Guided Tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery

Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," beckons travelers with its remarkable history and captivating cultural heritage. A guided tour through this enchanting destination offers the chance to take in its iconic sites, from the grand Plaza de Armas to the awe-inspiring Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena. With knowledgeable guides by your side, you’ll uncover the city’s secrets and gain a deeper appreciation for its architectural wonders. But the true magic lies in experiencing Arequipa’s vibrant spirit, where every step unveils a new layer of this remarkable Peruvian gem.

Key Points

• A guided tour of Arequipa’s historic sites, including the Plaza de Armas, Tambos de Bronce, and La Cabezona, providing insights into the city’s mercantile heritage.
• Exploration of the renowned Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena, featuring tranquil cloisters, serene gardens, and an art gallery showcasing religious artwork and artifacts.
• English and Spanish-speaking guides accompany the tour, ensuring a comprehensive and informative experience for visitors.
• Flexible booking options with a reserve now and pay later feature, allowing for convenient planning.
• Tour duration of approximately 4 hours, with hotel pickup and conclusion at a central location, offering a seamless sightseeing experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the White City of Arequipa

As visitors explore the historic city of Arequipa, they’ll be captivated by its striking architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Nicknamed the "White City," Arequipa is renowned for its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled patios.

At the heart of the city lies the Plaza de Armas, where the Cathedral of Arequipa and the Church of the Society of Jesus stand tall.

At the heart of the city, the Cathedral of Arequipa and the Church of the Society of Jesus stand tall in the Plaza de Armas.

Nearby, the Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona offer glimpses into the city’s historical trade sites.

This vibrant urban landscape provides a captivating backdrop for the guided tour of Arequipa.

Discovering Plaza De Armas and Historical Sites

What draws visitors to the heart of Arequipa is the captivating Plaza de Armas. Anchored by the towering Cathedral of Arequipa, the plaza exudes a timeless elegance with its arcaded buildings and intricate stone fountains.

Nearby, the Church of the Society of Jesus impresses with its ornate Baroque façade. Exploring further, guests discover Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona, historic trade sites that offer a glimpse into Arequipa’s mercantile past.

This guided tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the city’s vibrant history and architecture.

Tambos De Bronce and La Cabezona

Two historical trade sites that captivate visitors on the guided tour of Arequipa are Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona. Tambos de Bronce, or Bronze Tambos, were ancient trade centers where merchants would exchange goods. Today, these buildings still stand as a testament to Arequipa’s rich history. La Cabezona, meaning "the big head," is a mysterious statue that has intrigued visitors for centuries. Its exact origins and purpose remain unclear, adding to the site’s allure. Both Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona offer a glimpse into Arequipa’s vibrant past and the city’s enduring legacy as a hub of trade and cultural exchange.

| Site | Description |

| — | — |

| Tambos de Bronce | Ancient trade centers where merchants exchanged goods |

| La Cabezona | Mysterious statue with unclear origins and purpose |

| Architectural Significance | Surviving buildings that showcase Arequipa’s history |

| Cultural Exchange | Hubs of trade and cultural interaction |

| Visitor Interest | Sites that captivate and intrigue travelers |

Marveling at the Monastery of Santa Catalina De Siena

The Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena is a captivating highlight of the guided tour in Arequipa.

Exploring the walled convent, visitors wander through the cloisters, admiring the vibrant flowers and greenery that fill the tranquil gardens.

Visitors wander through the cloisters, admiring the vibrant flowers and greenery that fill the tranquil gardens of the walled convent.

The tour delves into the monastery’s history, sharing the stories of the cloistered nuns who once lived here in seclusion.

Visitors marvel at the stunning Spanish-colonial architecture, the intricate art gallery, and the sense of timelessness that permeates the space.

This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Arequipa, the "White City".

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Cloisters and Gardens of the Monastery

Visitors step into the tranquil cloisters of the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena, their footsteps echoing along the serene walkways.

Arched passageways and ornate archways frame the lush, verdant gardens within the monastery walls. Vibrant flowers and ornamental plants dot the well-tended paths, providing a peaceful oasis from the bustling city.

The art gallery showcases religious artwork and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the monastery’s history and spiritual tradition.

Quiet contemplation fills the air as travelers explore the monastery’s hidden corners, immersed in the serenity and beauty of this remarkable renaissance-era complex.

Appreciating the Art Gallery and Architecture

Alongside the monastery’s serene cloisters and verdant gardens, the art gallery within the Monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena captivates visitors with its remarkable collection of religious artwork and artifacts.

The gallery showcases vibrant murals, intricate wooden carvings, and gleaming religious icons that offer a glimpse into the monastery’s storied past.

Vibrant murals, intricate wooden carvings, and gleaming religious icons offer a glimpse into the monastery’s storied past.

Visitors marvel at the gallery’s beautiful architecture, with its high ceilings, ornate arches, and soft natural light filtering through stained glass windows.

The art and architecture seamlessly blend, creating an immersive experience that transports guests back in time to the monastery’s heyday.

Tour Itinerary and Inclusions

The guided tour of Arequipa kicks off with hotel pickup at 9:00 a.m., providing a seamless start to the day’s adventure.

Accompanied by an English and Spanish-speaking guide, the tour transports guests through the historic streets of the "White City", culminating at the stunning Monastery of Santa Catalina.

The itinerary includes:

• Exploration of Plaza de Armas, home to the majestic Cathedral and Church of the Society of Jesus

• Discovery of Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona, important trade sites

• A comprehensive tour of the Monastery’s cloisters, gardens, and art gallery

The tour concludes at the hotel or a chosen location in downtown Arequipa by 1:00 p.m.

Flexible Booking and Availability

Travelers can check availability for different starting times when booking the guided tour of Arequipa.

The tour offers flexibility, allowing visitors to select the participants and date that works best for them. With the reserve now & pay later option, travelers can secure their spot without immediately paying, making it easier to fit the tour into their plans.

The tour offers flexibility, allowing visitors to choose the participants and date that works best. The reserve now & pay later option makes it easier to fit the tour into plans.

The 4-hour tour explores the historic White City, including the Santa Catalina Monastery, with an English and Spanish-speaking guide.

Travelers can conveniently be picked up from their hotel and dropped off at a central location in Arequipa.

Things To Know

Are Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific discounts for seniors or students. However, many similar tour providers often offer reduced rates for these groups, so it’s worth inquiring about any available discounts when booking the tour.

Can I Choose My Own Tour Start Time?

Yes, you can choose your own tour start time. The tour overview states that you can "Check availability for starting times" when booking, indicating flexibility in selecting your preferred departure.

How Many People Are Typically in a Tour Group?

The tour group size typically ranges from small groups of 8-12 people to larger groups of up to 30 participants. The exact group size can vary based on the specific tour and demand.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Interests?

The tour allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on guests’ interests. Visitors can discuss their preferences with the guide to ensure they see the sights that most interest them during the 4-hour excursion.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Guests can customize the itinerary to spend more time exploring specific sites or add additional destinations within Arequipa. There’s flexibility to tailor the tour to individual interests.

Sum Up

The guided tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, uncover its rich history, and marvel at the architectural beauty of the monastery. With knowledgeable guides, flexible scheduling, and a comprehensive itinerary, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the unique charm and heritage of the White City.

You can check availability for your dates here: