Attractions and Places To See in Arequipa - Top 20

Arequipa is rich in history and culture. Beyond the main square, explore the unique Santa Catalina Monastery, a vibrant 'city within a city' founded in 1579. Don't miss the impressive Baroque facade of the Church of the Society of Jesus. For a deeper dive into ancient history, the Andean Sanctuary Museum houses the famous Juanita Mummy, an Inca ice maiden. You can also wander through the charming, oldest neighborhood of San Lázaro with its black cobblestones and white sillar structures.

Arequipa is surrounded by stunning natural features. The iconic Misti Volcano is visible from many points, including the Yanahuara Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes. For a grander scale, the Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, is a must-see for its immense geographical scale and opportunities to spot Andean condors. The Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve is excellent for wildlife observation, featuring high-altitude landscapes and salt lagoons.

Yes, Arequipa offers several family-friendly attractions. The Plaza de Armas and Cathedral is a great starting point for families to experience the city's heart. The Santa Catalina Monastery is also considered family-friendly, offering a fascinating glimpse into history within its colorful walls. For a taste of local life and unique products, the San Camilo Market is a bustling and engaging experience for all ages. Mundo Alpaca provides an educational and interactive experience to learn about alpacas and traditional textile production.

Beyond sightseeing, Arequipa offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore various hiking trails, including moderate routes like the 'Arequipa Main Square – Yanahuara Viewpoint loop'. For more challenging treks, consider routes in the Colca Canyon, such as the 'Sangalle Oasis – View of Colca Canyon loop'. Mountain biking and touring bicycle routes are also available, with options like the 'Mirador de Yanahuara loop'. Find more details and routes on the Hiking in Arequipa, MTB Trails in Arequipa, and Cycling in Arequipa guide pages.

For ancient history enthusiasts, the region offers remarkable sites. The Toro Muerto archaeological site boasts the largest collection of ancient petroglyphs in South America, with approximately 5,000 volcanic stone blocks carved by the Wari and Collaguas people. You can also visit the Paucarpata Terraces, which showcase impressive pre-Hispanic agricultural techniques, or the Uyo Uyo Archaeological Site near Yanque.

Arequipa generally enjoys a pleasant climate. The dry season, from April to November, is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities like hiking and trekking, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures. The rainy season typically runs from December to March, which can impact some outdoor plans, especially in higher altitudes like the Colca Canyon.

To immerse yourself in local life, visit the San Camilo Market, a historic monument where you can find diverse local products and handicrafts. Explore the San Lázaro Neighborhood for its charming colonial architecture and atmosphere. The Sabandia Mill, a well-preserved colonial-era mill, offers insights into traditional agricultural practices amidst beautiful rural landscapes.

Yes, for relaxation after exploring, consider visiting the Llahuar Lodge Hot Springs. Located in the Colca Canyon area, it offers natural hot springs, camping, and lodges, making it an excellent place to rest and rejuvenate amidst nature.

Beyond the well-known sites, consider the Ruta del Sillar, where you can witness firsthand how the white volcanic sillar stone, characteristic of Arequipa's architecture, is extracted and worked in quarries like Añashuayco. For a more off-the-beaten-path natural wonder, the Imata Stone Forest and Pillones Waterfall offer unique rock formations and impressive cascades.

To fully appreciate the Santa Catalina Monastery, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Guided tours are highly recommended and typically last about an hour, after which you can continue exploring the complex's colorful streets, cloisters, and courtyards at your own pace. The monastery is also open two evenings a week for atmospheric candlelight visits.

The Yanahuara Viewpoint is renowned for its sillar arches and offers iconic panoramic views of Arequipa, the Chili River valley, and the majestic Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes. Another excellent spot is Cayma Town, known as the 'Balcony of Arequipa,' which provides different perspectives of the city and its volcanic backdrop.