Arequipa — The White City★★★
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.
