SHARED
SERVICE
Duration:
4 hours
Distance:
0
Difficulty:
Easy
Ideal:
All
Arequipa City Tour + Santa Catalina Monastery
Explore Arequipa, the White City of Peru, and discover its main attractions on our Arequipa City Tour + Santa Catalina Monastery. This half-day tour combines history, architecture, and local culture in one of the country’s most charming colonial towns. Explore the Historic Center of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its gleaming volcanic sillar stone buildings. Explore the beautiful Main Square, the Arequipa Cathedral, and the Yanahuara viewpoint, with panoramic views of the Misti volcano and the city.
The final stop is the Santa Catalina Monastery, a “city within a city” known for its vibrant colors, narrow streets, and centuries of history. Founded in 1579, this convent is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved colonial buildings in South America.
Arequipa City Tour
Arequipa City Tour + Santa Catalina Monastery Itinerary:
The tour begins at 8:00 a.m., with our transport service picking up tourists from their hotels. We start our adventure with stunning panoramic views from the Carmen Alto and Yanahuara Viewpoints, spectacular settings surrounded by the guardian volcanoes Chachani, Misti, and Pichu Pichu. Observe Arequipa's green countryside, formed by ancient pre-Inca terraces, a living testament to the region's history.
Next, our exploration leads us to the emblematic Yanahuara district. Here we will visit its spectacular main square and its 1750 church, with its majestic Baroque facade. The emblem of Yanahuara is its renowned sillar arches, where you can read philosophical reflections that encapsulate the spirit and wisdom of Arequipa's inhabitants.
From there, we will head to the urban center to visit the iconic Santa Catalina Monastery, one of Arequipa, Peru's most impressive and representative architectural gems. More than just a building, it's a true "city within a city," a labyrinth of streets, squares, cloisters, and cells that transports you four centuries back in time. Explore the vividly toned walls of red, blue, and white.
Continuing with Arequipa's architectural richness, our tour proceeds to the Church of the Company of Jesus (La Compañía de Jesús). Explore its astonishing facade of mixed architecture, its tranquil cloisters, and its elaborate dome. Finally, we will conclude our journey by contemplating the iconic Casona Tristán del Pozo, an excellent example of Arequipa's colonial architecture.
Finally, we invite you to marvel at the Plaza de Armas of Arequipa, considered one of the most beautiful in Peru. Its impeccable white tone, sophisticated arches, and beautiful palm trees surrounding it will invite you to a memorable sunset and an enchanting evening.
Included / Not Included
Arequipa City tour includes:
- Professional bilingual guide (English and/or Spanish).
- Tourist transportation.
- Entrance fees.
Arequipa City tour does not include:
- Snacks and drinks are not specified in the itinerary.
- Voluntary tips.
- All entrance fees must be paid in cash (Peruvian Soles) at the time of the visit. The guide will adapt to your preferences.
What to bring
Arequipa City Tour + Santa Catalina Monastery
Identification Document or Passport: This is essential for both your identification and for the tourist ticket control.
Cash (Peruvian Soles): You might want to buy souvenirs during the tour.
Camera: You'll have the opportunity to photograph the impressive city of Arequipa.
Clothing that Breathes: To stay cool and comfortable throughout the day, dress in cotton or linen.
Light Jacket or Cardigan: While days tend to be sunny, temperatures can drop slightly in the shade or if it gets windy, especially in the late afternoon.
Comfortable Sneakers or Flat Shoes: These are perfect for preventing discomfort during your explorations.
High SPF Sunscreen: Solar radiation is intense in Arequipa due to its high altitude.
Sunglasses: They will protect your eyes from the intense glare.
Cap or Hat: Essential for protecting your head and face from direct sun.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially at high altitudes.
Tour Price
Shared Tour Service:
This group service means you'll do the tour with other people. This standard service operates with a group of 12 to 18 individuals. We have confirmed departures every day, so if you're traveling alone or with just one other person, don't worry; you can join one of our existing groups.
- Starting from: $45 USD.
Private Tour Service:
This service offers an exclusive way to experience the trip, where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary based on the number of people in your group. Please inquire at info@ausangateadventure.com or WhatsApp +51 914201334.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in the Arequipa City Tour with Santa Catalina?
This tour typically includes a guided visit to Arequipa's main historical center attractions, such as the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, colonial streets, the Church of the Company of Jesus, viewpoints (like Yanahuara or Carmen Alto), and full entrance to the Santa Catalina Monastery, one of the city's most significant monuments.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, depending on the group's pace and the specific points visited.
What is the Santa Catalina Monastery?
It's a monumental cloistered convent established in 1579, often described as a "city within a city," featuring internal streets, cells, patios, and chapels. It's one of the most outstanding examples of Arequipa's colonial architecture.
What clothing is recommended?
We recommend comfortable clothing, walking shoes, a hat or cap, sunscreen, and water. Arequipa generally has a sunny and dry climate most of the year.
Is Monastery admission included in the tour price?
The general admission price for foreign visitors is around S/45 soles (this may vary).
Is photography allowed in the monastery?
Yes, you can take photos, but without flash and always respecting religious spaces.
Can I take the tour in the morning or afternoon?
Yes. Both morning (9:00 a.m.) and afternoon (around 2:00 p.m.) schedules are available, depending on your preference.
Prices
SHARED SERVICE
$$45USD USD per person
- Daily departures subject to availability.
- Reference price for this service.
- Final availability is confirmed by our travel team.
Private Service
On request
- Flexible schedule.
- Recommended for families or private groups.
- Custom pace and private logistics.
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