Arequipa Information
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Arequipa, the second largest city in Peru, is situated in the south of the Peruvian Andes. It is also known as the "White City", due to the volcanic rock (sillar) used to build the city's houses and public buildings. The area around Arequipa holds innumerable tourism attractions, including the Colca Canyon and also the Cotahuasi Canyon, which is the deepest in the world. Colca Valley is an impressive natural setting due to the combination of agricultural terraces from Inca times and over a dozen towns founded in the 16th century. (source: PromPeru)
Arequipa in the Southern Coastal region of Peru just below the edge of the Altiplano is at 2380 meters above sea level and surrounded by three impressive volcanoes. It is Peru's second most important city (after Lima), and the second most popular among tourists (after Cuzco).
Arequipa embodies a rich mix of the indigenous and Spanish colonial cultures. With 478 years of history since its founding, examples of Spanish colonial architecture can be found throughout the center of the city and several surrounding districts. UNESCO has declared it a Human Heritage site. Catholic churches are scattered throughout the center of the city. Some ancient houses have been refurbished by the local authorities and serve as living museums. An example of this are the so-called "Tambos" located at Puente Bolognesi street.
Walking in Arequipa: The city has a central urban area that can be explored on foot. The historic center is a 5 block area around the main square and is relatively easy to navigate with one of the many maps available at hotels or any information office. Some ancient districts like Yanahuara and Cayma are also within walking distance. Walking is safe within reason even at nighttime. Follow your hotel recommendations on which places NOT to go. The rural area is a whole attraction itself, with gorgeous terraces, Spanish mills, palaces and the ever-present view of the volcanoes from wherever you are. (source: Wikitravel: Arequipa, Peru)
Video (Peru Conventions Bureau)
Getting to Arequipa
- Useful Information: Weather, Travelling to Arequipa, Altitude, Attractions
- Read this informative Wikitravel Page on Arequipa
- Arequipa Airport: Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon International Airport
- Local transport
- One can find a Taxi Autorizado Arequipa (Arequipa Authorized Taxi) counter in the arrivals hall for any query about shuttle services. Taxi service from the Aeropuerto Rodríguez Ballón to downtown is reliable and inexpensive. Taxi Companies provide the service for a fare of S /.20.00, $8 and €5.00.
- Main hotels provide shuttle and pick up to / from the airport, after coordination
- Uber operates in Arequipa, Peru (sample calculation from airport to Hotel Libertador
