A self-guided walking tour through Arequipa lets you explore Peru’s stunning “White City” at your own pace while discovering its colonial architecture, historic sites, and local culture.
Best Starting Point
Begin your tour at Plaza de Armas, Arequipa’s main square, which serves as an ideal orientation point with the magnificent Basilica Cathedral dominating its northern edge.
Recommended Route
- Plaza de Armas → Cathedral (free entrance to first level)
- La Compañía Church (2 blocks east)
- San Francisco Church & Plaza
- San Lazaro neighborhood
- Santa Catalina Monastery
- San Camilo Market
Key Stops & Highlights
1. Plaza de Armas
The plaza features beautiful colonial arcades, palm trees, and the best views of El Misti volcano on clear mornings.
2. Basilica Cathedral
Open daily 7:00-11:30 and 15:00-19:00, entrance fee: 10 soles.
3. Santa Catalina Monastery
This 16th-century monastery spans a full city block and requires 1-2 hours to explore properly (entrance fee: 40 soles, open 9:00-17:00).
4. San Lazaro District
Arequipa’s oldest neighborhood features narrow cobblestone streets and traditional sillar stone buildings.
| Location | Walking Time | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Plaza de Armas to Santa Catalina | 5 minutes | Morning |
| Santa Catalina to San Lazaro | 10 minutes | Afternoon |
| San Lazaro to San Camilo Market | 15 minutes | Morning |
Practical Tips
- Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
- Bring sunscreen and water (Arequipa’s altitude is 2,335m)
- Carry small bills for entrance fees and purchases
- Download offline maps before starting
Where to Rest
- Café Florian: Plaza de Armas, great coffee and views
- La Nueva Palomino: Traditional local food (Pasaje Leoncio Prado 122)
- Zingaro: Perfect lunch stop (San Francisco 309)
Photo Opportunities
- Cathedral from Plaza de Armas (best light in early morning)
- Monastery cloisters (especially the blue and orange walls)
- El Misti volcano views from Yanahuara viewpoint
The complete walking tour takes approximately 3-4 hours at a leisurely pace, allowing time for photos and brief stops.
Safety Notes
While Arequipa is generally safe, keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in market areas.
Tourist police contact: +51 54 208 655 (available 24/7).
Additional Points of Interest
Yanahuara Viewpoint
Located 20 minutes from the city center, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of Arequipa and the three volcanoes. Best visited late afternoon for sunset photos.
Casa del Moral
An 18th-century colonial mansion showcasing period furniture and architecture. Entrance fee: 15 soles, open 9:00-17:00 Monday-Saturday.
Local Specialties to Try
- Rocoto Relleno: Stuffed spicy peppers
- Chupe de Camarones: Traditional shrimp chowder
- Queso Helado: Local ice cream specialty
Evening Activities
- Sunset viewing at Mirador de Yanahuara
- Plaza de Armas night photography
- Traditional peñas with live Andean music
Extending Your Tour
Consider adding these nearby attractions if time permits:
- Mundo Alpaca: Learn about traditional textiles
- Molino de Sabandía: Historic water mill
- Countryside hot springs
Conclusion
This self-guided walking tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Arequipa’s main attractions, combining historical sites, local culture, and culinary experiences. The flexible format allows travelers to explore at their own pace while hitting all the major highlights of Peru’s White City.
Remember to respect local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites, and consider hiring a local guide for deeper historical insights if desired.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to do a self-guided walking tour in Arequipa?
April to November offers ideal conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F). - How long does it take to walk around Arequipa’s historic center?
The main historic center can be covered in 2-3 hours, though a full day allows for thorough exploration and visits inside landmarks. - Is it safe to do a self-guided walking tour in Arequipa?
The historic center is generally safe during daylight hours, but visitors should stay vigilant, stick to well-populated areas, and secure valuables. - What are the must-see stops on an Arequipa walking tour?
Essential stops include Plaza de Armas, Santa Catalina Monastery, San Camilo Market, La Compañía Church, and the Cathedral. - Do I need to pay entrance fees during a self-guided walking tour?
While walking the streets is free, major attractions like Santa Catalina Monastery (45-60 soles) and the Cathedral (10 soles) require entrance fees. - What’s the elevation of Arequipa, and should I be concerned about altitude?
Arequipa sits at 2,335 meters (7,661 feet). While lower than Cusco, visitors should still acclimatize and stay hydrated. - Are there good viewpoints to see Arequipa’s volcanoes during the walk?
Yanahuara Plaza and Mirador de Carmen Alto offer excellent views of El Misti volcano and the city landscape. - What should I wear for a walking tour in Arequipa?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and layers are essential. The strong sun and temperature variations require both warm and cool clothing. - Where can I find local food stops during the walking tour?
San Camilo Market, Calle Mercaderes, and the area around Plaza de Armas offer numerous local picanterías and restaurants serving traditional Arequipeñan cuisine. - Can I combine the walking tour with visiting the Colca Canyon?
While the walking tour is city-based, Colca Canyon requires separate transportation and is typically a 2-3 day trip from Arequipa.
