Arequipa: Private City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery

Arequipa, Peru’s "White City," offers a captivating blend of colonial charm and architectural splendor. A private city tour promises an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the historic downtown and the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery. With a knowledgeable bilingual guide, travelers can uncover the city’s rich cultural heritage, from the striking volcanic skyline to the vibrant courtyards and cloisters of this 16th-century religious sanctuary. Whether marveling at the Monastery’s vivid hues or taking in panoramic vistas from Yanahuara, this 3-hour adventure showcases Arequipa’s enduring beauty and invites further exploration of its captivating past.

Key Points

• The private city tour of Arequipa, the "White City," includes visits to the Monastery of Santa Catalina and colonial architectural sites over a 3-hour duration.
• The tour offers panoramic views from Yanahuara and Carmen Alto, showcasing Arequipa’s rich history, architecture, and natural beauty.
• The Monastery of Santa Catalina, founded in 1579, was a cloistered sanctuary until 1970, offering a glimpse into the city’s colonial history and religious devotion.
• The tour is conducted by a professional bilingual guide, with flexible cancellation policies and a reserve now, pay later option for traveler convenience.
• The tour includes pick-up and drop-off service, admission to Santa Catalina Monastery, and excludes food, beverages, and personal expenses, making it an immersive cultural experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

The private city tour of Arequipa typically commences with a pickup from hotels located in the historic center of the city.

The 3-hour tour explores the "White City" of Arequipa, founded in 1540, and includes a visit to the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a cloistered convent until 1970.

Guests will also admire the colonial architecture, such as the Church of the Compañía de Jesus, and enjoy panoramic views from Yanahuara and Carmen Alto.

The tour is conducted in both English and Spanish by a professional bilingual guide.

Priced from $91 per person, the tour includes pickup, admission to the monastery, and the guide’s services, while food, drinks, and gratuities are excluded.

Cancellation and Payment Policies

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a convenient reserve now and pay later option, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment.

Guests can cancel their reservation without penalty if they notify the tour provider at least a day before the scheduled tour.

This flexible policy ensures customers can adjust their plans without incurring additional costs.

The tour’s cancellation and payment terms provide peace of mind, enabling travelers to book the experience with confidence and flexibility.

Tour Highlights

Explore Arequipa, the historic city founded in 1540, and discover its architectural wonders on this private city tour. Visit the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a cloistered convent until 1970, and admire the stunning colonial architecture, including the Church of the Compañía de Jesus. Enjoy panoramic views from Yanahuara and Carmen Alto, offering breathtaking vistas of the city.

Tour Highlights
Explore Arequipa, founded in 1540	✓
Visit the Monastery of Santa Catalina	✓
Admire colonial architecture	✓
Enjoy panoramic views	✓
Discover the city’s historical significance	✓

This comprehensive tour showcases the best of Arequipa, providing an immersive experience in the city’s rich history and architectural beauty.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This private city tour includes pick-up and drop-off service, as well as the services of a professional bilingual guide and admission to the Santa Catalina Monastery.

However, the tour excludes food and beverages, personal expenses, and gratuities.

It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pets, or unaccompanied minors.

Participants should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing.

The rates don’t apply to Peruvians or foreign passengers who’ve stayed in Peru for more than 60 days, and pick-up isn’t available from private residences like Airbnb.

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Important Information

Participants should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing to this tour.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pets, or unaccompanied minors. Rates don’t apply to Peruvians or foreign passengers whose stay exceeded 60 days in Peru.

Pick-up isn’t available from private residences, such as Airbnb. Participants should be aware of these important details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour experience in the beautiful city of Arequipa.

Customer Reviews

With an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 1 review, the private city tour of Arequipa has received a glowing recommendation from a satisfied customer.

Lilia, a reviewer from Honduras, praised the exceptional guide who highlighted the historical significance of the churches and monastery.

She noted the beauty of the city, expressing delight in exploring the colonial architecture, including the Church of the Compañía de Jesus, and enjoying the panoramic views from Yanahuara and Carmen Alto.

The customer’s positive experience underscores the tour’s ability to provide an informative and visually captivating exploration of Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage.

Exploring Arequipa’s History

Arequipa, known as the "White City," boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1540.

The city’s colonial architecture, including the Church of the Compañía de Jesus, is a testament to its Spanish heritage. Visitors can explore the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a cloistered convent that opened its doors to the public in 1970, offering a glimpse into the lives of its former residents.

Panoramic views from Yanahuara and Carmen Alto provide a breathtaking perspective of the city, surrounded by the majestic Andes mountains. Arequipa’s unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Peru’s cultural highlights.

1. Arequipa’s founding in 1540
2. Colonial architecture, including the Church of the Compañía de Jesus
3. Monastery of Santa Catalina, a former cloistered convent
4. Panoramic views from Yanahuara and Carmen Alto

Discovering the Santa Catalina Monastery

The Monastery of Santa Catalina stands as a captivating testament to Arequipa’s storied past.

This sprawling complex, founded in 1579, was once a cloistered sanctuary for devout nuns until 1970. Visitors can explore the monastery’s cobblestone streets, vibrant blue and ochre walls, and peaceful plazas.

Highlights include the ornate Church of San José, the tranquil courtyards, and the cell-like rooms where the nuns lived in solitude.

Today, the monastery offers a unique glimpse into Arequipa’s colonial history and the devotion of its religious community.

Strolling through the monastery’s serene corridors, one can’t help but feel transported to a bygone era, where faith and contemplation were the cornerstones of daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. Visitors should also bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun during the outdoor portions of the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour does not include food and beverages, so you’re welcome to bring your own. However, personal expenses like food and drinks are excluded from the tour package.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for unaccompanied minors, but there is no specific age limit. Children are welcome, though parents should consider their ability to walk and participate in a 3-hour sightseeing tour.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a private city tour with a pre-determined schedule. However, the tour operator may accommodate specific requests within reason, so it’s best to inquire about any customization options when booking the tour.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Santa Catalina Monastery?

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Santa Catalina Monastery, though visitors should check with the tour guide or staff for any restrictions. Photography can help capture the architectural beauty and historical significance of this iconic religious site.

Recap

Arequipa’s private city tour offers an enchanting exploration of the historic "White City," showcasing its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. From the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery to the breathtaking panoramic views, this 3-hour adventure promises an unforgettable journey through the city’s colonial charm and captivating past. Discover the beauty and history that make Arequipa a truly remarkable destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: