Introduction & History

Nicknamed the “White City” for its radiant buildings made from volcanic sillar stone, Arequipa is Peru’s second‑largest city and a harmonious blend of Spanish colonial elegance and indigenous heritage. Founded in 1540 at 2,335 metres (7,660 ft) above sea level, Arequipa sits in a fertile valley encircled by the majestic volcanoes Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu. Its historic centre — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — features baroque facades, arcaded plazas and leafy patios built from white ashlar, giving the city a luminous glow under the Andean sun. With nearly one million inhabitants and more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Arequipa lures travellers seeking culture, cuisine and access to some of Peru’s most dramatic landscapes.

The city’s history reflects a confluence of cultures: the indigenous Collagua and Cabana peoples inhabited the region long before Spanish colonisation; early settlers built irrigation systems that still feed the valley’s orchards and terraces. In colonial times, Arequipa thrived as a trading centre and agricultural hub. Its wealth financed churches, monasteries and mansions adorned with volcanic stone carvings. Today Arequipa is a vibrant university town known for its relaxed lifestyle, locally roasted coffee and craft beer scenes. The surrounding sillar quarries continue to supply stone for restoration projects, preserving the city’s distinctive appearance.

Top Attractions & Activities

  • Historic Sites: The immense Plaza de Armas is flanked by the neoclassical Basilica Cathedral, while the Jesuit church La Compañía boasts intricate stone carving. A few blocks away lies the Santa Catalina Monastery, a colourful citadel of cloistered streets and courtyards founded in 1579.
  • Museums: Visit the Museo Santuarios Andinos to view the mummified Ice Maiden “Juanita,” preserved by the volcanic ice of Ampato. The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo showcases modern Peruvian works, and the Mundo Alpaca centre offers demonstrations of alpaca wool processing.
  • Viewpoints & Districts: Stroll to Yanahuara’s lookout for panoramic views of Misti volcano framed by colonial arches. The traditional district of Cayma hosts picanterías where hearty stews and spicy dishes await.
  • Day Trips: Arequipa serves as a gateway to the awe‑inspiring Colca Canyon, nearly twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and home to soaring Andean condors. Other excursions include Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve to see vicuñas and flamingos, and climbing the active El Misti volcano for experienced hikers.

City explorers can also visit local markets like San Camilo to sample cheeses, olives and tropical fruits, or tour restored colonial mansions such as Casa del Moral. In August, the city’s anniversary festival fills streets with parades, dances and fireworks, while religious celebrations like Holy Week and Corpus Christi feature processions and traditional music.

Culture & Cuisine

Arequipa’s culinary identity is as rich as its architecture. The city’s picanterías (rustic eateries) serve local classics like rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper), ocopa arequipeña (potato with peanut and huacatay sauce), chupe de camarones (shrimp chowder) and adobo (pork marinated in chicha). Each dish showcases native ingredients and centuries of gastronomic tradition. For dessert, try queso helado, a cinnamon‑flavoured frozen treat that refreshes after a sunny day. Coffee lovers will appreciate Arequipa’s burgeoning café culture, with baristas roasting beans sourced from the region’s valleys.

The city hosts numerous cultural festivals. The Fiestas de Arequipa in mid‑August commemorate the city’s founding with parades, concerts and fireworks. The Virgin of Chapi pilgrimage draws thousands of devotees, while folk dance competitions preserve traditional huayno and marinera styles. Arts and crafts flourish in museums and markets—look for fine stone sculptures, embroidery and alpaca textiles. The mild climate encourages outdoor dining and evening strolls through plazas lit by lampposts and the silhouettes of distant volcanoes.

Spicy Dining Advisory

Arequipa’s cuisine is renowned for its generous use of rocoto chile and local herbs. If you’re sensitive to heat, ask for milder versions when ordering dishes like rocoto relleno and adobo. Alternatively, cool your palate with a glass of chicha de guiñapo, a fermented corn drink.

Practical Information & Travel Tips

Arequipa’s Rodríguez Ballón International Airport offers flights from Lima and Cusco. The city centre is compact and walkable, though some attractions like Yanahuara require a short taxi ride. Public buses (combis) are ubiquitous but may be crowded; ride‑share apps offer an easier alternative. With high elevation but warmer temperatures than Cusco, Arequipa’s sun can be intense—bring sunscreen, a hat and layers for cool evenings.

The dry season (April–November) features blue skies ideal for trekking and sightseeing. If you plan to visit Colca Canyon, allocate at least two days to allow for travel and exploration; condor sightings are best in the morning at Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint. Guided tours of the canyon include opportunities to soak in hot springs at Chivay and encounter terraces and small villages inhabited by Collagua and Cabana peoples. For volcano climbs, hire licensed guides and ensure proper acclimatisation.

Earthquake Awareness

Arequipa lies in a seismically active zone. Minor tremors occur regularly, though major earthquakes are less frequent. Familiarise yourself with your hotel’s emergency procedures and identify safe zones when exploring public buildings.