City tour and Santa Catalina. One of the most popular tours in Arequipa is the City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery Experience. This guided journey takes you through the historic center, where you’ll admire colonial mansions, the stunning Basilica Cathedral, and the charming neighborhoods of Yanahuara and Carmen Alto. The highlight of the tour is exploring the Santa Catalina Monastery, a vibrant maze of streets, cloisters, and courtyards that provide a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.
Colca Canyon Tour. This tour begins with an early morning drive through picturesque Andean landscapes, passing traditional villages and terraced farmlands. At the Colca Canyon, you’ll witness the dramatic scenery and have the chance to spot the majestic Andean condors soaring above. The tour also includes stops at natural hot springs and breathtaking viewpoints, making it a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.
Sillar Route Tour. The Half-Day Sillar Route Tour offers a fascinating insight into the origins of Arequipa’s nickname, "The White City." This tour takes you to the Añashuayco Quarry, where artisans still extract and carve the white volcanic stone known as sillar. You’ll witness the masterful work of local stonemasons, who shape intricate sculptures and architectural elements using techniques passed down through generations. The tour also includes a visit to the Culebrillas Quarry, a lesser-known but equally impressive site. Here, you’ll explore a narrow canyon with walls of pristine sillar, carved naturally over centuries. The combination of human artistry and natural formations creates a stunning contrast that makes this tour truly unique. Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts, the Sillar Route Tour not only showcases Arequipa’s iconic building material but also highlights the cultural heritage and craftsmanship that continue to define the city today. This short yet enriching excursion is ideal for those looking to experience a different facet of Arequipa’s rich history in just a few hours.
Destination | Arequipa |
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Places to visit | Main plaza, Santa Catalina Convent, Colca Canyon |
Getting There | From Lima and other cities by commercial flight or bus. |
Elevation | 2,335 meters (7,661 feet) above sea level. |