Private Tour Colonial Arequipa, Recoleta Convent and Casa Del Moral

Set out on a captivating journey through Arequipa’s colonial past with a private tour that promises an unparalleled experience. Explore the architectural marvels of the 17th and 18th centuries, exploring the historic Recoleta Convent and the stately Casa del Moral. Witness the intricate artwork, well-preserved features, and serene cloisters that transport you back in time. As you navigate the city’s charming streets, prepare to be awed by the majestic Misti volcano looming in the background. This tour offers a comprehensive understanding of Arequipa’s rich history and cultural heritage, leaving you eager to uncover more of its captivating stories.

Key Points

• This private tour focuses on Arequipa’s colonial heritage, including visits to the Recoleta Convent, Casa del Moral, and Carmen Alto viewpoint.
• The 3.5-hour guided tour provides insights into Arequipa’s architectural wonders and historical significance, with a professional guide.
• The tour includes air-conditioned minivan transport and hotel pickup/drop-off, ensuring a convenient and personalized experience.
• Visitors can admire the Baroque-style architecture, religious artwork, and well-preserved colonial features of the key attractions.
• While the Santa Catalina Monastery is not included in the itinerary, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa’s colonial history and architecture.

Overview of the Tour

This private 3.5-hour guided tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of Arequipa’s rich colonial heritage.

It takes you through the historic districts of St Lazarus, Cayma, and Vallecito, providing a glimpse into the city’s past.

The knowledgeable guide will share insights into Arequipa’s colonial history as you visit key attractions like the Recoleta Convent, Casa del Moral, and the Carmen Alto viewpoint.

You’ll get to admire the cloisters and learn about the historical significance of the Recoleta Convent, explore the 18th-century Casa del Moral with its colonial paintings and 200-year-old mulberry tree, and soak in the spectacular views of Arequipa from the Carmen Alto viewpoint.

Transportation by air-conditioned minivan and hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Exploring Recoleta Convent

After entering the Recoleta Convent’s gates, visitors find themselves transported to a tranquil oasis within Arequipa’s bustling streets.

This 17th-century Franciscan convent offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.

Highlights of the tour include:

1. Exploring the peaceful cloisters, where the tranquil ambiance invites contemplation.
2. Admiring the Baroque-style architecture and intricate religious artwork adorning the convent’s interior.
3. Learning about the historical significance of the Recoleta Convent and its role in Arequipa’s colonial heritage.

The Recoleta Convent stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural traditions, providing a captivating experience for visitors seeking to enjoy Arequipa’s colonial legacy.

Visiting Casa Del Moral

Next on the tour, visitors explore the Casa del Moral, an 18th-century colonial home that offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich architectural and artistic heritage.

This impressive residence features striking colonial paintings adorning its walls and a 200-year-old mulberry tree in its courtyard.

Guests marvel at the home’s well-preserved features, including its wooden balconies, intricate ironwork, and ornate doors.

The guide provides insightful commentary on the Casa del Moral’s history and the lives of its former occupants, painting a vivid picture of Arequipa’s colonial past.

Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s architectural gems and the craftsmanship of its bygone era.

Admiring Carmen Alto Viewpoint

One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the Carmen Alto viewpoint, which offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic vista of Arequipa’s stunning cityscape.

Perched atop a hill, this vantage point provides an unobstructed view of the city’s colonial architecture, framed by the majestic backdrop of the Andes mountains.

The viewpoint’s appeal lies in its ability to showcase Arequipa’s remarkable juxtaposition of natural and man-made beauty.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the iconic silhouette of the Misti volcano, standing as a sentinel over the city.
2. Gaze upon the ornate facades of Arequipa’s historic churches and plazas.
3. Appreciate the city’s unique blend of Spanish colonial and indigenous architectural styles.

Colonial History and Architecture

The Private Tour of Colonial Arequipa delves deep into the city’s rich heritage, revealing the architectural wonders and historical significance that defined its colonial era.

Visitors explore the Recoleta Convent, a 16th-century Franciscan monastery with intricate cloisters and courtyards that showcase the region’s Spanish influences.

The tour also leads guests to the Casa del Moral, an 18th-century home adorned with colonial paintings and a 200-year-old mulberry tree, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the city’s aristocratic families.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into Arequipa’s past, bringing its colonial history to life and fostering a deeper appreciation for the city’s architectural and cultural legacies.

Transportation and Pickup Details

With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, the Private Tour of Colonial Arequipa ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s exploration.

The tour offers flexibility, allowing guests to either meet the guide directly at the departure point or request a pickup from their Arequipa hotel. Pickup details are conveniently provided via email a day before the service.

The tour departs from the Arequipa region at 9:00 AM and returns to the same meeting point at the conclusion. This private tour is operated exclusively for your group, providing a personalized experience throughout the 3.5-hour journey.

The key transportation details are:

1. Air-conditioned minivan transport.
2. Hotel pickup and drop-off service.
3. Departure from and return to the Arequipa region.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

This private tour of colonial Arequipa includes a professional guide who provides in-depth insights into the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.

Transportation by air-conditioned minivan is provided, allowing for comfortable and efficient travel between the key sites. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also included, ensuring a seamless experience.

However, food and drinks, as well as gratuities, aren’t covered in the tour price. The tour is a private experience, catering exclusively to your group.

While the Recoleta Convent and Casa del Moral are highlighted, the Santa Catalina Monastery is notably absent from the itinerary, which may be a disappointment for some visitors.

Tour Ratings and Feedback

According to the provided information, the private tour of colonial Arequipa has received a overall rating of 3.0 out of 1 review.

The feedback indicates that the tour felt disjointed, the guide was average, and there were timing issues at the locations. Plus, the absence of the Santa Catalina Monastery in the itinerary was noted.

The key issues of the tour seem to be:

1. Disjointed tour experience
2. Average quality of the guide
3. Timing problems at the attractions

While the overall rating is average, these specific points of feedback provide useful insights to improve the tour experience for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour Guide’s Level of English Proficiency?

The tour guide’s English proficiency is not explicitly stated, but they are described as "knowledgeable" and leading a "private 3.5-hour guided tour." This suggests the guide likely has a good command of English to effectively communicate the tour’s information.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Sites?

The tour can be customized to include additional sites, though this may incur an extra cost. Travelers should discuss their preferences with the tour operator to ensure the itinerary meets their needs and interests.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator offers discounts for students and seniors, but the availability and amount may vary. Customers should inquire about any discounted pricing when booking the tour to see if they qualify.

How Reliable Is the Tour Provider VIPAC Travel?

VIPAC Travel is a reliable tour operator, though customer reviews indicate some issues with their Arequipa colonial tour. They offer flexible pickup, transportation, and professional guides, though timing and itinerary could be improved based on past traveler feedback.

Can the Tour Be Rescheduled or Canceled Due to Weather Conditions?

The tour can be rescheduled or canceled due to inclement weather conditions. VIPAC Travel offers free cancellation up to 2 days in advance, allowing flexibility for customers to adjust plans if necessary due to weather impacts.

Recap

This private tour offers a captivating glimpse into Arequipa’s colonial heritage. Visitors will marvel at the ornate architecture and artwork of the Recoleta Convent and Casa del Moral, while enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the Misti volcano. With personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, travelers can enjoy the rich history and charm of this remarkable destination.