Arequipa Hotels and Accommodation

(Arequipa, Peru)

Over the past few decades, Arequipa has enjoyed a tourism and business boom, and therefore has developed a thriving accommodation scene to match its newfound popularity. Hotels are in great demand around central Arequipa and competition is rife, and so therefore discounted lodging rates are often available, simply by asking at the check-in desk.

However, if you are intending to stay in Arequipa during one of the public holidays or the religious holidays, such as the Semana Santa each Easter, then you can expect hotels to hike their prices. Accommodation also tends to be more expensive between June and August, which is usually the city's high season.

Where to Stay

There are more hotels in Arequipa than most would expect to find, and accommodation ranges from historical colonial-style buildings spread around the centrally located Plaza de Armas, to more modern lodging alternatives with comprehensive facilities. Hotels overlooking the El Misti Volcano are especially appealing, although the beautiful views do come at a price.

Budget travellers staying in Arequipa will find that homestays usually provide better value than hotels, allowing you to stay in a local family home. There are also a number of hostels spread around the city, such as the Point Hostel in the green suburb of Vallecito, and the El Indio Dormido Hostel close to the Terminal Terrestre, both of which provide very affordable lodging to backpackers.

Lying just to the south of the Plaza de Armas and on La Merced, the Los Andes Bed and Breakfast is well placed for sightseeing around the city centre, as is the Casa de Avila on the San Martin. Slightly to the north, La Posada del Cacique offers guesthouse-style accommodation and is located on the Avenida Puente Grau, close to the city's Puente Grau bridge.

Other hotels of note include the Casa Arequipa B&B on the Avenida Lima, the Maison d'Elise on the Avenida Bolognesi, and the Nueva Espana Hotel on the Antiquilla.

Luxury accommodation in Arequipa is in plentiful supply, with the Sonesta Posada del Inca on the Plaza de Armas coming highly recommended, with its private terraces and cathedral views.