Peru’s “White City” serves up outstanding guided experiences with practical, no-nonsense options. The must-do Santa Catalina Monastery tour reveals the best-preserved colonial complex in the Americas, while the city’s food tours connect you with authentic Peruvian flavors in just three hours.
I especially love the Colca Canyon treks (choose the 3-day option for best value) for their perfect mix of challenging hiking and culture. The morning condor-viewing tours are worth every penny – you’ll see these magnificent birds up close without the typical tourist crowds.
The local city tours efficiently cover all UNESCO highlights in half a day, and the lesser-known Yura Waterfalls tour offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Each tour features English-speaking guides who know their stuff.
Let’s explore the top guided experiences in Arequipa:
Key Points
- Highly rated culinary tours in Arequipa offer immersive experiences showcasing local cuisine, with options to visit iconic restaurants and sample diverse regional dishes.
- Well-curated historical and architectural tours provide in-depth exploration of Arequipa’s UNESCO-listed landmarks, including the renowned Monastery of Santa Catalina.
- Adventure-seeking travelers can embark on guided treks to the breathtaking Colca Canyon, known for its stunning vistas and opportunities to witness the majestic Andean condors.
- City and bus tours offer a rundown of Arequipa’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, though some tours may face language barriers or unscheduled stops.
- Arequipa’s guided tour offerings cater to a range of travelers, with accessibility, pricing, and cancellation policies generally favorable, and knowledgeable guides fluent in Spanish and English.
A 3-Hour Guided Food Tour With 4 Iconic Restaurants of Arequipa
Although the streets of Arequipa are bustling with a variety of culinary options, navigating the city’s iconic restaurants can be a challenge for first-time visitors.
Fortunately, the 3-hour Guided Food Tour with 4 Iconic Restaurants of Arequipa offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the rich flavors of Peru. This highly-rated tour, with a 96% recommendation rate, takes guests on a culinary journey through four of the city’s most renowned eateries.
Priced at $79.00 per person, the tour includes 6 different plates, 3 regional drinks, and a delectable dessert, all accompanied by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into Peruvian food history.
Highlights include sampling traditional dishes like Papas Nativas y Lomo Saltado de Alpaca, Rocoto Relleno, and Cuy Chactado, as well as enjoying sushi rolls and regional drinks.
With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the tour ensures a friendly and informative atmosphere. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to learn about Arequipa’s culinary culture, this guided tour is a must-try experience.
Read our full review: A 3-Hour Guided Food Tour With 4 Iconic Restaurants of Arequipa Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery
For visitors to Arequipa seeking a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and architecture, the Guided Tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery is an excellent option. Priced at Kč 845 per person and lasting 4 hours, the tour includes hotel pickup, an English and Spanish speaking guide, and admission to the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery.
The itinerary covers the city’s highlights, such as the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Arequipa, and the Church and Cloisters of the Society of Jesus.
Guests will also explore the historical trade sites of Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona before the final stop at the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery. This cloistered convent offers insights into the legends and secrets of the monastery and its impressive art gallery, cloisters, and gardens.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option, this guided tour provides an enriching and convenient way to discover the architectural and historical wonders of Arequipa, the White City.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery Review
Book now: Check availability
3-Day Colca Canyon Trek With Professional Guide
Embarking on a 3-day Colca Canyon trek with a professional guide offers visitors an immersive experience in Peru’s natural wonders. The tour is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers endorsing it and a 4.9/5 rating based on 31 reviews.
The package includes meals, park entrance fees, and access to hot springs on the final day. Pickup is available from various locations, with a 03:00 AM start time. Each tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
While the trek isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s situated near public transportation. However, it isn’t recommended for those with back issues, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start and a “reserve now, pay later” option. The tour also comes with a lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers receive the best value for their money.
Read our full review: 3-Day Colca Canyon Trek With Professional Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Arequipa: Colca Canyon 1-Day Guided Tour | Condor Flight |
Travelers seeking a comprehensive Colca Canyon experience can opt for the Arequipa: Colca Canyon 1-Day Guided Tour | Condor Flight, which offers an immersive journey into Peru’s natural wonders. Priced from £37.35 per person, this one-day tour provides an opportunity to witness the majestic flight of condors at the Mirador de la Cruz del Condor. Along the way, participants can enjoy Sancayo ice cream and visit scenic viewpoints like Patapampa and the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca.
Despite the tour’s highlights, customer feedback suggests areas for improvement. Some noted a late pickup, an uncomfortable bus, and a larger group size than advertised. The minimalistic breakfast and the buffet lunch were also criticized. While the guide was friendly, and the Colca Canyon itself was impressive, the overall rating remains at 2 out of 5 based on a single review. Nonetheless, this tour remains a popular option for those eager to explore the region’s natural beauty and witness the captivating condors.
Read our full review: Arequipa: Colca Canyon 1-Day Guided Tour | Condor Flight | Review
Book now: Check availability
Bus City Tour Arequipa – Guided Visit by Bus
The Bus City Tour Arequipa offers travelers an immersive glimpse into the historic heart of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 4-hour guided bus tour takes visitors to key viewpoints and historical sites around the city.
While the tour includes comfortable transportation and walking explorations, it’s not without its challenges. Reviewers have noted issues with the language barrier, as the Spanish-speaking guide doesn’t always provide a consistent English option. The historical context provided during the tour has also been described as limited.
Plus, unscheduled stops at shops, aimed at encouraging purchases, have led to frustration and extended tour durations beyond expectations.
Despite these concerns, the tour host has acknowledged the feedback and committed to improving services and adherence to language options. At $39.99 per person, the Bus City Tour Arequipa provides an affordable way to discover Arequipa’s highlights, though travelers should be prepared for potential organizational and communication challenges.
Read our full review: Bus City Tour Arequipa – Guided Visit by Bus Review
Book now: Check availability
From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour
For travelers seeking to explore one of the deepest canyons in the world, the From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour offers an immersive experience. Priced from $33 per person, the full-day tour departs from Arequipa and includes pickup from your accommodation.
After an early morning start, you’ll enjoy breakfast in Chivay before visiting the iconic La Cruz del Condor viewpoint to observe Andean condors in their natural habitat.
The tour also stops at the picturesque towns of Coporaque and Maca, showcasing local culture and Inca agricultural terraces. Optional add-ons include a relaxing visit to the La Calera Hot Springs and a lunch in Chivay.
Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Andean volcanic mountain range and have the chance to spot Andean wildlife such as llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas.
With a 4.1/5 rating based on 85 reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a comprehensive Colca Canyon experience.
Read our full review: From Arequipa: Colca Canyon Full-Day Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided Tour of the City of Arequipa in Private Service
Although Arequipa boasts a wealth of remarkable sights, a guided tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to delve deeper into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
This private service tour provides a personalized experience, catering exclusively to your group. With an overall rating of 4.6/5 from 5 reviews, the tour is a highly-rated option, priced at €58.58 per person on average.
The tour includes a water bottle, tickets for places to visit, and the assurance that only your group will participate. You can choose to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup, with details provided the day before.
The tour highlights the Church of the Company and the Santa Catalina Monastery, providing an informative overview of Arequipa’s offerings. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this guided tour offers a convenient and enriching way to explore the city.
Read our full review: Guided Tour of the City of Arequipa in Private Service Review
Book now: Check availability
From Arequipa: Tacna South Pacific Guided Tour With Meals
Venturing beyond the city limits of Arequipa, this guided tour immerses travelers in the captivating landscapes and cultural treasures of the Tacna region along the South Pacific coast.
Spanning a full day, the tour whisks participants away to explore the area’s natural wonders, including the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to savor a delightful meal, seeing the local culinary traditions.
The tour also includes a visit to the charming town of Locumba, where visitors can stroll through its quaint streets and admire the colonial architecture.
For thrill-seekers, the tour offers an optional stop at the Toquepala Copper Mines, where they can explore the region’s mining history.
With pickup and drop-off services available, this guided tour provides a seamless and enriching experience for those eager to discover the captivating Tacna region.
Read our full review: From Arequipa: Tacna South Pacific Guided Tour With Meals Review
Book now: Check availability
Guided in Arequipa and the Monastery of Santa Catalina
Guided tours in Arequipa provide visitors with an immersive experience, showcasing the city’s remarkable architecture and the captivating Monastery of Santa Catalina.
These 3-hour tours, offered in both English and Spanish, take participants on a journey through the “White City,” exploring its Spanish-influenced landmarks like the Plaza de Armas and the Arequipa Cathedral.
The highlight of the tour is the visit to the Monastery of Santa Catalina, a cloistered nunnery with a rich history and stunning art.
Travelers can expect a bilingual guide to provide insightful commentary throughout the tour, which includes hotel pickup in the historic center.
While the overall experience is positive, with guests praising the guide’s attentiveness, some have noted a lack of guidance within the Monastery despite the included entrance fee.
Priced from $28 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, these guided tours in Arequipa offer a convenient and informative way to discover the city’s architectural gems and the enchanting Monastery of Santa Catalina.
Read our full review: Guided in Arequipa and the Monastery of Santa Catalina Review
Book now: Check availability
Full-Day Guided Walking Tour of Yura Waterfalls From Arequipa
Departing from the architectural wonders of Arequipa’s city center, the Full-Day Guided Walking Tour of Yura Waterfalls takes visitors on an exhilarating journey to the natural treasures located just outside the city.
Operated by Turismoi.pe, this tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup from accommodations within the city center, a knowledgeable guide fluent in both Spanish and English, and a comfortable 2014 Mitsubishi Montero Pickup or 2017 Mini Van Sprinter for transportation.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy snacks, fruit, and a personal bottle of water, as well as a delicious lunch.
The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to explore the stunning Yura Waterfalls, where visitors can take a refreshing dip in the thermo-medicinal pools, an optional activity.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, though participants shouldn’t have heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Full-Day Guided Walking Tour of Yura Waterfalls From Arequipa Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Arequipa offers a diverse range of guided tours, catering to various interests. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic restaurants, the historic Santa Catalina Monastery, and the stunning Colca Canyon. Whether it’s a food tour, a city tour, or a trekking adventure, Arequipa provides guided experiences that allow travelers to discover the region’s rich culture and natural beauty. These tours offer a convenient and informative way to make the most of one’s visit to this captivating Peruvian destination.