Private Tour Arequipa: Countryside Tour, Sabandia Mill and Founders Mansion

Discover the rich agricultural heritage of Arequipa on this private countryside tour. Venture beyond the city streets to explore ancient pre-Inca farming terraces, visit the historic Sabandia Mill, and step inside the beautifully restored Founder’s Mansion. Along the way, you’ll soak in breathtaking views of the Rio Chili and gain insights into the region’s enduring traditions. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an authentic cultural experience, this tour promises to reveal a side of Arequipa that few visitors get to explore. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the details.

Good To Know

• A private half-day tour of Arequipa’s countryside, including visits to pre-Inca farming terraces, the 18th-century Sabandia Mill, and the restored Founder’s Mansion.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
• Explore the region’s agricultural heritage, learning about traditional farming methods and the ingenious irrigation systems used in the pre-Inca terraces.
• Discover the well-preserved colonial-era buildings and machinery at the Sabandia Mill, offering a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich history.
• Enjoy scenic views of the Rio Chili and the Peruvian countryside, including the tranquil Tingo district and the Sachaca viewpoint.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This private half-day tour of the Arequipa countryside offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

You’ll start by visiting pre-Inca farming terraces in the Paucarpata District, providing a glimpse into traditional agricultural methods.

Next, you’ll tour the 18th-century Sabandia Mill, which is still operational today.

You’ll then explore the restored colonial-era Founder’s Mansion, offering insights into the area’s past.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the Rio Chili in the former resort district of Tingo.

The choice of morning or afternoon departure allows you to fit the tour into your schedule.

Transportation and Logistics

Comfortable, air-conditioned minivans transport guests on this private tour. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with departures from downtown Arequipa hotels, apartments, or homes. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Departure Point	Drop-off Location
Downtown Arequipa Hotels	Downtown Arequipa
Downtown Arequipa Apartments	Downtown Arequipa
Downtown Arequipa Homes	Downtown Arequipa

This private tour ensures a personalized experience, with only your group participating. Guests can choose from morning or afternoon departures to best suit their schedule.

Explore Pre-Inca Farming Terraces

As guests venture into the verdant Paucarpata District, they’ll discover the remarkable remnants of pre-Inca farming terraces.

These stepped agricultural platforms, dating back centuries, offer a glimpse into the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Guests can explore these well-preserved structures, learning about the ingenious irrigation systems and crop rotation practices used by the Incas and their predecessors.

The tour provides an opportunity to appreciate the enduring legacy of traditional Andean farming methods, which have sustained communities in this arid landscape for generations.

Through this experience, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the enduring agricultural traditions that have shaped the Arequipa countryside.

Visit Sabandia Mill

A highlight of the tour is a visit to the historic Sabandia Mill, an 18th-century marvel that remains operational to this day.

Travelers will marvel at the mill’s ancient machinery, which has been carefully preserved over the centuries. They’ll learn how the mill once ground grains using the power of the Rio Chili river that flows nearby.

The guide will provide fascinating insights into the mill’s history and its role in Arequipa’s agricultural heritage.

Visitors can wander through the well-restored colonial-era buildings and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this remarkably intact historical site on the city’s outskirts.

Tour Founder’s Mansion

The tour also includes a visit to the Founder’s Mansion, a restored colonial-era gem that offers a glimpse into Arequipa’s illustrious past.

This 18th-century mansion was once the home of the city’s founders. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved interiors, admiring the intricate woodcarvings, ornate furnishings, and grand architecture that defined the Spanish colonial era.

The tour guides share captivating stories about the mansion’s history and the influential families who once lived there.

Stepping inside this cultural landmark provides a fascinating contrast to the rugged, natural landscapes explored earlier in the tour, giving travelers a well-rounded understanding of Arequipa’s rich heritage.

Scenic Views of Rio Chili

Why does the tour make a stop at the former resort district of Tingo along the Rio Chili? The scenic drive along the "Via Paisajista" offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscape.

Tingo was once a popular resort area for Arequipians to escape the city, and the tour provides visitors a chance to experience this tranquil setting. As you gaze out over the Rio Chili, you’ll appreciate the serene beauty of the Peruvian countryside.

The tour also includes a visit to the Sachaca viewpoint, which affords panoramic vistas of Arequipa and the surrounding mountains. These picturesque spots give you a deeper connection to the rural charm of the region.

Insight Into Traditional Agriculture

Beyond the scenic river views, the tour offers an insightful look into Arequipa’s traditional agricultural practices.

Visitors explore pre-Inca farming terraces, getting a firsthand glimpse of the region’s deep-rooted history. They’ll visit garlic and onion fields on the city’s outskirts, learning about the longstanding methods used to cultivate these staple crops.

The guide provides fascinating insights into how these age-old techniques, dating back to Inca times, are still employed today.

This agricultural heritage comes alive, offering a unique perspective on the Peruvian countryside and its enduring connection to the land.

Important Information and Pricing

What’re the key logistical details to be aware of for this private tour of Arequipa’s countryside?

First, a minimum of 2 people is required to book the tour. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so those with serious medical conditions shouldn’t participate. But most travelers can join this experience.

The tour is private, meaning only your group will be involved. As for pricing, it starts at $89 per person, with the exact cost varying based on group size.

There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Past travelers have given it 4.5 out of 5 stars, praising the knowledgeable guides and unique locations visited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour company doesn’t provide any meals, so packing a picnic or snacks is a good idea if you’d like to have something to eat during the outing.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Tour Locations?

Yes, photography is generally allowed at all the tour locations. The tour overview doesn’t mention any restrictions, so visitors are free to capture scenic views and cultural sights during the countryside excursion.

What Should I Wear to Be Comfortable During the Tour?

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Dress in layers, as the countryside temperatures can vary. Bring a light jacket or sweater in case it gets cool. Avoid anything too formal or restrictive.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. Travelers can inquire with the tour provider about adding more time to explore the countryside and visit additional sites beyond the standard half-day itinerary.

Will There Be Any Breaks or Rest Stops During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes scheduled breaks and rest stops. The itinerary allows for visitors to enjoy the scenic countryside, explore the historic sites, and take in the views at a comfortable pace.

The Sum Up

This private countryside tour in Arequipa offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore ancient pre-Inca farming terraces, discover the historic Sabandia Mill, and tour the Founder’s Mansion, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Rio Chili. It’s an unforgettable journey through Arequipa’s agricultural traditions, providing valuable insight into the area’s influential families and their legacy.