Arequipa: Afternoon City Tour

Arequipa, the stunning "White City" nestled beneath the looming shadow of El Misti volcano, offers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s rich cultural heritage. The Afternoon City Tour provides an engaging 4-hour journey through Arequipa’s iconic landmarks, from the serene Santa Catalina Monastery to the grand Plaza de Armas. Led by knowledgeable bilingual guides, this tour promises to unveil the city’s architectural marvels and picturesque viewpoints. For just $75 per person, visitors can enjoy Arequipa’s history and uncover the secrets that lie within its charming streets. But the true allure of this experience lies in the opportunity to witness the city’s stunning natural beauty and the unique fusion of colonial and indigenous influences that have shaped its character over the centuries.

Key Points

• The tour offers a 4-hour guided exploration of Arequipa’s top landmarks, including the Santa Catalina Monastery, Plaza de Armas, and Jesuit Church of the Company.
• The tour is available in English and Spanish, with pickup and transportation provided, and all entrance fees covered for a comprehensive experience.
• Highlights include the stunning architecture and scenic viewpoints at Carmen Alto and Yanahuara, offering panoramic perspectives of Arequipa’s white sillar buildings and surrounding mountains.
• The tour is highly rated at 5/5 by customers, who praise the engaging guided experience and the opportunity to explore Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage.
• Practical recommendations include wearing comfortable shoes, bringing water, and having a camera to capture the tour’s architectural and natural highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Afternoon City Tour in Arequipa provides a rundown of the city’s key landmarks and attractions. Priced at $75 per person, this 4-hour tour offers live guides in English and Spanish.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.

Highlights include the vibrant Santa Catalina Monastery, the picturesque Plaza de Armas, the Jesuit Church of the Company, and stunning viewpoints at Carmen Alto and Yanahuara.

Transportation, entrance fees, and a guided experience are all included, though food and drinks are not. Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

The tour is rated 5/5 and recommended as a great introduction to further explore Arequipa.

Itinerary Highlights

Vibrant Santa Catalina Monastery showcases 4 centuries of architecture, with its colorful walls and original furniture captivating visitors.

The tour also explores the main square, Plaza de Armas, renowned as one of Peru’s most beautiful.

The Jesuit Church of the Company enchants with its mestizo architecture, blending European and indigenous styles.

Breathtaking views await at the Carmen Alto and Yanahuara viewpoints, providing panoramic perspectives of Arequipa’s unique cityscape.

• Admire the Santa Catalina Monastery’s rich history and architecture
• Wander through the picturesque Plaza de Armas, a highlight of the city
• Discover the Jesuit Church’s striking mestizo design

Inclusions

As part of the afternoon city tour, pickup from accommodation within Arequipa’s city center is provided.

Transportation is also included throughout the tour. All entrance fees to the various sites, such as the Santa Catalina Monastery and the Jesuit Church of the Company, are covered.

The guided experience is available in both English and Spanish, ensuring visitors can fully understand and engage with the tour.

While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour provides a rundown of Arequipa’s key landmarks and architectural highlights.

This helps set the stage for further independent exploration of the city.

What to Bring

Typically, visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes when embarking on the afternoon city tour in Arequipa. This is crucial, as the tour involves navigating through various historical sites and exploring the city on foot.

Along With comfortable footwear, it’s recommended to bring:

• Water to stay hydrated during the 4-hour tour
• Lightweight, breathable clothing to ensure comfort in the Arequipa climate
• A camera or smartphone to capture the stunning architecture and scenic viewpoints along the way

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Customer Feedback

According to the customer feedback, the afternoon city tour in Arequipa has received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 1 review.

The tour is recommended as a good overview for further exploration of the city. Customers have praised the guided experience, which is available in both English and Spanish, and the inclusion of all entrance fees.

The tour’s itinerary highlights, such as the monastery of Santa Catalina and the main square of Plaza de Armas, have been well-received.

Monastery of Santa Catalina

The monastery of Santa Catalina is a sprawling complex that has stood as a testament to Arequipa’s rich history for over four centuries.

Visitors can explore the vibrant courtyards, winding alleys, and colorful walls that have been meticulously preserved, offering a glimpse into the lives of the nuns who once called this place home.

The monastery’s architecture seamlessly blends Spanish, Moorish, and indigenous influences, creating a unique and visually stunning experience.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Admiring the intricate religious artwork and original furniture adorning the monastery’s interiors
• Wandering through the tranquil plazas and gardens, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling city
• Discovering the fascinating history and traditions of the Catalina order that occupied the monastery for centuries

Main Square and Architecture

After exploring the tranquil courtyards and colorful walls of the Santa Catalina Monastery, the afternoon city tour in Arequipa next takes visitors to the main square, the Plaza de Armas.

Recognized as one of the most beautiful in Peru, the plaza is dominated by the impressive Cathedral of Arequipa, a stunning example of mestizo architecture blending Spanish and indigenous styles.

Surrounding the plaza are historic buildings, including the Jesuit Church of the Company, which showcases a unique facade with intricate carvings.

From the plaza, the tour continues to scenic viewpoints like Carmen Alto and Yanahuara, offering panoramic vistas of Arequipa’s picturesque cityscape and the nearby volcanic peaks of the Andes.

Viewpoints and Panoramas

From the historic Plaza de Armas, the afternoon city tour in Arequipa ventures to scenic viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the city’s picturesque surroundings.

At Carmen Alto, visitors can gaze upon Arequipa’s iconic white sillar buildings set against the backdrop of the towering Misti volcano.

The Yanahuara viewpoint provides a unique perspective, showcasing the city’s distinctive architectural style and the majestic Chachani mountain range in the distance.

These vantage points allow travelers to fully appreciate Arequipa’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, making for an unforgettable experience during the afternoon city tour.

• Carmen Alto viewpoint
• Yanahuara viewpoint
• Panoramic vistas of Arequipa

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?

The tour can be customized to visit specific sites. Customers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and request modifications to the standard itinerary. This ensures a more personalized experience that aligns with their preferences.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Families?

The tour appears suitable for families with children, as it includes highlights like the colorful Santa Catalina Monastery and scenic viewpoints. The 4-hour duration and included transportation make it an accessible option for visitors of all ages.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions During the Tour?

According to the tour overview, there don’t appear to be any specific photography restrictions mentioned. Visitors can likely take photos throughout the tour at the various sights, subject to any general guidelines or local customs.

Can the Tour Be Combined With Other Activities in Arequipa?

The tour can be combined with other activities in Arequipa, but it’s best to check with the tour operator first. They may offer package deals or recommendations to create a full-day itinerary in the city.

What Is the Dress Code or Attire Recommended for the Tour?

The tour provider recommends wearing comfortable, casual clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Guests should dress in layers, as the weather in Arequipa can be cool, especially in the afternoons. Bringing a light jacket or sweater is advisable.

Recap

This Arequipa Afternoon City Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can enjoy the Santa Catalina Monastery, admire the grand Plaza de Armas, and enjoy breathtaking views from the Carmen Alto and Yanahuara viewpoints. With bilingual guides and a reasonable price, this tour provides an excellent introduction to Arequipa’s cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: