Arequipa: City and Country Tour

Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, offers travelers a captivating 4-hour tour that showcases its historic charm and natural wonders. For just $23 per person, visitors can explore the city’s iconic Plaza de Armas, admire volcanic landscapes, and explore the region’s textile heritage. With hotel pickup and a bilingual guide, this tour provides an immersive experience that unveils Arequipa’s architectural gems and unique agricultural systems. What surprises await those who embark on this City and Country adventure?

Key Points

• The Arequipa City and Country Tour is priced at $23 per person and lasts 4 hours, including hotel pickup and a bilingual guide.
• The tour highlights iconic attractions like the Mansion del Fundador, Molino de Sabandia, and the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa’s historic center.
• Scenic viewpoints at Yanahuara and Carmen Alto offer breathtaking panoramas of Arequipa, including the Chili River valley and the volcanic peaks of Misti and Chachani.
• The tour includes a visit to the Incalpaca Outlet, showcasing the region’s textile heritage and providing an opportunity to learn about fiber production and alpaca garments.
• The tour also features a mini-zoo where visitors can observe llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos, highlighting Arequipa’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Arequipa City and Country Tour

The Arequipa City and Country Tour provides visitors with a comprehensive introduction to the historical and cultural highlights of Arequipa, known as the "White City" for its stunning colonial architecture.

Priced from $23 per person, this 4-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees to key attractions like the Mansion del Fundador and Molino de Sabandia.

Guests will explore the Plaza de Armas, historic city center, scenic overlooks, and the Incalpaca outlet featuring local camelids.

The tour also visits the Sachaca district, Balneario Tingo, and the unique farming terraces of Paucarpata.

Exploring the Plaza De Armas and Historic Center

One of the tour’s first stops is the iconic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa’s historic center. This grand colonial plaza is lined with elegant arcades, intricately carved stone buildings, and the stunning 17th-century cathedral. Visitors can admire the plaza’s elegant water fountain and take in the lively atmosphere.

The tour then explores the surrounding historic district, featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming plazas. Highlights include the Jesuit monastery and the Casa del Moral, a beautifully restored mansion displaying Arequipa’s traditional "sillar" white volcanic stone.

This immersive experience provides insights into Arequipa’s rich history and architectural legacy.

Scenic Viewpoints: Yanahuara and Carmen Alto

After exploring the historic heart of Arequipa, the tour next heads to the scenic viewpoints of Yanahuara and Carmen Alto.

These vantage points offer breathtaking panoramas of the city and the surrounding volcanoes:

• Whitewashed Yanahuara church, with its charming Moorish-style arches

• Sweeping vistas of the Chili River valley and the iconic El Misti volcano

• Quaint stone bridges and cobblestone streets in the Yanahuara neighborhood

• Bustling artisanal markets and local handicraft vendors

• The Carmen Alto viewpoint, revealing Arequipa’s picturesque rooftops and bell towers.

Volcanic Wonders: Misti and Chachani

As the tour winds its way beyond the city center, it showcases the dramatic volcanic landscapes that surround Arequipa.

Towering over the cityscape, the iconic snow-capped peaks of Misti and Chachani volcanoes dominate the horizon. Misti, an active volcano, stands as a majestic sentinel, while the imposing Chachani, a dormant giant, completes the breathtaking natural backdrop.

Guests marvel at the sheer scale and geological significance of these volcanic wonders, gaining a deeper appreciation for the dynamic forces that have shaped the region over millennia.

The tour provides an up-close encounter with Arequipa’s awe-inspiring volcanic heritage.

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Incalpaca Outlet and Mini-Zoo Adventure

The Incalpaca Outlet and mini-zoo offer visitors a delightful opportunity to enjoy the rich textile heritage and diverse wildlife of the Arequipa region.

Visitors can enjoy Arequipa’s textile heritage and diverse wildlife at the Incalpaca Outlet and mini-zoo.

The mini-zoo features:

• Graceful llamas

• Fluffy alpacas

• Elegant vicuñas

• Sturdy guanacos

• A variety of other Andean creatures

Visitors can explore the Incalpaca Outlet, a leading producer of high-quality alpaca and vicuña garments, and learn about the intricate process of fiber production and textile craftsmanship.

This unique experience provides a glimpse into the cultural and natural wonders that make Arequipa a truly captivating destination.

Sachaca District and Tingo Balneario

The Sachaca district offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Arequipa’s past, with its 19th-century church and well-preserved architecture.

The tour then continues to the Tingo balneario, known for its local delicacies like anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers) and buñuelos (fried dough balls).

Travelers can savor these regional specialties while taking in the relaxed atmosphere of this popular gathering spot.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, blending the city’s historical and cultural highlights with the chance to take in the local food and community ambiance.

Discovering Architectural Gems

Architectural gems dot the landscape of Arequipa, showcasing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

• The Mansion del Fundador, a 16th-century manor, stands as a testament to the region’s colonial past.

• Nearby, the Sabandia Mill, a historic flour mill, offers a glimpse into the area’s traditional agricultural practices.

• Across town, the Andenes de Paucarpata, an intricate system of ancient terraced farming, thrives in a unique microclimate.

• The Sachaca district boasts a 19th-century church, blending European and local design elements.

• At the Balneario Tingo, visitors can savor local delicacies like anticuchos and buñuelos against the backdrop of the Chili Valley.

Andenes De Paucarpata: a Unique Agricultural System

Nestled within the scenic Arequipa landscape, the Andenes de Paucarpata stands as a remarkable example of ancient Andean agricultural ingenuity. This intricate system of terraced fields, or "andenes," utilizes the natural slope of the land to cultivate a diverse array of crops. The unique microclimate and drainage system of the andenes allow for efficient water management and the production of high-yield, nutrient-rich harvests.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Terraced Fields | Stepped, terraced farmland carved into hillsides |

| Microclimate | Optimal temperature and precipitation for crops |

| Drainage System | Intricate network of channels to manage water flow |

This centuries-old farming method continues to be a vital component of the local economy and cultural heritage in Arequipa.

Things To Know

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy provides flexibility for travelers to change their plans without penalty if needed.

Can I Request a Private Tour or Customize the Itinerary?

Unfortunately, the tour cannot be customized or requested as a private tour. It’s a fixed group tour with a set itinerary. However, you can reach out to the tour operator to inquire about any special requests or modifications they may be able to accommodate.

Is There an Option to Include a Traditional Peruvian Lunch?

Yes, there’s an optional 1-hour lunch stop on the 11 AM tour slot where you can enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal at your own expense. This is not mandatory but provides an opportunity to sample local cuisine.

How Can I Confirm My Hotel Pickup Time and Location?

You can confirm your hotel pickup time and location directly with the tour operator after booking. They’ll provide the details, so you know exactly when and where they’ll pick you up for the Arequipa City and Country Tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Combination Packages Available?

The tour doesn’t currently offer any discounts or combination packages. However, you could check if the operator has any ongoing promotions or deals that you can take advantage of when booking your tour.

Sum Up

The Arequipa City and Country Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, scenic vistas, and cultural heritage. From the historic Plaza de Armas to the volcanic landscapes and textile outlets, this tour provides a well-rounded experience for visitors to enjoy the captivating essence of Arequipa. With its affordable price and convenient hotel pickup, the tour ensures a seamless and enriching adventure in this vibrant Peruvian destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: