Walking Tour Through the Historic Center of Arequipa

Arequipa’s historic center beckons visitors to explore its captivating colonial architecture. Starting at the vibrant Plaza de Armas, the walking tour unveils the city’s rich heritage. Admiring the Basilica Cathedral‘s grandeur, the group delves into the iconic Arco de la Reina and the ornate Portales. As the tour continues, travelers discover tranquil cloisters and scenic viewpoints before reaching Mundo Alpaca, where the region’s unique textile legacy comes to life. What awaits around the next corner?

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Key Points

Explore the colonial architecture and historical gems of Arequipa’s Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city.
Admire the iconic arches and ornate portals that frame the main square, showcasing the city’s rich architectural heritage.
Discover the tranquil cloisters of the Company, featuring intricate stone carvings and peaceful courtyards.
Enjoy scenic views of the colonial architecture and snow-capped Mount Misti from the Bolognesi Bridge.
Visit Mundo Alpaca to learn about sustainable camelid practices and shop for vibrant alpaca garments and textiles.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting at the Main Square

Where does the walking tour of Arequipa’s Historic Center begin?

The tour starts at the main square, known as the Plaza de Armas. This central plaza is the heart of the city, lined with colonial architecture and the iconic Basilica Cathedral.

Visitors meet their guide here, eager to explore the city’s historic gems. The guide points out the impressive arches and intricate portals that frame the square, setting the stage for the immersive journey ahead.

From this lively meeting point, the group sets off to discover Arequipa’s rich history and remarkable architecture throughout the Historic Center.

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Exploring the Iconic Arches and Portals

The group sets off from the lively main square, eager to take in the impressive arches and intricate portals that frame the city’s historic center.

Eager to explore Arequipa’s historic center, the group sets off from the lively main square, taking in the impressive arches and intricate portals.

These architectural elements highlight Arequipa’s distinctive style, blending Spanish colonial influences with indigenous Inca motifs.

As they wander, the tour guide points out:

The iconic Arco de la Reina, an elegant stone archway adorned with intricate carvings.
The Portales de la Plaza de Armas, a series of colonnaded arcades surrounding the main square.
The ornate Portal de San Agustín, featuring ornate stone carvings and a central niche.
The graceful Portal de la Compañía, leading to the cloisters of the Jesuit church.

Visiting the Cloisters of the Company

Next, the group ventures into the cloisters of the Company, known for their impressive architecture.

The cloisters feature stunning colonial-era buildings with ornate facades and arched walkways. Tourists marvel at the intricate stone carvings and detailed religious imagery adorning the walls.

The tranquil courtyards provide a peaceful respite from the bustling streets outside. The guide explains the historical significance of this iconic religious complex, once home to Jesuit priests.

Visitors have the chance to explore the serene gardens and imagine life within these hallowed halls centuries ago.

Walking to Bolognesi Bridge

Leaving the tranquil cloisters behind, the group heads towards Bolognesi Bridge, eager to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes and the Chili River.

Leaving the tranquil cloisters, the group ventures towards Bolognesi Bridge, eager to witness the breathtaking views of volcanoes and the Chili River.

As they approach the bridge, the guide points out:

The impressive colonial architecture that lines the riverbanks.
The distinct white sillar stone, a hallmark of Arequipa’s "White City" nickname.
The snow-capped peak of Mount Misti, the city’s iconic volcano, dominating the skyline.
The lively activity along the river, with locals and travelers enjoying the scenic setting.

The group pauses to admire the captivating panorama before continuing their walking tour.

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Exploring Mundo Alpaca

Now, the group ventures to Mundo Alpaca, an old breeding farm showcasing the region’s camelid heritage.

They learn about the different species of camelids – llamas, alpacas, suris, and vicuñas – and how their soft, luxurious fibers are used to create high-quality textiles.

The guide explains the farm’s practices of sustainably raising these animals and the cultural importance of camelids in Andean communities.

Visitors can browse the on-site shop, filled with vibrant alpaca garments, accessories, and textiles, providing an opportunity to support local artisans and take home a piece of Peruvian craftsmanship.

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Purchasing Camelid Fiber Fabrics

After exploring the camelid breeding farm, visitors have the opportunity to browse the on-site shop, which is filled with a vibrant selection of alpaca garments, accessories, and textiles.

The shop offers a unique chance to purchase high-quality products directly from the source. Shoppers can expect to find:

Shoppers can expect to find plush alpaca sweaters, cozy socks, decorative blankets, and handcrafted accessories at the on-site shop.

Plush alpaca sweaters and ponchos in a range of colors and patterns.
Cozy alpaca socks, scarves, and hats perfect for the Andean climate.
Decorative alpaca throw blankets and tapestries.
Handcrafted alpaca accessories like jewelry and bags.

The shop provides a memorable shopping experience, allowing visitors to take home a piece of Peruvian culture.

Discovering the San Lázaro Neighborhood

Departing the Mundo Alpaca farm, the walking tour now ventures into the San Lázaro neighborhood, the founding site of Arequipa’s "White City".

This historic district showcases colonial architecture and the city’s origins. The guide points out charming plazas, cobblestone streets, and traditional homes. Visitors learn about the area’s pivotal role in Arequipa’s hotel and witness its enduring cultural heritage.

The tour explores the architectural diversity, from baroque to Republican styles, that earned the neighborhood its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Concluding the walking exploration, the group prepares to visit the renowned Monastery of Santa Catalina or the Juanita Mummy Museum.

Concluding Near the Monastery or Museum

As the walking tour through Arequipa’s historic center nears its end, visitors have the option to conclude their excursion by visiting either the renowned Monastery of Santa Catalina or the captivating Juanita Mummy Museum.

The Monastery of Santa Catalina offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past, with its stunning architecture and serene cloisters.

The Monastery of Santa Catalina offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s colonial past, with its stunning architecture and serene cloisters.

Alternatively, the Juanita Mummy Museum features the well-preserved remains of a young Inca girl, providing a fascinating insight into the region’s pre-Columbian history.

Whichever choice, the tour’s conclusion promises to be a memorable and enriching experience.

The tour can conclude with a visit to:

Monastery of Santa Catalina
Juanita Mummy Museum
Both the Monastery and Museum
Other nearby attractions in the historic center

Things To Know

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The minimum group size for the tour is not specified. The tour can be booked for any number of participants, with the price per person remaining the same regardless of group size.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Yes, children can participate in the tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, and families are welcome to join. However, parents should ensure their children’s safety and supervision throughout the walking tour.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for Disabled Travelers?

The tour offers some accessibility options for disabled travelers, including hotel pick-up in the historical center and assistance navigating the walking route. Visitors should contact the tour provider to discuss their specific needs prior to booking.

Can We Adjust the Tour Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour itinerary can be customized to focus on specific interests. Travelers can request modifications, such as spending more time at certain sites or adding/removing activities, based on their preferences. The tour provider will work to accommodate these requests.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Walking Tour?

The recommended attire for the walking tour is comfortable, casual clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Participants should dress in layers as the weather can be variable in Arequipa’s historic center.

Sum Up

After taking in the stunning colonial architecture, admiring the region’s camelid fiber heritage, and exploring the historic neighborhoods, the walking tour through Arequipa’s vibrant center comes to an end. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich history and cultural traditions, inspired to uncover more of this captivating destination in southern Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: