Stated as the present capital of the Arequipa Region, the historic center of Arequipa is the finest example of colonialism defied by the natural conditions, the native impacts, the course of the invasion, and evangelization, and its outstanding setting. Towards the northern and eastern side of Arequipa lies the Andes Mountains; while, minor mountain ranges connected with the Andes falls to the southern and western sides. Opening towards the coastal side, the valley of Arequipa plays a pivotal role in linking Arequipa to the coastal as well as the highland regions of southern Peru.
Arequipa offers a wonderful holiday destination; if you wish to soak in the colonial beauty with gothic architecture depicting the finest craftsmanship. This majestic place is located at the foot of three snow-capped volcanoes. Most of the buildings in the Arequipa city are made from a white volcanic rock called Sillar. In fact, a majority of earthquakes in the town has led to the transformation of architecture to be seen in its present beauty. Having been found in the mid-16th century by the Spanish people, it stands proud to be the second-largest city in Peru.
The Historic Center of Arequipa spreads over an area of about 820 acres, which has been pronounced as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It comprises of 49 original blocks developed on the Spanish layout. On the other hand, there are 24 blocks representing the colonial period and even the 19th century. So, you can enjoy the delight of a perfect architectural amalgamation.
By Bus:
Arequipa is accessible from Lima, Cusco, Ica, Puno, Nazca, and Tacna or Chile by bus (Charges would be 50 Soles and above, depending upon operator). It has two bus terminals: Terrestre and Terrapuerto. From here, you can take a taxi to your respective hotel.
From Lima, it takes 16 to 18 hours non-stop by express buses from companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Excluciva, having expensive fares(100 Soles and above). Most of the express buses leave at 5 p.m. to reach Arequipa in the early morning. An affordable option is Peru Hop-On buses, which stop at different points like Paracas, Nazca, and Huacachina.
From Cusco, you can take a night only non-stop express bus by Cruz del Sur Cruzero service. With its comfortable buses, you will be reaching Arequipa early morning (around 6 or 7 a.m.).
From Ica, it takes around 12 hours to reach Arequipa. You can take night non-stop express bus by Cruz del Sur (fares vary upon the selection of bus).
From Puno, it takes around 6 hours to reach Arequipa. The bus by Cruz del Sur leaves 3.30 p.m. Also, you can opt for Expresso Services that are available with 4M and Giardino Tours (85 Soles on ann average).
From Nazca, take the most affordable bus option named Flores that starts at 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. The fare is around 50 Soles and takes about 8 to 10 hours to reach Arequipa.
From Chile or Tacna, you can take Florez Hnos Super Dorado service that leaves from Tacna National Bus Station. It is better to go before night time as there are chances of the bus getting delayed by 1 to 3 hours.
By Air:
The city has an airport named Rodriguez Ballon Airport or Aeropuerto Internacional Rodríguez Ballón (Spanish) lying 8 kilometers away from the city center. It receives flights from Lima, Cuzco, and Avianca cities.
Taxi fare from the airport to Plaza de Armas costs 20 Soles.
By Train:
Arequipa can be accessed from Juliaca and Puno by a luxury train named Belmond Andean Explorer (1600 Soles and above). This train runs once a week only.
Sunday: Open 24 Hours
Monday: Open 24 Hours
Tuesday: Open 24 Hours
Wednesday: Open 24 Hours
Thursday: Open 24 Hours
Friday: Open 24 Hours
Saturday: Open 24 Hours
Waiting Time
No
Entrance Fee
Plaza De Armas: Free
Basilica of Arequipa: Free
The museum inside Basilica: 10 Soles
Santa Catalina Monastery: 40 Soles
Yanahuara Viewpoint: Free
Museum of Andean Sanctuaries: 20 Soles
Mansión del Fundador: 10 Soles
(Note: The Historical city Center comprises of the sites together, each having it's individual entry fee criteria)
Time you can spend
5 to 6 Hours
Weather
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