Arequipa: Half Day Private Walking Tour + Santa Catalina Monastery

Arequipa, Peru’s ‘White City’, boasts a rich cultural heritage that’s ripe for exploration. A half-day private walking tour offers the perfect introduction, taking travelers through the historic center and the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll explore the city’s captivating past, from grand cathedrals to charming neighborhoods. But the real gem? An in-depth look at the monastery’s narrow streets, beautiful frescoes, and hidden corners – a truly immersive experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of Arequipa’s wonders.

Contents show

Good To Know

Key Points:

This private walking tour in Arequipa’s historical center lasts approximately 3 hours and includes visits to major landmarks like the Cathedral and Santa Catalina Monastery.
The tour is available in Spanish and English and offers a comprehensive insight into Arequipa’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Participants will explore the Barrio de San Lázaro neighborhood and the impressive 20,000 square meter Santa Catalina Monastery, featuring narrow streets and cloisters.
The tour includes hotel pickup, a bilingual guide, and a guided tour of the Santa Catalina Monastery, with permanent assistance available throughout the experience.
Participants must have a valid passport or ID card, and the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour is a half-day private walking experience in Arequipa’s historical center, lasting approximately 3 hours.

It’s a private group tour with a live guide available in Spanish and English. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve now with a pay later option.

A private group tour with a live guide in Spanish and English, allowing for cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a pay later option.

The tour includes pickup from Plaza de Armas, visits to Arequipa’s main attractions like the Cathedral and the Santa Catalina Monastery, a unique cultural experience with a guided tour.

Participants must bring a passport or ID, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.

Into exploring Arequipa on foot? Check out these other walking experiences we've looked at

Itinerary Highlights

After being picked up from the Historical Centre of Arequipa‘s Plaza de Armas, the tour guides guests through the city’s main attractions.

Visitors will see the stunning Cathedral, the baroque Church of the Company of Jesus, and the Cloisters of the Company of Jesus.

Next, they’ll explore the Tristán del Pozo House, the Plaza and Church of San Francisco, and the charming Barrio de San Lázaro neighborhood.

The tour culminates at the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery, a 20,000 square meter citadel with narrow streets, small squares, and cloisters featuring magnificent frescoes and rustic stone wash houses.

Santa Catalina Monastery

As the culmination of the Arequipa Walking Tour, visitors will explore the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery, a 20,000 square meter citadel with narrow streets, small squares, and cloisters.

This unique cultural experience was historically closed for centuries, but now offers a guided tour. Guests will marvel at the magnificent fresco paintings and rustic stone wash houses that make this site so extraordinary.

The guided tour is included in the tour package, providing a comprehensive look at this fascinating landmark. Visitors will leave with a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Inclusions

The Arequipa Walking Tour package includes hotel pickup for those located in the downtown area.

A bilingual tour guide leads the experience, taking visitors through the city’s main attractions. The guided tour of the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery is also part of the package, providing a unique cultural experience.

Permanent assistance is available throughout the tour. However, the package excludes food, beverages, museum entries, and any unspecified activities or services.

Participants must bring a valid passport or ID card. Itineraries are subject to change, so it’s best to check availability for specific starting times.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

This tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. Participants must bring a passport or ID card to join the tour.

Itineraries are subject to change, so check availability for specific starting times. The tour package includes hotel pickup from downtown locations, a bilingual tour guide, entry and guided tour of the Santa Catalina Monastery, and permanent assistance during the tour.

However, it excludes food, beverages, museum entries, and any unspecified activities or services. Guests should review the tour details and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Arequipa

Pickup and Drop-off

The tour includes hotel pickup from downtown Arequipa, allowing participants a convenient start to their walking exploration of the city.

Pickup is available from centrally-located hotels and the main Plaza de Armas.

The tour concludes at the Santa Catalina Monastery, a vast historical complex that’s the highlight of the itinerary.

From there, guests can continue exploring Arequipa’s attractions independently or arrange their own transportation back to their accommodations.

With the included pickup and guided tour, this experience offers a hassle-free way to discover Arequipa’s architectural gems and cultural heritage in just half a day.

Tour Duration and Cost

The walking tour in Arequipa lasts 3 hours and costs $60.00 per person.

It’s a private group experience with a live tour guide available in Spanish and English.

Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

There’s also a reserve now & pay later option available.

The tour includes hotel pickup from the Historical Centre of Arequipa, Plaza de Armas, and a guided tour of the Santa Catalina Monastery.

The package excludes food, beverages, museum entries, and any unspecified activities or services.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for plans that may change.

Plus, the tour offers a "reserve now & pay later" option, allowing guests to secure their spot without immediate payment.

The private walking tour is available in both Spanish and English, catering to diverse language preferences.

With a 3-hour duration, the experience ensures a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa’s top landmarks, including the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photography and Videography Allowed Inside the Santa Catalina Monastery?

Photography and videography are generally allowed inside the Santa Catalina Monastery, though visitors should check with their tour guide for any specific restrictions. Some areas may have limited photo or video access.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?

Participants can’t bring their own food or drinks during the tour, as it’s not included in the package. However, there may be opportunities to purchase refreshments at the monastery or other locations visited on the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is not suitable for children. It’s a walking tour that includes visiting historical sites and may not cater well to young kids. The activity level and pace may be challenging for families with young children.

Can We Choose the Starting Time of the Tour?

Yes, the itineraries are subject to change, so participants can check availability for specific starting times. The tour offers flexibility in choosing the departure time that works best for the group.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts or special offers. However, they do provide a reserve now & pay later option, which allows you to secure your spot without paying upfront.

The Sum Up

This immersive walking tour in Arequipa offers an enriching exploration of the city’s captivating history and cultural treasures. Highlights include the magnificent Santa Catalina Monastery, showcasing stunning frescoes and architecture. With personalized attention from a bilingual guide, travelers can explore the city’s past and gain remarkable insights, making for an unforgettable half-day experience.