The Best Things To Do in Arequipa Peru
As one of Peru’s most beautiful cities, there are so many things to do in Arequipa. Composed mainly of chalky white volcanic rock, Arequipa’s squat and medieval-looking buildings transport you back to Spain.
Known as the ‘white city’ it’s the cultural centre of Southern Peru and its sprawling with history, culture and a vibrant food scene that has to be explored.
The best thing you can do in Arequipa? Just walk around and soak up the uniquely Peruvian atmosphere in a uniquely European-feel setting. There are many things to do in Arequipa but here are just a few top highlights that you simply cannot miss.
*This ‘things to do Arequipa’ post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small profit if you choose to book at no extra cost to you. This helps me to keep providing you with top quality content for free.
WHERE TO STAY
CIRQA– For the ultimate luxury stay, choose none other than Arequipa’s Relais & Châteaux property. This beautiful building made with the same white stone seen around the city is just swoon-worthy in every sense from the decor to the food. There is no other property that says Arequipa quite like this one. Check rates and availability here.
Katari Hotel Plaza de Armas– If you’re looking to wake up right on Arequipa’s beautiful central square, make sure to consider Katari. It’s a beautifully atmospheric property with Andean accents throughout in both decor and service. Rooms are spacious and comfortable and the views into the square and of the cathedral are sublime. Check rates and availability here.
Casa Andina Select Arequipa Plaza – For a more budget option right on the main plaza, this wonderful, comfortable option has lovely rooms, a rooftop pool with amazing views and a restaurant on the top floor where you can have a sunset dinner watching the Arequipa night come alive. Check rates and availability here.
THINGS TO DO IN AREQUIPA PERU
#1 VISIT THE SANTA CATALINA MONASTERY
This monastery is often #1 on the list of attractions in Arequipa and for that reason, it’s touristy and can get busy but it’s really worth having a look- just come early.
The monastery was founded in the 19th century, mainly admitting nuns from a wealthy Spanish background. Each family had to pay the equivalent of a whopping $150,000 for their daughter’s admission to the monastery.
Clues in the size of the monastery and especially its kitchen, show that at its height it housed around 450 nuns.
Visiting the monastery feels like walking around a small town. The buildings are beautifully preserved and painted, the gardens perfectly groomed and fruit trees growing in every corner. Even the streets here have names. Make sure to seek out the intricately painted cloister and the guinea pig enclosure.
Where? Santa Catalina 301, Arequipa
How much? Entrance costs 40 sol (£9/ $12)
#2 EAT THE BEST VEGAN NIKKEI FOOD
Nikkei, Japanese and Peruvian fusion cuisine, is somewhat popular nowadays and if it all started with this little restaurant it would explain why it is so.
I wanted to take a little break from Peruvian fare and this restaurant got recommended to me by a local. I’ve got to be honest, I was sceptical at first as excellent Asian food is difficult to come by in South America.
El Buda Profano serves mainly sushi, gyoza, salads and soups in a quaint, cave-like setting and is 100% plant-based. All the food was freshly made, seasoned to perfection and perfectly cooked. If you’re looking for a break from Peruvian fare, this is the place to go.
Where? Calle Bolivar 425, Arequipa
How much? A meal for two with tea set us back about 70 soles (£16/ $21) It’s not cheap by Peruvian standards but really worth the extra money.
#3 EXPLORE PLAZA DE ARMAS
Arequipa has one of the most beautiful main squares in Peru. Why not stroll around and admire the Cathedral that’s so big it takes up a whole block? Y
ou can also relax on the shaded benches, people watch and admire the chalky white architecture so unique to Arequipa. Do as the Peruvian’s do.. take a seat and let life flow by. Make sure to also check out some of the unique hotels, rooftop bars, restaurants and cafes all around the plaza, especially for sunset.
Where? Plaza de Armas, square, the main city square
How much? Free.
Visiting Machu Picchu? Check out How to Get to Machu Picchu + Secret Budget option and A Guide to Machu Picchu Tickets and How to Book
#4 ADMIRE THE VOLCANIC VIEWS ON A ROOFTOP AT SUNSET
Arequipa is almost entirely surrounded by volcanoes; Misti, Pichu Pichu and Chachani making it a perfect location for watching the sun go down amid these geological gems.
If you’re already paying the entrance fee to the Cathedral then they have a spectacular rooftop, but don’t get too close to the bells. Alternatively, many hostels and hotels have their own rooftops, so grab your favourite ice cold beverage and a camera and watch the ending of another great day.
#5 VISIT JUANITA
The discovery of Juanita was the key to unlocking some of the most valuable history and beliefs of the Incan Empire.
Juanita was a teenage girl who was supposedly sacrificed to the Incan gods in the 15th Century, mummified and buried in a tomb high on a mountain alongside some of her belongings. There she remained frozen until 1995 when the melting glacier exposed her body and allowed it to be found. However, due to having been frozen for so many years Juanita’s body is so well preserved that the detail is outstanding.
Visit the museum where she is housed and learn a valuable but brutal lesson in Incan culture.
Where? You can find Juanita in the Museo Santuarios Andinos, La Merced 110, Arequipa
How much? 20s (£4.50/ $6) per person. This includes a compulsory, multi-lingual guide who will take your round and explain the exhibits.
Planning a trip to Arequipa or Peru and have any comments or questions? Leave them below, I’d love to hear from you.
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