Arequipa

Arequipa, often referred to as the “white city” due to its predominant use of Sillar, a white volcanic rock in its colonial architecture, stands as one of Peru’s most stunning cities, renowned not only for its buildings but also for its breathtaking landscape.

Arequipa boasts a wealth of unique tourist attractions, including its iconic Plaza Mayor, the majestic Cathedral, the historic Monastery of Santa Catalina, and a plethora of other colonial structures.

One of the city’s primary draws is the awe-inspiring Colca Canyon and Valley, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature and culture alike. A journey to Colca offers unparalleled views of towering volcanoes, encounters with llamas and alpacas, and the breathtaking spectacle of condors soaring over the canyon.

Located in southwestern Peru, Arequipa sits at an elevation of 7,545 ft (2,300 m) above sea level and is more than 600 miles (1,000 km) from Lima, the capital city.

Arequipa experiences two distinct seasons: the rainy season, spanning from December to March (summer), and the dry season, characterized by minimal rainfall for the remainder of the year. The climate is semi-dry, with summer temperatures peaking at 82 °F (28 °C) and winter lows dropping to 14 °F (-10 °C) in higher elevations.