20+ Epic Things to Do in Arequipa & Unique Arequipa Day Trips

There are so many incredible things to do in Arequipa for every type of traveler. Arequipa is Peru’s second largest city and is home to stroll-able cobblestone streets lined with flower pots, bustling plazas, and incredible volcanic landscape views. Appreciate the stunning buildings made with the signature sillar volcanic rock, which ultimately give the city its nickname of “Peru’s White City.” Arequipa is most famous for being the gateway to the iconic Colca Canyon, which is the second deepest canyon in the World.

Arequipa is worth a visit and should not be skipped on any Peru itinerary.

The Historic Center of Arequipa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a unique fusion of Inca culture and an involuntary influence from the Spanish Conquistadors. One of the best things to do in Arequipa is to discover the hidden treasures in the city’s many districts, neighborhoods, and even tambos, resting points for Inca messengers knowns as Chaskis.

The top Arequipa attractions include the enthralling Santa Catalina Monastery, boasting bright colors and a dark past, the frozen ice maiden sacrificed in a volcano, and lively plazas and markets. Don’t forget that Arequipa is a foodie destination with its own typical cuisine and showcases over 500 regional dishes.

Arequipa is the gateway to the World’s second-deepest Canyon, the Colca Canyon which offers hiking, charming villages, waterfalls, hot springs, and the chance to witness the majestic condors flying in action.

Here’s over 20 of the best things to do in Arequipa Peru and top Arequipa Day Trips.

Table of Contents

• Best Things to Do in Arequipa Peru
• Foodie Things to Do in Arequipa
• Top Arequipa Day Trips & Tours
• Where to Stay in Arequipa
• Plan an Extended Visit to Colca Canyon Peru
• Arequipa Peru Travel Tips
• Top Things to Do in Arequipa Peru & Colca Canyon

15 Best Things to Do in Arequipa Peru

Here’s some of the most popular Arequipa attractions to visit in Peru’s “White City” and top things to do in Arequipa.

1 | Plaza de Armas Arequipa

The Plaza de Armas of Arequipa is the living room and main square in the bustling city. It really doesn’t get much better than this. The Arequipa Plaza de Armas is home to beautiful sillar buildings, engulfed by mighty Volcanoes, and showcases the impressive Arequipa Basilica Cathedral.

In fact, the Arequipa Plaza de Armas is often dubbed the “most beautiful Plaza in Peru.”

2 | Visit the Colorful Santa Catalina Monastery

The most iconic and photographed site in Arequipa is the Santa Catalina Monastery. This convent of nuns in Arequipa has been in existence since 1579, but finally opened its doors for visitors in 1970. Walk around the perfectly manicured courtyards and brightly colored streets. Visiting this monastery is like exploring a miniature city within a city. Do you spot the street signs?

There are multiple courtyards splashed in red, blue, and white paint. It’s easy to spend hours just soaking in the exquisite gardens, views, and the art in one of the top Arequipa attractions.

Although the Santa Catalina Monastery is one of the most popular things to do in Arequipa, it is expensive in comparison to other Peru tourist destinations. However, it is worth visiting the Monastery to understand the history and role of the Spanish Conquistadors on the Inca culture.

Santa Catalina Monastery Logistics | Find it here: Santa Catalina 301 Arequipa | Ticket Cost: 40 PEN ($10.50 USD) | Guided Tour: additional 20 PEN ($5.25 USD), guides onsite, but verify their information always | Hours: Daily, 9:00 – 18:00 / last entrance 17:00, Thursdays open 9:00 – 20:30 / last entrance 19:30

The Dark History of Santa Catalina Monastery

A haunting tidbit about the monastery is that it was built for the Spanish by Inca labor force. It is a common theme that will be mentioned and can physically be seen throughout the entire city of Arequipa Peru.

These nuns of Santa Catalina Monastery (or their families) paid large fees to live their life dedicated to God in solitude. Back in the 1580’s, when the monastery first open, families paid 2,000 gold and 2,000 silver coins for their first daughter to join the convent. Today, that amount of money is equivalent of $150,000!

These nuns also had servants, the Incas, forced against their will to give up their own traditional beliefs and customs and adopt the Catholic faith. The monastery is incredibly beautiful, but it is important to remember the foundation it was built upon.

Tips for Visiting Santa Catalina Monastery

• Get there early to avoid massive crowds and walk the colorful streets in solitude.
• A guide is not necessary as there are information boards and a pamphlet. There are so many tours that it’s easy to overhear some facts. However, if you change your mind, purchase a guide onsite.
• There is a rotating museum that is FREE but also connected to the monastery, so if you choose not to visit, make sure to peek-in and catch glimpses of one of the courtyards and see the rotating art.

3 | Join the Arequipa Free Walking Tour

One of the best things to do in Arequipa Peru is to join a free walking tour. Free Walking Tour Arequipa conveniently offers a daily tour. Visit a few of the tambos, San Lázaro neighborhood, stop by Alpaca World (Mundo Alpaca) to see all the llamas, alpacas, and camelid species of the Andes. The grand finale of the tour is the incredible viewpoint, Mirador de Yanahuara.

Free Walking Tour Arequipa Logistics | Cost: FREE, but share the love and leave a tip with the guides who work hard and rely on the tip money | Meet Here: In front of the Santa Catalina Monastery | Daily: 11:00, walking tour duration is around 2 hours | ➜Sign-up for Free Walking Tour Arequipa Here

The guides are incredibly knowledgeable about the Inca and Pre-Inca history and honest about the Spanish conquers. The walking tour is interactive, and there is a lot of info jam-packed into two hours. With a great balance of history, modern facts, quirky tidbits, and recommendations on fun things to do in Arequipa, Free Walking Tour Arequipa is the best free walking tour available in Arequipa.

☛ Travel Tip | The same company offers a popular Walking Food Tour of Arequipa. Although not free, the cuisine of Arequipa is unique and is best understood with a tour

4 | Observe Juanita“The Ice Maiden” at Museo Santuarios Andinos

If looking for one of the more unique things to do in Arequipa, visit Juanita, who is also referred to as “The Ice Maiden.” Juanita is a mummy frozen in time that can be seen at the Museo Santuarios Andinos (MUSA).

This small museum largely focuses on the topic of human sacrifices, and Juanita was only a young child of about 12-14 when she was sacrificed by the Incas to their angry mountain Gods. The mountain Gods showed their fury by erupting into the sky. Yes, she was thrown into the depths of a nearby Arequipa volcano.

When she was found in 1992, Juanita was almost perfectly preserved, including her hair and nails. The icy temperatures of the volcano she was sacrificed to now help tell her story.

Juanita has been preserved for almost 500 years, and seeing her at the end of the Museo Santuarios Andinos is shocking to say the least. Her small size is a brutal reminder of how young she was when she paid the ultimate price of her life to the Gods.

Juanita is currently wrapped up in a blanket, so her hands are covered, but there were plenty of detailed images hanging on the wall next to her. She is resting in a refrigerator, so there can be mixed emotions when seeing her.

Her story is on display for hundreds of tourists who walk through the door each day to pay their respects and understand more about the Inca ritual of human sacrifice.

Museo Santuarios Andinos Logistics | Find it Here: Calle la Merced 110 Arequipa Peru | Adult Ticket Cost: 20 PEN ($5.25 USD) for the entrance fee and then a “mandatory tip” for the volunteer tour guides, usually around 5 PEN ($1.25 USD) | Hours: Daily: 9:00 – 18:00, Sunday closes at 15:00 | Museo Santuarios Andinos Facebook Page

More than Juanita at the Museo Santuarios Andinos

The museum has lots of interesting artifacts and quite a few informational boards in English. It is “required” to take a guide through the museum, and a tip of 5 soles is expected at the end for the guide. The MUSA tours are in English and Spanish.

I walked through MUSA independently and found the museum easy to navigate; however, I missed the informative video about the actual discovery of Juanita, the Ice Maiden.

☛ Travel Tip | There are absolutely no photos allowed inside the Museo Santuarios Andinos, and personal items must be stowed in the provided lockers

The Museo Santuarios Andinos is one of the more unique things to do in Arequipa.

5 | Visit Yanhuara District of Arequipa

Arequipa is made up of lots of districts which are then filled with little barrios, or neighborhoods. Even tinier are the tambos, or smaller clusters of residences.

Most tourists head straight to the Historical Center of Arequipa and with good reason. Almost all of the main Arequipa attractions can be found in this condensed district.

The Yanahuara district is a true delight and is must visit on an Arequipa itinerary. Find adorable cobblestone streets that seem to transport those who wander them to the iconic white villages in Spain. The Plaza de Yanahuara is lovely and boasts the Yanahuara Viewpoint.

Mirador de Yanahuara

Mirador de Yanahuara is an excellent and free place to watch the sunset. The views of the volcanoes are pretty stunning on a clear day. This cute viewpoint has a lovely park, an interesting church, and spectacular views of one of Arequipa’s photographed volcanoes. El Misti Volcano seems to sit perfectly in the sillar engraved arches.

6 | Don’t Skip Cayma District

A favorite district in Arequipa of locals is the Cayma District, with its low-key vibe and peaceful plaza. Don’t miss an opportunity to wander the Plaza de Cayma, stop by the church, and eat at local food joints.

Cayma is said to be the birthplace of traditional Peruvian Adobo stew (pork dish), so grabbing a bowl is a must when visiting Arequipa.

➯ Detailed Arequipa Travel Guide | Visit These 3 Districts in Arequipa Peru

7 | Wander the Charming Streets of Arequipa

One of the absolute best things to do in Arequipa is to get lost on the small winding picturesque streets, or explore the plethora of small courtyards in of the sillar block churches. Arequipa Peru is an exquisite city deserves time to explore all of the hidden nooks and crannies.

➜ Callejon de la Casa Encantada was my favorite street in Arequipa

8 | Take a Stroll in San Lorenzo Neighborhood

Taking a stroll in the San Lázaro neighborhood may be one of the best things to do in Arequipa. The barrio of San Lázaro is a bohemian jewel of the city and is snugly tucked only a few blocks away from the bustling Plaza De Armas Arequipa.

While Arequipa sightseeing, visit the barrio of San Lázaro square that showcases charming cafes, and on a clear day, provides smashing views of the surrounding mountains and Arequipa volcanoes. San Lázaro prides itself of having its own hipster microbrewery, contemporary coffee shops, and an ample supply of trendy Arequipa restaurants and cozy cafes.

💬 Real Talk | San Lazaro barrio feels like Arequipa’s version of San Blas neighborhood in Cusco Peru

9 | Appreciate an Arequipa Tambo

One of the top things to do in Arequipa is visit a tambo. Theses spaces were previously the marketplaces for the Incas in the cities and were found along the extensive Inca Road system of Qhapac Ñan.

➜ Psst… Inca Tambos played a significant role in the Inca Empire and were found in cities and resting points along lonely spots along Great Inca Trail. In Ecuador, you can camp in an Old Inca Tambo on the Ecuador Inca Trail to Ingapirca

When the Spanish arrived, the Inca tambos were turned into small connective residences for the Spanish. The hum of the city seems to disappear behind these walls, and the peacefulness of the city takes over.

Places to Visit in Arequipa & Best Arequipa Tambos

• Solar Tambo
• Matadera Tambo
• Bronce Tambo
• Cabezona Tambo

☛ Travel Tip | Find all of these Arequipa Tambos on Google Maps

Things to Do in Arequipa for Foodies

One of the best things to do in Arequipa is eat! Find typical Arequipa dishes in the Picanterías, but there is also a very thriving modern food scene. From breweries, coffee shops, vegan restaurants and ethnic cuisine, Arequipa Peru is a food destination!

10 | Eat Typical Arequipa Cuisine at a Picantería

One of Arequipa’s best assets may just be its own distinctive cuisine and typical dishes. The food here is unlike anywhere else in Peru. Some of these dishes originated in specific districts right within the city limits of Arequipa.

At lunchtime, locals head straight to the Picanterías, where they drink their own version of chicha. A typical lunch includes a hearty soup or stew, or a heaping daily special plate of food.

Picanterias are all about socializing. All of these lively exchanges happen while dining at communal tables that are dressed in red and white checked tablecloths. The most memorable of experiences occur at lunchtime over a plate of typical food when the city seems to be sleeping, but the Picanterías are very much alive.

⁉️ Chisme is the Spanish slang name given for “tell me the gossip” & there is no shortage of harmless chisme in Picanterias

Picanterias are dinning establishments in Arequipa laced with history, stories, and recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation with a fiery passion. So ultimately, eating at a Picantería is one of the best things to do in Arequipa.

🍽 Arequipa Food Guide | The Complete Guide to Arequipa Picanterías & useful tidbits about these iconic Arequipa eateries

11 | Explore the Mercado San Camilo (San Camilo Market)

Mercado San Camilo is a busy Arequipa market with juice stands, a small fish market, unique meat stalls, medicine women, and produce stands that are piled high with vittles.

This popular Arequipa market has two levels, and it always seems to be buzzing, so it’s a great place to enjoy some people watching. Locals flock here to do their daily shopping, socialize, and grab a quick breakfast or a menu del dia, or typical budget-friendly lunch with two courses. Mercado San Camilo is an excellent place to sample typical Arequipa dishes from one of the many food vendors.

💬 Real Talk | A few higher-end Arequipa Hotels warned me to avoid eating at the market, but I never had an issue and didn’t get sick from the food. Personally, I was happy to find many tourists eating at the San Camilo Market. If your stomach can be sensitive, be mindful and be sure to pack charcoal pills

After a meal at the San Camilo Market, try an emoliente, which is a warm medicinal drink that helps with digestion. The location of these little stands are conveniently next to the exits, and only cost 1 PEN (30 cents).

12 | Learn About the Wines & Pisco of Peru

Right below the Mirador de Yanahuara sits an extremely small, but informative museum about wines, and of course, Pisco from Peru. The museum is officially named Museo Vivencial del Vino y Pisco, but MUVI for short.

This small Arequipa Museums has detailed wine region maps, models of the harvesting process, and even a video (in Spanish) that shows an overview of the Peruvian wine-making practices.

Museo Vivencial del Vino y Pisco Logistics | Find it here: Below the Mirador de Yanahuara | Cost: It’s FREE to enter, and for me, included one free and generous sample. Depending on what’s open behind the counter, there’s a chance to possibly sample more, but might include a small fee | Hours: Tues – Sat: 9:00 – 17:00 | Official MUVI Website

There is a woman working behind the counter that will pour open bottles of wine as samples. There is no tasting flight at this time, but maybe with enough people visiting, it will be an option in the future.

This Arequipa wine museum was quite informative. A speedy 20 minutes and quick swig of wine later made me feel more confident about my wine knowledge of Peru. Let’s be real, it was non-existent before this!

13 | Enjoy an Arequipa Rooftop Bar

One of the best things to do in Arequipa is to appreciate the multiple volcanoes and mountains of Arequipa from a rooftop bar. These majestic peaks, like El Misti add an epic backdrop for some pretty incredible sunsets.

The white buildings absorb these colorful spectacles, only enhancing the changing colors of the sky. No matter the location, always take the opportunity to look up at the sunset.

Sunset Rooftop Bar

Looking for a place to watch the sunset in Arequipa and sip on a Pisco Sour or cold beverage? Sunset Rooftop Bar offers two different leveled terraces, chill music, almost 360° views, and an extensive cocktail menu, all for a reasonable price.

☛ Find Sunset Rooftop Bar inside of Le Foyer Hostel Arequipa on the 4th floor. Open daily 14:00 – 21:00

14 | Try Queso Helado the Famous Arequipa Ice Cream

Queso Helado is the artisanal typical ice cream from Arequipa, and although it translates to “iced cheese,” there is no cheese in this sweet treat. This traditional ice cream of Arequipa is made from milk, condensed milk, coconut, and spices. There is always a garnish of cinnamon sprinkles.

Queso Helado came into existence after the Spanish conquest, due to the fact that they introduced cattle and livestock to the region. The reference to cheese comes from the process of actually making this ice cream. The curdled milk comes off in layers, having the appearance of cheese flakes, which gives this must have Arequipa dessert the name Queso Helado.

15 | Sip on a Cold Microbrew

Chelawasi Public House is nestled in the trendy neighborhood of San Lazaro is the superb microbrewery and is one of the best places in Arequipa to sample some good brews. The brewery has many nods to the beer loving city of Portland, Oregon, U.S.A. See the Pacific Northwest influence with its murals and decor.

There’s a wide range of craft beers at Chelawasi Public House and they serve up some pub grub to pair with the rotating beer lists.

Chelawasi Public House | Find them Here: Campo Redondo 102, Arequipa | Hours: Mon – Thur: 12:30 – 23: 00 / Fri & Sat: 11:30 – 1:30 / Sun: 14:00 – 22:00

Best Arequipa Day Trips & Tours

One of the best things to do in Arequipa is to explore the nearby landscapes with a day trip or tour.

16 | Ruta Del Sillar

Remember how the historic center of Arequipa is made from the unique volcanic rock of sillar stones? One of the top half-day trips is to visit one of the quarries where the stones originate from.

Along the Route of Sillar you’ll get a chance to see some sculptures that are made from the sillar stones. These “mines” were opened recently in 2016 to tourists.

The easiest way to reach the Ruta del Sillar is via an organized tour like this one, or visit independently by hiring a verified taxi driver.

Canteras de Sillar Añashuayco | Find them here | Entrance Fee: 5 PEN ($1.25 USD) | There are certain areas of the Ruta de Sillar that have an additional fee to visit and photograph | Hours: Daily, 9:00 – 17:00

17 | Colca Canyon Tour

The Colca Canyon is an Arequipa must-see destination in South America and one of the most impressive natural landmarks in Peru.

There are many ways to experience the popular Colca Canyon like with a full day tour, a guided Colca Canyon trek, or hiking Colca Canyon without a tour company. The Colca Canyon is at least 4.5 hours from Arequipa, so for a full day tour, be prepared to spend a lot of the time on the bus or shuttle.

One of the most popular Colca Canyon tours is a 2 day trek with organized shuttles, accommodations, and stops at the popular Mirador Cruz del Condor. Here’s a popular Colca Canyon hiking tour option. Be mindful that the entrance fee to the Colca Canyon is usually never included.

💬 Real Talk | Due to the sheer distance and the enormity of the Colca Canyon, in my humble opinion, it’s best to spend more than a few days. Hang out in the small villages outside the ticketed area of the Colca Canyon, like Yanque Peru. Also, check out this section about spending more time in Colca Canyon Arequipa

Mirador Cruz Del Condor

The Cross of the Condor is a viewpoint that has one of the best places in the Canyon to catch a glimpse of the mighty Andean condors. A stop at this lookout is included in ALL Colca Canyon tours. There is usually a worker collecting money for the Colca Canyon entrance ticket.

Colca Canyon Admission ticket | Cost: 70 PEN ($17.75 USD) | Valid: 5 days | Purchase the ticket at many of the popular Colca Canyon Attractions

18 | Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reservation

Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reservation is a sprawling high-altitude altiplano landscape between Arequipa and Puno (Lake Titicaca). The almost otherworldly altiplano offers an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with fauna like El Misiti Volcano and animals like Vicuña, a wild camelid found in Peru. There are over 150 different species of birds that call the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reservation home.

Be mindful that the altitude here in the reserve is much higher than Arequipa with the lowest point being over 9,000 ft. to the highest point of Chachani Volcano at 19,872 (6,057 m). The altitute of Arequipa is 7,550 feet (2,300 m) .

Aguada Blanca is a large water reservoir where it’s possible to spot flamingos. During the winter months between April to December the water from Aguada Blanca Lake evaporates, leaving behind salt that is collected by the locals.

Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reservation is not really structured for tourists, so it’s best to find a local guide or tour company. However, the reserve is becoming a more popular day trip from Arequipa.

Psst.. Love the antiplano landscape? The village of San Pedro de Atacama in Chile has tons of excursions and attractions like the Valley of the Moon & Catarpe Valley Gorge and of course the most famous spot in South America may be the Uyuni Salt Flats of Bolivia.

19 | Climb an Arequipa Volcano

There are two main Arequipa Volcanoes that intrepid hikers opt to climb, El Misti Volcano and Chachani Volcano. Both summits are a challenge and local guides are essential and readily available from Arequipa.

El Misti Volcano

El Misti is picturesquely nestled in the backdrop of Arequipa. The towering staggering volcano sits at an altitude of 19,101 feet. Adventurous hikers will love to reach the cross that sits along the crater of Misti. It’s usually a two day trek to climb El Misti and utilizing a local guide is highly recommended. Misti is still considered an active volcano.

➜ Here’s a highly rated guided tour for climbing Misti Volcano

Volcán Chachani

Alternatively, Chachani is another popular dormant volcano that can be summited from Arequipa. Don’t let the altitude fool you. At almost 20,000 ft, Chachani is a challenge and hiking with an experienced local guide is highly recommended.

20 | Hike to Capua Waterfall

Capua Waterfall is a popular day trip from Arequipa. The hiking trail through the gorge can be accessed from a collectivo ride from Arequipa to Yura. The trail is fairly well marked with the finale being the Capua Waterfall. The out and back trail takes around 4 – 5 hours to complete.

Guided Tours to Capua Waterfall usually include a stop at the nearby hot springs or other nearby Arequipa attractions.

☛ Packing Tip | Wear a good pair of hiking sandals since there are lots of stream and river crossings.

Where to Stay in Arequipa

When discovering the best things to do in Arequipa there is no shortage of hostels, Arequipa guesthouses, and Arequipa hotels to choose from. The Historic District is the best place to stay in Arequipa.

➜ Browse all the best places to stay in Arequipa Peru

Best Hostels in Arequipa

Here are some popular hostels in Arequipa among backpackers.

Way Kap Hostel Arequipa

Way Kap Hostel Arequipa is my go-to hostel when visiting Arequipa. The staff is so incredibly helpful and happy, the space is spotless. Find two indoor patios for chilling, breakfast is included, and secure luggage storage. Valuables are locked up behind the desk and tagged for those hiking Colca Canyon.

Way Kap Hostel offers this incredibly rare service, which is hard to find in Arequipa!

Room sizes vary, but female only dorms are an option. Each bed comes with plug-ins and individual lights. Showers are hot! Way Kap Hostel is one of the best hostels in Arequipa!

➜ Book Way Kap Hostel Arequipa

Selina Arequipa

Selina’s are a “luxury” chain of hostels that are found all over Latin America. They are known as catering to digital nomads, but they don’t offer storage of valuables for those looking to take day trips from Arequipa.

➜ Book Selina Arequipa

The property is stunning and the rooms are spacious and comfortable, but the vibe here is more for nomads and couples. This was a common theme experienced by most solo-travelers.

Plan an Extended Visit to Colca Canyon Peru

Many travelers use Arequipa as the starting point to explore the famous Colca Canyon. While one of the most popular things to do in Arequipa is to take a full day Colca Canyon tour, there are so many places to visit in Peru’s Colca Canyon. Truth be told, I spent 2 weeks in the area.

Multi-Day Colca Canyon Trek

The standard Colca Canyon trekking route is 2 days and 1 night and will include an overnight in the famous Oasis Sangalle village. Those looking to explore the Canyon a little more in depth can plan a multi-day hike in the Colca Canyon. Be mindful, the hiking paths are fairly well marked, but are narrow and steep, so always use your best judgement and never hike alone.

🥾 Peru Packing List for Multi-Day Treks & Adventures

Although not so “standard” a 4 day Colca Canyon trek includes the tiny village of Fure with it’s barreling Huaruro Waterfall (Catarata de Fure). It also includes a night in Llahuar, which boasts some simple hot springs in the Colca Canyon.

Yanque Peru

The village of Yanque is an ideal place to explore the Colca Canyon Peru. From the town, there are exceptional hot springs and an alternative Colca Canyon day hike to the beautiful Pre-Inca ruins of Uyo-Uyo, with a small waterfall.

There are other things to do in Yanque, like take the adventurous day trip to the hidden Chimpa Fortress (Fortaleza de Chimpa). Keep your eyes peeled for Sabancaya volcano, which is often erupting ash into the sky.

Cotahuasi Canyon

Intrepid adventure travelers may opt to visit the Cotahuasi Canyon, which claims to be even deeper than the Colca Canyon. Cotahuasi is far from Arequipa and the Colca Canyon and it will take at least another full day just to reach it.

A visit to the Cotahuasi Canyon is a truly off the beaten path experience in Peru.

Arequipa Peru Travel Tips

Now that we’ve covered over 20 of the best things to do in Arequipa, here are some general travel tips for Arequipa Peru.

How Many Days in Arequipa?

Arequipa city can be explored aggressively in two or three days, but slowing down allows the soul of this place to sparkle before your eyes. Those who want to experience some nearby Arequipa day trips should plan for at least a week. Between hiking Colca Canyon and spending time in Yanque, I spent around a month in Arequipa.

Arequipa Tours vs Independent Travel in Arequipa Peru

Arequipa is a walkable city and is connected to the Colca Canyon via buses and collectivos.It is very possible to explore Arequipa and the Colca Canyon without a tour. However, some of the best things to do in Arequipa are easier to reach with a tour.

How to Get to Arequipa Peru

Arequipa has a small international airport, the Alfredo Rodriguez International Airport.

Most backpackers get to Arequipa by bus from Lima. The popular route includes an overnight in the Oasis village of Huacachina or the coastal town of Paracas. This helps break up the long bus ride and can include stops like the intriguing Nazca Lines.

🚌 There are designated tourist buses like PeruHop if you don’t feel comfortable riding the local buses. However they are extremely expensive comparative to the local buses since they include some attractions en-route.

Alternatively, Puno and Lake Titicaca is around 6.5 hours from Arequipa and well connected by bus or small shuttles.

The Imperial City of Cusco and Arequipa are connected by bus and the route typically takes around 11 hours. Those traveling from Arequipa to Cusco can opt for a night bus.

✔ Detailed Cusco Travel Guides | One Week Cusco and Sacred Valley Itinerary | 23 Spectacular Things to Do in Cusco | The Ultimate Guide to the Sacred Valley Peru | Unique Cusco Itineraries

Is Arequipa Worth Visiting?

Yes, Arequipa is definitely worth visiting! From exploring the beautiful white city, to summiting a volcano, to hiking the Colca Canyon, make sure to add Arequipa to your Peru itinerary.

➜ Browse all my Peru Travel Guides

20+ Top Things to Do in Arequipa Peru & Colca Canyon

In conclusion, Arequipa is a diverse city, and there really is so much to explore and see here. The best things to do in Arequipa include: getting lost in the unique districts, neighborhoods, and charming little streets. From the colorful Santa Catalina Monastery, interesting museums, the San Camilo Market, stunning viewpoints, and incredible places to eat, Arequipa is worth visiting.

One of the top Arequipa attractions is the nearby Colca Canyon and is one of the main reasons travelers venture to the “white city,” but there is so much to see and do in Arequipa.

Have you been to Arequipa Peru? Did you do any of these fun things to do Arequipa? Is there something missing from these best places to visit in Arequipa? Let me know in the comments below!

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