Arequipa And Canyon Country, Peru
Arequipa and its surroundings boast a variety of thrilling outdoor activities, from high-altitude climbs to white-water rafting.
Popular 2-day/1-night or 3-day/2-night options. Significant descents and ascents into/out of the canyon. Good physical fitness needed.
A demanding high-altitude climb (typically 2-day trek). Excellent physical condition, prior acclimatization, and a qualified guide are essential.
Do not attempt without professional guidance and proper equipment due to extreme altitude and changeable weather conditions.
High-altitude treks like Colca Canyon and El Misti climbing can be physically demanding. Acclimatize to Arequipa's elevation before attempting these activities.
Immerse yourself in Arequipa's rich culture through hands-on workshops, traditional performances, and community interactions.
Folklore Shows: Some tourist-focused restaurants offer dinner shows featuring traditional Peruvian music and dance.
Religious Processions: During major religious festivals (e.g., Holy Week, Anniversary of Arequipa in August), witness elaborate street processions.
Colca Canyon Homestays: Staying overnight in a local family's home in a Colca Canyon village offers a direct cultural exchange, often part of multi-day treks.
Several language schools in Arequipa offer Spanish courses for various durations and levels, combining instruction with cultural activities.
August 15: A major celebration with parades, cultural events, music, and food fairs throughout August. A lively time to visit.
Semana Santa (Holy Week): Religious processions and events lead up to Easter. Virgen de Chapi Festival (May 1): A significant pilgrimage.
Balance your adventures with opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation in Arequipa and the surrounding region.
Dedicated retreats are limited in Arequipa, but some guesthouses or hotels may offer yoga classes.
While not widely accessible to tourists, traditional healers ("curanderos") exist in rural areas, using medicinal plants and ancient rituals.
Arequipa is inland, so no beaches. Some hotels have swimming pools, but dedicated pool clubs are not a feature here.
Several bars and restaurants in the historic center offer live music, from traditional Peruvian folk to contemporary bands.
Teatro Municipal de Arequipa hosts plays, concerts, and dance performances. Check schedules for local and national acts.
A modest nightlife scene with nightclubs playing Latin pop, salsa, reggaeton, and international hits, busy after 11:00 PM on weekends.
Shopping in Arequipa presents opportunities to find unique local crafts, high-quality textiles, and fresh local produce.
Alpaca wool clothing (sweaters, scarves, Socks), sillar stone carvings, traditional Peruvian textiles, coca leaf products (tea, candies), Pisco, and local Arequipeña sweets like alfajores.
Kuna and Sol Alpaca are high-end stores specializing in premium alpaca and vicuña garments, offering certified quality.
A Generic Alpaca Wool Shawl is a popular, warm souvenir.
