Travel Tips for Arequipa, Peru (South America)
- Chelsey Jacobs
- Jun 14, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 9, 2024
Exploring the white city, named after the predominant white volcanic stone used in its architecture, I found myself transported to Spain, feeling the heavy Spanish influence from the colonial era. Arequipa, with its unique identity, doesn't quite fit the traditional Peruvian mold. In fact, during my free walking tour, our guide expressed a strong sentiment: "I'd rather die than be considered Peruvian... We are Arequipeños... I'd rather relocate than identify as Peruvian..." This sentiment highlights Arequipa's unique cultural identity.
If you're embarking on a trip to Arequipa, then you are most likely visiting the Colca Canyon which is one of the deepest canyons in the world, being twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Within this guide, I share my top travel tips for Arequipa, Peru.
Recommended time of stay: 3-4 days (including two days in the Canyon)
Place of stay
Selina: This hostel is undeniably beautiful, but one aspect that bothered me was the shared bathroom situation in the 12-person dorm. With only one toilet and one shower, it is challenging when multiple people need to use it simultaneously. However, the hostel itself is spacious, offers tour booking services, and has a well-equipped kitchen with free filtered water. The beds are comfortable, with private curtains and lockboxes. Additionally, amenities like workspaces, wifi covering the entire premises, a library, a restaurant, and hammocks make it an excellent choice for digital nomads.
2. Activities
Colca Canyon: If there's one thing you must do in Arequipa, this is it. But whatever you do, avoid booking the day tour. If you're keen on exploring the Canyon, I highly recommend opting for the 2-day, 1-night trek instead. The day tour ended up being a waste of money, with over 85% of the time spent in the car. Given the long ride from Arequipa, the hike is definitely worth it! Book through Selina!
Rafting: A popular activity in Arequipa! Conveniently, you can book through Selina.
Mercado San Camilo: The iconic local market in Arequipa! A vibrant place to wander through, offering local cuisines and tourist trinkets.
Rock climbing: I had an amazing time spending a few hours climbing on large boulders near the river with a guide. Because the tour turned out to be private, I was allowed to tackle some of the courses multiple times! The guide's proficiency in English added to the experience. You can book through the link I've tagged or via Selina, as they're part of the same company.
Free Waking Tour: I booked it through the hostel Selina and it was alright. While I typically enjoy free walking tours, exploring the city on your own would suffice just as well.
Cathedral Museum: The main square museum/cathedral that is unmissable.
Complejo Cultural UNSA: If you're a fan of intimate art exhibitions, this is the place for you! Filled with artwork from local students and other talented artists.
Rooftop view spot: On a beautiful sunny day or during a stunning sunset, I highly recommend taking a stroll to this spot. Head up the blue staircase on the right, where you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city and mountains.
3. Restaurants x Cafes
Search for Menu del Día (Menu of the day); Throughout the city, you'll come across the enticing offer of a starter and main course for a fixed, affordable price. This popular option is often more prevalent during lunchtime but can occasionally be found during dinner as well. Known as the "menu del día," this deal consistently delivers satisfying meals at unbeatable value.
KaffeeHaus: A coffee house with a gorgeous outdoor patio. A great spot to journal, have a coffee, and spend some time in the sun.
Aleiana Brunch & Cake: A cozy corner cafe located right in the city center with coffees, pastries, and teas!
Picanteria La Mundial: A spot boasted by locals for its gigantic plates filled with different local-to-Arequipa cuisine!
Masamama: A wide variety bakery that sells big sandwiches on fresh homemade bread! Yummy!
Next stop: Huacachina via bus that stops in Ica
From Ica, haul a moto taxi to take you to Huacachina (15-min ride)
Xoxo,
Chelsey
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