LIFE IN AREQUIPA
Despite being Peru's second largest city, Arequipa is peaceful and tranquil, and its winding white streets soon start to feel like home. From culinary excursions to outdoor adventures, Arequipa is filled with every variety of activities and excursions, so you will never be bored while exploring "The White City." Arequipa was given this nickname because the entirety of the historic city center is built from beautiful while sillar stone, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site, but also making it the perfect place for scenic afternoon walks and city explorations.
THINGS TO DO
Whether you are interested in Andean culture, city sightseeing, or exploring the local markets, Arequipa will never leave you bored.
Museums
Come check out one of the many museums located in Arequipa. Visit Museo Santuarios Andinos to learn more about Andean culture, or visit the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo or the Casa Museo Mario Vargas Llosa if you are more interested in art and literature.
La plaza de armas and The Cathedral
Spend an afternoon people watching in the beautiful white-stone Plaza de Armas. Eat lunch on the steps of the cathedral, and take an afternoon tour of the cathedral and the towers, both of which are filled with ancient art and Peruvian history.
Mirador de Yanahuara
Get a view of the city framed by beautiful white arcs from the Mirador de Yanahuara, just a short walk from the city center. Go during the day for a view of Misti, or go at night to see the city and the towers of the Plaza de Armas lit up with golden streetlight.
Monasterio Santa Catalina
Spend an afternoon exploring the 20,000 sq. meters of Monasterio Santa Catalina. Founded in 1580, the monastery is an impressive citadel-esque structure. Wander around alone or hire a guide to learn more about the monastery's history.
Mercado San Camilo
Mercado San Camilo, Arequipa's most famous open-air market, is a sensory overload. Packed with stalls selling everything from fresh fish to sun hats, order a freshly-squeerd juice and take a walk through the bustling aisles to see what grocery shopping can be like in Peru.
FOOD
Areequipa is a culinary dream. Whether you like sweet or savory, plant-based or meat-filled, test your taste buds at the countless restaurants and delectable street stalls that crowd Arequipa's white-stone streets.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Whether you like volcanoes, mountains, or white-water rafting, the area around Arequipa is packed with outdoor adventures of every kind. With 300 days of sunshine and blue skies every year, you will want to get outside and start exploring.
