Walking Tour Arequipa

TOUR DETAILS

Duration: 2–3 hours
Start Point: Plaza de Armas
End Point: Yanahuara Viewpoint

1. Plaza de Armas – The Heart of Arequipa

Welcome to Arequipa, the “White City”! We begin our tour in the Plaza de Armas, the central square and historic heart of the city. The nickname comes from the white volcanic stone called sillar, which is used in many of the buildings here.

Take a moment to look around — the cathedral, colonial arcades, and palm trees frame the plaza beautifully. On a clear day, you can see the majestic El Misti volcano rising in the background.

2. Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa

Let’s walk along the northern edge of the plaza to visit the Basilica Cathedral, one of Peru’s most important religious monuments. Built in the 1600s (and rebuilt after earthquakes), it stretches across the entire side of the square — rare among cathedrals in Latin America.

Inside, admire the grand organ (imported from Belgium) and beautifully carved wooden pulpit.

📝 Did You Know? The cathedral has survived several major earthquakes and even a fire in 1844.

3. Calle Mercaderes

Now, let’s head down Calle Mercaderes, a lively pedestrian street filled with cafes, shops, and colonial façades. It’s a great place to see how old and new coexist in Arequipa.

Feel free to grab an ice cream or fresh juice here if you’d like a quick refreshment before we continue.

4. Santa Catalina Monastery

Turn left toward the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, one of the most remarkable religious sites in South America.

Founded in 1579, this walled citadel spans an entire city block. It once housed hundreds of nuns who lived in total seclusion. Today, it’s open to the public, offering a fascinating glimpse into colonial religious life. Walk through vibrant alleys painted in deep red and blue, and explore the simple yet poetic monastic cells.

📝 Tip: If you have extra time later, come back in the evening for the special night tour by candlelight.

5. Casa del Moral (Optional Stop)

If you enjoy colonial mansions, consider a short detour to the Casa del Moral, a beautifully preserved 18th-century home filled with period furniture and artwork. It also features one of the best examples of sillar-based baroque architecture.

6. Church of La Compañía

Back near the Plaza de Armas is Iglesia de la Compañía, built by the Jesuits in the 17th century. Its stone-carved facade is a masterpiece of Andean baroque, incorporating indigenous patterns and symbols.

Step inside to admire the gold-leaf altar and the San Ignacio Chapel, with stunning murals painted by indigenous artists.

7. San Camilo Market (Optional Local Culture Stop)

For a taste of daily life in Arequipa, walk a few blocks to the Mercado San Camilo, one of the city’s oldest and most colorful markets. Here you’ll find exotic fruits, cheeses, traditional pastries like queso helado, and plenty of locals doing their daily shopping.

8. Puente Bolognesi & Walk to Yanahuara

From the market or city center, begin a gentle uphill walk across the Bolognesi Bridge, crossing the Chili River. This scenic stroll will take you toward the historic district of Yanahuara.

Along the way, enjoy views of the valley and volcanoes.

9. Yanahuara Viewpoint (Mirador de Yanahuara)

We end our walking tour at the Yanahuara Viewpoint, a beautiful terrace lined with sillar arches inscribed with historic quotes. From here, you’ll get a panoramic view of Arequipa framed by El Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichuvolcanoes.

It’s the perfect place to rest, take photos, or enjoy a coffee from one of the nearby cafés.