📖 About Arequipa

Arequipa, Peru's second-largest city, is known as "La Ciudad Blanca" (The White City) for its stunning colonial architecture built from white volcanic sillar stone quarried from the surrounding Andes. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, the historic center showcases some of South America's finest colonial architecture against a dramatic backdrop of three volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.

At 2,335 meters elevation, Arequipa enjoys a pleasant temperate climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually. Tourism infrastructure has significantly improved in 2025, with new luxury hotels, enhanced airport facilities, and better road connections to Colca Canyon. The city now rivals Cusco as Peru's second most important tourist destination, offering an authentic Peruvian experience away from Machu Picchu crowds.

While Lima is internationally recognized as Peru's culinary capital, many Peruvians argue that Arequipa holds the true crown. The city's picanterías (traditional eateries) serve iconic dishes like rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy peppers), adobo arequipeño (marinated pork stew), and chupe de camarones (rich prawn chowder). Peak tourist season is July-August, with April-November offering ideal dry weather.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Arequipa's economy blends mining, agriculture, and growing tourism. The surrounding region produces copper and other minerals, while the fertile valleys yield onions, garlic, and other crops. Tourism has become increasingly important, with visitors drawn to the historic center, Colca Canyon, and the city's role as a gateway to southern Peru's attractions.

Arequipeño culture is fiercely proud and independent—the region has historically viewed itself as distinct from Lima. Traditional dances, festivals honoring the city's patron saints, and the legendary cuisine define local identity. The sillar architecture creates a distinctive aesthetic, while Spanish colonial heritage blends with indigenous Andean traditions. Literary and intellectual traditions flourish, earning Arequipa recognition as a cultural capital.

📜 History

Arequipa was founded by Spanish conquistadors in 1540, though the region was previously inhabited by Aymara and later Inca peoples. The city rapidly grew wealthy from silver mining and agriculture, developing the distinctive colonial architecture that earns its UNESCO designation. Earthquakes periodically devastated the city, but residents rebuilt using the same white sillar stone.

Arequipa played a significant role in Peruvian independence and has produced several presidents. The city maintained a reputation for intellectualism and independence from Lima. Mario Vargas Llosa, Nobel Prize-winning author, was born here. Today's Arequipa honors this heritage while embracing tourism, connecting visitors to Peru's colonial past, Andean culture, and natural wonders.