Arequipa Arequipa And Canyon Country, Peru Travel Guide
Beyond Arequipa's urban core, the "canyon country" stretches out, a geological marvel that draws adventurers and nature enthusiasts. This term refers mainly to the Colca Canyon, located about 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Arequipa. Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, with parts reaching depths of over 3,270 meters (10,730 feet), more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States. Water from glacial melt nourishes the Chili River, which flows through the city, sustaining surrounding agricultural areas.
To adapt to the altitude, consider staying in Arequipa for a day or two before moving to higher elevations like Colca Canyon.
This gradual approach helps your body adapt to the thinner air.
Arequipa's history extends back centuries, long before the Spanish arrived. Garcí Manuel de Carbajal founded Arequipa on August 15, 1540, naming it "Villa Hermosa de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción." It rapidly became an administrative and commercial center during the Spanish colonial era, a hub connecting the silver mines of Potosí and the Pacific coast.
The city's buildings chronicle much of its story. Arequipa gained its "White City" nickname because its structures are mostly constructed from sillar, a white volcanic stone. This distinctive material, quarried from the surrounding volcanoes, carves easily, allowing for ornate architectural details. The historic center of Arequipa received an UNESCO World Heritage site designation in 2000.
The city often holds the title "legal capital" or "second capital" due to its historical influence on national politics.
Arequipa has been a cradle of revolutionary movements, frequently challenging the authority of Lima.
Its universities and cultural institutions have fostered many of Peru's prominent thinkers and artists.
Founded in 1579, this "city within a city" offers a glimpse into colonial religious life.
Churches like the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa rebuilt repeatedly after seismic events, a testament to endurance.
Many guided tours focus on Arequipa's distinct architecture and historical background.
Walking through Arequipa's historic core steps you back in time, with arcaded plazas and grand mansions.
The unique luminosity and resilience of sillar stone have preserved the city's beauty through centuries of earthquakes.
Arequipa is a bustling metropolis and a tranquil historical treasure. The metropolitan area counts approximately 1.2 million people, as of 2023 estimates.
Despite its size, the historic core keeps a charming, walkable atmosphere, a delight for visitors. These landmarks, with the city's distinct culinary scene and warm hospitality, contribute to Arequipa's unique appeal as a travel destination.
Agriculture, Textiles (Alpaca), Mining, Tourism.
Spanish (Quechua in rural areas).
UTC-5 (Peru Standard Time - PET).
sites that define the Arequipa experience include:
