Arequipa, Historic and Colonial City and Santa Catalina Monastery

Following pickup at your hotel in Arequipa, set out to explore what is known as the White City (Ciudad Blanca) aboard an air-conditioned coach. 

Stop first at the St Lazarus quarter, where Arequipa was founded. Walk down lovely streets lined with flowers and historic homes. At the Carmen Alto viewpoint, stop for views and photo ops of the surrounding farmland, framed by the Pichu Pichu, Cachani and Misti volcanoes. 

See the Andalusian-style church and buildings in the Yanahuara colonial district. The white buildings here are made from sillar, a volcanic rock, giving the White City its nickname. Stop at another popular viewpoint, El Mirador de Yanahuara.

Continue to the Monastery of St Catherine, a Dominican religious site that was closed to the public for over 4 centuries. Walk through the nunnery's peaceful plazas, narrow alleyways and lush gardens.

Visit the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa in the Plaza de Armas, dating from the 16th century. Learn about the history of the structure from your guide, then stop by cloisters at the Church of the Society of Jesus (Iglesia de los Jesuita). 

At the conclusion of your city tour, return to your hotel for drop-off.

• With a guide, you’ll see the city’s top historical attractions
• Visit Santa Catalina Monastery and the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa
• Travel by air-conditioned coach and hop off at various sites to walk around

Visit the historical center of Arequipa, including the Plaza de Armas, on a half-day tour of the Peruvian city. Get well-acquainted with its colonial history while a guide leads the way. Carmen Alto and the Mirador de Yanahuara provide excellent views of the city and its surrounds. You’ll also visit the Monastery of St. Catherine and the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa.

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Note: Admission to religious places in shorts is not allowed; please wear long pants or a long skirt
Not wheelchair accessible
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Most travelers can participate
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers