Written by:
peru.travel
Friday, August 7, 2020
In this Page
When time for travel comes, nature and its sinuous geography surprise us with landscapes and places from which the traveler does not want to return. Because traveling is also finding and discovering, and Arequipa has a lot to offer. This region is a sample of the variety of places that you can visit with alternatives of adventure and rest that you cannot miss.
In the shadow of a volcano, surrounded by majestic and snowy mountains, and enriched by its great colonial history, the Ciudad Blanca (White City) will show you the beauty, tradition and gastronomy that have made it one of the most important cities in Peru.
Santa Catalina Convent
Founded in the 16th century, this was a monastery for cloistered nuns, becoming one of the most representative constructions of Arequipa's colonial architecture. When entering, you will find a citadel made up of streets, squares, gardens, halls and even a cemetery. The colors and aromas of flowers make this tour a unique and very special experience.
The convent occupies an area of approximately twenty thousand square meters and its distribution is similar to that of the first neighborhoods of Arequipa. Inside, you will discover the cloister of Blessed Sister Ana de los Ángeles Monteagudo, who was beatified during Pope John Paul II visit to Peru in 1985. In the gallery, you can find paintings by the Cusco school. You can choose a guided tour or follow the signs that will tell you its charming story.
Misti volcano
The Misti, with its 5,825 meters high, is the most representative symbol of Arequipa. Always accompany as a guardian apu in the landscape of the area, since it is just 20 km from the city. From its summit, you have an incredible panoramic view of Arequipa, the Chili river valley and the adjoining volcanoes such as Pichu Pichu or Chachani.
To visit this majestic volcano and reach the top, you must take two days on your itinerary. Although the journey does not imply major difficulties, it is important to carry out a necessary acclimatization period to adequately cope with a long walk of up to 10 hours. Without a doubt, an experience for those who enjoy adventure and trekking, which is crowned with great and fascinating landscapes that remain forever in memory.
The Cotahuasi Canyon
The river of the same name crosses this ravine with a depth of 3,535 meters and a route of 100 km between two huge mountains: La Coropuna and La Solimana. The canyon extends from the hills of the first to the junction with the Ocoña river. In this area (declared a Tourist Reserve) you will find ancient temples, extensive terraced areas and other archaeological centers of pre-Hispanic origin.
The canyon extends to the junction with the Ocoña river. Credit: James Posso / PromPerú.
Also, due to its rugged geography, this canyon has become an ideal destination for adventure sports. Canoeing, rock climbing, trekking and mountain biking competitions are held every year there. In its surroundings, you can also enjoy the Sipia waterfall, a 150-meter cataract -considered the largest in the entire canyon-, which allows you to appreciate the strength of the river in a large dimension. The fall is placed at three hours of walk from the town of Cotahuasi.
The Sillar quarries
The city of Arequipa is known for its buildings based on sillar (volcanic stone). This whitish-colored rock was used by the Incas for sacred buildings and, later, by the Spanish to build houses and churches. Thus, by the use of the sillar, Arequipa is known as the ‘White City’. By visiting the route of sillar, you will be able to discover the way in which this material was worked, which, due to its beauty and particularity, will leave you impressed.
The Yanahuara Viewpoint
This charming balcony is located just 2 km from the city center next to the plaza of the same name, meaning a must-see in Arequipa. Built in the 19th century, it has a privileged view of the entire city; and due to its location, you can see the three volcanoes: Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu, which surround the city. When you visit the Yanahuara plaza, don't forget to try the traditional Arequipa dessert, the Queso helado (the Frozen cheese). A delight that you should not miss.
Sources: Andina / El Comercio / peru.com
Follow us on social media
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | YouTube
