Overview
AREQUIPA CITY TOUR
Discover the magic of Arequipa on a captivating city tour that will take you to explore the three faces of the ‘White City’: its imposing colonial legacy, its fascinating viceregal history, and its spectacular natural setting dominated by volcanoes.
Your journey begins at the majestic Plaza de Armas, where you’ll be awed by the grand Arequipa Cathedral and its sillar stone arches, while your guide reveals the secrets of this 17th-century architectural gem.
The adventure continues at the Santa Catalina Monastery, a 16th-century religious citadel frozen in time, with its cobblestone streets, colorful cloisters, and original cells that will transport you back to the colonial era. Next, you’ll ascend to the charming Yanahuara viewpoint, where the famous sillar arches frame Arequipa’s most photographed view: the mighty Misti Volcano in all its glory.
A complete tour to discover Arequipa’s rich history and breathtaking beauty!
The Arequipa City Tour is a private services.
Itinerary
ITINERARY TOUR
Start Time: 9:00 a.m / 14:00 p.m
You’ll begin your fascinating Arequipa city tour with a carefully designed itinerary showcasing the best of the White City. Your journey starts at the breathtaking Santa Catalina Monastery, a 1579 religious citadel occupying an entire city block. For 45 minutes, you’ll explore its colorful inner streets, silent cloisters, and original cells while your guide shares stories of the cloistered nuns who lived here for centuries.
Next, you’ll stop at the majestic Plaza de Armas, where you’ll admire the imposing Arequipa Cathedral and its iconic sillar stone arches. Here, you’ll learn about this architectural symbol that has withstood earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Just steps away, you’ll visit the Church and Cloisters of La CompañÃa de Jesús, a jewel of Andean Baroque, featuring the stunning San Ignacio Dome adorned with murals of tropical flora and fauna.
The tour continues to San Lázaro, Arequipa’s oldest neighborhood, with its narrow cobblestone streets and 16th-century sillar stone houses. Then, you’ll ascend to the Yanahuara Viewpoint, famous for its carved sillar arches and panoramic views of the Misti, Chachani, and Picchu Picchu volcanoes. You’ll have time to photograph the local church, a perfect example of Arequipa’s colonial architecture.
The highlight will be the Carmen Alto Viewpoint (2,400 masl), where you’ll witness the Chilina Valley in all its splendor—the Chili River winding through ancient agricultural terraces, framed by the three mighty volcanoes on the horizon. This is the best spot to understand why Arequipa is considered one of Peru’s most beautiful cities.
The tour concludes with your return to the hotel around 7:00 PM, after exploring Arequipa’s most iconic landmarks in this 4-hour journey.
Duration: Half day, approximately 4 hours
- Difficulty:Â 1 out of 5 / Very easy
- Distance covered:Â Approximately 15 km (within the city)
- Driving time:Â About 1 hour (transfers between attractions)
- Meals:Â Not included (we recommend dining after the tour)
- Minimum altitude:Â 2,335 masl (Plaza de Armas)
- Maximum altitude:Â 2,400 masl (Carmen Alto viewpoint – optional depending on route)
END OF OUR SERVICES
Include
INCLUDED
 Pick-up hotel.
 Touristic Transportation.
Professional guide.
Entrance Tickets.
 Personalized Attention.
NOT INCLUDED
Snacks and water.
Non mentioned services-
 Tips.
packing list
WHAT WE RECOMMEND BRINGING
- Hat: To protect yourself from the sun during the tour.
- Sunscreen: To protect your skin from UV rays.
- Sunglasses: To shield your eyes from the sun and glare of the ocean.
- Water: Stay hydrated throughout the tour.
- Extra Money: For optional purchases or snacks.
- Light Clothing: Arequipa has a moderate climate, so comfortable and light clothing is ideal.
FAQS
What services are included in the Arequipa City Tour?
→ The tour includes round-trip transportation from Arequipa, a professional bilingual guide, and stops at traditional valley villages.
How long does the Arequipa City Tour last?
→ This is a 4-hour tour, departing from Arequipa at 9:00 am and returning around 1:00 pm.
How far in advance should I book the Arequipa City Tour?
→ We recommend booking the Arequipa City Tour at least 48 hours in advance, especially during high season (April to November), as availability is limited due to park regulations.
What should I bring for the tour?
→ Essentials include a hat, sunscreen, camera, and cash for optional additional expenses.
Are there age restrictions for this tour?
→ No restrictions apply. The Arequipa City Tour is suitable for all ages. Children under 5 travel free, while regular rates apply for ages 5+.
When is the best time of year for this tour?
→ The ideal time is during the dry season (April to November), when you’ll enjoy sunny, warm days.
What’s the maximum elevation reached on the tour?
→ The highest point is at the viewpoints, reaching 4,300 meters above sea level.
Is the tour accessible for people with reduced mobility?
→ Not recommended, as the viewpoints have uneven trails and are not wheelchair-accessible.
About the payment and cancellations for the tour?
→ You can get more information in our link TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
WHY BOOK WITH KANTU PERU TOURS?
- Kantu Peru Tours is a Cusco travel agency that operates all the packages directly. We don’t give commissions to travel agencies or any other thirds parties that inflate the costs.
- The staff that works with us are professional and responsible. Before they start working with Katu Peru Tours, we have a training course about customer service.
- We have all the tourist permissions and certificates, granted by the Municipality of Cusco, and the Minister of Peru (DICETUR – MINCETUR), which guarantees us to operate in Cusco and the sacred valley Machu Picchu.
- Our Customers are our best guarantee. You can see and read our customer’s reviews. Click HEREÂ
- If you want to get more information you can contact 👉 HERE 👈
Tour Price
AREQUIPA CITY TOUR PRICE
This tour is done in a private service based on the size of your group.
“Ask first for availability 24 hours before the tour date, otherwise we can not ensure availability”
PRIVATE SERVICE |
PRICE PER PERSON
|
BOOK NOW |
| Enjoy a private journey with your group | Before: $65.00 USD
Now: $50.00 USD |
BOOK NOW |
Per Group of 14 or more, ask for it with the Kantu Peru Tours Booking Department
For more information about the best destinations in Peru, check out our Kantu Blog.
If you’d like to take this tour, you can also include it in your Machu Picchu Package—just request it from your Kantu Peru Tours travel agent.
