In southern Peru, you can enjoy one of the most incredible and surprising cities in the Andean country. Arequipa is a benchmark of Spanish colonial architecture, delicious food, and numerous attractions to entertain you. So a visit within the wonderful White City is usually a mandatory stop for those who want to know one of the largest cities in Peru after Lima. For this reason, together with the travel experts of Machu Travel Peru, we have thought of preparing a small article about the best attractions you can visit on a walking tour in Arequipa.
BEST PLACES TO ENJOY IN A WALKING TOUR IN AREQUIPA
FREE WALKING TOUR
Whether it is a free walking tour in Arequipa or a private and exclusive tour, being able to walk through the streets of Arequipa is an unforgettable experience for any tourist. In general, a walking tour of the city is usually the best way to discover distinguished and historically important sites. And the free walking tour of Arequipa is usually a great alternative for those on a tight budget or looking to save in the middle of the trip. You can visit some buildings and squares of great importance in the city, the tour usually starts early in the morning (10 am) and usually ends in the afternoon (3 pm). It is a good tour in Arequipa and is usually one of the best options for backpackers looking to save money.
PLAZA DE ARMAS
As in most Latin American cities, the best place to start knowing the destination is usually the Main Square. The Plaza de Armas in Arequipa is usually considered the most beautiful square in all of South America. One of the most lively and bustling spots in the beautiful White City and a mandatory spot on any walking tour in Arequipa. Surrounded by colonial buildings, restaurants, cafes, and different street artists, guides, backpackers, and much more. Undoubtedly touring the plaza is one of the best things to do in Arequipa. If it happens in Arequipa, it happens in the Plaza de Armas.
THE CATHEDRAL
One of the most emblematic buildings around the Plaza de Armas is La Catedral, one of the must-see places on any walking tour in Arequipa. The church has an intricate design combined with the grandiose architecture characteristic of European Catholic buildings. It occupies the entire north side of the Plaza de Armas, making it a difficult building to lose sight of. If you get to enjoy its interiors you will be amazed at amazing works of art and one of the largest organs in South America. This incredible building is a great historical attraction of the city of Arequipa.
SANTA CATALINA MONASTERY
The Monastery of Santa Catalina is one of the largest and most beautiful complexes in the city of Arequipa. In the past, wealthy and rich families sent their daughters to the monastery, but today this complex is open to the public for fundraising. It is one of the most beautiful and oldest places in the White City, so any walking tour in Arequipa will offer a tour of the place. It is made up of cloisters, a plaza, and a gallery to visit. The entrance is quite accessible and offers a tour explaining the ancient history of the complex and Catholicism in the city. It is one of the best Arequipa tourist attractions available.
COLCA CANYON
One of the main reasons why tourists travel to White City is because it is usually a starting point to tour the incredible Colca Canyon. Although it is not usually included in a walking tour in Arequipa, it is usually one of the main attractions to visit around the city. With a hiking walk or a guided tour, you can enjoy the different viewpoints and towns within the Colca Valley. In the viewpoints, you will be able to appreciate in flight the beautiful Colca Canyon Condors, one of the largest land birds in the world. But walks and tours are not the only things that house the Valley and its Canyon. You can also enjoy luxurious and complete hotels within the place to enjoy even more of the peaceful landscapes. You can also find Colca Hot Springs where you can relax after a long walk around the Valley. The Valley and its Canyon are unmissable places if you are going to be near Arequipa.
CUISINE
Arequipa is not only a city of great beauty, but it is also another culinary center of great importance with a great variety of local and unique dishes. Being able to sit in a local Picanteria is a great feeling after a long walking tour. Enjoy dishes such as the stuffed rocoto, one of the best typical dishes in Arequipa. You can also try local delicacies such as frozen cheese, one of the traditional delights of the White City. You will find numerous gastronomic options around the city where you can enjoy an exquisite and particular flavor.
“ONCE YOU HAVE TRAVELED, THE VOYAGE NEVER ENDS… THE MIND CAN NEVER BREAK OFF FROM THE JOURNEY”
We hope together with Machu Travel Peru to have informed you a little about the main places they usually visit on a guided walk through the city. These places are subject to change and within a private tour, you can even add more places to visit and tour. Enjoy the beautiful White City in its maximum splendor with us, so that you do not miss anything of this amazing city.
