Guided Tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery.

Join the adventure as you discover the captivating city of Arequipa, known as the "White City" for its stunning colonial architecture. Explore the grand Arequipa Cathedral, wander through the charming San Lázaro neighborhood, and uncover the rich religious heritage of the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery. This guided tour offers a unique insight into Arequipa’s culture and history, leaving you eager to delve deeper into this remarkable destination.

Contents show

Key Points

A 3-hour guided tour of Arequipa, known as the "White City," showcasing its distinctive architecture and visiting landmarks like the Plaza de Armas and San Lázaro neighborhood.
Exploration of Arequipa’s history and culture, including stops at historical dairy farms, Bronce and Cabezona.
Guided tour of the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, revealing its legends, history, and impressive architecture with cloisters and tranquil gardens.
Opportunity to appreciate Arequipa’s religious heritage and view the on-site art gallery showcasing religious paintings and artifacts.
Tour concludes around 1:00 p.m., providing a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa’s architecture, landmarks, and cultural sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The guided tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery lasts 3 hours and costs from $28.00 per person.

It includes pickup from your hotel in the historic center at 9:00 a.m. and a guided exploration of Arequipa’s architecture, known as the "White City."

You’ll visit the Plaza de Armas, Arequipa Cathedral, and the San Lázaro neighborhood. The tour also includes stops at historical dairy farms.

At the Santa Catalina Monastery, you’ll learn legends and explore the impressive cloisters, gardens, and art gallery.

The tour concludes around 1:00 p.m. at your hotel or another central Arequipa location.

Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Arequipa might interest you

Itinerary Highlights

After pickup at your hotel in the historic center at 9:00 a.m., the tour begins by discovering the architecture of Arequipa, known as the "White City," with its volcanic stone and ashlar masonry reminiscent of Andalusian towns.

Explore the stunning architecture of Arequipa, known as the "White City," with its volcanic stone and Andalusian-style masonry.

You’ll visit the Plaza de Armas to see the Arequipa Cathedral and the Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus.

The tour continues to the San Lázaro neighborhood, the oldest area of Arequipa, and stops at the Bronce and Cabezona dairy farms, historical trade sites.

The itinerary highlights include:

Exploring the architecture of Arequipa.
Visiting the Plaza de Armas and its landmarks.
Discovering the San Lázaro neighborhood.
Stopping at the Bronce and Cabezona dairy farms.

Discovering Arequipa, the White City

With its distinctive white volcanic stone and ashlar masonry, Arequipa captivates visitors from the moment they arrive. Known as the "White City", the city’s architecture is reminiscent of Andalusian towns, creating a unique and picturesque setting. During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore the historic Plaza de Armas, home to the Arequipa Cathedral and the Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus. The itinerary also includes a visit to the San Lázaro neighborhood, the oldest area of the city, as well as stops at the Bronce and Cabezona dairy farms, historical trade sites.

| Architectural Highlight | Description |

| — | — |

| Volcanic Stone | The distinctive white volcanic stone used in Arequipa’s buildings |

| Ashlar Masonry | The precisely cut and fitted stone masonry reminiscent of Andalusian towns |

| Plaza de Armas | The historic central square featuring the Arequipa Cathedral and Church of the Company of Jesus |

| San Lázaro | The oldest neighborhood in Arequipa |

Exploring the Plaza De Armas

What makes the Plaza de Armas of Arequipa so captivating? This historic square is the heart of the city, showcasing the impressive Arequipa Cathedral and the elegant Church and Cloisters of the Company of Jesus.

Visitors can explore:

The cathedral’s grand facade, adorned with volcanic stone and intricate carvings.
The serene cloisters of the Jesuit church, where religious artwork and architecture create a peaceful ambiance.
The bustling market stalls, offering local crafts, textiles, and delicious Peruvian cuisine.
The lively energy of the plaza, where people gather to socialize, relax, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Arequipa.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the San Lázaro Neighborhood

As the tour progresses, visitors step into the charming San Lázaro neighborhood, the oldest area of Arequipa. Winding cobblestone streets reveal a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Quaint adobe houses, some dating back centuries, line the walkways.

Visitors marvel at the intricate architectural details, from ornate doorways to balconies adorned with wrought-iron railings. The neighborhood exudes a serene, unhurried atmosphere, allowing travelers to enjoy Arequipa’s historic roots.

Notable landmarks include the Church of San Lázaro and the San Lázaro Market, where locals sell handcrafted goods and produce. This tranquil enclave offers a delightful contrast to the vibrant main square.

There's plenty more to explore in Arequipa

The Santa Catalina Monastery

The tour concludes with a visit to the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, a cloistered nunnery that offers a unique glimpse into Arequipa’s rich religious heritage.

The tour concludes with a visit to the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, a cloistered nunnery that offers a unique glimpse into Arequipa’s rich religious heritage.

Guests will receive a guided tour, learning about the monastery’s legends, impressive cloisters, gardens, and art gallery.

The tour highlights include:

Exploring the monastery’s centuries-old structures and hidden courtyards.
Admiring the ornate religious artwork and architecture.
Discovering the stories and traditions of the nuns who once resided here.
Relishing the serene, contemplative atmosphere of this spiritual oasis.

Visitors depart the monastery around 1:00 p.m., with a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s captivating blend of history, faith, and culture.

Guided Tour of the Monastery

Visitors on the guided tour begin their exploration of the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, a cloistered nunnery that offers a unique window into Arequipa’s rich religious heritage.

Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, they’ll discover the legends and fascinating history of this 16th-century complex.

Strolling through the monastery’s impressive cloisters and tranquil gardens, guests admire the stunning Andalusian-inspired architecture.

The tour also includes a visit to the on-site art gallery, showcasing religious paintings and artifacts.

The tour concludes around 1:00 p.m., leaving ample time for guests to further enjoy Arequipa’s captivating culture.

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour includes pickup from your hotel in the historic center, along with a bilingual guide who can provide information in both Spanish and English.

The tour also includes:

Tickets to all the attractions visited
Food and drink during the tour
Concluding drop-off at your hotel or another central location in Arequipa around 1 p.m.

Important things to note are that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

This tour is not recommended for individuals using wheelchairs.

Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a camera, and cash. Pets, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.

Ensure your contact information, including the country code, is correct, and have WhatsApp for communication.

For last-minute reservations, check availability via email before booking.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour overview, food and drink are included in the tour. Bringing your own food and drinks is not mentioned as an allowed item, so it’s best to rely on the provided refreshments during the 3-hour excursion.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility if your plans change.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets in Advance?

You don’t need to purchase tickets in advance. The tour includes all tickets, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later. Just be sure to confirm availability for last-minute bookings.

Can the Tour Be Customized for My Group?

The tour can’t be customized for your group, but it offers flexibility – you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, you can book your spot and pay later.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, there are discounts available for seniors and students on this tour. Simply let the tour operator know when you book, and they’ll apply the appropriate discount to your reservation.

Sum Up

This guided tour of Arequipa’s highlights offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. From the grand Arequipa Cathedral to the serene Santa Catalina Monastery, the three-hour adventure showcases the city’s stunning architecture and religious heritage. At just $28.00 per person, it’s an excellent opportunity to discover the beauty and charm of the "White City."

You can check availability for your dates here: