Travel tip Peru: Arequipa and Colca Canyon
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Located in the south, Arequipa is the second largest city in Peru and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. It is located in a valley crossed by the river Chili and is known for its mostly dry weather throughout the year.
The first traces of settlement in the Arequipa region date from 8000 to 6000 B.C. The city of Arequipa itself was first founded by the Spanish in 1540, after being conquered by them in 1537. Just one year after its foundation, in 1541, Arequipa was granted city rights by the Spanish king and quickly developed into an influential trading city.
Sights in the White City
It is often referred to as “La Ciudad Blanca” (the white city), as many of its buildings are made of the white volcanic stone Sillar, which is extracted from the surrounding volcanoes. The historic center of the city impresses with a multitude of churches, monasteries and colonial-style mansions. One of the most important sights is the Santa Catalina monastery, which covers an area of 20,000 square meters and is therefore often referred to as a “city within a city”.
The Plaza de Armas forms the heart of the city, with Arequipa Cathedral stretching across its northern side. It is one of the most important churches in Peru and is known for its unique architecture. It is mainly built from ashlar and other volcanic stones in the Neo-Renaissance style and has an impressive façade. Nearby is the San Camilo market, which you should definitely pay a visit to. Here you can buy local products, fresh food and traditional handicrafts.
Culture lovers will be delighted by the numerous museums, art galleries and cultural events that the city has to offer. The Museo Santuarios Andinos with the Juanita mummy is particularly well known. This is an Inca girl who was given as an offering to the gods in 1450 and was discovered frozen in the Andes in 1995. It is considered the best-preserved Inca “mummy” in the Andes. The museum offers instructive insights into the Inca culture and its sacrificial practices. Arequipa is also a culinary highlight. The most famous dishes include “Rocoto Relleno” (stuffed peppers), “Adobo” (marinated pork) and “Solterito” (a fresh salad with cheese, beans and corn).
Due to the multitude of cultural, culinary and architectural sights, the city is the perfect excursion destination for everyone! The city is easily accessible both by road and by plane, which will take you to the international Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón Airport from major cities in Peru or other Latin American countries.
In besides the city itself, there is also plenty to see in the region. It is surrounded by several impressive volcanoes, including El Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu. Hot springs in the towns of Chivay or Yanque are perfect for a day of relaxation.
The Colca Canyon
The Colca Canyon is about 160 kilometers away and takes 3-4 hours by car. The best way to get there by car or bus is via a route that passes through Chivay, which is considered the gateway to the Colca Canyon. After Chivay, you drive through the “Pampa Cañahuas” nature reserve, where you can often see vicuñas, llamas and alpacas. Tours usually start from Arequipa and include stops at traditional villages, viewpoints and hot springs along the route.
With a depth of 3,270 meters, it is about twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and an impressive natural wonder. The gorge was formed over millions of years by the erosion of the Colca River, which meanders through the canyon and is ideal for canoeing.
The region is known for its terraced agriculture, which was established by pre-Columbian civilizations and is still used today. The Colca Canyon is a popular destination for mountaineering, trekking and other outdoor activities. The canyon’s landscape is characterized by resistant cacti, delicate orchids and a variety of birds, including eagles, hummingbirds, owls and the famous Andean condor with a wingspan of up to three meters.
But the canyon also has a lot to offer for culture lovers. The Colca Valley is home to the Collagua and Cabana cultures, whose history and traditions have strongly influenced the region. The people regularly celebrate traditional festivals with lots of music and dance, giving tourists an unforgettable insight into their culture. Their traditional craftsmanship also impresses many tourists.
In summary, Arequipa and its surroundings offer a wealth of cultural, historical and natural attractions. The “White City” enchants not only with its impressive architecture and fascinating history, but also with its delicious cuisine and breathtaking scenery. The nearby Colca Canyon, with its enormous depth and diverse outdoor activities, complements the experience in an impressive way. The combination of historical significance, unique nature and vibrant culture makes Arequipa and the Colca Canyon an unforgettable destination.
Besides trips to Ecuador and Galapagos, we also offer individual and group tours to Peru. Check out for example our Peru Highlights Tour. For a tailor-made trip or if you have any questions about Peru as a travel destination, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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