Holiday in Arequipa

What makes Arequipa special as a destination?

Arequipa, Peru's "White City," is located at an altitude of 2,335 meters at the foot of three mighty volcanoes and boasts one of the most beautiful old towns in South America. The historic buildings made of white Sillar volcanic stone shine in the Andean sun and create a backdrop of breathtaking drama together with the eternally snow-capped El Misti volcano. The Santa Catalina Monastery is Arequipa's crown jewel — a city within a city. Spanning 20,000 square meters, this colorful monastery complex features narrow streets in orange, blue, and terracotta, tranquil courtyards, and rows of cells where wealthy nuns lived remarkably comfortable lives for centuries. It is one of the most surprising and photogenic places in all of Peru. The Plaza de Armas, with its imposing cathedral, is one of the most beautiful squares in South America. The Sillar stone arcades, the volcanic backdrop, and the lively hustle and bustle of the Arequipeños create an atmosphere that is both majestic and vibrant. In the evening, the cathedral is illuminated, and the restaurants in the arcades serve Pisco Sours with a view of the colonial splendor. Arequipa is the gateway to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world — twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. At Cruz del Cóndor, you can see Andean condors soaring in the thermals, majestically gliding through the gorge with their wingspan of three meters. The 2-day tour to the canyon is one of Peru's great highlights. Arequipeña cuisine is considered the best in Peru — and that means a lot in a country known as the culinary capital of South America. The Picanterías, traditional restaurants with open kitchens, serve specialties like Rocoto Relleno (stuffed spicy peppers) and Chupe de Camarones (shrimp soup), which have been prepared using the same recipes for generations.