Arequipa
"The White City at the Foot of the Andes"
Colonial sillar architecture, world-class ceviche, and the gateway to Colca Canyon - experienced privately with Epic Andean
Discover Arequipa: Peru's Most Beautiful Colonial City
Arequipa is one of Peru's great colonial treasures - a UNESCO World Heritage city built almost entirely from sillar, a white volcanic stone quarried from the surrounding Andean volcanoes that gives the city its luminous, distinctive appearance and its nickname: La Ciudad Blanca, the White City. Set at 2,335 meters above sea level in a broad valley surrounded by three snow-capped volcanoes - Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu - Arequipa combines extraordinary architectural heritage with a vibrant culinary tradition and an ideal gateway position for exploring the Colca Canyon.
At Epic Andean, our private Arequipa tours reveal the city's layers at a considered pace: the baroque masterpiece of the Santa Catalina Monastery, the colonial mansions of the historic centre, the vibrant San Camilo Market with its concentration of traditional Arequipan cuisine, and private tastings of the region's distinctive rocoto relleno and adobo dishes. Arequipa's food culture is arguably the most distinctive in Peru, and we design dedicated gastronomy experiences for travelers who wish to explore it in depth.
Arequipa is also the primary gateway to the Colca Canyon - one of the world's deepest canyons and a spectacular natural destination in its own right. Epic Andean combines 2–3 nights in Arequipa with a private Colca Canyon experience for a complete southern Andes itinerary.
Location
Elevation
Climate
Best Season
How to get
UNESCO
Volcanoes
Airport
Neighborhood
Arequipa Region · southern Andes · 1,000 km south of Lima
2,335 m above sea level (moderate altitude)
Sunny and dry · 15–25°C days · cold nights
Dry season May–Oct (best for Colca Canyon trekking)
Domestic flight from Lima (1.5h) · or bus from Cusco (9h)
Historic Centre declared World Heritage Site in 2000
Misti (5,822m) · Chachani (6,075m) · Pichu Pichu (5,664m)
CAP Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón · 30 min to Main Square
Historic Centre · Yanahuara · San Lázaro · Cayma
Top Experiences in Arequipa
Santa Catalina Monastery
The Monastery of Santa Catalina is one of the most remarkable buildings in South America - a walled city within a city, covering nearly 2 hectares in the heart of Arequipa's historic centre. Founded in 1580, it housed up to 500 nuns and their servants for nearly four centuries, completely closed to the public until 1970. Today, visitors move through its extraordinary labyrinth of cobblestone streets, orange and red-painted cloisters, gardens, and baroque chapels - a living museum of colonial religious life in Peru. Epic Andean arranges private guided visits, including after-hours access when available.
The Museum of the Ice Maiden
Is one of Peru’s most fascinating archaeological sites – a cultural treasure housed within the Universidad Católica de Santa María in Arequipa’s historic centre. Discovered in 1995 atop Mount Ampato, the Inca girl known as “Juanita” was preserved for over five centuries in ice, offering extraordinary insight into ritual sacrifice and Andean cosmology. Today, visitors encounter her remains in a carefully controlled environment, alongside artifacts that illuminate Inca beliefs and daily life – a unique window into pre-Columbian history. Epic Andean arranges private guided visits, including expert-led explanations for deeper context.
The Sachaca Viewpoint
Is one of the most striking vantage points in southern Peru – a slender tower rising above the district of Sachaca, offering panoramic views of Arequipa’s volcanic landscape. Built in the mid-20th century, it stands 19 meters high and allows visitors to contemplate the city’s colonial centre framed by the majestic Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu peaks. Today, travelers ascend its spiral staircase to discover a sweeping perspective that blends urban charm with natural grandeur – a living balcony over the White City. Epic Andean arranges private guided visits, including sunset access when available.
Arequipa's Gastronomy - A Culinary Tradition Unlike Any Other
Arequipa’s Culinary Heritage is one of the most distinctive in Peru – a remarkable achievement in a nation celebrated for extraordinary gastronomy. Rooted in Andean ingredients, enriched by Spanish colonial influence, and shaped by centuries of local creativity, the city’s cuisine offers bold flavors and unique character. Signature dishes include rocoto relleno, adobo arequipeño, and chupe de camarones, each reflecting regional identity. The bustling San Camilo Market reveals this tradition at street level, while Epic Andean arranges reservations at top restaurants, including Chicha, where classic recipes reach fine-dining status.
Luxury Hotels in Arequipa: Our Recommended Properties
Lima's luxury hotel scene is sophisticated and varied, with a strong concentration of exceptional properties in the Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro districts. Epic Andean partners with Lima's finest hotels, selecting properties based on location, service quality, culinary excellence, and the authentic character they bring to a Lima stay.
Cirqa – Relais & Châteaux
Cirqa evokes the spirit of Arequipa’s colonial past within a restored 16th‑century convent, blending monastic architecture with contemporary luxury. Its vaulted stone walls, serene courtyards, and refined suites create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Guests enjoy personalized service, fine dining inspired by regional flavors, and curated experiences that connect them to the White City’s heritage. Epic Andean arranges private stays at Cirqa, including exclusive access to gastronomic tastings and bespoke excursions designed to highlight Arequipa’s cultural and natural wonders.
Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
Casa Andina Premium Arequipa occupies a historic mansion built from sillar volcanic stone, offering a sophisticated retreat in the heart of the city. Elegant rooms combine colonial charm with modern comfort, while terraces frame views of the cathedral and surrounding volcanoes. The property features a celebrated restaurant showcasing Arequipa’s cuisine, alongside attentive service and versatile spaces for events. Epic Andean arranges tailored stays at Casa Andina Premium, including curated dining experiences and guided explorations of the city’s architectural and cultural landmarks.
Costa del Sol Wyndham Arequipa
Costa del Sol Arequipa rises beside the lush Selva Alegre park, providing a tranquil escape with panoramic views of the Misti volcano. Its spacious rooms, landscaped gardens, and outdoor pool create a resort‑like atmosphere within the city. Guests enjoy a blend of leisure and business amenities, from fine dining and spa services to versatile meeting spaces. Epic Andean arranges personalized stays at Costa del Sol, including wellness programs and private transfers that ensure comfort and seamless access to Arequipa’s attractions.
Sonesta Hotel Arequipa
Sonesta Arequipa offers a contemporary experience in the city’s modern district, combining sleek design with panoramic views of the surrounding volcanoes. Its stylish rooms, international restaurant, and versatile event facilities make it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Guests appreciate the hotel’s warm service and convenient location, connecting them easily to Arequipa’s historic centre. Epic Andean arranges tailored stays at Sonesta, including private city tours and curated dining reservations that highlight the White City’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene.
Cultural Explorations in Arequipa
Epic Andean suggests tours that immerse travelers in Arequipa, the White City framed by volcanic peaks and built in luminous sillar stone. Guided walks through the historic center reveal baroque churches, colonial mansions, and vibrant plazas, while visits to the Santa Catalina Monastery and local museums showcase centuries of heritage. These itineraries combine architecture, history, and atmosphere, offering travelers a refined cultural journey in one of Peru’s most iconic cities.
Amazon & Andes Wellness Retreat
Frequently Asked Questions About Arequipa
Begin Your Private Luxury Journey Through Peru
Known as the “White City,” Arequipa is famous for its elegant colonial architecture built with volcanic stone and its dramatic Andean setting. The city also serves as the gateway to spectacular landscapes such as Colca Canyon.
Our specialists will design a journey that explores the cultural and natural beauty of Arequipa.