Arequipa Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Arequipa, Peru)



View of the city centreThe World Heritage city of Arequipa has a long and strong colonial past, although in recent years has become something of a centre for outdoor activities and similar tourist attractions. Some of the most popular recreational attractions around Arequipa include hiking and trekking, mountaineering, river running (white-water rafting), and mountain biking.

One of the best ways to travel around this part of south Peru, and explore its many varied tourist attractions, is to join a guided tour, onboard a fully air-conditioned, double-decker open-top bus. Regular bus tours of Arequipa and beyond depart from the Plaza de Armas and are very cheap, with a choice of either two-hour or four-hour bus tours available.


Photo of the centre and bus transport

Guided Bus Tours

Address: Arequipa, Peru, PE
Bus tours of Arequipa are recommended and English-speaking guides will point out the main sights as you travel, provide commentary along the way and offer an insight into the history of the 'White City' and its surrounding valleys. Buses make several stops, allowing you to explore a colonial mansion, a tropical fruit farm, and even a historical 18th-century mill, which still remains in full working order today.
Open hours: daily - seasonal variations
Admission: charge, discounts available

Image of the Canon del Colca

Recreational Outdoor Activities

Address: Arequipa, Peru, PE
Those who are looking for something a little different on their trip to Peru may well like to consider some of the exciting outdoor activities and recreational attractions on offer within Arequipa. All kinds of adventure tours are available around the city, although do check that guides are officially registered and avoid touts. Since the most popular guides are in great demand, when it comes to booking, plan well ahead and book up as soon as practicably possible. The choice of activities is extensive around southern Peru and includes:


Open hours: daily
Admission: charge for some activities

Picture of the Molino de Sabandia

Molino de Sabandia (Sabandia Mill)

Address: Huasacache, Sabandia Valley, Arequipa, Peru, PE
Holiday makers always enjoy paying a visit to the Sabandia Mill, which is referred to locally as the Molino de Sabandia and located around 8 km / 5 miles from the centre of Arequipa, within the scenic valley. The Sabandia Mill was built almost 400 years ago and after being renovated in the 1970s, this well-preserved stone mill has become something of a major tourist attraction. Offering a chance to see how the Peruvians once ground their grains, the Sabandia Mill is powered by a neighbouring waterfall and is worth seeing for its architecture alone. However, the surrounding landscape boasts views of several volcanoes, including the Chachani and El Misti, and both alpacas and vicunas can be seen freely wandering around the countryside.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children

Image of nearby Sachaca hillside

Sachaca

Address: Barrio de Yanahuara, Arequipa, Peru, PE
Tel: +51 054 21 0121
The Sachaca is an interesting stone hill and can be found standing close to Tingo, around 4 km / 2.5 miles from the city centre. There is a selection of historical attractions situated around the Sachaca, including a church dating from the early 1870s, which features a stylish Roman-inspired interior and dominates the area. Of course, due to its elevated nature, you can expect some good views as well.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 09:30 to 17:00
Admission: free

View of the Yanahuara suburb

Yanahuara

Address: Yanahuara, Arequipa, Peru, PE
Tel: +51 054 21 0121
Yanahuara is a north-eastern suburb of the city and famous for its wonderful white 'sillar' buildings and traditional Spanish Colonial architecture. This area is especially family friendly and it is very easy to while away an entire day, simply walking around and exploring the parks, churches, shops and similar attractions. In particular, the 18th-century Iglesia San Juan Bautista features a very elaborately carved exterior and adds a certain character to the Yanahuara neighbourhood, as do the excellent views of El Misti.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free