Arequipa City Tour – Explore the White City in Half a Day
Discover the best of Arequipa in just 3 hours. Visit iconic landmarks, enjoy scenic viewpoints, and explore local culture on this guided city tour.
City Tour Arequipa in Peru: guided visit to the incredible viewpoints of Carmen Alto and Yanahuara with a panoramic view of the white city with the Misti volcano. Visit the main square, the Cathedral of Arequipa, and the center of Arequipa; these arches surround the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, and finally, explore the Monastery of Santa Catalina with its colonial-era cloisters.
The white city of Arequipa complements trips in Peru by offering the City Tour of Arequipa, a guided tour that lets you explore charming tourist sites, travel, live, and feel the magic of the white city with a morning or afternoon tour. We can also organize the tour at any time that suits your visitors. Explore the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa’s historic center and home to the impressive cathedral and other colonial buildings.
Nestled in the Andes Mountains of southern Peru, Arequipa is a city that boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural scenery. A city tour is a perfect way to explore all these vibrant destinations, from their colonial-era buildings to their bustling markets and picturesque plazas.
Discover the beauty of Arequipa, known as the “White City” for its stunning colonial architecture built from white volcanic stone. This half-day tour takes you to the city’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, including the Santa Catalina Monastery, the Plaza de Armas, and the Yanahuara viewpoint. Learn about Arequipa’s rich history and culture from your knowledgeable tour guide, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city.
This city tour is designed for travelers who want to experience the essence of Arequipa in a short amount of time without missing its most important landmarks. It combines history, architecture, local culture, and scenic viewpoints into a smooth and well-paced half-day experience.
With the guidance of a knowledgeable local expert, you’ll go beyond just visiting places—you’ll understand the stories behind them. From the peaceful streets of the Santa Catalina Monastery to the lively atmosphere of San Camilo Market, each stop offers a different perspective of the city.
Another reason travelers choose this tour is its balance between iconic highlights and authentic local experiences. You’ll not only see the main attractions, but also connect with the everyday life of Arequipa, making the experience feel genuine and memorable.
It’s also an ideal option for those with limited time. In just a few hours, you’ll gain a complete overview of the city, making it perfect as a first introduction before continuing your journey through southern Peru.
Whether it’s your first time in Arequipa or you’re looking to explore it more deeply, this tour offers a comfortable and enriching way to discover the White City.
In the guided visit of Arequipa City Tour for 3 hours, visit the viewpoints of Carmen Alto and Yanahuara and “enjoy incredible panoramic views of the surroundings of Arequipa and the Misti volcano. Next, explore the main square with the cathedral only from the façade, the surrounding portals, and the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús. Finally, walk the corridors of the Santa Catalina convent with its cloisters from the colonial era.
Explore the unique architecture of the Yanahuara district.
The Yanahuara district is known for its unique architecture, featuring white volcanic stone buildings with intricate carvings and designs. A city tour of Arequipa will take you through this charming district, where you can admire the beautiful colonial-era houses and churches. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous Yanahuara viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes. This is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in architecture and history.
Discover the beauty of the historic city center.
Arequipa’s historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to some of the city’s most stunning architecture. The centerpiece of the city center is the Plaza de Armas, a beautiful square surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the stunning Cathedral of Arequipa. A city tour will take you through the winding streets of the city center, where you’ll discover hidden courtyards, ornate balconies, and charming cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this beautiful part of the city.
Visit the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery.
One of the must-see attractions in Arequipa is the Santa Catalina Monastery, a beautiful historical complex that dates back to the 16th century. The monastery is a stunning example of colonial architecture, with colorful buildings, intricate courtyards, and beautiful gardens. A city tour will take you through the monastery’s many rooms and halls, where you can learn about the lives of the nuns who once lived there. Don’t miss exploring this beautiful and historical site while visiting Arequipa.
Enjoy the breathtaking views from the Mirador de Sachaca.
The Mirador de Sachaca is a lookout point located on a hill overlooking the city of Arequipa. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The lookout point is also home to a small park and a church, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists. A city tour of Arequipa should include a stop at the Mirador de Sachaca to take in the stunning views and snap some memorable photos.
None
Easy
A light walks
15 to 25 minutes
Arequipa: 2,333m (7,654 ft)
Arequipa: 2,333m (7,654 ft)
Yanahuara: 2,362m (7,749 ft)
The City Tour of Arequipa is a guided tour that takes you through the historic center of Arequipa, also known as the “White City.” It showcases the city’s colonial architecture, cultural heritage, and scenic landscapes.
The main attractions included in the City Tour of Arequipa are the Santa Catalina Monastery, the Main Square (Plaza de Armas), the Cathedral of Arequipa, the Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía), and the Yanahuara and Carmen Alto viewpoints.
The duration of the City Tour Arequipa is usually around half a day, approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the specific itinerary and the pace of the tour.
While it is possible to visit the attractions independently, having a guide during the City Tour Arequipa is highly recommended. A knowledgeable guide will provide historical and cultural insights, share exciting stories, and ensure you don’t miss critical details.
Yes, transportation is typically provided as part of the City Tour Arequipa. You will be picked up from a designated meeting point and transported to the various attractions in a comfortable vehicle.
The entrance fees to the attractions included in the City Tour Arequipa are usually not included in the package. However, your tour operator or guide will assist you in purchasing the tickets separately.
The City Tour Arequipa itinerary is usually predetermined to cover the main highlights. However, some tour operators may offer options to customize the itinerary based on your preferences and time constraints. It’s best to inquire with your tour operator in advance.
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking. As Arequipa’s weather can vary, it’s advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the beautiful sights.
Yes, Arequipa offers a variety of additional activities and attractions to explore after the city tour. You can visit museums, art galleries, and traditional markets or indulge in local cuisine at the city’s restaurants and cafes.
Yes, the City Tour Arequipa is generally suitable for all age groups. However, please consider the walking involved and the tour duration when planning for younger children or individuals with mobility limitations. It’s always a good idea to check with your tour operator for specific accessibility concerns.
Season 2026
| Persons | Price (p/p) | |
| 1 | $ 185.00 USD | |
| 2 | $ 125.00 USD | |
| 3 | $ 117.00 USD | |
| 4 | $ 108.00 USD | |
| 5 | $ 100.00 USD | |
| 6 | $ 94.00 USD | |
| 7 | $ 90.00 USD | |
| 8 | $ 87.00 USD | |
| 9 | $ 83.00 USD | |
| 10 | $ 80.00 USD | |
| 11 | $ 77.00 USD |
Join this half-day city tour and discover the best of Arequipa with a knowledgeable local guide. From historic landmarks to scenic viewpoints, this experience is the perfect introduction to the White City.
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