Guided Tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery

Arequipa, the stunning ‘White City’ of Peru, beckons with its captivating blend of history, architecture, and cultural charm. Embarking on a guided tour of this enchanting destination offers visitors the chance to enjoy the city’s rich heritage, from the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery to the vibrant trade sites that have shaped its past. With expert insights and a carefully curated itinerary, this 4-hour adventure promises to unveil the fascinating stories and hidden gems that make Arequipa a true gem of South America. What secrets await those who choose to explore this captivating city?

Key Points

• The guided tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery is priced at $35.00 per person and lasts for 4 hours.
• The tour showcases Arequipa’s architectural heritage, known as the "White City," including the Santa Catalina Monastery and its historical significance.
• Highlights of the tour include exploring Arequipa’s narrow streets, visiting historical trade sites like Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona, and a guided tour of the Santa Catalina Monastery.
• The tour includes hotel pick-up, an English/Spanish speaking guide, and entrance to the Santa Catalina Monastery, with travel insurance provided.
• Booking for the tour is flexible, with the ability to check availability and select participants and dates without upfront payment, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The guided tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery is priced from $35.00 per person and lasts for 4 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and guests can reserve their spot and pay nothing today.

The tour provides a guided exploration of Arequipa’s beauty, known as the White City, with its narrow streets, white houses, and flower-filled patios.

The highlights include the citadel of women dedicated to prayer, charity, and tailoring, as well as the Santa Catalina Monastery, a jewel of religious architecture and a melting pot of secrets.

Experience and Highlights

Exploring the beauty of Arequipa, known as the White City, reveals narrow streets, white houses, and flower-filled patios.

The highlight of the tour includes:

1. The Citadel of women dedicated to prayer, charity, and tailoring.
2. The Santa Catalina Monastery, a melting pot of secrets and a jewel of religious architecture.
3. Stops at historical trade sites like Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona.
4. A guided tour of the Santa Catalina Monastery, including legends, cloisters, gardens, and an art gallery.

The tour concludes at the hotel or a chosen location in downtown Arequipa by 1:00 p.m.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with hotel pick-up at 9:00 a.m.

Visitors will first visit the Plaza de Armas to admire the impressive Cathedral of Arequipa and the Church and Cloisters of the Society of Jesus.

Next, the tour stops at Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona, historical trade sites that offer a glimpse into Arequipa’s past.

The highlight of the tour is the guided visit to the Santa Catalina Monastery, where travelers will learn about the legends, explore the cloisters and gardens, and visit the art gallery.

The tour concludes by 1:00 p.m. at the hotel or a chosen location in downtown Arequipa.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up, an English and Spanish speaking guide, and entrance to the Monastery of Santa Catalina.

Travel insurance is also provided, though meals and extra expenses aren’t included.

The key inclusions are:

1. Hotel pick-up
2. English and Spanish speaking guide
3. Entrance to the Monastery of Santa Catalina
4. Travel insurance

Participants can check availability for starting times and select the number of people and date for the tour.

This comprehensive package allows visitors to fully enjoy the cultural and historical wonders of Arequipa and the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery.

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Booking Information

To book this guided tour of Arequipa, visitors can check availability for the starting times.

They can then select the participants and the date for the tour. The booking process is simple and flexible, allowing visitors to reserve their spot and pay nothing today.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, visitors can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can get a full refund if their plans change.

The tour is a great way to explore the highlights of Arequipa, including the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, and discover the city’s rich history and architecture.

Monastery of Santa Catalina

Although dating back to the 16th century, the Santa Catalina Monastery remains a jewel of religious architecture and a melting pot of secrets in Arequipa.

This guided tour offers visitors a chance to explore the monastery’s rich history and stunning features, including:

1. Expansive cloisters and courtyards adorned with colorful murals and flowers.
2. An art gallery showcasing religious artwork and historical artifacts.
3. A labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways that once housed a self-contained community of nuns.
4. Legends and stories that add to the monastery’s mystique and intrigue.

The guided tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and uncover the captivating past of this remarkable religious landmark.

Arequipa’s Architecture

Beyond the captivating Santa Catalina Monastery, Arequipa’s architecture is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Adorned with white volcanic stone, the city’s buildings reflect the distinctive colonial style that has earned Arequipa its nickname, the "White City."

Intricate facades, ornate balconies, and inner courtyards with lush foliage create a visually striking landscape. The Plaza de Armas, the city’s central square, is the heart of Arequipa, boasting the impressive Cathedral of Arequipa and the Church and Cloisters of the Society of Jesus.

Exploring Arequipa’s well-preserved historic district offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s past and its vibrant present.

Historical Trade Sites

Nestled within Arequipa’s historic district, the Tambos de Bronce and La Cabezona were once prominent trade sites that showcased the city’s commercial prowess.

These bustling marketplaces served as hubs for the exchange of goods, connecting local artisans and merchants with traders from across the region.

Visitors to the guided tour can expect to:

1. Explore the remnants of the Tambos de Bronce, where bronze and metalwork were once traded.
2. Discover the significance of La Cabezona, a landmark that took its name from the large stone head that once adorned the site.
3. Learn about the strategic importance of these trade sites in Arequipa’s economic development.
4. Gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich commercial history and its enduring legacy as a center of trade and commerce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, from young children to older adults. Families can enjoy the guided exploration of Arequipa and the historic Santa Catalina Monastery together.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, meals are not included in the tour price, and any extra expenses will not be covered by the tour operator.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with the guide able to assist in navigating the monastery’s cobblestone paths and uneven terrain. However, certain areas may have limited accessibility due to the historic nature of the site.

Can We Take Photographs Inside the Monastery?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the Santa Catalina Monastery, though some restrictions may apply. It’s recommended to check with the tour guide or staff upon arrival for the latest photography policies.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there is an option for a private tour. Guests can book a private guided tour of Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery, which offers a more personalized experience and flexibility in scheduling and itinerary.

Recap

This guided tour of Arequipa and the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Priced at just $35 per person, the 4-hour adventure includes hotel pick-up, exploration of historical trade sites, and in-depth insights from a knowledgeable guide, culminating in a visit to the expansive monastery grounds and art gallery. It’s an excellent opportunity to take in Arequipa’s captivating cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: