Explore one of the hearts of Southern Peru with our Arequipa City Tour, an invigorating half-day tour that promises to enchant and educate. We will begin our tour in the historical center, where the stunning architecture and vibrant streets come alive. The iconic Plaza de Armas, with its picturesque backdrop of Misti Volcano, will be our first major stop. Here, we will learn about Arequipa’s rich history and colonial heritage.
Santa Catalina Monastery stands as a vibrant relic of Arequipa’s religious history. Colonists founded in 1579 offering a unique glimpse into monastic life. Its colorful streets and cloisters, adorned with vivid flowers, showcase four centuries of architectural evolution.
The monastery remains active, with a small number of nuns still residing there. It is open to the public, inviting visitors to explore its tranquil courtyards, hidden chapels, and historic artifacts. This makes it a must-visit for anyone touring Arequipa.
We will visit the famed Santa Catalina Monastery. This sprawling religious complex is a maze of colorful alleys and historic chapels. Spanning over 20,000 square meters (about 215,000 square feet), it offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era. As we wander through the monastery, we will discover hidden courtyards and ancient relics.
Our tour in Arequipa will also take us to the Jesuit Church of the Company, a stunning example of mixed Baroque architecture. We will marvel at its intricately carved facade and the impressive collection of colonial art housed within. This church stands as a testament to Arequipa’s historical significance in Peru’s religious landscape.
Wrapping up our half-day tour, we will see traditional markets and artisan shops. Also, along the streets you can find handcrafted goods that reflect the artistic spirit of Arequipa. It’s a perfect opportunity to pick up a souvenir that captures the essence of your visit.
This tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours to 3 hours and is an ideal choice if you’re staying at one of the hotels in Arequipa. It offers a compact yet comprehensive insight into the city’s key attractions. Prepare to be immersed in the culture, history, and beauty of Arequipa on this unforgettable day tour.
Our Arequipa City Tour covers the most important key points in just a half day tour. We will handle the logistics and you can enjoy the most of each destination. The famous “White City” bursts with passionate people and culture.
Arequipa Hotel Transfer
08:00
Our day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Arequipa. We will set out for the districts of Carmen Alto and Yanahuara. Here, we’ll soak in breathtaking views of the city framed by the volcanoes Chachani, Misti, and Picchu Picchu.
We will admire the beautifully preserved pre-Inca terraces and the vibrant flow of the Chili River. This scenic drive offers a perfect introduction to the region’s natural and historical landscapes.
Arriving in Yanahuara, we will explore its main square and the baroque-style church dating back to 1750. Yanahuara showcases the essence of Colonial Arequipa with its picturesque narrow alleys.
Also, the most iconic postcards can be taken in the Yanahuara portals made out of sillar. Inspiring carving designs will amaze you and make you feel present.
In Arequipa you will witness the age-old homes built from white sillar stone. This part of the tour provides a deep dive into the architectural beauty and historic ambiance of the area.
We will return to Arequipa’s historic center to visit the Santa Catalina Monastery. This site is a marvel of four centuries of Arequipa architecture. It features secluded cells, small streets, and cloisters adorned with colorful flowers and vividly painted walls. The monastery offers a peaceful and profound insight into the religious and cultural fabric of Arequipa.
Next, we will visit the Plaza de Armas, one of the most beautiful squares in Peru. We will tour the Jesuit Church of the Company, renowned for its stunning mestizo architecture facade, cloisters, and dome. We will also visit the colonial mansion, Casona Tristán del Pozo, to appreciate its historical significance and architectural grandeur.
This half-day tour offers a comprehensive overview of Arequipa’s most iconic sights, blending natural beauty with rich history. Prepare for an unforgettable morning as we uncover the cultural treasures of Arequipa together.
Pick-up is available from most central hotels in Arequipa. Please confirm your hotel location at the time of booking. If your hotel is outside of standard pick up range, additional charges may apply.
Yes, the Arequipa City Tour Half Day is suitable for children of all ages. It’s a family-friendly activity with lots of interesting sites and easy walking.
Comfortable walking shoes and light layers are recommendable, as well as sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen.
The tour involves moderate walking, mostly flat with some cobblestone streets. Comfortable footwear is essential.
No, all entrance fees and transportation costs are in our itinerary. However, personal expenses, meals, and tips are personal.
The Arequipa City Tour Half Day operates rain or shine. We can reschedule the tour in the case of extreme weather. We recommend traveling during the dry season and taking precautions if you travel during the rainy season.
Yes, there are opportunities for bathroom breaks at several points during the tour.
Since meals are not in the half-day tour, this is generally not applicable. However, you may bring your own snacks if you have specific dietary needs.
The tour is primarily offered in English and Spanish. Other languages may be available upon request.
Transportation is typically in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus or coach, depending on the group size.
Yes, private tours are available. Please contact us for details and to arrange a personalized experience.
Yes, we offer discounted rates for larger groups.
Please contact us as soon as possible. We try to accommodate late arrivals, but cannot guarantee full tour participation.
Photography is okay and encouraged at most sites. Restrictions may apply in certain areas for preservation reasons. Your guide will inform you of any specific limitations.
If you’re visiting Arequipa, this half-day tour is a must! It covers all the major sights without feeling without time. Our guide was very friendly and spoke excellent English. A great value for the price!