Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," beckons travelers with its captivating blend of colonial architecture and dramatic volcanic backdrops. This half-day panoramic tour promises to immerse visitors in the city’s rich history and natural wonders. From the picturesque Yanahuara District to the breathtaking Carmen Alto Viewpoint, the tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Arequipa’s unique charm. But the true highlight may lie in the chance to encounter South American camelids at the Incalpaca Mini Zoo – an encounter that could leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- The panoramic city tour of Arequipa lasts approximately 5 hours and costs from $28.00 per person.
- The tour includes transportation, a live guide in Spanish and English, and visits to the Yanahuara District, Iglesia San Juan Bautista, and Carmen Alto Viewpoint.
- Visitors can see South American camelids at the Incalpaca Mini Zoo and explore the optional Mansion of the Founder and Sabandía Mill.
- The tour offers panoramic views from the second floor of the mirabus and the opportunity to admire the stunning vistas of three volcanoes.
- The tour features a flexible travel experience with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Tour Overview
The panoramic city tour of Arequipa offers visitors a comprehensive half-day sightseeing experience, lasting approximately 5 hours and priced from $28.00 per person.
A comprehensive 5-hour panoramic city tour of Arequipa, priced from $28.00 per person, offers visitors a half-day sightseeing experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later, the tour provides flexibility.
Highlights include photo stops at Yanahuara’s Portales, visits to Iglesia San Juan Bautista and the Incalpaca Mini Zoo, and optional entries to the Mansion of the Founder and Sabandía Mill.
Featuring a live guide available in Spanish and English, and including transportation, the tour immerses guests in Arequipa’s history and landscapes.
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Itinerary Highlights
As visitors embark on the panoramic city tour, they’ll first stop at the Yanahuara District, where they can capture stunning photos of the Portales de Yanahuara with the Misti volcano as the backdrop.
They’ll also visit the Iglesia San Juan Bautista and have the chance to taste traditional ice cheese.
Next, they’ll head to the Carmen Alto Viewpoint to admire the terraces and three volcanoes – Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.
The tour then takes them to the Incalpaca Mini Zoo, where they can see South American camelids like llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos.
Finally, they’ve the option to explore the Mansion of the Founder, a colonial museum, and the Sabandía Mill, a working water mill.
Tour Features
This panoramic city tour of Arequipa features a live tour guide available in both Spanish and English. Transportation is included, but food is not. Visitors have the option to purchase additional entry fees for select attractions, such as the Carmen Alto Observatory, Founders Mansion, and Sabandia Mill.
| Feature | Details |
| — | — |
| Live Tour Guide | Available in Spanish and English |
| Transportation | Included |
| Food | Not Included |
| Optional Entry Fees | Carmen Alto Observatory (S/. 8)
Founders Mansion (S/. 15)
Sabandia Mill (S/. 10) |
The tour provides a flexible travel experience, allowing visitors to reserve now and pay later.
Tour Experience
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the second floor of the mirabus during the Arequipa city tour. The tour allows travelers to enjoy the city’s history and landscapes.
The experience includes:
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Admiring the stunning vistas of the Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu volcanoes from the Carmen Alto Viewpoint.
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Encountering South American camelids, such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos, at the Incalpaca Mini Zoo.
-
Exploring the colonial Mansion of the Founder and the historical Sabandía Mill, with optional activities like horseback riding or ATV rides.
Yanahuara District
The Yanahuara District is the first stop on the panoramic city tour of Arequipa. Visitors will enjoy a photo stop at the Portales de Yanahuara, with the stunning Misti volcano as the backdrop. Next, they’ll visit the Iglesia San Juan Bautista and have the chance to taste traditional ice cheese.
| Activity | Duration |
| — | — |
| Photo stop at Portales de Yanahuara | 15 minutes |
| Visit Iglesia San Juan Bautista | 20 minutes |
| Taste traditional ice cheese | 10 minutes |
The Yanahuara District offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s history and natural beauty, setting the stage for the rest of the panoramic tour.
Carmen Alto Viewpoint
From the Carmen Alto Viewpoint, visitors can take in the breathtaking panorama of Arequipa’s three majestic volcanoes – Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.
This scenic overlook offers:
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Stunning vistas of the city’s picturesque terraces below.
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A chance to witness the interplay of light and shadow on the volcanic peaks.
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Insight into the unique geography that has shaped Arequipa’s landscape over centuries.
The Carmen Alto Viewpoint allows travelers to pause, appreciate the city’s natural splendor, and gain a deeper understanding of Arequipa’s captivating environment.
Incalpaca Mini Zoo
After visiting the Carmen Alto Viewpoint, travelers can head to the Incalpaca Mini Zoo, where they’ll find a free-entry sanctuary showcasing a variety of South American camelids.
The zoo features llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos – all native to the Andes. Visitors can observe these majestic creatures up close and learn about their unique adaptations to the high-altitude environment.
The mini zoo provides an opportunity to appreciate the diversity of Peru’s wildlife and gain insights into the cultural significance of these camelids in the region.
It’s a must-see stop on the Arequipa city tour.
Mansion of the Founder and Sabandía Mill
After visiting the Incalpaca Mini Zoo, visitors can choose to explore the Mansion of the Founder and the Sabandía Mill.
The Mansion of the Founder is a colonial mansion museum, offering optional entry for historical insights.
At the Sabandía Mill, visitors can witness a working water mill and partake in optional activities like:
-
Horseback riding
-
ATV rides
-
Paying a small entry fee
These additional experiences provide a well-rounded understanding of Arequipa’s rich history and culture.
Things To Know
Can I Book This Tour for a Group of More Than 6 People?
Yes, you can book this tour for a group of more than 6 people. The tour is designed to accommodate larger groups, and the price per person remains the same regardless of group size.
Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?
Photography and video recording are generally allowed during the tour. Guests are encouraged to capture the stunning landscapes and historical sites they visit. However, visitors should be mindful of any restrictions in sensitive areas.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours allow for a more personalized experience and the ability to customize the itinerary to your preferences. Contact the tour provider for availability and pricing.
Will the Tour Be Conducted Even if It Rains or Snows?
The tour will generally operate rain or shine. The tour provider may adjust the itinerary if weather conditions are unsafe, but they’ll make every effort to provide the full experience, regardless of the weather.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary Based on My Interests?
The tour offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on traveler’s interests. Guests can opt to visit select sights or engage in optional activities like horseback riding or ATV rides at the Sabandía Mill, allowing for a personalized experience.
Sum Up
This captivating half-day panoramic tour of Arequipa offers a glimpse into the city’s stunning sights and rich history. Explore the picturesque Yanahuara District, take in breathtaking volcano views from Carmen Alto Viewpoint, and meet South American camelids at the Incalpaca Mini Zoo. With English and Spanish guidance, this tour provides a memorable and comprehensive introduction to the charming Arequipa.
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