10 Amazing Things to Do in Arequipa
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10 Amazing Things to Do in Arequipa

2 min read

Aug 14, 2020

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By Sean McBride

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Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

Top in Arequipa attractions

Here we put together a list of things to do in Arequipa. Definitely the top attractions to see!

When considering travel to Peru most travelers will conjure up the iconic images of Machu Picchu, which will be enchanted by the historic allure of Cusco or will be tempted by the cuisine in Lima and rightly so as all are great destinations and amongst the highlights of the continent.

Though, here at SouthAmerica.travel we highly recommend those planning a more in-depth exploration of Peru to consider Arequipa. Its nickname, “the White City”, comes from the brilliant and beautifully crafted marble from which much of the city is constructed. Elevated in the Peruvian Altiplano and surrounded by majestic volcanoes this destination oozes colonial charm and is well worth the visit. Below are ten amazing things to do in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city.

1. Mingle with the locals at the Plaza de Armas & Basilica Cathedral

As with most towns and cities in Latin America, Arequipa’s centerpiece is its square the Plaza De Armas. The opened space quadrangle is brought to life by its manicured gardens, palm trees, and large elaborately designed water fountains. The plaza is also surrounded by gorgeous colonial-era buildings that gleam brilliant white in the sunlight. The level of activity is high around here as it is the principal place to mingle amongst the locals. There are also lots of great bars and restaurants dotted around the square.

Ravaged by fire and multiple seismic events the great Arequipa Cathedral has endured since 1865 and remains the most impressive feature of Plaza de Armas. Its beautiful white exterior is matched by what is found within with a carved pulpit, elaborately designed altar, huge wooden organ, and baroque arches all combine to treat the senses in a wondrous display.

side view of plaza de armas arequipa
white cathedral in plaza de armas arequipa

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

Top in Arequipa attractions

Here we put together a list of things to do in Arequipa. Definitely the top attractions to see!

When considering travel to Peru most travelers will conjure up the iconic images of Machu Picchu, which will be enchanted by the historic allure of Cusco or will be tempted by the cuisine in Lima and rightly so as all are great destinations and amongst the highlights of the continent.

Though, here at SouthAmerica.travel we highly recommend those planning a more in-depth exploration of Peru to consider Arequipa. Its nickname, “the White City”, comes from the brilliant and beautifully crafted marble from which much of the city is constructed. Elevated in the Peruvian Altiplano and surrounded by majestic volcanoes this destination oozes colonial charm and is well worth the visit. Below are ten amazing things to do in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city.

1. Mingle with the locals at the Plaza de Armas & Basilica Cathedral

As with most towns and cities in Latin America, Arequipa’s centerpiece is its square the Plaza De Armas. The opened space quadrangle is brought to life by its manicured gardens, palm trees, and large elaborately designed water fountains. The plaza is also surrounded by gorgeous colonial-era buildings that gleam brilliant white in the sunlight. The level of activity is high around here as it is the principal place to mingle amongst the locals. There are also lots of great bars and restaurants dotted around the square.

Ravaged by fire and multiple seismic events the great Arequipa Cathedral has endured since 1865 and remains the most impressive feature of Plaza de Armas. Its beautiful white exterior is matched by what is found within with a carved pulpit, elaborately designed altar, huge wooden organ, and baroque arches all combine to treat the senses in a wondrous display.

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

Top in Arequipa attractions

Here we put together a list of things to do in Arequipa. Definitely the top attractions to see!

When considering travel to Peru most travelers will conjure up the iconic images of Machu Picchu, which will be enchanted by the historic allure of Cusco or will be tempted by the cuisine in Lima and rightly so as all are great destinations and amongst the highlights of the continent.

Though, here at SouthAmerica.travel we highly recommend those planning a more in-depth exploration of Peru to consider Arequipa. Its nickname, “the White City”, comes from the brilliant and beautifully crafted marble from which much of the city is constructed. Elevated in the Peruvian Altiplano and surrounded by majestic volcanoes this destination oozes colonial charm and is well worth the visit. Below are ten amazing things to do in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city.

1. Mingle with the locals at the Plaza de Armas & Basilica Cathedral

As with most towns and cities in Latin America, Arequipa’s centerpiece is its square the Plaza De Armas. The opened space quadrangle is brought to life by its manicured gardens, palm trees, and large elaborately designed water fountains. The plaza is also surrounded by gorgeous colonial-era buildings that gleam brilliant white in the sunlight. The level of activity is high around here as it is the principal place to mingle amongst the locals. There are also lots of great bars and restaurants dotted around the square.

Ravaged by fire and multiple seismic events the great Arequipa Cathedral has endured since 1865 and remains the most impressive feature of Plaza de Armas. Its beautiful white exterior is matched by what is found within with a carved pulpit, elaborately designed altar, huge wooden organ, and baroque arches all combine to treat the senses in a wondrous display.

el misti volcano behind the white arequipa cathedral
llama standing in front of el misti volcano

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

4. Enjoy traditional Peruvian cuisine

With Lima serving the role of Peru’s culinary capital, Arequipa should not be overlooked as a great gastronomic destination in its own right. Typical and tasty Peruvian dishes such rocoto relleno (stuffed peppers), ceviche, and cuy (guinea pig) can be found throughout the city. A great option is to peruse the menu del dia which is served up at lunchtime and includes a starter (usually soup), a main course, and freshly squeezed fruit juices all at a bargain price. We also recommend the Hatunpa restaurant on Calle Ugarte for a traditional dining experience where you can eat alpaca and choose from a huge selection of potatoes.

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

5. Spot Condors at the Colca Canyon

Arequipa serves as the principal starting off point for tours to the Colca Canyon. The immense trench was formed by the geological processes that formed the Andes mountains and is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in places. I recommend spending two to three days exploring the Colca Canyon, Arequipa, and Lake Titicaca. There are lots of great lodges to choose from and while there you will have a chance to soak up some incredible views, gawk at the abundant condors which circle high above or relax in natural hot springs.

aerial view of the colca canyon
condor landing on a rock in the colca canyon peru

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

Top in Arequipa attractions

Here we put together a list of things to do in Arequipa. Definitely the top attractions to see!

When considering travel to Peru most travelers will conjure up the iconic images of Machu Picchu, which will be enchanted by the historic allure of Cusco or will be tempted by the cuisine in Lima and rightly so as all are great destinations and amongst the highlights of the continent.

Though, here at SouthAmerica.travel we highly recommend those planning a more in-depth exploration of Peru to consider Arequipa. Its nickname, “the White City”, comes from the brilliant and beautifully crafted marble from which much of the city is constructed. Elevated in the Peruvian Altiplano and surrounded by majestic volcanoes this destination oozes colonial charm and is well worth the visit. Below are ten amazing things to do in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city.

1. Mingle with the locals at the Plaza de Armas & Basilica Cathedral

As with most towns and cities in Latin America, Arequipa’s centerpiece is its square the Plaza De Armas. The opened space quadrangle is brought to life by its manicured gardens, palm trees, and large elaborately designed water fountains. The plaza is also surrounded by gorgeous colonial-era buildings that gleam brilliant white in the sunlight. The level of activity is high around here as it is the principal place to mingle amongst the locals. There are also lots of great bars and restaurants dotted around the square.

Ravaged by fire and multiple seismic events the great Arequipa Cathedral has endured since 1865 and remains the most impressive feature of Plaza de Armas. Its beautiful white exterior is matched by what is found within with a carved pulpit, elaborately designed altar, huge wooden organ, and baroque arches all combine to treat the senses in a wondrous display.

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

7. Visit the Yanahuara neighborhood

Pack your camera and make a short trip across the river away from the hustle and bustle of the city center to the tranquil neighborhood of Yanahuara. This quaint residential neighborhood is dotted with beautiful colonial churches that you can visit as you traverse across cobblestone streets lined with white marble houses. A great highlight here is the Mirador of de Yanahuara which offers great views of the city and the Volcano Misti and I highly recommend saving your visit for sunset when the white city is illuminated by the golden hues of the setting sun.

quaint street in the yanahuara neighborhood
colonial church in yanahuara neighborhood

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

Top in Arequipa attractions

Here we put together a list of things to do in Arequipa. Definitely the top attractions to see!

When considering travel to Peru most travelers will conjure up the iconic images of Machu Picchu, which will be enchanted by the historic allure of Cusco or will be tempted by the cuisine in Lima and rightly so as all are great destinations and amongst the highlights of the continent.

Though, here at SouthAmerica.travel we highly recommend those planning a more in-depth exploration of Peru to consider Arequipa. Its nickname, “the White City”, comes from the brilliant and beautifully crafted marble from which much of the city is constructed. Elevated in the Peruvian Altiplano and surrounded by majestic volcanoes this destination oozes colonial charm and is well worth the visit. Below are ten amazing things to do in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city.

1. Mingle with the locals at the Plaza de Armas & Basilica Cathedral

As with most towns and cities in Latin America, Arequipa’s centerpiece is its square the Plaza De Armas. The opened space quadrangle is brought to life by its manicured gardens, palm trees, and large elaborately designed water fountains. The plaza is also surrounded by gorgeous colonial-era buildings that gleam brilliant white in the sunlight. The level of activity is high around here as it is the principal place to mingle amongst the locals. There are also lots of great bars and restaurants dotted around the square.

Ravaged by fire and multiple seismic events the great Arequipa Cathedral has endured since 1865 and remains the most impressive feature of Plaza de Armas. Its beautiful white exterior is matched by what is found within with a carved pulpit, elaborately designed altar, huge wooden organ, and baroque arches all combine to treat the senses in a wondrous display.

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

Top in Arequipa attractions

Here we put together a list of things to do in Arequipa. Definitely the top attractions to see!

When considering travel to Peru most travelers will conjure up the iconic images of Machu Picchu, which will be enchanted by the historic allure of Cusco or will be tempted by the cuisine in Lima and rightly so as all are great destinations and amongst the highlights of the continent.

Though, here at SouthAmerica.travel we highly recommend those planning a more in-depth exploration of Peru to consider Arequipa. Its nickname, “the White City”, comes from the brilliant and beautifully crafted marble from which much of the city is constructed. Elevated in the Peruvian Altiplano and surrounded by majestic volcanoes this destination oozes colonial charm and is well worth the visit. Below are ten amazing things to do in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city.

1. Mingle with the locals at the Plaza de Armas & Basilica Cathedral

As with most towns and cities in Latin America, Arequipa’s centerpiece is its square the Plaza De Armas. The opened space quadrangle is brought to life by its manicured gardens, palm trees, and large elaborately designed water fountains. The plaza is also surrounded by gorgeous colonial-era buildings that gleam brilliant white in the sunlight. The level of activity is high around here as it is the principal place to mingle amongst the locals. There are also lots of great bars and restaurants dotted around the square.

Ravaged by fire and multiple seismic events the great Arequipa Cathedral has endured since 1865 and remains the most impressive feature of Plaza de Armas. Its beautiful white exterior is matched by what is found within with a carved pulpit, elaborately designed altar, huge wooden organ, and baroque arches all combine to treat the senses in a wondrous display.

three crosses santa catalina monastery
red walls and beautiful tree in the santa catalina monastery

Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

Top in Arequipa attractions

Here we put together a list of things to do in Arequipa. Definitely the top attractions to see!

When considering travel to Peru most travelers will conjure up the iconic images of Machu Picchu, which will be enchanted by the historic allure of Cusco or will be tempted by the cuisine in Lima and rightly so as all are great destinations and amongst the highlights of the continent.

Though, here at SouthAmerica.travel we highly recommend those planning a more in-depth exploration of Peru to consider Arequipa. Its nickname, “the White City”, comes from the brilliant and beautifully crafted marble from which much of the city is constructed. Elevated in the Peruvian Altiplano and surrounded by majestic volcanoes this destination oozes colonial charm and is well worth the visit. Below are ten amazing things to do in Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city.

1. Mingle with the locals at the Plaza de Armas & Basilica Cathedral

As with most towns and cities in Latin America, Arequipa’s centerpiece is its square the Plaza De Armas. The opened space quadrangle is brought to life by its manicured gardens, palm trees, and large elaborately designed water fountains. The plaza is also surrounded by gorgeous colonial-era buildings that gleam brilliant white in the sunlight. The level of activity is high around here as it is the principal place to mingle amongst the locals. There are also lots of great bars and restaurants dotted around the square.

Ravaged by fire and multiple seismic events the great Arequipa Cathedral has endured since 1865 and remains the most impressive feature of Plaza de Armas. Its beautiful white exterior is matched by what is found within with a carved pulpit, elaborately designed altar, huge wooden organ, and baroque arches all combine to treat the senses in a wondrous display.

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Last updated on December 23rd, 2020 at 03:13 pm

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