Arequipa: Discover the White City of Peru

October 23, 2025 | by: Kuoda Authors

With its dazzling colonial architecture, eternal sunshine, and dramatic volcanic backdrop, Arequipa is one of Peru’s most captivating destinations. Known as the “White City” for the brilliant sillar volcanic stone that adorns its historic buildings, Arequipa is both elegant and deeply Andean. At once cosmopolitan and traditional, it is a city where Spanish colonial plazas meet centuries-old monasteries, and bustling markets thrive beside fine dining restaurants.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Arequipa offers travelers an inspiring mix of culture, history, gastronomy, and natural beauty. At Kuoda Travel, we design journeys that go beyond sightseeing, helping guests uncover the city’s living heritage and its spectacular surroundings.

The History and Architecture of Arequipa

Founded in 1540 by the Spanish, Arequipa quickly became an important colonial hub thanks to its fertile valleys and strategic location. Its architectural legacy is extraordinary: gleaming white walls of volcanic sillar stone reflect the Andean sun, earning the city its famous nickname.

The heart of Arequipa is the Plaza de Armas, one of the most beautiful squares in South America, surrounded by arches and the imposing Basilica Cathedral. Just a short walk away lies the Santa Catalina Monastery, a “city within a city” that once housed hundreds of nuns and is now a labyrinth of colorful courtyards, frescoes, and chapels.

Strolling through Arequipa’s historic center is a journey through time, revealing the blending of European styles with Andean traditions. For travelers, this cultural depth is part of what makes Arequipa so unforgettable.

Arequipa’s Natural Surroundings

Framed by towering volcanoes, Arequipa’s scenery is nothing short of spectacular. El Misti, the snowcapped giant that dominates the skyline, has long been considered sacred by local communities. Alongside it rise Chachani and Pichu Pichu, creating a dramatic amphitheater around the city.

Beyond its urban beauty, Arequipa is the gateway to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world and twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Here, travelers witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor, hike along terraced landscapes, and visit traditional villages that preserve centuries-old ways of life.

For those seeking adventure, Arequipa offers endless possibilities, from trekking volcanoes to exploring its valleys by horseback. The natural setting perfectly complements the city’s cultural richness, creating a balance of exploration and serenity.

Culinary Capital of Peru

While Lima is internationally recognized as Peru’s culinary capital, many Peruvians argue that Arequipa holds the true crown. The city is renowned for its picanterías, traditional eateries where locals gather to savor hearty, spice-rich dishes.

Signature specialties include rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy peppers), adobo arequipeño (a marinated pork stew), and chupe de camarones (a rich prawn chowder). The flavors here are bold, authentic, and rooted in centuries of tradition. Dining in Arequipa is not simply about eating; it is about experiencing the heart of its culture.

For Kuoda guests, we curate private culinary experiences, from guided visits to local markets to intimate cooking sessions with expert chefs, ensuring that your journey through Arequipa also delights the palate.

Cultural Immersion in Arequipa

Arequipa is more than beautiful plazas and fine dining; it is a living cultural hub. A highlight for many visitors is the Museo Santuarios Andinos, home to “Juanita, the Ice Maiden,” the remarkably preserved mummy of a young Inca girl discovered on Mount Ampato. Her story offers profound insight into the spiritual practices of the Inca civilization.

The city also boasts vibrant artisan traditions, from textiles to stone carving, as well as colorful local markets where daily life unfolds with authenticity. Festivals, music, and religious celebrations fill the calendar, making Arequipa a city alive with rhythm and tradition.

When to Visit Arequipa

With its mild climate and over 300 days of sunshine each year, Arequipa is a destination that can be visited year-round. The dry season (April to December) offers particularly clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and excursions to Colca Canyon.

Cultural events also add vibrancy to the city. The Virgen de Chapi Festival in May draws pilgrims from across the country, while Arequipa’s anniversary in August transforms the city into a stage for parades, music, and fireworks. Whether for festivals, food, or adventure, there is always something happening in Arequipa.

Experiencing Arequipa with Kuoda

At Kuoda Travel, we ensure your journey through Arequipa is as personalized as it is memorable. Our bespoke itineraries may include:

• Private walking tours of the UNESCO-listed historic center.
• Exclusive visits to Santa Catalina Monastery with expert guides.
• Market tours and cooking classes to experience Arequipa’s legendary cuisine.
• Luxury stays in restored colonial mansions, blending modern comfort with historic charm.
• Seamless connections to other iconic destinations like Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon.

With Kuoda, Arequipa becomes more than a stop on your Peru itinerary, it becomes a gateway into the cultural soul of the Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arequipa

Why is Arequipa called the White City?
Because many of its colonial buildings are made of sillar, a white volcanic stone that gleams under the sun.

How many days should you spend in Arequipa?
We recommend at least two to three days to explore the city and an additional two days if visiting Colca Canyon.

What is Arequipa famous for?
Arequipa is renowned for its colonial architecture, culinary traditions, surrounding volcanoes, and as the gateway to Colca Canyon.

How far is Arequipa from Colca Canyon?
Colca Canyon is about a three- to four-hour drive from Arequipa, making it a popular excursion.

Is Arequipa worth visiting on a luxury Peru itinerary?
Absolutely. Arequipa combines culture, history, cuisine, and adventure, offering an elegant complement to Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Why Arequipa Belongs on Your Peru Journey

With its graceful colonial architecture, rich gastronomy, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Arequipa stands as one of Peru’s most alluring destinations. It is a city where past and present harmonize, offering travelers the chance to connect with both history and contemporary life.

At Kuoda Travel, we design journeys that showcase the very best of Arequipa, blending iconic highlights with hidden gems that few visitors experience. Whether you are strolling the cobblestone streets of its UNESCO center, savoring traditional dishes in a centuries-old picantería, or marveling at condors soaring over Colca Canyon, your time in Arequipa will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Let Kuoda curate your journey through Arequipa, ensuring that every detail reflects not only your interests but also the essence of this remarkable city, Peru’s White City, waiting to be discovered.