Arequipa & Colca Canyon

Arequipa (2,335 m) is Peru's second-largest city and for many Peruvians, the most beautiful. Its nickname "Ciudad Blanca" (White City) is due to the Sillar — a white volcanic stone from which almost all historical buildings are constructed. In the background, the perfectly cone-shaped volcano Misti (5,822 m) towers like a guardian over the city. Flanked on the left and right by Chachani (6,057 m) and Pichu Pichu (5,669 m).

The Arequipeños are famous for their pride and independence — they have repeatedly threatened to secede from Peru. What they would never give up: their cuisine. The Picanterias (traditional restaurants) of Arequipa serve some of the best regional dishes in Peru.

★★★ Plaza de Armas

One of the most beautiful main squares in South America. Surrounded on three sides by elegant Sillar arcades, the mighty Cathedral (1656, rebuilt after several earthquakes) dominates the fourth side. In the background, the Misti — Arequipa's postcard motif. In the evening, the square is illuminated and full of life.

★★★ Monastery Santa Catalina

The absolute highlight of Arequipa and one of the most fascinating sights in Peru. The Dominican convent, founded in 1579, is a city within a city: 20,000 m² with alleys, squares, fountains, and gardens, hidden behind high walls. For 450 years, up to 450 nuns lived here in complete seclusion — some in monastic asceticism, others with servants and private apartments.

The colorful quarters are breathtakingly photogenic: deep blue-painted alleys (Calle Sevilla), bright red-orange courtyards (Calle Toledo), white arcades. The monastery has only been open to visitors since 1970. Plan at least 2 hours!

Calle Santa Catalina 301. 40 PEN. Daily 9:00–17:00 (Tuesday and Thursday also night tours 17:00–20:00 — very atmospheric by candlelight!).

★★ Museo Santuarios Andinos (Juanita)

The main attraction is Juanita — the "Ice Princess": an Inca girl who was buried over 500 years ago as a sacrifice on the Ampato volcano at 6,300 m altitude. Her frozen body, discovered in 1995, is astonishingly well-preserved. The exhibition explains the Inca ritual of Capacocha (child sacrifices for the mountain gods) — moving and disturbing at the same time.

Calle La Merced 110. 20 PEN (including guided tour). Mon–Sat 9:00–18:00. Juanita is on display from June–December, during the rainy season she is replaced by another mummy.

★★ Yanahuara & Carmen Alto

The viewpoints over Arequipa: From the Mirador de Yanahuara you have the famous view through the Sillar arches of the Misti. The neighborhood with its small church (1750) and Picanterias is authentic and charming. Further up, Carmen Alto offers an even wider panoramic view over the city and the volcanoes.

The Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world at 3,270 meters — twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. But the numbers alone do not describe what makes this place so unforgettable: pre-Inca terraces climbing the canyon walls like steps, traditional villages where women still wear embroidered costumes and elaborate hats, hot springs under the starry sky — and of course, the condors.

★★★ Cruz del Cóndor

The magical viewpoint where Andean condors — the largest flying birds in the world with a wingspan of over 3 meters — rise from the canyon depths in the morning thermal currents. Between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m., they often circle just a few meters above the spectators' heads. A breathtaking natural spectacle.

Be there early! Between 7:30 and 9:00 a.m., the chances are best. Most tours from Arequipa include this stop.

★★ Chivay

The gateway to the Colca Canyon and the largest town in the valley. Chivay has a lively market, simple to upscale hotels, and is the starting point for most canyon tours. In the evening, there is a pleasant atmosphere with restaurants and bars around the plaza.

★★★ Thermal Springs La Calera

Three kilometers outside of Chivay are the hot springs of La Calera: natural thermal pools with temperatures of 36–40°C, set in a spectacular canyon landscape. After a long day of hiking in the canyon, there is nothing better. Especially magical in the evening under the starry sky.

3 km from Chivay. 15 PEN. Daily 5:00–19:00. By taxi (5 PEN) or on foot (30 min.).

★★ Hiking in the Canyon

For hikers, descending into the canyon is an unforgettable experience:

• Day hike: From Cruz del Cóndor or Cabanaconde down to the oasis Sangalle at the canyon floor (3–4h descent, 2–3h ascent). The oasis has simple accommodations and a pool — surreal.
• 2-day trek: Descent to Sangalle, overnight stay, ascent the next morning (start early!). The most popular trekking option.
• 3-day trek: Extended route through several villages at the canyon bottom: San Juan de Chuccho, Tapay, Cosñirhua.

Practical Information

• Arrival: Arequipa → Chivay: 3–4h by bus or tour. Spectacular drive over the Patapampa Pass (4,910 m!) with views of volcanoes and vicuñas.
• Altitude: Chivay is at 3,640 m, Cruz del Cóndor at 3,800 m. Acclimatization in Arequipa (2,335 m) helps.
• Boleto Turístico Colca: 70 PEN entrance for the canyon (buy separately or included in the tour).
• Best time: April–December (dry season). Condors can be seen year-round but are more reliable in the dry season.