throughout Peru