The architecture of the colonial white city of Arequipa, which was constructed with white volcanic stone from the four nearby volcanoes, is well renowned. At 2,400 meters (7,900 feet) above sea level.
This gorgeous city surrounded by volcanoes is the second largest in Peru and an ideal place to acclimate to the altitude. This list of things to do in Arequipa is exhaustive since you won’t want to miss this stunning and enchanting city.
Activities in Arequipa, Peru
Stay in Arequipa for two full days on your journey through Peru. Walking about the city is a breeze because of how European the historical center appears to be; you might even think you’ve left Peru.
1.Monastery of Santa Catalina
The captivating The Santa Catalina Monastery is a well-liked attraction in Arequipa. This location is breathtakingly beautiful, with a mix of flowers and blue and red colonial arches.
Daily hours for Santa Catalina Monastery are 9 AM to 5 PM. You can purchase the entrance ticket at the door or online for 40 soles, or around $12 USD.
2.Alpaca World
In the center of Arequipa, there are many species of alpacas and lamas. The alpaca textile museum features Munda Alcapa and provides information on the raising of alpacas and the processing of their textiles into handicrafts. Seeing how the craftsmen transform the material into actual clothing is an amazing experience!
You can feed the alpacas behind the store at Mundo Alpaca, which is free to visit. Because you have to cross a busy road to get there, it can be a little tricky, so proceed with caution.
Stop at the Pasta Canteen for a tasty lunch or dinner on the way back.
3.Arequipa’s Basilica Cathedral
4.The Armas Plaza
Every Latin American city’s central square, Plaza de Armas, is located in front of the cathedral. The city square is adorned with flowers, palm trees, a fountain, and the arches that encircle it.
5. Claustros de La Compañía
Supermarket Claustros de La Compañía is an attractive shopping mall. The upper floor of this relatively unknown hub houses a myriad of businesses, stylish cafes, and restaurants.
You shouldn’t anticipate being able to go shopping in Arequipa. Take a look at the architecture and maybe grab a coffee at the center.
6.San Camilo Marketplace
The biggest and most well-liked market in the city, Mercoda San Camilo, boasts endless aisles of unique fruits, fish, veggies, bread, and meat. It’s a great place to visit while in Arequipa. Because of the surrounding volcanoes, the soil in the Arequipa area is incredibly fertile.
Similar to the Cusco market, this one is well-structured and enjoyable to explore for an hour. Enjoy a refreshing fruit juice from one of the numerous stands at the rear while conversing in Spanish with the friendly locals.
Directions to Arequipa
The city is situated in a key area if you’re traveling to Lima or Cusco. The best ways to get there are via its international airport or by overnight bus.
Lima to Arequipa
If you’re traveling to Arequipa from Lima, Huacachina, or Nazca, the Peruhop overnight bus is a fantastic means of transportation and meeting other tourists. A restful night’s sleep is guaranteed because the buses are incredibly comfy. Arequipa can be reached by bus in 12 hours from Huacachina.
Arequipa from Cusco
From Cusco, comfortable buses from Peru Hop travel to Arequipa. With the help of this hop-on, hop-off system, you may disembark at Puno with your newfound pals.
Advice: Although there is air travel accessible for both itineraries, we recommend taking at least one bus ride because they are actually not as difficult as they seem!
Where in Arequipa Can I Stay?
- Hostal Bubamara
- Wanderlust Aqp
- Conde de Lemos
- Selina
Top eateries in Arequipa.
Arequipa has a large selection of eateries to pick from. It’s all there, be it Japanese, Italian, or Peruvian!
- Pasta Canteen (pasta prepared at home)
- Sushi El Buda Profano (vegan)
- Nueva Palomino (excellent regional cuisine)
- Eco Brunch: a great morning meal
- Kaffee Haus: a roaster of coffee
- Da Giancarlo House Italian Pizza
GOOD TO GO!
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