Walking Tour of the Historic Center of Arequipa

Arequipa’s historic city center is a fascinating blend of colonial architecture and cultural heritage. On this three-hour walking tour, visitors can discover the iconic Plaza de Armas, explore the tranquil Cloisters of the Company, and wander through the charming San Lázaro neighborhood. With knowledgeable guides offering insights in both Spanish and English, this immersive experience promises to transport you back in time. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the tour’s highlights are sure to leave you eager to uncover more of Arequipa’s captivating past.

Key Points

• The walking tour of Arequipa’s historic city center lasts three hours and covers key locations like Plaza de Armas, Cloisters of the Company, and Mundo Alpaca.
• The tour is priced at $23 per person and is available in both Spanish and English.
• Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve a spot without immediate payment.
• The tour starts at the main square, Plaza de Armas, and explores the colonial architecture, including the twin-towered cathedral and arcaded buildings.
• Feedback suggests the tour could be improved, with one reviewer noting the actual duration was shorter than the advertised three hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This walking tour offers visitors a three-hour exploration of Arequipa’s historic city center. Priced at $23 per person, it’s available in Spanish and English.

The tour starts near the main Plaza de Armas, where you will discover architectural gems like the Cloisters of the Company. They’ll also visit Mundo Alpaca and the San Lázaro neighborhood, the city’s first settlement.

The tour begins at the Plaza de Armas, where visitors can admire architectural wonders like the Cloisters of the Company and explore Mundo Alpaca and the historic San Lázaro neighborhood.

Along the way, they’ll catch glimpses of the surrounding volcanoes from El Puente Grau. The tour includes a professional guide, entrance tickets, and meals.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a flexible option for experiencing Arequipa’s highlights.

Booking Information

How does the booking information work for this walking tour of Arequipa’s historic center?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing them to book their tour without paying immediately.

The tour also includes the following booking information:

1. Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

2. Reserve now & pay later: Book your spot and pay nothing today.

3. Languages: Spanish and English.

4. Meeting point: Near the main square of Arequipa.

Plaza De Armas

Where does the walking tour begin? It starts at Arequipa’s main square, the Plaza de Armas.

This historic plaza is the heart of the city, surrounded by stunning colonial architecture. Visitors will marvel at the twin-towered cathedral, whose volcanic stone façade glows golden in the sun.

The arcaded buildings lining the plaza house shops, cafes, and government offices. In the center stands a beautiful fountain, a popular meeting spot for locals.

From the plaza, the tour moves on to explore the city’s other architectural gems and the nearby San Lázaro neighborhood, the first settlement of the "White City".

Cloisters of the Company

The Cloisters of the Company are one of the architectural highlights of the tour. This impressive structure dates back to the 17th century and showcases the city’s colonial heritage.

Visitors can admire:

1. The intricately carved stone facade.

2. The serene central courtyard with its arched walkways.

3. The ornate religious artwork and sculptures displayed throughout the complex.

4. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from the upper levels.

The Cloisters offer a glimpse into Arequipa’s past, blending Spanish and indigenous design elements to create a unique and captivating architectural masterpiece.

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Puente Grau

From El Puente Grau, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the volcanoes that surround Arequipa.

This iconic bridge offers a prime spot for taking in the city’s dramatic skyline, dominated by the snow-capped peaks of Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.

Originally constructed in the 19th century, the bridge has become a beloved landmark, connecting the historic center to the newer parts of the city.

Strolling across Puente Grau allows travelers to appreciate Arequipa’s natural setting and the harmony between the city’s colonial architecture and its natural environment.

Mundo Alpaca

What’s Mundo Alpaca? It’s a stop on the walking tour where visitors can discover the wonders of Peruvian alpaca wool.

The tour includes an optional opportunity to purchase alpaca products, such as:

1. Soft, luxurious alpaca sweaters

2. Vibrant alpaca scarves and ponchos

3. Handcrafted alpaca dolls and figurines

4. Unique alpaca home decor items

Mundo Alpaca showcases the rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship behind these sought-after Peruvian textiles.

Guests can browse the selection and support local artisans while seeing Arequipa’s vibrant textile traditions.

San Lázaro Neighborhood

After exploring the captivating Mundo Alpaca, the walking tour ventures into the San Lázaro neighborhood, the first settlement of Arequipa’s historic "White City".

This charming area offers a glimpse into the city’s origins, with its colonial architecture and winding streets. Visitors can admire the quaint adobe houses, some dating back to the 16th century, and learn about the lives of the early residents.

The neighborhood’s tranquil atmosphere and traditional way of life provide a refreshing contrast to the bustling main square.

Through this immersive experience, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have provided mixed reviews of the walking tour, with an overall rating of 3 out of 5 based on a single review.

The tour was praised for its knowledgeable guide, but some noted that the duration was shorter than advertised, with the tour ending at the Monastery rather than the full 3 hours.

The customer feedback highlights:

1. Tour duration was 2 hours, not the advertised 3 hours.

2. Guide was knowledgeable and provided an informative experience.

3. Drop-off at the Monastery was earlier than expected.

4. Overall rating of 3 out of 5, suggesting room for improvement.

Things To Know

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify the average group size. However, it’s common for walking tours to have small to medium-sized groups, typically ranging from 6 to 15 participants, to ensure a more personalized experience and easier navigation through the historic city center.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private option. Customers can book a private walking tour of Arequipa’s historic center, which allows for a more personalized experience. Private tours are available upon request and may have an additional fee.

Do We Get to Visit Any Museums or Churches?

The tour includes visits to architectural sites like the Cloisters of the Company, but it doesn’t mention any museums or churches. There may be an option for a private tour, which could offer more customized experiences.

Can We Stop for a Local Meal During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a stop for a local meal. According to the information provided, the inclusions of the tour cover "Meals", allowing participants to enjoy a traditional Arequipa cuisine during the 3-hour walking experience.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites?

According to the tour overview, photography is allowed at all the sites visited during the walking tour. Travelers can take photos throughout the 3-hour excursion, including at the Plaza de Armas, Cloisters of the Company, and Mundo Alpaca.

Sum Up

The walking tour of Arequipa’s historic center offers visitors an immersive experience, exploring the city’s rich colonial heritage. From the vibrant Plaza de Armas to the charming San Lázaro neighborhood, the tour provides a deep dive into Arequipa’s architectural gems, guided by knowledgeable professionals. Whether in Spanish or English, this tour is a memorable adventure for both locals and visitors, showcasing the stunning beauty and cultural wealth of this Peruvian city.

You can check availability for your dates here: