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Imagine Latin America  >  Destinations  >  Peru  >  Arequipa and Colca Canyon
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Arequipa and Colca Canyon

As Peru’s second largest city, and nestled between the coast and southern highlands of Peru, the city of Arequipa is home to a wealth of attractions. From its lovely colonial centre, dominating volcanoes and proximity to the second deepest canyon in the world, a visit to Arequipa is brimming with colonial charm, dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventure.

When to go

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Tucked away at an altitude of 2,380m and surrounded by three snowy volcanoes, Arequipa boasts a magnificent setting. Cobbled streets are lined with colonial buildings grafted out of local white ‘sillar’ stone, giving it the name ‘white city’. Ornate churches and perfectly preserved convents are peppered around the city, and a number of museums housed in baroque mansions delve deep into the mysterious past of the ancient civilisations once home to the area. With so much character and historic integrity, Arequipa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a real gem found within Peru.

The main square is an impressive place to wander and the beautifully refurbished Santa Catalina Monastery is a real highlight of the city. Resembling a colonial town within a city, the interior is filled with cobbled stones, granite fountains and flower- filled gardens, and is also still home to a number of nuns still living in the convent. Another draw is the fascinating Andes Sanctuaries Museum, which houses the frozen mummy of Juanita, a young Inca girl who had been sacrificed to the gods and perfectly preserved in ice until she was found centuries later. Renowned for its gastronomy, the city is bursting with trendy restaurants hosting an array of dishes to show off their local cuisine, from Rocota Relleno (spicy stuffed peppers) to the more unusual grilled guinea pig, which is a real delicacy within Peru.

Arequipa’s surrounding dramatic peaks and fast-flowing rivers make it an adventure paradise. From climbing volcanoes to white-water rafting along some of the country’s best rapids, there is plenty on offer for those who love the great outdoors. The Colca Canyon is the areas main allure, and as the second deepest canyon in the world, it is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in America and an area of magnificent beauty. Despite its rugged and wild landscape, the canyon interior is dotted with agricultural terraces and Andean villages offering a glimpse into rural life. As well as its scenic viewpoints, a real highlight is its unrivalled opportunities to see the majestic Andean condor swooping through the valley.

My clients always tell me they wish they had more time in Arequipa. Most people spend just 1 night before continuing on to the Colca Canyon, however, adding a second night is seldom regretted.


Sam Gough

The highlight of any trip to the Colca Canyon is to watch the Andean Condor soaring effortlessly on the early morning thermal currents. On one visit, I was particularly lucky and saw a total of 22 individuals


Simon Hunt
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Arequipa, Peru

The Casa Andina Premium Collection Arequipa is a beautifully restored colonial hotel in Arequipa, Peru’s famous White City. The Casa Andina Premium Collection offers a comfortable and great value base for exploring this city of whitewashed houses.

Casa Andina Premium Arequipa

Colca Canyon, Peru

The exclusive Belmond Las Casitas is a haven of peace and tranquillity in the heart of the Colca Canyon to the south of Peru in the countryside 3 hours from Arequipa. Colca is one of the deepest canyons in the world and wonderful walking country.

Belmond Las Casitas

Chivay, Peru

The Casa Andina Classic Colca is a simple but charming collection of rustic stone cottages in Chivay. With comfortable facilities and even a planetarium, the Casa Andina Classic Colca is inexpensive and well placed for exploring the stunning Colca Canyon.

Casa Andina Standard Colca

Arequipa, Peru

Set in the historic town of Arequipa, this eagerly anticipated property is the revival of an original parador, located on the site of an ancient monastery dating back to 1540.

Cirqa

Colca Canyon, Peru

Set on the banks of the Colca River in Peru’s Colca Canyon, Colca Lodge is a charming rustic eco-lodge with its own hot springs and spa. Relaxed and welcoming, Colca Lodge is a perfect base for walking, photography and watching condors on the thermals.

Colca Lodge Spa and Hot Springs

Arequipa, Peru

Katari at Plaza de Armas is a boutique hotel, situated right on Arequipa's main square. Fusing colonial and Andean touches, the hotel exudes character and out on the roof terrace, guests can enjoy beautiful views as they observe the goings-on below.

Katari at Plaza de Armas

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Amazon, Cusco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Puno, Colca Canyon & Arequipa

Discover Peru's unmissable highlights on this adventurous itinerary, hiking to Machu Picchu along the classic Inca Trail and observing an array of wildlife in the mighty Amazon Rainforest. An incredible bucket list itinerary.

16 nights from $5158 per person Culture & history, Walking & Trekking, Spectacular scenery

Peru Amazon & Inca Trail Adventure

Lima, Amazon, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Colca Canyon & Arequipa

This all-encompassing itinerary takes in the absolute best of Peru. Discover dramatic valleys and volcanic landscapes, ancient Inca cultures and an array of incredible bird and wildlife, all whilst staying in boutique and characterful accommodation.

17 nights from $5850 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Imagine Favourites

In-depth Peru

Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu Cuzco, Lake Titicaca & Arequipa

Combining breath-taking landscapes and rich Andean culture, this itinerary packs in the ultimate highlights of Peru, all whilst staying in some of Peru's most luxurious and unique accommodation, taking in Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and Cuzco.

13 nights from $7800 per person Highlights, Culture & history, Honeymoon

Luxury Highlights of Peru

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