If you are planning a trip to southern Peru, understanding what to do in Arequipa is essential to make the most of your visit. Known as The White City due to its stunning colonial architecture built from white volcanic stone, Arequipa is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich destinations in Peru.
Arequipa is not just a stopover on the way to the Colca Canyon; it is a destination worth exploring in depth. Its historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with charming plazas, colonial churches, and vibrant streets that reflect centuries of cultural fusion between Indigenous and Spanish influences. At the same time, the city has a modern side, with lively restaurants, cafes, and cultural spaces that make it an attractive place for travelers of all kinds.
When travelers search for what to do in Arequipa, they are usually surprised by the diversity of experiences available. From exploring ancient monasteries to hiking near active volcanoes, tasting traditional Peruvian cuisine, or visiting one of the deepest canyons in the world, Arequipa offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history lover, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, this city delivers unforgettable experiences.
Top 8 places to visit
When exploring what to do in Arequipa, one of the best ways to understand the city is by visiting its most iconic landmarks and cultural attractions. Arequipa is a destination that combines history, architecture, nature, and spirituality, offering a wide variety of places that reflect its unique identity.
1. Santa Catalina Monastery
The Santa Catalina Monastery is without doubt one of the most important and fascinating places in Arequipa. Often described as a “city within a city,” this massive religious complex covers more than 20,000 square meters and has remained almost entirely self-contained since its foundation in 1579. Walking through its colorful streets feels like stepping into a completely different era, where silence, spirituality, and colonial architecture coexist in perfect harmony.
Inside the monastery, visitors can explore narrow alleyways painted in vibrant shades of blue, red, and orange, each leading to courtyards, kitchens, living quarters, and chapels that were once home to Dominican nuns. The contrast between its peaceful atmosphere and the bustling city outside makes it one of the most unique experiences when considering what to do in Arequipa.
The architecture is a perfect example of colonial design blended with local materials, especially the white volcanic stone known as sillar. Over the centuries, the monastery has been carefully preserved, allowing travelers to witness how life was lived in seclusion during colonial times. Today, it serves not only as a historical site but also as a cultural treasure that reflects the spiritual heritage of Arequipa.
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2. Plaza de Armas of Arequipa
The Plaza de Armas of Arequipa is the main square and one of the most beautiful urban spaces in Peru, making it an essential stop when deciding what to do in Arequipa. Located in the heart of the Historic Center, this iconic plaza is surrounded by elegant colonial arcades, palm trees, and the impressive Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa, which dominates the entire square with its white volcanic stone façade.
This square is not only a tourist attraction but also the social and cultural center of the city. Locals and visitors gather here throughout the day, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. In fact, many travelers combine their visit with nearby services such as a clínica dental, since the historic center concentrates both tourism and modern urban life.
One of the most striking features of the Plaza de Armas is its architectural harmony. The surrounding buildings are made from sillar, the white volcanic stone that gives Arequipa its nickname, The White City. The arcades that frame the plaza are filled with balconies and arches that reflect colonial Spanish influence combined with local craftsmanship, making it one of the most photogenic places in the entire city.
3. Colca Canyon
Colca Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in southern Peru and a must-visit destination when exploring what to do in Arequipa. Located about 3 to 4 hours from the city, it is considered one of the deepest canyons in the world, reaching depths of over 3,000 meters. Its dramatic landscapes, traditional villages, and incredible viewpoints make it a perfect escape for travelers seeking nature, adventure, and cultural immersion.
One of the main highlights of Colca Canyon is the famous Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where visitors have the chance to observe the majestic Andean condor in flight. These enormous birds, with wingspans that can exceed three meters, glide gracefully over the canyon, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Watching them soar above the vast landscape is one of the most iconic moments in any trip to Arequipa.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Colca Valley is also home to traditional Andean communities that have preserved their customs for centuries. Small villages such as Chivay, Yanque, and Cabanaconde offer a glimpse into local life, where agriculture, weaving, and traditional dress are still part of everyday culture. In the context of what to do in Arequipa, visiting these towns allows travelers to connect with the living heritage of the Andes while enjoying warm hospitality and authentic Peruvian cuisine.
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4. Misti Volcano Viewpoints
The Misti Volcano is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Arequipa and an essential stop when exploring what to do in Arequipa. Standing at over 5,800 meters above sea level, this perfectly shaped stratovolcano dominates the city’s skyline and serves as a constant reminder of the powerful natural forces that shaped the region. Its presence is not only visually striking but also deeply connected to the identity and history of Arequipa.
One of the best ways to experience the Misti Volcano is by visiting the different viewpoints scattered around the city and its surroundings. From these spots, travelers can admire the volcano in all its grandeur, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light enhances its snow-capped peak. These moments create some of the most memorable and photogenic views in southern Peru.
For adventure seekers, hiking towards the base of Misti offers a more challenging experience. Although reaching the summit requires high-altitude trekking and proper acclimatization, even the lower trails provide stunning panoramic views of the city of Arequipa and the surrounding valleys. In the context of what to do in Arequipa, the contrast between the urban landscape and the natural volcanic environment makes this experience truly unique.
5. Yanahuara Viewpoint
The Yanahuara Viewpoint is one of the most charming and photogenic spots in Arequipa, making it a must-visit location when discovering what to do in Arequipa. Located just a short distance from the city center, this traditional district offers one of the best panoramic views of the city framed by the majestic Misti Volcano in the background.
One of the main highlights of Yanahuara is its iconic stone arches made from sillar, the white volcanic rock that defines Arequipa’s architecture. These arches are engraved with inspirational phrases from local writers and provide a perfect natural frame for photographs of the city and its surrounding volcanoes. From this viewpoint, visitors can see the entire urban landscape of Arequipa blending with the dramatic Andean scenery.
The atmosphere in Yanahuara is peaceful and traditional, offering a contrast to the busier parts of the city. The surrounding streets are filled with colonial-style houses, small plazas, and local churches that reflect the historic character of the district. Walking through this area allows travelers to experience a more authentic and quiet side of Arequipa, away from the main tourist crowds.
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6. Museo Santuarios Andinos
The Museo Santuarios Andinos is one of the most important cultural attractions in Arequipa and a key stop when exploring what to do in Arequipa. This museum is best known worldwide for housing the famous mummy “Juanita,” also known as the Ice Maiden, one of the best-preserved Inca sacrifices ever discovered in the Andes. Her story has captivated archaeologists and visitors alike, offering a rare and powerful glimpse into Inca rituals and beliefs.
Inside the museum, visitors can learn about the discovery of Juanita on the Ampato volcano, where she was found frozen in near-perfect condition after more than 500 years. The exhibition explains the historical context of Inca human sacrifices, known as capacocha, which were performed as religious offerings to the gods. These ceremonies were deeply spiritual and were believed to maintain balance between the human world and nature.
The museum experience is both educational and emotional, as it combines archaeological artifacts, multimedia presentations, and detailed explanations of Inca culture. Interestingly, discussions about ancient body preservation and health practices sometimes draw comparisons with modern dental alignment studies such as ortodoncia en Santiago, showing how human health understanding has evolved across civilizations.
7. Santa Teresa Convent
The Santa Teresa Convent is one of the most peaceful and artistic places to visit when exploring what to do in Arequipa. Unlike other religious sites in the city, this convent offers a more intimate and quiet experience, allowing visitors to connect with centuries of colonial history, religious life, and sacred art. Founded in the 17th century, it remains an active convent, which adds a layer of authenticity and respect to the visit.
Inside the convent, visitors can explore beautifully preserved cloisters, narrow corridors, and tranquil patios filled with flowers and natural light. The architecture reflects the classic colonial style of Arequipa, built with white volcanic stone and designed to create a sense of isolation and reflection. Every space inside the convent was carefully planned to support a life of prayer, discipline, and simplicity.
One of the highlights of Santa Teresa Convent is its impressive collection of religious art. The museum inside displays paintings from the Cusco and Arequipa schools of art, many of which date back several centuries. These artworks provide insight into the fusion of European and Andean religious traditions, making it a valuable cultural stop for those interested in history and art.
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8. San Camilo Market
San Camilo Market is one of the most authentic and vibrant places to visit in Arequipa, and an essential stop when exploring what to do in Arequipa. Located just a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas, this historic market has been operating for more than a century and offers a true glimpse into the daily life of locals. It is a place where tradition, culture, and commerce come together in a lively and colorful environment.
Walking through San Camilo Market is a sensory experience. The narrow aisles are filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, cheeses, meats, and traditional Peruvian products. Many of these traditional diets and spices are even associated in local culture with digestive balance and oral health, where concepts like lengua blanca are often mentioned as signs related to nutrition and internal health.
Beyond food, the market also offers handicrafts, textiles, and natural remedies used in traditional Andean medicine. These sections provide insight into the cultural heritage of the region and showcase how ancient traditions are still present in everyday life. Visitors often find it to be one of the most genuine cultural experiences in the city.
Final thoughts on what to do in Arequipa
Arequipa is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler. After exploring its historic center, volcanic landscapes, cultural landmarks, and traditional markets, it becomes clear that the city offers far more than just a stopover in southern Peru. Understanding what to do in Arequipa reveals a destination where history, nature, and daily life blend seamlessly into a unique travel experience.
What makes Arequipa truly special is its diversity. In a single trip, visitors can walk through centuries-old colonial streets, admire breathtaking views of active volcanoes, explore ancient monasteries, and experience the rich flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Few cities offer such a complete combination of cultural heritage and natural beauty in one place, making Arequipa a standout destination in South America.
