Peru's White City of volcanic stone — soaring Andean canyons, the Santa Catalina monastery, and the looming El Misti volcano.
Arequipa is Peru's "White City" — built from silky sillar volcanic stone watched over by three volcanoes. Gateway to the world's deepest Colca Canyon and birthplace of a uniquely Arequipeño cuisine — Arequipa is one of South America's most underrated destinations.
1M
visitors/year
Best time to visit
May–November — dry season with clearest skies; Colca Canyon at its best; winter overcast
Top sights & experiences
- 🏛️ Plaza de Armas & Sillar Architecture
- 🦅 Colca Canyon & Condors
- ⛽ Santa Catalina Monastery
- 🌋 El Misti & Chachani Volcanoes
- 🥩 Rocoto Relleno & Arequipeño Cuisine
- 🌄 Yanahuara Viewpoint
Perfect for
AdventureHistoryFood & drink
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