Arequipa Private City Tour and San Camilo Traditional Market
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Arequipa Private City Tour and San Camilo Traditional Market

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

Tour of the historic center of Arequipa, built with local 'sillar' stone, a pale volcanic rock, affording Arequipa its glorious architecture and its appropriate nickname, 'the White City'. Visit the San Lazaro district, this neighborhood of narrow streets, narrow passages, small squares and large houses is the most representative area of the old Arequipa. Proceed then to the Compañia Church, built by the Jesuits and part of a representative monument of religious architecture of the XVII century. Continue to the local market of San Camilo, and appreciate a variety of local products. Notably, this market is considered a Monumental Heritage of Architecture representative of Public Civil architecture, whose structures were designed by the renowned French engineer Gustave Eiffel. Finally visit the convent of Santa Teresa, built in 1710, and recently opened to the public. The site has valuable pieces of religious art and fabulous frescoes.

Available options

Arequipa Private City Tour and San Camilo Traditional Market

Pickup included

What's included

Pickup and drop-off
Admission to the dome in The Compañia Church
Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish and English).
Admission to Santa Teresa Monastery

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Visit the San Lazaro district, located five blocks from the Plaza de Armas of Arequipa. This neighborhood of narrow streets, narrow passages, small squares and large houses is the most representative area of the old Arequipa.

2
Stop 2

Built by the Jesuits and part of a representative monument of religious architecture of the XVII century (1660). The Church of the Company was designed in 1573 by Gaspar Baez and destroyed by an earthquake in 1584. Its current structure dates from 1650. It has about 66 paintings from the Cusco school of artists such as Bernardo Bitti and Diego de la Puente.

3
Stop 3

Visit the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by the Church, Cathedral and various portals. The Plaza de Armas has a beautiful bronze fountain of three plates crowned with the figure of a soldier of the sixteenth century. A character that is called the 'Tuturutu', who, according to history, was in charge of warning of any new event. Around the square you can see three portals made of granite and brick vaults and lime: the Portal del Cabildo (Portal of the Municipality), the Portal de las Delicias (Portal of St. Augustine) and Portal del Regocijo (Portal Flores).

4

This market is considered a Monumental Heritage of Architecture representative of Public Civil architecture, whose structures were designed by the renowned French engineer Gustave Eiffel.

5

The Monastery of the Discalced Carmelite Nuns of San José (known as Santa Teresa), in Arequipa, was founded in 1710, and has remained alive ever since, housing a Community of contemplative nuns dedicated to praying for the cares of the world. In its more than 300 years of existence, the Monastery has been hoarding paintings, sculptures, furniture, goldsmiths, decorative arts, canvases, mural painting and everyday objects from different periods, origins and artistic styles.

What's not included

Personal expenses
Gratuities
Photos

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
It is important to inform us the name of the hotel where you are staying in order to coordinate your pick up.
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Rates do not apply for Peruvians or foreign passengers whose stay exceeded 60 days in Peru because sales taxes are not included in the above total and, if applicable, will be collected by the local operator.
Dress code for visiting churches: pants, long shorts, or skirts that cover the knees; otherwise, entry will not be permitted.

Important notes

- After your booking, it is mandatory to send to destinationservices@limatours.com.pe: hotel name and address for pickup.
- For taxes purposes, it is important to send your passports copies to destinationservices@limatours.com.pe
- This activity does not include the pick up from private residences (Airbnb). If passengers stay in them, please contact us days prior the start of the tour, in order to coordinate a meeting point for the pick-up.
- Once you have arrived in Peru, if you have inquiries about your services (start times, pick-up points and others), incident reports (health problems and others), flight problems (delays or cancellations), contact us by our mobile emergency number and Whatsapp: (51) 997516250 - (51) 989397881, or send an email to hola@lito.pe

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

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Childs
Age 5-10
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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