What to do in Arequipa in 1, 2 and 3 days
We know that planning a short trip can be stressful. That’s why here you’ll discover what to do in Arequipa in 1, 2, and 3 days with an optimized itinerary. We’ll show you plans, costs, and key tips so you can make the most of your time without missing the essentials.
🌎 What is Arequipa and why visit it?
Arequipa, known as the “White City,” is one of Peru’s most attractive destinations thanks to its colonial architecture, impressive volcanoes, and renowned gastronomy.
Here you can combine:
- History and culture
- Nature and adventure
- Unique cuisine
⚙️ How to organize your visit in 1, 2 or 3 days?
🗓️ Day 1 in Arequipa (Essential City Tour)
- Plaza de Armas
- Arequipa Cathedral
- Santa Catalina Monastery
- Yanahuara viewpoint
👉 Ideal for a first introduction
🗓️ Day 2 in Arequipa (Nature and Culture)
- Sillar Route
- Carmen Alto viewpoint
- San Camilo Market (local food)
- Museums (Juanita / Andean Sanctuaries)
👉 A deeper cultural experience
🗓️ Day 3 in Arequipa (Adventure)
- Colca Canyon excursion
- Condor watching
- Hot springs
👉 Perfect if you love nature
📋 Travel Requirements
🧳 Documentation
- Valid passport
- Visa (depending on nationality)
💳 Basic logistics
- Advance bookings (especially for Colca Canyon)
- Cash (widely used)
- Travel insurance recommended
📊 Itinerary Comparison Table
| Plan | Approx. Price | Difficulty | Duration | Best Time | Type of Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 day | $30–$80 | Easy | 1 day | All year | Cultural |
| 2 days | $80–$180 | Medium | 2 days | Apr–Nov | Mixed |
| 3 days (with Colca) | $150–$300 | Medium/High | 3 days | May–Oct | Adventure |
💰 What’s Included and Not Included
✅ What’s included?
- Attraction tickets (depending on the tour)
- Transportation during excursions
- Tour guide (for organized tours)
❌ What’s NOT included?
- Flights
- Full meals
- Tips
- Optional entrance fees
🧠 Expert Tips (Pro Tips)
🌦️ Weather
- Sunny almost all year
- Cold nights
👉 Bring sunscreen and a light jacket
⛰️ Altitude
- Arequipa: 2,300 m (mild impact)
- Colca Canyon: over 3,500 m
👉 Stay hydrated and avoid heavy activity on your first day
🎒 Safety
- Historic center is safe
- Avoid remote areas at night
📸 What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Camera or smartphone
🌍 Arequipa vs Other Cities in Peru
| City | Advantage | Type of Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Arequipa | Balance of culture + nature | Complete |
| Cusco | Inca history | Cultural |
| Lima | Gastronomy | Urban |
| Puno | Andean traditions | Cultural |
🎯 How to Choose Your Ideal Itinerary
- Short time: 1 day (historic center)
- Full experience: 2 days
- Full adventure: 3 days with Colca Canyon
