Arequipa: Countryside, Sabandia Mill, Founders Mansion Tour

Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," offers a captivating tour that unveils the region’s countryside splendor, historic landmarks, and cultural heritage. Priced at $77.50 per person, this 3-hour excursion promises breathtaking views, guided visits to the Founders Mansion and iconic Sabandía Mill, and insights into the area’s rich past. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that may just leave you yearning for more.

Good To Know

• This 3-hour tour in Arequipa showcases the city’s countryside, including visits to Mirador del Valle de Chilina, Mirador de Paucarpata, Founders Mansion, and Sabandía Mill.
• The tour is priced at $77.50 per person, with free cancellation and pay-later booking options available.
• The tour includes private transfers, a private tour guide, and entrance tickets to Founders Mansion and Sabandía Mill.
• Highlights of the tour include panoramic views of the valleys and volcanoes, a guided tour of the historic Founders Mansion, and a visit to the significant Sabandía Mill.
• The tour excludes gratuities, food, and personal expenses, but provides a complimentary bottle of water per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Arequipa Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s countryside and historical landmarks. Priced from $77.50 per person, the 3-hour tour includes free cancellation and a pay-later booking option.

Highlights include visits to the Mirador del Valle de Chilina, Mirador de Paucarpata, the Founders Mansion, and the Sabandía Mill. Travelers will enjoy spectacular landscapes, guided tours of the 16th-century Founders Mansion and the historic Sabandía Mill, and private transportation.

The tour includes entrance fees, a guide, and bottled water, but excludes gratuities, food, and personal expenses.

Itinerary and Highlights

The Arequipa Tour begins with a 20-minute van ride to the Mirador del Valle de Chilina, where visitors spend 15 minutes taking in the spectacular views of the green valleys and towering volcanoes.

Next, they travel 30 minutes to the Mirador de Paucarpata for a 15-minute visit.

The tour then ventures to the 16th-century Founders Mansion for a 40-minute guided tour, exploring its colonial-era style, small chapel, main patio, colorful gardens, and European decor.

Discover the 16th-century Founders Mansion’s colonial architecture, small chapel, patio, gardens, and European decor through a 40-minute guided tour.

After, they visit the 1621 Sabandía Mill for a 30-minute guided tour to learn about this significant historical monument in Arequipa before returning to the city.

• Spectacular landscapes of green valleys and volcanoes

• Explore Sabandía Mill, a 17th-century operational mill

• Tour the 16th-century Founders Mansion

• Learn about Arequipa’s colonial architecture and history

• Discover the region’s cultural and historical insights

Mirador Del Valle De Chilina

The Mirador del Valle de Chilina offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the lush green valleys and towering volcanoes that characterize the stunning Arequipa countryside.

This viewpoint is situated on a hilltop, providing an ideal vantage point to admire the natural beauty of the region. During the 15-minute visit, guests can take in the serene ambiance and snap captivating photographs to immortalize the experience.

The scenic drive to the Mirador del Valle de Chilina sets the stage for the upcoming exploration of Arequipa’s rich cultural and historical sites.

Mirador De Paucarpata

A short 30-minute van ride from the Mirador del Valle de Chilina takes visitors to the Mirador de Paucarpata.

This viewpoint offers stunning vistas of Arequipa’s lush green valleys and majestic volcanoes.

Visitors can:

• Admire the panoramic views of the Chili River Valley

• Spot the iconic silhouette of the El Misti volcano in the distance

• Learn about the area’s unique geography and geological history

• Explore the tranquil surroundings and snap breathtaking photos

• Enjoy a moment of peaceful contemplation amidst the natural splendor

The Mirador de Paucarpata provides a captivating glimpse into Arequipa’s picturesque countryside, setting the stage for the next stop on the tour.

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La Mansión Del Fundador

After a 20-minute van ride, visitors arrive at the historic La Mansión del Fundador, a remarkable 16th-century colonial-era estate.

Built by Garcí Manuel de Carbajal, the mansion features the distinct architectural style of the period, with a small chapel, a main patio, colorful gardens, and decor imported from Europe.

Guests can explore the mansion’s well-preserved interiors and learn about its rich history and significance as a landmark in Arequipa.

The guided tour provides valuable cultural and historical insights, offering a glimpse into the lives of the city’s founders.

Sabandía Mill

After a 25-minute van ride, visitors arrive at the historic Sabandía Mill, a significant monument constructed in 1621 by the master stonemason Don Francisco Flores. The mill still operates today, offering a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich history.

Visitors can explore the mill’s various features:

• Original mill machinery and equipment

• Grinding stones used to process grains

• Intricate stonework and architecture

• The mill’s role in the local economy and community

• Opportunities to witness the milling process first-hand

The Sabandía Mill stands as a testament to Arequipa’s enduring cultural heritage, providing a captivating experience for all who visit.

Cultural and Historical Insights

As visitors explore the Arequipa countryside, they’ll uncover rich cultural and historical insights.

The Founders Mansion, built in the 16th century, showcases the colonial-era style of the region. Its small chapel, main patio, colorful gardens, and European decor provide a glimpse into the area’s past.

Nearby, the Sabandía Mill, constructed in 1621 by a master stonemason, stands as a significant historical monument. This working mill offers a fascinating look at the region’s industrial heritage.

Together, these sites offer travelers a deeper understanding of Arequipa’s vibrant cultural and architectural traditions.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes private transfers from and to the hotel, a private tour guide who can provide commentary in both Spanish and English, and entrance tickets to the Founders Mansion and Sabandía Mill.

Includes private transfers, a bilingual guide, and entrance tickets to Founders Mansion and Sabandía Mill.

The tour also provides a complimentary bottle of water per person.

However, the following items aren’t included:

• Gratuities

• Food and drinks

• Personal expenses

Guests are responsible for covering these additional costs.

The tour itinerary may be subject to change, so it’s important to check availability for the desired start time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to the customer’s preferences. The tour operator is flexible and willing to adjust the itinerary, duration, and other aspects to meet the customer’s needs and ensure a personalized experience.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available. The more people in your group, the lower the per-person price. Inquire with the tour operator for specific group pricing when booking the Arequipa countryside, Sabandía Mill, and Founders Mansion tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, the tour price does not include any food or drinks. Guests cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour does provide 1 bottle of water per person.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. It’s suitable for all ages, from children to seniors, as the activities and sites visited are generally accessible to people of all abilities.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is generally wheelchair accessible, with transportation and sites designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. However, guests should consult with the tour operator to confirm accessibility details prior to booking.

The Sum Up

The Arequipa Countryside, Sabandía Mill, and Founders Mansion Tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors will be captivated by the breathtaking vistas, enjoy the history of the Founders Mansion, and witness the iconic Sabandía Mill, all while enjoying private transfers and expert guidance. This tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the captivating essence of Arequipa.

You can check availability for your dates here: