Arequipa, also known as the ‘White City’, is a wonderful destination to explore on your next visit to Peru. With the majestic backdrop of Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu towering over Arequipa, your adventures in this beautiful colonial city will be long remembered. Here are six places you should put on your must-see list of Arequipa. In fact, there is so much to do in this city that it is hard to narrow it down to just six.
Santa Catalina Monastery
Santa Catalina is a city into itself. As you walk through the grounds, you are instantly transported back in time. It is easy to imagine yourself as a novice in the monastery going about your daily chores and dedicating your life to religion. The colorful walls and beautiful rooftop views give plenty of great photo opportunities; and you can stop to enjoy a cake or acoffee in the monastery café.
Museo Santuarios Andinos
The Museo Santuarios Andinos is more than just a museum. Its main feature is a frozen girl known as ‘Juanita.’ She was sacrificed to the Gods in the 1400s, and the museum tells her story with a film with a viewing of her preserved body at the end.
Sabandía Mill
Sabandia Mill was built in 1785 and is situated a few kilometers outside the city base. It is a wonderful way to explore some of the lesser known areas of Arequipa – and don’t forget your picnic lunch. Sabandia Mill’s expansive space also has a plenty of areas to relax and unwind.
Sillar Quarry
The city of Arequipa gets it ‘White City’ nickname from the sillar that makes up many of the colonial buildings in the city. To see where the sillar comes from, you can visit the quarry to learn how they continue to mine the white rock by hand.
Mundo Alpaca
Mundo Alpaca allows you to get a firsthand introduction of the alpaca’s fiber process from start to finish. It is only a short walk from the Plaza de Armas where you can browse the demonstrations, demonstration gallerys and more. You can also buy alpaca souvenirs direct from the boutique and factory outlet.
San Camilo Market
Markets in Peru are a lot of fun to visit, and the San Camilo Market in Arequipa is no different. The market has been operating for over 130 years and provides a glimpse into the lives of the Arequipeñan locals. It is clear San Camilo Market lies at the center of this bustling town.