GUIDE
How to get there
By land
Lima - Arequipa (1003 km.) is an approximately 14 hour drive.
By air
Daily flights from the cities of Lima (approx. 50 min.) and Cusco (approx. 30 min.)
By train
There is train service between Arequipa and the cities of Mollendo, Juliaca, Puno and Cusco.
Where to go (tourist attractions)
Santa Catalina Monastery
Built as a cloister in 1580, the convent is divided into sections similar to the first neighborhoods of Arequipa. Address: Calle Santa Catalina 301
Misti Volcano
Misti is the main traditional image of the city. From its peak, one can see the city of Arequipa, the Chili River Valley and the Chachani and Pichu Picchu volcanoes. Located 17.5 km northeast of the city of Arequipa, it is 5,822 m high.
Toro Muerto Petroglyphs
A magical religious center that dates back to the Quaternary Period. Due to the age of the petroglyphs found in this region, they are considered to be significant evidence of the existence of primitive man in this region.
La Compañía Complex
With its imposing aspect, it is the only building preserving colonial art down to its foundations. It is formed by two cloisters with sculpted, volcanic stone entranceways and Jesuit monograms on the upper part. It is the purest example of Arequipa’s mestizo architectural style.
Special dates (local festivities)
The Feast of the Virgin of Chapi (May)
Is celebrated with processions to sanctuaries and fireworks on the eve of the feast day.
The Corpus Christi Feast (June)
Is celebrated with a special Mass and a Corpus Christi procession at the city's cathedral.
On the Anniversary of Arequipa (August)
All of the joy of the people of Arequipa is concentrated in the celebration of their city's anniversary. Artistic, cultural and civic-religious activities give rise to public celebrations whose essence is evident on August 14 and 15 (the anniversary) with serenades, open-air festivals, the election of queens, parades with floats, etc. This month's activities attract so many visitors that advance hotel reservations are necessary.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception (December)
Is celebrated with a series of cultural activities including a competition among dancers of the famous witite dance.
Copyright 2012. All rights reserved
