Arequipa’s historical tours offer direct access to Peru’s best-preserved colonial gems.
Walking tours through the UNESCO-listed historic center efficiently cover the essential white-stone architecture and cultural highlights in about 2-3 hours.
We especially love the Monastery of Santa Catalina tours – this 16th-century “city within a city” reveals fascinating stories of colonial religious life and features stunning photo opportunities.
City tours combine comfortable transportation with stops at key landmarks, making them perfect for first-time visitors.
Private tours earn top marks for allowing flexible pacing and more in-depth exploration.
Check out our carefully selected tours below.
Key Points
- The Monastery of Santa Catalina offers a private tour showcasing Arequipa’s rich 16th-century history with vibrant courtyards and stunning views.
- The Walking Tour Experience provides a personalized 2.5-hour tour through Arequipa’s historic center, including a visit to the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery.
- The Historic City Tour features key landmarks like the Casona Tristan del Pozo and Plaza de Armas, complemented by scenic viewpoints and traditional Arequipa cuisine.
- Arequipa’s colonial architecture and vibrant culture can be explored through the Historic City Tour and Walking Tour Experience, catering to various interests.
- The tours offer a maximum of 15 travelers per group, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience for visitors to discover Arequipa’s storied past.
Arequipa, Historic and Colonial City and Santa Catalina Monastery
Arequipa, a historic and colonial city in southern Peru, is renowned for its impressive architecture and rich cultural heritage. This remarkable city offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore its storied past.
One of the must-visit attractions is the Monastery of St. Catherine, a Dominican site that was closed to the public for over four centuries.
The Arequipa tour provides an immersive experience, allowing you to explore the city’s highlights, including the St Lazarus quarter, where the city was founded, and the Yanahuara colonial district with its Andalusian-style church and El Mirador de Yanahuara viewpoint.
You’ll also witness the grandeur of the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa in the Plaza de Armas and the cloisters of the Church of the Society of Jesus.
The tour’s knowledgeable guides, who are fluent in multiple languages, will bring the city’s history to life, ensuring a memorable and informative visit.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, you can expect an intimate and personalized experience that showcases the best of Arequipa’s historic and colonial wonders.
Read our full review: Arequipa, Historic and Colonial City and Santa Catalina Monastery Review
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Historical City Tour + Viewpoints of Arequipa
Enjoy the captivating historical narrative of Arequipa on this comprehensive city tour. Experience the city’s key landmarks, including the Casona Tristan del Pozo, Plaza de Armas, San Camilo Market, and the Cloisters of the Company, all with the guidance of a live English-speaking tour guide.
Explore the scenic viewpoints of Yanahuara, Carmen Alto, Founders Mansion, and Sabandia Mill, offering breathtaking vistas of Arequipa’s colonial architecture and snow-capped volcanoes.
The tour includes a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll savor the flavors of traditional Arequipa cuisine. Enjoy a complimentary Arequipa ice cheese dessert and a welcome drink to start your journey.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, planning your Arequipa adventure has never been easier. Upgrade your experience with optional activities like horse riding and zipline for an additional fee.
Enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of this captivating Peruvian city.
Read our full review: Historical City Tour + Viewpoints of Arequipa Review
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Walking Tour Through the Historic Center of Arequipa
Set out on a captivating journey through Arequipa’s historic heart, where colonial architecture and vibrant cultural tapestry intertwine. The “Walking Tour Through the Historic Center of Arequipa” whisks you through the city’s beloved landmarks, offering an immersive experience.
Meet your guide at the Tourism Office, then set off to explore Arequipa’s picturesque streets. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll discover the Santa Catalina Monastery, a 16th-century gem renowned for its vibrant hues and intricate design.
Along the way, learn about the city’s rich history and admire its stunning colonial architecture. Although the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it welcomes strollers and service animals.
With a maximum group size of 15, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience. Priced at $15.90 per person, the tour provides excellent value, including entrance fees and professional guides.
Reviewers praise the tour’s educational and engaging nature, though some find the long distances and traffic challenging.
Nonetheless, this walking adventure offers an unparalleled glimpse into Arequipa’s enduring heritage.
Read our full review: Walking Tour Through the Historic Center of Arequipa Review
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Monastery of Santa Catalina, Historic Center and Viewpoints of Arequipa.
Venture beyond the historic center and uncover the captivating Monastery of Santa Catalina, a 16th-century architectural gem that offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s past.
This private tour takes you on a journey through the monastery’s winding alleys, vibrant courtyards, and stunning views of the city’s historic center and surrounding viewpoints.
For $128.21 per person, you’ll enjoy private transportation, a professional guide, and access to all the sites.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 3 reviews, you can trust this tour to provide an immersive and memorable experience. The tour runs daily from 8 AM to 12 PM, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Accessibility is a breeze, as the tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly, with infant seats available.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to explore Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage, this tour is an absolute must-do.
Read our full review: Monastery of Santa Catalina, Historic Center and Viewpoints of Arequipa. Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Arequipa’s historical and colonial heritage is a must-see. From the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery to the picturesque viewpoints, the city offers a captivating blend of architecture, culture, and history. Whether you opt for a guided tour or explore the historic center on your own, you’ll be amazed by Arequipa’s well-preserved landmarks and breathtaking backdrops. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about Peru’s fascinating past.