Arequipa, the second-largest city in Peru (after Lima), holds an enchanting mix of colonial beauty and fierce regional loyalty of its residents renowned nationwide. Set out on a history-filled excursion with our guide around the main plaza and use the city as your base to embark on adventurous Arequipa tours to Colca Canyon.
Zero postponement fees up to 30 days before arrival, transferable travel credit, and only a 30% deposit required to secure your trip.
The Historic City Center of Arequipa is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the Plaza de Armas you’ll see European architectural styles, like Baroque and neo-classical all with a touch of Andean symbology. Top-restaurants overlook the Basilica Cathedral where you’ll be likely to hear some live Peruvian music playing from the street.
El Misti Volcano makes the Arequipan skyline something extra special. This perfectly cone-shaped volcano stands 19,098 feet (5,822 meters) above sea level, next to it are the Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.
The Salinas Aguada Blanca National Reserve is a protected park near Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Here you’ll find lagoons, wetlands, birds, wild vicunas, volcanos, and more along the scenic landscapes.
Juanita is the name of one of the best-preserved mummies in the Andes. You can visit her remains at the Museo Santuarios Andinos in Arequipa and learn about her history, her death in the 1400’s, and her discovery in 1995.
The Santa Catalina Monastery in Arequipa spans over 20,000 square miles and is very much a city within a city. In 1579 when it was originally built, it was a monastery for Dominican nuns who built all they would need within its walls and never left the property.
Colca Canyon is near Arequipa city, and is the second-deepest canyon in the world. A visit here should be done over 2 days to take in the natural hot springs, gorgeous hotel properties, and soaring Andean condors.
Cruz del Condor is a panoramic viewpoint over Colca Canyon where Andean condors are prone to soar. The multi-storied lookout point built on the cliffside allows for the 3-4 food condors to soar directly overhead.
Chivay is a small town within Colca Canyon and is the gateway to Colca Canyon tours. Chivay has an 8th century Church of Our Lady of the Assumption located on the main square where you might encounter traditional dances or places to purchase Peruvian souvenirs.
Arequipa is best known for its local cuisine and you’d be missing out if you didn’t try it. While all of Peru boasts delicious food, Arequipa’s secret ingredient is spice. Restaurants where you can try these spicy renditions of Peruvian foods are called “picanterias”.
Calle Ugarte 403, Arequipa
Calle Portal de Flores 116 Plaza de Armas, Arequipa
Calle Álvarez Thomas 300a, Arequipa
Zela 301 Cercado, Arequipa
Peru is filled with archaeological ruins, scenic landscapes, and delicious flavors. Must-see places in Peru include:
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in four or two days. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway where the elite Incas once entered into the “Lost City of the Incas”. Plan with your Peru for Less travel advisor in advance, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out even 6-months in advance.
Step into the lush Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and witness a spectacular array of wildlife in its natural habitat. Lodges in Puerto Maldonado are ideal for excursions and daily activities. Those looking for a more luxurious Amazon experience would love an Iquitos Amazon River cruise. Colorful macaws, giant tarantulas, and playful river otters are among the sights you’ll behold.
Cusco city has it all, archaeological ruins, colonial buildings, top-rated restaurants, and countless places to explore. Your Cusco City Tour will take you to the top highlights like Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, the Cusco Cathedral, and more.
Arequipa is a picturesque town and also the second-largest city in Peru. Local markets, beautifully built colonial architecture, and El Misti volcano are among the things you’ll see while walking the cobblestone streets of the white city.
Sail on the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca and step on the reed Uros and Taquile floating islands. Some of the best weavers are found in this area so pick up some Peruvian textiles here for unique souvenirs.
The Nazca Lines are mysterious geoglyphs and geometric shapes drawn onto the desert floor hundreds of years ago by the Nazca culture. Little is known about them nevertheless, the Nazca Lines inspire awe in those who take a flight over them.
Lima is a mixture of modern city living and historical significance. Here you’ll find Central restaurant (ranked #6 by 50 Worlds Best), UNESCO World Heritage sites like Historic City Center with the San Francisco Convent, and the best shopping in Peru.
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in four or two days. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway where the elite Incas once entered into the “Lost City of the Incas”. Plan with your Peru for Less travel advisor in advance, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out even 6-months in advance.
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