Tour Details:
Uncover the timeless beauty of Arequipa on this half-day guided city tour. Known as the White City for its striking buildings made of white volcanic stone, Arequipa offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and cultural charm.
Your experience begins with a guided walk through the historic center of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its elegant colonial architecture and vibrant plazas as your guide shares fascinating insights into the city’s rich past.
One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the Santa Catalina Monastery, one of South America’s most remarkable religious sites. Built in the 16th century, this colorful complex features cloisters, gardens, narrow alleys, and original furnishings, offering a glimpse into the cloistered life of nuns during colonial times.
We’ll also visit Arequipa’s Main Square (Plaza de Armas), the impressive Basilica Cathedral, and the Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compañía), renowned for its detailed baroque façade and beautifully painted chapel. The tour concludes with a short drive to the Yanahuara viewpoint, where you’ll capture postcard-perfect views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
Highlights:
- Discover the historic charm of Arequipa, Peru’s White City
- Stroll through colonial streets built from white volcanic sillar stone
- Visit the awe-inspiring Santa Catalina Monastery, a city within a city
- Explore the main square, baroque churches, and colonial mansions
- Enjoy panoramic views from scenic viewpoints like Yanahuara
Gallery
Itinerary
HALF DAY: White City & Santa Catalina Monastery
Start your journey through Arequipa, the famed White City, with a convenient hotel pick-up in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. This guided half-day tour combines stunning colonial architecture, cultural treasures, and breathtaking natural scenery.
San Lázaro & Carmen Alto Viewpoint
Begin with a stop in the San Lázaro neighborhood, the oldest part of Arequipa and the place where the city was founded. Walk through narrow streets lined with colorful flowers and picturesque colonial houses. Then, head to the Carmen Alto viewpoint, where panoramic views reveal lush agricultural terraces and the dramatic backdrop of the three volcanoes that watch over the city — Misti, Chachani, and Picchu Picchu.
Yanahuara District
Next, visit the colonial neighborhood of Yanahuara, known for its peaceful streets and the iconic church built in Andalusian style. Take a moment at the Yanahuara viewpoint, framed by volcanic sillar stone arches, to capture incredible photos of the city and its volcanic guardians.
Santa Catalina Monastery
The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Santa Catalina Monastery, one of the most remarkable religious monuments in Peru. Closed to the public for nearly 400 years, this vibrant citadel within the city is filled with narrow cobblestone alleys, colorful plazas, and tranquil gardens. Walking through it is like stepping back in time to the Spanish colonial era.
Plaza de Armas & Historic Churches
Continue to the Plaza de Armas, one of the most beautiful squares in Peru, surrounded by majestic arches and the striking Arequipa Cathedral. The final stop is the Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía de Jesús), founded by the Jesuits in the 17th century. Admire its impressive baroque façade, peaceful cloisters, and the famous San Ignacio Dome, known for its vibrant frescoes.
Included / Excluded
- Certified bilingual guide (English/Spanish): An expert local guide will accompany you throughout the tour, sharing the rich history and cultural highlights of Arequipa.
- Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel: Convenient transportation to and from your hotel in the historic center of Arequipa.
- Comfortable tourist transport: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle for a smooth and pleasant experience.
- Bottled water: Stay refreshed during the tour with complimentary bottled water.
- 24/7 customer assistance: Our team is available around the clock to support you before, during, and after your tour.
- Entrance fee to the Santa Catalina Monastery (S/20 or approximately $6 USD per person)
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs or snacks
- Tips or gratuities for guides and drivers (optional, but appreciated)
What to Bring:
- Warm clothing (especially for the night on Amantani)
- Light clothing for daytime and sun protection
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack
- Personal medications
- Flashlight or headlamp (optional)
- Camera or phone with extra battery
- Cash in Peruvian soles for souvenirs and optional expenses
Additional Information
IMPORTANT:
To issue your Machu Picchu entry ticket, the Peruvian authorities require the following information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Please ensure all details are accurate when making your reservation.
Pre-Trip Briefing:
A representative from Sungate Peru Travel will contact you one day before your departure to arrange a pre-trip briefing. This meeting will take place in your hotel lobby or at our office, as agreed in advance, around 6:00 PM.
During the briefing, we will provide a detailed step-by-step itinerary map and deliver all relevant tickets and documents for your journey.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
