Arequipa: City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery

Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," beckons travelers with its stunning colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. At the heart of this vibrant metropolis lies the Santa Catalina Monastery, a 16th-century gem that transports visitors back in time. Alongside an in-depth exploration of this captivating landmark, the city tour promises breathtaking vistas from Carmen Alto and Yanahuara viewpoints, offering a panoramic perspective on Arequipa’s natural splendor. With a knowledgeable bilingual guide leading the way, this immersive experience unveils the city’s storied past, leaving one eager to uncover more of its mesmerizing allure.

Key Points

• Explore the highlights of Arequipa’s historic center, including the iconic 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery, during a comprehensive 3.5-hour city tour.
• Admire the picturesque colonial architecture and panoramic views from vantage points like Carmen Alto and Yanahuara.
• Enjoy the services of a professional bilingual guide who provides insights into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage and history.
• The tour includes pickup from hotels in Arequipa’s Historic Center and admission to the Santa Catalina Monastery.
• Recommendations for comfortable attire, sun protection, and essential items to bring for an enjoyable and hassle-free tour experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This Arequipa City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery experience is a 3.5-hour excursion that allows visitors to explore the historic city of Arequipa, also known as "The White City."

Priced from $65.00 per person, the tour is available in both English and Spanish and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup from hotels in Arequipa’s Historic Center is included.

The tour highlights include visiting the 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery, admiring the city’s colonial architecture and main square, and enjoying panoramic views from Carmen Alto and Yanahuara viewpoints.

A professional bilingual guide provides insights into Arequipa’s colonial history throughout the tour.

Activity Highlights

The Arequipa City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery experience allows visitors to explore the historic heart of "The White City."

Guests will begin by visiting the 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery, a cloistered convent that showcases the city’s colonial architecture and rich religious history.

Next, they’ll admire the picturesque main square and surrounding colonial buildings.

The tour then takes them to the Carmen Alto and Yanahuara viewpoints, providing panoramic vistas of Arequipa and the stunning Andes mountains.

Throughout the excursion, a professional bilingual guide will share insights into the city’s captivating past, ensuring an immersive and educational experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the Arequipa City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery experience are pickup and drop-off services, as well as a professional bilingual tour guide to lead the excursion.

Admission to the Santa Catalina Monastery is also covered. However, the tour doesn’t include tips, personal expenses, snacks, or beverages.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, unaccompanied minors, pets, smoking, or those with large bags or luggage.

Visitors are advised to bring their passport or ID card, wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and pack sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to fully enjoy the tour.

What to Bring

Passport or ID card are necessary for entry, as visitors will want to ensure they have proper identification on hand. Beyond that, the following items are recommended for the Arequipa city tour:

Item	Importance
Comfortable shoes	Necessary for walking
Lightweight, breathable clothing	Optimal for warm weather
Sunglasses	Protection from bright sunlight
Sun hat	Shielding from UV rays
Sunscreen	Preventing sunburn

These essentials will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable tour experience. With the appropriate attire and accessories, visitors can focus on seeing the rich history and stunning architecture of Arequipa.

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Customer Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the Arequipa City Tour offer overwhelmingly positive reviews, praising the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides.

According to the tour’s reviews, customers highlight the informative nature of the tours, with guides providing fascinating insights into the city’s colonial history and architecture.

Many reviewers also commend the recommended options for dining and exploration, which enhance the overall experience.

The tour’s overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, based on 6 reviews, reflects the high level of satisfaction among participants.

The Arequipa City Tour appears to deliver an enriching and well-organized exploration of this beautiful Peruvian city.

Exploring Arequipa

The vibrant city of Arequipa, often referred to as "The White City," enchants visitors with its captivating blend of colonial architecture, rich history, and stunning natural surroundings. During the Arequipa City Tour, guests can explore the city’s highlights, including the iconic Plaza de Armas, a magnificent square surrounded by impressive buildings, and the Yanahuara viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of the city and the majestic Misti volcano. The tour also takes visitors to the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery, a 16th-century cloistered convent that provides a glimpse into the city’s religious and cultural heritage.

Highlights	Inclusions	Exclusions
Explore Arequipa’s colonial architecture	Pickup and drop-off	Tips
Visit the Santa Catalina Monastery	Professional bilingual tour guide	Personal expenses
Enjoy panoramic views from Carmen Alto and Yanahuara	Admission to Santa Catalina Monastery	Snacks and beverages
Learn about the city’s colonial history
Discover the "White City"

Santa Catalina Monastery

Within the heart of Arequipa’s historic center lies the captivating Santa Catalina Monastery, a 16th-century cloistered convent that has become a renowned symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the monastery’s labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and serene plazas, which offer a unique glimpse into the lives of the nuns who once resided there.

From admiring the stunning Mudéjar-style architecture to learning about the monastery’s fascinating history, the Santa Catalina Monastery provides a captivating experience for all who step through its gates.

With its well-preserved structures and tranquil atmosphere, it’s no wonder this iconic site is a must-visit attraction on any Arequipa city tour.

Panoramic Viewpoints

Perched high above Arequipa’s historic center, the city’s panoramic viewpoints offer visitors a sweeping perspective of the White City and its stunning Andean backdrop.

One such viewpoint is Carmen Alto, where travelers can gaze upon the colonial architecture, volcanic peaks, and lush greenery that define Arequipa’s picturesque landscape.

Another popular vantage point is Yanahuara, home to a charming plaza surrounded by traditional arches and offering breathtaking vistas of the nearby Misti volcano.

These elevated overlooks not only provide excellent photo opportunities but also allow guests to gain a deeper appreciation for Arequipa’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in Arequipa?

Yes, you can combine this tour with other activities in Arequipa. Many travelers opt to visit the Colca Canyon or explore the city’s historic center and cuisine after completing the Arequipa City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery experience.

What Should I Expect in Terms of Walking Distance and Terrain?

The tour involves moderate walking, with visitors exploring the city’s historic center, markets, and the Santa Catalina Monastery. The terrain is mostly flat, but there are some uneven cobblestone streets and stairs within the monastery.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t seem to offer any discounts or package deals. However, it does provide a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, which could be helpful for travelers needing flexibility with their plans.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Make Special Requests?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary or make special requests for this tour. The tour operator is generally flexible and willing to accommodate individual needs or preferences, within reason and based on availability.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Requirements for This Tour?

The tour has no specific age or fitness level requirements, but isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or unaccompanied minors. Participants should be able to walk for extended periods and navigate some stairs at the monastery.

Recap

The Arequipa City Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors will marvel at the iconic 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, and learn about Arequipa’s colonial heritage from a knowledgeable bilingual guide. This immersive experience is a must-do for anyone visiting the region, showcasing the city’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

You can check if your dates are available here: