Getting the most from Arequipa starts with a solid city tour. The best options pack key sights into half-day walks through Peru’s “White City,” with stops at the grand Cathedral and the sprawling Santa Catalina Monastery – a stunning 16th-century city-within-a-city. History buffs will appreciate the well-preserved colonial architecture built from white volcanic sillar stone, while food lovers should opt for the market and cooking tours that reveal local flavors.
I especially like the morning walking tours that combine the main plaza highlights with visits to hidden courtyards and local markets. For fantastic city views, the bus tours to Yanahuara and Carmen Alto districts are worth every penny. The small-group format (usually 8-12 people) keeps things intimate, and guides speak good English.
Check out these top-rated Arequipa tours that consistently earn rave reviews from travelers:
Key Points
- Arequipa Tours offer a diverse range of small-group and private city tours that combine sightseeing with immersive local cuisine experiences.
- The tours feature visits to prominent landmarks like the Cathedral, Compañia de Jesus Church, and the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery.
- Panoramic bus tours provide a rundown of the city’s architecture and scenic viewpoints, while specialized tours offer in-depth exploration.
- Culinary experiences, such as the Exquisito Perú Tour, allow visitors to discover the flavors of Arequipa’s local cuisine.
- The tours highlight Arequipa’s unique architectural heritage, showcasing the influence of volcanic sillar stone and the blend of indigenous and Spanish styles.
Arequipa City Tour and Food and Drinks Experience
This Arequipa city tour offers an immersive experience, blending sightseeing and local cuisine.
With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 and 97% of travelers recommending it, this flexible tour showcases the city’s colonial-era architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Guests can expect to stroll through the historic San Lazaro neighborhood, sample Peruvian chocolate and tea, and savor local snacks.
The small group size of 10 travelers ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide.
While some have reported communication issues, most praise the enthusiastic guides who offer additional recommendations.
With free cancellation and transportation near public options, this tour provides an accessible way to discover Arequipa’s cultural treasures.
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Arequipa: City Tour With Panoramic Bus
The panoramic bus tour of Arequipa offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s renowned landmarks and natural wonders. Priced at just $20 per person, the 4-hour experience takes guests on a journey through Arequipa’s main tourist attractions, including the traditional Yanahuara district and the Mirador de Carmen Alto.
Highlights include visits to the Incalpaca outlet and zoo, the Goyeneche Palace, and the Molino de Sabandia. The tour culminates at the iconic Plaza de Armas and the stunning Santa Catalina Monastery.
With a professional guide, a comfortable bus, and all entrance fees included, this tour provides an excellent overview of Arequipa’s rich heritage and breathtaking scenery.
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Arequipa Food Tour: Ancestral Cuisine & City Tour
Arequipa’s Exquisito Perú offers an immersive food tour that showcases the city’s ancestral cuisine and architectural gems.
The 5-star rated tour takes travelers on a culinary journey, beginning at the lively San Camilo Market. Participants will savor local fruits, food, drinks, and the renowned cheese ice cream while exploring various neighborhoods on foot.
The tour includes a delicious lunch and alcoholic beverages. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates most travelers, except for those with specific dietary needs or medical conditions.
With a maximum group size of 10, this highly recommended tour provides an authentic taste of Arequipa’s vibrant culture and heritage.
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Arequipa: City and Country Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa’s rich history and breathtaking natural surroundings, the Arequipa City and Country Tour offers an immersive experience.
Priced at $23 per person, this 4-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s landmarks, including the Plaza de Armas and Centro Historico, as well as the surrounding countryside.
Highlights include panoramic views of the Chili Valley and the Chachani and Misti Volcanoes, a visit to the Incalpaca Outlet and mini-zoo, and an exploration of the Sachaca district and Sabandia Mill.
While the tour receives mixed reviews, with some issues reported around organization and communication, it promises an in-depth look at Arequipa’s cultural and natural treasures.
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City Tour of Arequipa
Spanning the breadth of Arequipa’s captivating historical and cultural heritage, the City Tour of Arequipa offers an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Priced at a reasonable $99 per person, the tour provides a rundown, with highlights including the traditional district of Cayma, the Añashuayco district known for its mining of white volcanic stone, and the charming Yanahuara neighborhood.
Visitors will also marvel at Arequipa’s stunning main square and the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery.
With knowledgeable English/Spanish-speaking guides, convenient hotel pickup, and inclusive admission tickets, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover the rich tapestry of Arequipa’s cultural legacy.
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Arequipa: City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery
Although Arequipa’s stunning colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage have made it a premier tourist destination, the Arequipa: City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery offers visitors a comprehensive and immersive experience.
The 3.5-hour tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s highlights, including the iconic Basilica of the Company of Jesus and panoramic viewpoints.
The highlight is undoubtedly the Santa Catalina Monastery, a 16th-century cloistered convent that provides a glimpse into the region’s history.
With a knowledgeable bilingual guide, free cancellation, and flexible booking options, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to make the most of their time in Arequipa.
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Arequipa City Tour in Panoramic Bus
Arequipa’s stunning colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage have made it a premier tourist destination.
One way to experience the city’s highlights is through the Arequipa City Tour in Panoramic Bus. This 2.5-hour tour offers a panoramic view of the city, with stops at key landmarks like the Convent of Santa Catalina.
While the tour has received mixed feedback, with some travelers feeling the places visited weren’t worth the time, the guide quality has been praised.
The tour is priced at $20 per person and can accommodate up to 40 travelers.
Despite some room for improvement, the Arequipa City Tour in Panoramic Bus provides a convenient way to explore the city’s architectural and cultural gems.
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From Arequipa: Mirabus City Tour | Yanahuara Viewpoint |
The Mirabus City Tour offers visitors a panoramic exploration of Arequipa’s historic landmarks and architectural wonders.
The 4-hour tour provides a rundown of the city, including the stunning Plaza de Armas, the iconic Basilica Cathedral, and the picturesque Yanahuara Viewpoint.
Guests can admire the city’s distinctive white sillar stone buildings and learn about its colonial heritage.
The tour also includes a stop at the Yanahuara Viewpoint, which offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Andes mountains.
With an experienced guide and comfortable transportation, the Mirabus City Tour provides an efficient and informative way to discover the best of Arequipa.
Read our full review: From Arequipa: Mirabus City Tour | Yanahuara Viewpoint | Review
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Historical City Tour + Viewpoints of Arequipa
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa’s rich history and stunning vistas, the Historical City Tour + Viewpoints of Arequipa offers an unparalleled experience.
Priced from $35 per person, this full-day tour takes visitors on a scenic 3.5-hour drive to the city’s historical center. Highlights include guided tours of the Plaza de Armas, Yanahuara viewpoint, and the Founders Mansion.
Travelers can also opt for additional activities like horse riding and ziplining. The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and a complimentary Arequipa ice cheese.
With flexible cancellation and payment options, this tour provides an excellent way to discover the best of Arequipa.
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Arequipa: Afternoon City Tour
An Afternoon City Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa’s iconic sights. Priced from $75 per person, the 4-hour tour takes guests through the city center, showcasing the impressive Santa Catalina Monastery, the picturesque narrow alleys, and the stunning Plaza de Armas.
Highlights include the Jesuit Church of the Company, known for its unique mestizo architecture, and breathtaking views from the Carmen Alto and Yanahuara viewpoints.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, the tour provides a hassle-free way to discover Arequipa’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Praised for its excellent value, the Afternoon City Tour is a recommended starting point for further exploration of this remarkable Peruvian city.
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Arequipa: Private City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery
Providing a comprehensive exploration of Arequipa’s rich history and cultural heritage, the Private City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery offers visitors an immersive experience in The White City.
Priced at $91 per person for a 3-hour tour, the experience includes a visit to the city’s iconic Cathedral, the Baroque-style Church of the Compañia de Jesus, and the renowned 16th-century Santa Catalina Monastery.
Guests will also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the Yanahuara and Carmen Alto districts.
With a private, bilingual guide, travelers can discover Arequipa’s past while appreciating its stunning architecture and natural beauty.
Pickup, entry fees, and flexible booking options make this tour an attractive choice for those seeking an in-depth introduction to this captivating Peruvian city.
Read our full review: Arequipa: Private City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery Review
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The Sum Up
Arequipa offers a range of city tours that showcase its colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and local cuisine. Whether you prefer a comprehensive tour or a more focused experience, there’s an option to suit your interests. The city’s stunning setting amidst towering volcanoes adds to the appeal of these tours, providing visitors with a memorable introduction to this vibrant Peruvian destination.