Arequipa Travel Costs & Things to Do

Stay

days

Pace

Moderate

Safety

/ 5

Popularity

/ 10

OVERVIEW

Arequipa stands on a broad Andean plateau beneath several volcanoes, with much of its historic centre built from pale local stone. Arcaded squares, churches and former religious buildings give the old city a strong architectural identity, while busy markets and residential districts extend well beyond the colonial core. The surrounding dry landscape and mountain views remain visible from many parts of the city.

The former convent of Santa Catalina is one of the clearest expressions of the city’s history, but daily life is equally important to its character. Traditional restaurants are known for substantial regional dishes, and neighbourhood markets reveal close links with the surrounding valleys. The altitude and strong sunlight shape the experience, although the centre itself is compact and straightforward to explore.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Season

High

Low

Precipitation

THINGS TO DO

Discover religious traditions in Arequipa

Use Arequipa’s religious traditions to learn about living traditions connected to Arequipa, choosing respectful, locally led encounters. Avoid treating contemporary communities or religious practice as a performance.

Tradition

1–3 hours

Admire Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa

Look closely at Cathedral Basilica of Arequipa for a concrete introduction to Arequipa’s built character. Notice the materials, street setting and later changes as well as the main façade.

Architecture

1–3 hours

Trace local history at Monasterio de Santa Catalina

Use Monasterio de Santa Catalina to understand a specific part of Arequipa’s past rather than viewing it without context. Allow time for interpretation, not only the most photographed exterior.

History

2–4 hours

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PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Languages

Spanish · Quechua

Currency

Peruvian sol · PEN

Payments

Cards accepted

Tipping