Peru · Region
Arequipa
Photo: Hans Brian Brandsberg Berg / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Arequipa is Peru's "White City," built from pale volcanic sillar stone and framed by the perfect cone of El Misti volcano alongside its sister peaks Chachani and Pichu Pichu. Its colonial core and proximity to the Colca Canyon make it the natural base for exploring southern Peru's volcanic highlands.
Top attractions
attraction Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa: Travel Guide (4.7★)
The Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa fills the entire north side of the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa's historic centre. 4.7★ (2,035 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
attraction Santa Catalina Monastery: Arequipa Travel Guide (4.7★)
Santa Catalina Monastery sits at Santa Catalina 301 in Arequipa's historic centre, a short walk north of the Plaza de Armas. 4.7★ (10,618 reviews) — what visitors say, hours, and tips.
Top-rated things to do in Arequipa
Booking links are affiliate links — booking through them supports our free guides at no extra cost to you.
Where to stay in Arequipa
Compare Arequipa hotels and stays at the lowest price — deals, ratings, and real traveler reviews.
Search hotels in Arequipa →Booking links are affiliate links — booking through them supports our free guides at no extra cost to you.
Plan your trip to Arequipa
Peru eSIM & staying connected →
Some links above are affiliate links — if you book through them, Wander Atlas earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's how we keep every guide free.
When to visit Peru: month-by-month weather, crowds and holidays →
Frequently asked questions about Arequipa
How do I get to Arequipa?
Most travellers fly into Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP), about 8km from downtown, with domestic connections from Lima and Cusco. Overland arrivals typically come by long-distance bus from Lima, Cusco or Puno, and a scenic tourist rail service also links Arequipa with Puno and Cusco for those not in a hurry.
How many days should I spend in Arequipa?
Plan on ~3 to 4 days to cover the city's colonial centre and monasteries, with an extra 2 days if adding a Colca Canyon excursion.
What is Arequipa known for?
Arequipa is Peru's "White City," built from pale volcanic sillar stone and framed by the perfect cone of El Misti volcano alongside its sister peaks Chachani and Pichu Pichu. Its colonial core and proximity to the Colca Canyon make it the natural base for exploring southern Peru's volcanic highlands.