White volcanic stone buildings and Spanish colonial charm make Arequipa’s walking tours especially rewarding. The city’s compact historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers several excellent guided options. My favorite is the 3-hour Santa Catalina Monastery tour – it’s like stepping into a colorful 16th-century city within a city. The 4-hour Historic Center walk reveals hidden courtyards and local secrets you’d likely miss on your own. For something different, the Sillar Route shows you the ancient quarries where the city’s distinctive white stone comes from, while the Yura Waterfalls tour combines hiking with natural beauty. Let’s explore the best walking tours Arequipa has to offer.
Key Points
- The Arequipa Walking Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery is a highly-rated 3-hour tour that showcases the UNESCO-listed Historic Center and the expansive 20,000-square-meter monastery grounds.
- The Historic Center Walking Tour is a 4-hour tour that provides rich historical insights and culminates at the Santa Catalina Monastery with an optional extended visit.
- The Walking Tour Including Santa Catalina Monastery is a 3.5-hour tour that focuses on Arequipa’s colonial heritage, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and includes interaction with llamas/alpacas and traditional Peruvian potato tasting.
- The Yura Waterfalls Full-Day Tour is a small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers, offering hotel pickup, bilingual guide, and an option to visit thermo-medicinal pools.
- The Excursion to the Sillar Route, priced at $12 per person, provides transportation to the Sillar Route and Culebrillas, with professional guide and entrance fees, though it has mixed reviews on guide experience.
Excursion to the Sillar Route With Walk in Culebrillas
The Excursion to the Sillar Route with Walk in Culebrillas offers visitors a chance to explore the unique volcanic rock formations and picturesque natural landscapes around Arequipa.
Priced at $12 per person, this 21-reviewed tour takes visitors on an air-conditioned vehicle to the Sillar Route and Culebrillas. The tour includes a professional guide and entrance fees.
Meeting at a central location, the tour lasts until the end point at Av La Marina 400. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers. Reviews are mixed, with some citing issues with the guide and experience, though many enjoyed the Culebrillas waterfalls.
Read our full review: Excursion to the Sillar Route With Walk in Culebrillas Review
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Arequipa: Walking Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery
Visitors exploring Arequipa can enjoy the city’s rich history and architecture through the Arequipa Walking Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery experience.
Priced from Kč 1,545 per person, this 3-hour tour covers the UNESCO-listed Historic Center, local neighborhoods, and the impressive 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery.
Highlights include panoramic views of Plaza de Armas and in-depth exploration of the monastery’s 20,000-square-meter grounds.
The tour includes a professional guide, entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Guests should bring practical items like sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
With a 5/5 rating and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an excellent way to discover Arequipa’s cultural treasures.
Read our full review: Arequipa Walking Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery Review
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Walking Tour Through the Historic Center of Arequipa
A comprehensive 4-hour walking tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of Arequipa’s historic center. Priced at $15.90 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and departs from a central location near the Plaza de Armas.
Participants will stroll through hidden streets, learning about the city’s rich history from professional guides. The tour culminates at the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, where travelers can choose to continue their visit at an additional cost.
With an impressive 4.5/5 rating based on over a dozen reviews, this walking tour provides an engaging and insightful introduction to Arequipa’s captivating historic core.
Read our full review: Walking Tour Through the Historic Center of Arequipa Review
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Arequipa Walking Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery
Arequipa’s historic center offers visitors a captivating walking tour that culminates at the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery.
This 3-hour experience provides an in-depth look at the city’s major sights, including the Jesuit Church of the Company of Jesus and the Tristán del Pozo mansion.
Along the way, you’ll admire the city’s vibrant flowers, original furniture, and picturesque alleys.
The highlight is the Santa Catalina Monastery, a stunning 16th-century complex showcasing four centuries of architectural evolution.
Priced at ₹4,752 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and a professional guide.
With a 4.7/5 rating from past participants, it offers excellent value for your money.
Read our full review: Arequipa Walking Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery Review
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Walking Tour Arequipa
Immersing oneself in Arequipa’s captivating history comes alive through the city’s walking tour.
The 2-hour private experience takes visitors on a journey through the historic heart of Arequipa, starting at the iconic Plaza de Armas. Along the way, guests will learn about the impressive Cathedral, the ornate Church of the Company, and the sculpted arches of the Cloisters of the Society of Jesus.
The tour culminates at the Church of San Francisco, showcasing the city’s renowned architecture. Accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, this walking tour is an ideal way to explore Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage.
With free cancellation and a 5.0 rating, it’s an excursion not to be missed.
Read our full review: Walking Tour Arequipa Review
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Full-Day Guided Walking Tour of Yura Waterfalls From Arequipa
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Yura Waterfalls on this full-day guided walking tour from Arequipa. Operated by Turismoi.pe, the tour offers a maximum of 8 travelers the chance to witness the breathtaking cascades in a small-group setting.
Priced from $90.00 per person with a lowest price guarantee, the tour includes hotel pickup, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, a personal water bottle, and a snack and lunch.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Visitors can also opt to visit the nearby thermo-medicinal pools for an additional fee.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts exploring Arequipa.
Read our full review: Full-Day Guided Walking Tour of Yura Waterfalls From Arequipa Review
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Walking Tour Arequipa Including Santa Catalina Monastery
Visitors can embark on a captivating 3.5-hour walking tour that showcases Arequipa’s colonial heritage and UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center.
This tour focuses on the city’s ashlar-clad buildings made from white volcanic rock, as well as its oldest neighborhood and first church. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with llamas and alpacas, and sample traditional Peruvian potatoes with dipping sauces.
The tour includes entrance to the Santa Catalina Monastery and is led by a professional English-speaking guide.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, though sun protection is recommended.
Priced from $48 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Arequipa’s rich cultural and architectural legacy.
Read our full review: Walking Tour Arequipa Including Santa Catalina Monastery Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Duration of These Walking Tours?
The average duration of walking tours in Arequipa is typically 2-3 hours, allowing visitors to explore the city’s historic sights and neighborhoods at a leisurely pace. The length can vary depending on the specific tour and the pace of the group.
Are the Tours Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?
The tours are generally suitable for those with limited mobility, though the terrain and duration may present challenges. It’s best to inquire about accessibility options and discuss any concerns with the tour operators to ensure a comfortable experience.
What Is the Typical Group Size for These Walking Tours?
The typical group size for these walking tours is small, usually ranging from 6 to 12 participants. This allows for more personalized attention and a more intimate experience as you explore the city on foot.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tours?
Many tour providers offer discounts for group bookings or online reservations. Some tours may also have special offers like free souvenirs or snacks. Travelers should check the tour company’s website or inquire directly to see if any discounts or promotions are available.
Can I Customize the Itinerary or the Pace of the Tour?
Many tour companies offer the flexibility to customize the itinerary and pace of their walking tours. Customers can typically discuss their preferences with the tour guide to create a personalized experience that meets their needs and interests.
Recap
Arequipa offers a variety of walking tours that showcase the city’s historic landmarks and natural wonders. From exploring the Sillar Route and the Santa Catalina Monastery to admiring the Yura Waterfalls, visitors can discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery of this Peruvian city. These walking tours provide an immersive and engaging way to experience the best of Arequipa.