Historical City Tour + Viewpoints of Arequipa

Explore the enchanting "White City" of Arequipa on a comprehensive historical city tour that showcases its stunning colonial architecture and breathtaking viewpoints. This immersive experience takes you on a journey through iconic sites like the Casona Tristan del Pozo and San Camilo Market, while offering panoramic vistas from Carmen Alto and Yanahuara. With optional activities catering to both history enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this full-day tour promises an enriching exploration of Peru’s vibrant culture and natural wonders. Discover why Arequipa has captivated visitors for centuries and uncover the secrets that lie within its historic streets.

Key Points

• This full-day historical city tour explores the rich colonial architecture and cultural heritage of Arequipa, including iconic Tambos and volcanic ashlar buildings.

• Scenic viewpoints like Carmen Alto and Yanahuara offer panoramic vistas of the city, providing a breathtaking backdrop for the tour.

• The tour includes a guided exploration of the historical center, focusing on main attractions such as the Casona Tristan del Pozo and San Camilo Market.

• Optional activities like horseback riding and ziplining allow participants to experience Arequipa’s natural surroundings and enhance the overall tour experience.

• The tour provides complimentary transportation, a bilingual guide, and local treats, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Arequipa’s history and sights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This city tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa, a historical and vibrant city in Peru. Priced from $35 per person, the tour lasts a full day and covers the city’s main attractions.

Guests will be picked up from their hotel at 9:30 am and taken on a scenic 3.5-hour drive to the historic city center. There, they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the highlights, including colonial architecture, traditional markets, and viewpoints overlooking the city.

Lunch and optional activities like horseback riding or ziplining are available for an additional fee. Complimentary Arequipa ice cheese, a local dessert, is included.

The tour ends with a return to the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa.

Itinerary

Starting at the Plaza de Armas Arequipa, the tour begins with a 9:30 am pickup from guests’ hotels.

Then, visitors enjoy a scenic 3.5-hour drive. The guided tour of the Historical Centre lasts 2 hours, allowing them to discover the city’s main attractions, including Tambos and volcanic ashlar buildings.

Lunch is optional and an additional fee.

Afterward, guests can choose between horse riding or ziplining, both 1.5-hour activities with extra costs.

Tour Highlights

Arequipa’s rich history and architectural wonders unfold as visitors embark on this comprehensive city tour.

They’ll learn about the city’s past, discovering its main attractions like the iconic Tambos and volcanic ashlar buildings.

The tour also takes them to stunning viewpoints, including Yanahuara and Carmen Alto, offering panoramic vistas of Arequipa’s striking landscape.

Beyond sightseeing, the experience includes an optional opportunity to savor the city’s delectable cuisine and engage in thrilling activities like horseback riding or ziplining.

With a bilingual guide, complimentary treats, and transportation provided, this tour offers an enriching and well-rounded exploration of Arequipa’s captivating cultural heritage.

Inclusions

The tour includes a complimentary Arequipa ice cheese, a traditional local dessert, to give visitors a taste of the city’s renowned cuisine.

Transport and a bilingual guide are also provided. Entrance fees to the Carmen Alto viewpoint are mandatory, while those for the Founders Mansion and Sabandia Mill are optional.

Guests can choose to add on canopy zipline or horseback riding activities for an additional fee. Snacks and drinks are available during the tour, and tips for the service staff are optional.

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Key Locations Visited

The tour takes visitors to several of Arequipa’s iconic landmarks and points of interest. This includes a stop at the Casona Tristan del Pozo, a well-preserved colonial mansion.

The group also explores the bustling San Camilo Market and the nearby Archbishopric. Other highlights are the Plaza de San Francisco and the Centro Artesanal Fundo El Fierro, which showcases local handicrafts.

The tour visits several scenic viewpoints like Carmen Alto and Yanahuara, offering panoramic vistas of the city. Plus, participants get to experience a textile factory and mini-zoo at Incalpaca.

The itinerary also includes visits to the Mansion of the Founder and the historic Mill of Sabandia in the Andenerías region of Paucarpata.

Historical Centre Guided Tour

After exploring the city’s vibrant landmarks, the guided tour of Arequipa’s Historical Centre provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and architectural heritage.

The tour takes guests through the heart of the city, where they’ll discover the iconic Tambos – traditional Inca-era inns – and marvel at the striking volcanic ashlar buildings that line the streets.

Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares captivating stories about Arequipa’s past, bringing the city’s storied past to life.

Whether marveling at the intricate colonial-era architecture or learning about the city’s cultural traditions, this immersive tour offers a true glimpse into Arequipa’s enduring legacy.

Optional Activities

Along With the guided tour, the Arequipa City Tour offers optional activities that allow visitors to further enjoy the region’s natural splendor.

Guests can choose to embark on a thrilling zipline adventure, soaring over the stunning landscapes. For a more serene experience, horseback riding is another option, enabling travelers to leisurely explore the area’s picturesque vistas.

These activities provide an opportunity to truly appreciate the natural wonders that surround Arequipa. Whether seeking an adrenaline rush or a tranquil encounter with nature, the optional experiences ensure a well-rounded tour for all participants.

Getting to the Starting Location

Starting at the Plaza de Armas in Arequipa, the Arequipa City Tour conveniently begins.

The tour includes:

• Complimentary pickup from your hotel at 9:30 am, ensuring a seamless start to your day.
• A scenic 3.5-hour drive to the historical city center, allowing you to take in the breathtaking views along the way.
• Arrival at the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa, where your guided tour commences.
• Convenient access to the main attractions, as the tour covers the historical center, viewpoints, and optional activities all within a single day.
• A return to the Plaza de Armas at the end of the tour, making it easy to continue your exploration of Arequipa’s vibrant city life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour in Languages Other Than English?

The tour offers guided services in multiple languages, including English. Customers can inquire about language options when booking the tour to ensure they receive the experience in their preferred language.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour offers an option to extend the duration. Customers can inquire about longer tour options that include additional activities or more time at select locations, though this may incur an extra fee.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour company offers discounts for students and seniors. They provide a 10% discount for both groups when booking the tour. Customers need to provide valid student or senior ID upon check-in to receive the discount.

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit specific sites. Customers can discuss their interests with the tour operator, who’ll work to accommodate their preferences within the tour’s overall structure and duration.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Layers are advised as the weather can vary throughout the day.

Recap

The Historical City Tour + Viewpoints of Arequipa offers a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa’s stunning colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and breathtaking viewpoints. With a mix of guided tours and optional activities, this full-day experience caters to both history enthusiasts and adventure seekers, providing an enriching and memorable way to discover the "White City" of Peru.

You can check if your dates are available here: