Guided Tour | Arequipa and Santa Catalina Monastery

Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," is a captivating destination that effortlessly blends colonial grandeur and Andean charm. At the heart of this historic metropolis lies the magnificent Santa Catalina Monastery, a walled citadel that once housed cloistered nuns. Exploring this vibrant complex, with its vibrant hues and serene gardens, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past. But the monastery’s legends and architectural marvels are just the beginning of Arequipa’s cultural allure. What other secrets does this enchanting city hold?

Key Points

• Guided tour of Arequipa, the "White City", showcasing its iconic landmarks like the Cathedral, Tambos de Bronce, and La Cabezona.
• Comprehensive exploration of the Santa Catalina Monastery, a walled citadel with vibrant colors, cloistered charm, and historical narratives.
• Guided tour includes hotel pickup, English/Spanish speaking guide, and admission to the Santa Catalina Monastery.
• Travel insurance provides peace of mind for unexpected issues during the tour.
• Budget-friendly tour option at $35 per person, excluding meals and extra expenses.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Arequipa – The White City

Though Arequipa is often referred to as the "White City" due to the stunning volcanic stone and ashlar architecture that predominate its buildings, the city offers visitors much more than its striking visual appeal.

Amidst the colonial plazas and streets, travelers can uncover the city’s rich history, culture, and traditions. From the iconic Cathedral of Arequipa to the ancient Inca ruins, Arequipa captivates with its blend of Spanish and indigenous influences.

Whether strolling through the charming neighborhoods or admiring the dramatic Andean peaks in the distance, the "White City" enchants all who visit.

Plaza De Armas and Historic Architecture

After captivating visitors with Arequipa’s picturesque cityscape, the tour now shifts its focus to the historic heart of the "White City" – the iconic Plaza de Armas.

This grand colonial square is anchored by the majestic Cathedral of Arequipa, whose elegant ashlar façade exemplifies the city’s distinctive volcanic stone architecture. Nearby, the ornate Church and Cloisters of the Society of Jesus offer a glimpse into the city’s rich religious heritage.

The tour explores the plaza’s ancient Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona, remnants of Arequipa’s pre-Columbian trading history. These landmarks exemplify the city’s blend of colonial splendor and indigenous roots.

Tambos De Bronce and La Cabezona

The tour now takes visitors to the ancient trading sites of Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona, remnants of Arequipa’s pre-Columbian commercial heritage.

Tambos de Bronce, meaning "Bronze Inns," were once bustling rest stops for merchants traversing the Inca road network. Today, their partially-restored structures offer a glimpse into the region’s storied past.

Nearby, La Cabezona, or "The Big Head," is an intriguing archaeological site featuring mysterious stone carvings and petroglyphs.

These captivating landmarks provide a fascinating contrast to the city’s renowned colonial architecture, inviting visitors to discover Arequipa’s deeper historical roots.

Exploring the Santa Catalina Monastery

Towering above the city streets, the Santa Catalina Monastery captivates visitors with its vibrant colors and cloistered charm. This walled citadel, once home to cloistered nuns, offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich history and traditions.

The guided tour reveals intriguing legends, transporting guests through:

The guided tour reveals intriguing legends, transporting guests through serene cloisters, tranquil gardens, art collections, and hidden corners of the monastery’s past.

1. Serene cloisters adorned with intricate arches and intricate tilework.

2. Tranquil gardens bursting with lush greenery and fragrant blooms.

3. A remarkable art collection showcasing the artistic talents of the nuns.

4. Quaint alleyways and hidden corners that tell stories of the monastery’s past.

Immersing oneself in the Santa Catalina Monastery is a captivating experience, blending history, art, and a sense of timeless spirituality.

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Legends and Cloisters of the Monastery

Stepping into the Santa Catalina Monastery is like unlocking a portal to Arequipa’s captivating past. Legends whisper through the cloisters, transporting visitors to a bygone era.

Explore the lavish living quarters of the cloistered nuns, where ornate interiors and sacred art provoke awe. Meandering through the tranquil gardens, one can sense the spirituality that once permeated this walled citadel.

The guided tour unveils the monastery’s storied history, from its 16th-century founding to its modern-day rebirth as a cultural hub. A visit here is a window into a world frozen in time, where the past and present collide in enchanting wonder.

Monastery Gardens and Art Collection

Lush greenery and vibrant blooms captivate visitors as they wander the serene monastery gardens. Meandering paths lead to hidden alcoves and tranquil courtyards, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city outside.

The art collection within the monastery walls is equally impressive, showcasing an array of religious paintings, sculptures, and ornate altarpieces. Highlights include:

1. The captivating frescoes adorning the cloister walls

2. An intricate stone fountain in the central plaza

3. Intricately carved wooden doors and archways

4. A museum-quality exhibition of priceless colonial art

Truly, the gardens and art of Santa Catalina Monastery provide a window into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Tour Details

The guided tour of Arequipa and Santa Catalina Monastery includes a hotel pickup, an English and Spanish speaking guide, and admission to the historic monastery itself.

Travelers won’t have to worry about transportation or navigating on their own. The knowledgeable guide provides insider information and brings the city’s rich history to life.

Plus, travel insurance is included, giving peace of mind in case of any unexpected interruptions.

Though meals and extra expenses aren’t covered, the $35 per person price tag makes this a budget-friendly way to explore Arequipa’s architectural gems and the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery.

Booking Information and Reservations

To book this guided tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery, travelers can check availability for preferred start times on the provider’s website.

The "Reserve now & pay later" option is a convenient choice, allowing guests to secure their spot before finalizing payment.

When selecting participants and a date, the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility.

Booking this 4-hour excursion is a breeze, with:

1. Check availability for start times

2. Choose participants and date

3. Select "Reserve now & pay later" if desired

4. Confirm booking for a seamless experience.

Things To Know

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The tour size is flexible, allowing for an intimate experience. Group sizes typically range from small, with just a few travelers, to larger groups of around 10-20 participants, providing a personalized and engaging tour for all.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary is set, but travelers can customize their experience by requesting additional stops or time at specific locations. The guide will work with them to personalize the tour within reason and based on availability.

Are Audio Guides Available During the Tour?

According to the tour details, there’s no mention of audio guides being available. However, you’ll have an English and Spanish-speaking guide leading the tour, so you’ll likely get a more personalized and insightful experience compared to using an audio guide.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t seem to offer an option to extend the duration. The 4-hour tour package is the only option listed, though travelers could potentially explore the sites further on their own after the guided portion is complete.

Can I Purchase Additional Services On-Site?

While the tour doesn’t include additional services, visitors can explore the city further and purchase local crafts, textiles, and cuisine on their own after the guided tour. The tour provides a rundown, but allows flexibility to customize the experience.

Sum Up

Discover the captivating history and vibrant beauty of Arequipa’s Santa Catalina Monastery on this guided tour. Step into the cloistered walls and be transported to a bygone era, exploring the monastery’s stunning architecture, serene gardens, and intriguing legends. With convenient hotel pickup, an expert guide, and inclusive travel insurance, it’s an affordable and worry-free way to learn about Arequipa’s remarkable cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: