Things to do in Arequipa

Activities, attractions and tours

A mountainous landscape with a valley shrouded in clouds, terraced fields, and a river.
A mountainous landscape with terraced fields and a town in the valley.
A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, rocky cliffs, and clear turquoise waters.
A mountainous landscape with terraced fields and a river.
A plaza with a church, palm trees, and mountains in the background.

Things to do

From Arequipa: Sillar Route Trek

From Arequipa: Sillar Route Trek

P794
per adult
From Arequipa: Sillar Route Trek
Tour to the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve in Arequipa

Tour to the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve in Arequipa

P1,799
per adult
Tour to the Salinas Lagoon and National Reserve in Arequipa
Arequipa: Tour Colca Canyon 2 Days Classic overnight in Chivay

Arequipa: Tour Colca Canyon 2 Days Classic overnight in Chivay

P4,000
per adult
Arequipa: Tour Colca Canyon 2 Days Classic overnight in Chivay
Arequipa: Chili River White Water Rafting + Pickup & Snack

Arequipa: Chili River Whitewater Rafting with Pickup + Snack

P1,108
per adult
Arequipa: Chili River Whitewater Rafting with Pickup + Snack
From Arequipa: Salinas Lagoon Half Day Tour

From Arequipa: Salinas Lagoon Half Day Tour

P1,661
per adult
From Arequipa: Salinas Lagoon Half Day Tour
Arequipa: Sillar Route and the Petroglyphs of Culebrillas

Arequipa: Sillar Route and the Petroglyphs of Culebrillas

P1,846
per adult
Arequipa: Sillar Route and the Petroglyphs of Culebrillas
Arequipa: Tour to the Pillones Waterfalls and Stone Forest

Arequipa: Tour to the Pillones Waterfalls and Stone Forest

P2,707
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Arequipa: Tour to the Pillones Waterfalls and Stone Forest
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What to do in Arequipa

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A historic building with two towers and a central dome, surrounded by palm trees and a fountain.

Arequipa Plaza de Armas

9.6/10 (509 reviews)
Framed by white volcanic sillar buildings, this UNESCO-listed plaza showcases Arequipa's colonial heart. Enjoy sunset views from balcony cafés as the cathedral glows against Misti Volcano's backdrop.
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Where to stay in Arequipa

Find the best Arequipa areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
A historic building with two towers and a central dome, surrounded by palm trees and a fountain.

Historical Center

Unique features of Historical Center include the mountain views and historic sites. Make a stop by Arequipa Plaza de Armas or Arequipa Cathedral while you're exploring the area.

A cityscape with a prominent mountain in the background.
Photo by James Pinkney
Open Photo by James Pinkney

Yanahuara

While visiting Yanahuara, you might make a stop by sights like Yanahuara Plaza and Yanahuara Viewpoint.

A narrow stone-paved street flanked by buildings with wooden doors and windows, and a hanging lantern.

San Lázaro

Though San Lázaro might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Casa Ricketts and Arequipa Cathedral.

A historic church with two bell towers and intricate stone carvings.

Cayma

While visiting Cayma, you might make a stop by sights like Mall Aventura Plaza Cayma and Cerro Cueva de Orejones.

A panoramic view of a town with a mountain range in the background.

Sachaca

When in Sachaca, you can plan a visit to Casa Goyeneche and Umacollo Stadium, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A person hiking on a desert trail with sparse vegetation and a mountain in the background.

Yura

Frequently asked questions

Is Arequipa worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Arequipa is visit Arequipa's Historical Museum. Check this leading sight off your itinerary, then discover more of this area's history and culture.
How do I spend a day in Arequipa?
Arequipa's Historical Museum and Yanahuara Viewpoint are two great places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the shopping and dining options in Arequipa while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Arequipa?
Don't go home without visiting Arequipa's Historical Museum, ranked the top tourist attraction in Arequipa.
Is three days enough to stay in Arequipa?
Three days in Arequipa is enough to enjoy the city's main highlights. Many guests stay for three days on average. Arequipa's Historical Museum, Yanahuara Viewpoint and La Mansion del Fundador are highly rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a little longer to visit nearby hotspots like Characato.
Is Arequipa a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Arequipa, such as Arequipa's Historical Museum and Yanahuara Viewpoint, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.16 kilometers from central Arequipa is Historical Center and Challapampa - Santa Sofían is 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Arequipa with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Arequipa with kids.

What to do in Arequipa for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in Arequipa for adults including Museo de la Universidad Nacional de San Agustín.
Are there free things to do in Arequipa?
In Arequipa, Yanahuara Viewpoint is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a great way to learn about the best free things to do in Arequipa.