Walking City tour including the Monastery of Santa Catalina
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the heart of Arequipa on this immersive walking tour. We begin at the vibrant San Camilo Market, a colorful hub of daily life filled with local products, flavors, and traditions. Then, stroll through charming streets toward the Main Square, where your guide will share the rich history of one of Peru’s most beautiful plazas. Visit the ornate Church and Cloister of La Compañía de Jesús, home to the stunning Saint Ignacio Cupola, a masterpiece of colonial art. Continue to a 17th-century tambo, a traditional communal housing complex that reveals the city’s colonial past. Finally, explore the breathtaking Santa Catalina Monastery, a city within the city, with over 300 years of fascinating history. Your guide will assist with your entry before bidding you farewell.
Available options
Walking City tour including the Monastery of Santa Catalina
What's included
Entrance to San Ignacio Cupola.
Entrance to Monastery of Santa Catalina.
Permanent assistance.
Professional English Guide.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our tour begins visiting the popular market of San Camilo; declared Historical Heritage in l987 and where you can find many products such as groceries, flowers, clothes, and other quality items at low cost. This is a place full of color, activity, variety of flavors, that show a little bit the daily life of our city.
2
Stop 2
Then we will continue walking toward to the city center (Main Plaza) exploring the streets of the city center and arrive to Arequipa’s Main Square, where your guide will give you a historical introduction of one of the most beautiful Peruvian main squares.
3
Stop 3
We’ll continue our tour, visiting the church and cloister of La Compañía de Jesús, this Cloister and Church are one whole unit, with semi-archways of heavy pilasters fully decorated on all four sides. Each sides exhibits identical reliefs, of three thick clusters of grapes, papayas, shells, cantutas, roses, grapes etc.
In the Church we will visit the famous Cupola of Saint Ignacio; a chapel so beautiful that is an example of colonial Arequipean art.
4
Stop 4
We will walk to the Monastery of Santa Catalina; monument that belongs to the most important attractions of Arequipa city, keeping behind their malls more than three centuries of history.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Our office is just a 5-minute walk from the Plaza de Armas. Walk along Calle San Francisco heading north, then turn right onto Calle Jerusalén. You'll find us on the right-hand. Look for the Giardino Tours sign at the entrance.
About Arequipa
Arequipa, known as the White City for its colonial buildings made of white volcanic stone, is a stunning destination nestled in the Andes. It offers a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant food scene, making it a must-visit in Peru.
Top Attractions
Santa Catalina Monastery
A stunning 16th-century monastery that is like a small city within a city. Its colorful buildings and courtyards are a must-see.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
$10
Yanahuara Viewpoint
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Arequipa and the surrounding volcanoes, including El Misti.
Nature/Scenic
1-2 hours
Free
Colca Canyon
One of the deepest canyons in the world, famous for its stunning landscapes and condor sightings.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 days for a full experience
Varies by tour and accommodation
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rocoto Relleno
A spicy stuffed pepper dish filled with meat, cheese, and sometimes olives, topped with a creamy sauce.
Main Dish
Contains meat and dairy
Adobo Arequipeño
A traditional stew made with pork, potatoes, and a spicy sauce.
Main Dish
Contains pork and dairy
Chuño
Freeze-dried potatoes, a staple in Andean cuisine, often served as a side dish.
Side Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Trekking in Colca Canyon
Mountain biking
Horseback riding
Visiting hot springs
Exploring parks
Enjoying local cafes
Visiting museums
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
April to November
This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F)
50°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Quechua
- English: Limited
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Arequipa is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Rodríguez Ballón International Airport • 6 km (4 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal Terrestre de Arequipa
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses, known as combis and coasters, are the primary mode of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Beat, InDriver
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Cayma
San Lázaro
Yanahuara
Day trips
Colca Canyon
165 km (103 miles) • Full day or overnight
One of the deepest canyons in the world, offering stunning landscapes, hot springs, and condor sightings.
Sibinacocha Lake
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
A beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Santa Catalina Monastery
City center • Half day
A stunning 16th-century monastery that is like a small city within a city.
Festivals
Festival de la Virgen de la Asuncion • August 15
Arequipa International Film Festival • August
Pro tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
- Visit the Yanahuara Viewpoint at sunset for the best views
- Try local dishes like Rocoto Relleno and Adobo Arequipeño
- Book tours in advance, especially for Colca Canyon
- Carry cash for small purchases and tips
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
