Dubbed the Ciudad Blanca (White City) because of the white volcanic stone (silla) used to create its architecture, Arequipa is indisputably one of Peru’s prettiest cities. Grand cathedrals, Baroque churches, and centuries-old monasteries pay testament to Arequipa’s richly textured past, while the three volcanoes surrounding the city offer a wealth of adventurous things to do. Plus, it serves as the gateway to the Colca Canyon, famous for its Andean condors and status as one of the world’s deepest canyons.
Known as Peru’s White City (Ciudad Blanca), Arequipa enjoys an average of 300 days’ sunshine every year. It can get extremely hot, so the best time to visit for the mildest temperatures is during the “winter” months of April through November. If you’re planning on hiking the nearby Colca Canyon, visit in April or May when the mountains are still snowcapped, and the scenery is a vibrant green from the summer rain.
Arequipa’s historical center is easy to navigate on foot, though the city’s high elevation might mean you get out of breath quicker than at lower altitudes. For things to do outside the city center, opt to take a taxi, but make sure it’s registered and has a meter. Asking your accommodation to call a taxi for you is the best option, as then the company is guaranteed to be reputable. Alternatively, choose a guided tour that includes transportation.
Often overlooked by travelers heading straight to Colca Canyon, the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve is a spectacular desert that comprises wetlands, snowcapped volcanoes (including Misti Volcano, which reigns supreme over the city), lagoons, pre-Inca ruins, and cave paintings estimated to be 8,000 years old. The reserve makes a perfect midway stop on the 3-4 hour journey between Arequipa and the Colca Canyon and can be explored by car or as part of a guided tour.
Local Currency Peruvian Sol (PEN) | Time Zone PET (UTC -5) | Country Code +51 | Language(s) Spanish | Attractions 17 | Tours 283 | Reviews 3,321 |
Arequipa is known for the colonial architecture of its Old Town, made from sillar, a volcanic rock that’s responsible for its nickname of The White City (La Ciudad Blanca)—top sights include Plaza de Armas and Santa Catalina Monastery. Arequipa is also close to Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest.
...MoreThree days in Arequipa gives you time to explore the Yanahuara and Sachaca districts, and see the best colonial architecture—which includes the cathedral-dominated Plaza de Armas and Santa Catalina Monastery. You’ll also have time for a day at Colca Canyon, famed for its Andean condors and pre-Inca sites.
...MoreYes. Overlooked by the snow-capped El Misti volcano and brimming with majestic colonial architecture, Arequipa—also known as the White City (Ciudad Blanca)—is worth visiting. It’s also within easy reach of Colca Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, and Huacachina, a desert oasis with a vivid green lagoon.
...MoreSpanish is the main language spoken in Arequipa, like in Peru and the majority of South America. The White City does see many travelers each year, so English is also widely spoken.
...MoreYes. Arequipa is a mostly safe city to visit, as long as you take the usual precautions of keeping your valuables close and safe. Taxis are a common area for crime, especially those hailed from the street late at night—only take licensed taxis and agree on a price before the journey starts.
...MoreArequipa is around 60 miles (100 kilometers) from the Pacific Ocean, a two to three hour journey by road. Some of the best beaches within driving distance of the White City include Camaná, home to San Jose Cove and La Miel Beach, and the black sand beach of Catarindo.
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