Volcanic-stone architecture and Colca Canyon
Arequipa
Arequipa · The white city beneath volcanoes
Framed by three volcanoes, Arequipa is built from pale sillar volcanic stone that gives it the nickname "the white city." Its dazzling colonial center and a serene walled convent lead on to the condor-filled depths of Colca Canyon.
Top sightsSights
Santa Catalina Monastery
A vast walled convent painted in ochre and blue.
Plaza de Armas
A white-stone square with a grand cathedral.
Colca Canyon
One of the world’s deepest canyons, home to condors.
Juanita mummy museum
The preserved Inca "ice maiden."
Yanahuara viewpoint
Stone arches framing the volcano El Misti.
What to eatFood
Rocoto relleno
A spicy pepper stuffed with meat and cheese.
Adobo arequipeno
A pork stew traditionally eaten on Sundays.
Queso helado
A frozen milk-and-cinnamon dessert.
Good to know
- Colca Canyon is a long day trip or an overnight — condors fly in the morning.
- Arequipa’s altitude is gentler than Cusco for acclimatizing.
- Try a picanteria for hearty traditional lunches.
Getting there
Arequipa Airport (AQP) links to Lima and Cusco; buses reach Colca in about 4 hours.
Next city
Puno