Arequipa, the "White City," beckons travelers with its captivating charm. A guided walking tour promises to unveil the city’s highlights, from the iconic Plaza de Armas to the stunning Cathedral and ornate Church of the Company of Jesus. Explore Arequipa’s vibrant history and unique volcanic stone architecture, including a visit to the colorful Monastery of Santa Catalina. Whether you’re a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, this three-hour tour offers a compelling glimpse into the heart of this remarkable Peruvian city.

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Key Points

Guided walking tour of Arequipa, the "White City," showcasing the city’s traditional architecture made from volcanic stone.
Highlights include Plaza de Armas, Cathedral of Arequipa, Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus, and Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena.
Tour priced at €25.75 per person and lasts 3 hours, available in Spanish and English.
Includes entrance to the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena and pickup from the meeting point.
Tour not suitable for wheelchair users due to the immersive exploration of Arequipa’s architectural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The guided walking tour of Arequipa, known as the "White City", provides visitors with an immersive experience exploring the city’s traditional architecture and historical landmarks.

Priced from €25.75 per person and lasting 3 hours, the tour is available in Spanish and English.

Highlights include the iconic Plaza de Armas, the grand Cathedral of Arequipa, the Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus, and the famous Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena.

The tour includes entrance to the Monastery and pickup at the meeting point, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

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Highlights of the Tour

Exploring Arequipa’s traditional architecture made from volcanic stone is a highlight of the guided walking tour. Visitors will also get to visit key sites like the Plaza de Armas, Cathedral of Arequipa, Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus, and the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena. Here’s a closer look at the tour highlights:

| Site | Description |

| — | — |

| Plaza de Armas | Arequipa’s central square with impressive colonial architecture |

| Cathedral of Arequipa | Iconic 17th-century cathedral made of volcanic rock |

| Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus | Baroque-style church with intricately carved façade |

| Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena | Colorful 16th-century monastery complex |

The tour also covers the origins of Arequipa’s nickname, the "White City."

Exploring Arequipa’s Architecture

Arequipa’s traditional architecture, constructed from the area’s abundant volcanic stone, captivates visitors on the guided walking tour.

The tour highlights the distinct white buildings and structures, earning Arequipa the nickname "the White City." Participants explore the iconic Plaza de Armas and Cathedral of Arequipa, marveling at the intricate Baroque and Moorish architectural styles.

The Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus and the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena showcase the city’s religious heritage through their ornate facades and interiors.

Key Sites Visited

One of the highlights of the guided walking tour is exploring the iconic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa’s historic center.

The tour also visits:

The Cathedral of Arequipa, an impressive example of Spanish colonial architecture constructed from volcanic sillar stone.
The Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus, known for its ornate Baroque-style facade.
The Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena, a 16th-century convent that offers a glimpse into the city’s religious history.

These key sites provide a deeper understanding of Arequipa’s architectural heritage and contribution to Peru’s cultural landscape.

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Discovering the White City

As visitors stroll through Arequipa’s historic center, they’ll be captivated by the city’s enchanting nickname – the "White City."

This moniker derives from the gleaming volcanic stone, known as sillar, used to construct the region’s traditional architecture. The ubiquitous use of this light-colored stone gives Arequipa’s buildings a distinct, luminous appearance, earning it the moniker.

Wandering the charming streets, travelers can admire the stunning Cathedral of Arequipa, the Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus, and the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena – all built with this iconic local material.

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Tour Details and Inclusions

The guided walking tour of Arequipa’s historic center begins at the city’s vibrant heart, where visitors can explore the architectural wonders crafted from the region’s iconic volcanic stone.

The tour includes:

A knowledgeable guide who provides commentary in both Spanish and English.
Entrance to the renowned Monastery of Santa Catalina, a stunning 16th-century convent that offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich history.
Pick-up from the designated meeting point, ensuring a seamless start to the experience.

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it promises an immersive exploration of Arequipa’s captivating "White City" heritage.

Important Information for Visitors

To ensure a seamless experience, visitors should be aware of the tour’s cancellation policy and booking flexibility.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travelers. Booking can be done in advance without any upfront payment, allowing visitors to secure their spot.

Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and book without any upfront payment, providing flexibility.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility limitations should consider alternative options.

Visitors are encouraged to come prepared with comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water, as flash photography isn’t allowed during the tour.

Feedback From Previous Customers

Customers have provided mixed feedback on the Arequipa Guided Walking Tour, with an overall rating of 3 out of 5 based on 2 reviews.

While some praised the guide’s friendliness, others noted areas for improvement:

Tour Duration: A few reviewers felt the 3-hour tour was too long, suggesting a shorter timeframe would be more suitable.
Accessibility: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which could be a drawback for some travelers.
Photographic Restrictions: The prohibition on flash photography during the tour was a disappointment for some guests who enjoy capturing their experiences.

Things To Know

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is not suitable for children. According to the details, it’s "Not Suitable For: Wheelchair users", which implies the tour may not be accessible or appropriate for young children either.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is not suitable for bringing along pets as it involves walking through historic buildings and sites. Participants should leave their pets at home for this guided walking experience.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

There is no mention of a private tour option for this specific walking tour. The details provided focus on the group tour experience, which includes a guided tour in both Spanish and English.

Do I Need to Know Spanish to Join the Tour?

No, you don’t need to know Spanish to join the tour. The guided walking tour of Arequipa, the "White City," is offered in both Spanish and English, so non-Spanish speakers can fully participate and understand the tour’s commentary.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of €25.75 per person, regardless of age or student status. However, the tour is available in both Spanish and English.

Sum Up

Discover the captivating charm of Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," on this guided walking tour. Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Plaza de Armas, stunning Cathedral, and the ornate Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus. Marvel at the unique volcanic stone architecture and visit the colorful Monastery of Santa Catalina, all while delving into Arequipa’s vibrant history. This three-hour tour is available in both Spanish and English, and priced at €25.75 per person.