Half-Day Arequipa City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery
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
You will be picked up from your hotel to be transferred to the Carmen Alto viewpoint, where you will enjoy the countryside of Arequipa with a view to Chili river, and the Misti and Chachani volcanoes, in the background. Then you will be transported to the Yanahuara viewpoint, an olden construction of the XIX century, where they will obtain a view to the cityside, always with the imposing Misti watching over. After that, you will visit the basilica of the Company of Jesus, an impressive architectonic piece of neo-renaissance style, built with white stone, known as ashlar. The tour will continue in Main Square, the main space of urban encounters. Finally, you will know to get to know the famous Convent of Santa Catalina, a prestigious institution of the XVI century, comprised of plazas, cloisters, and streets, that used to be inhabited by the daughters of prestigious families, who were kept by the convent’s nuns.
Available options
Half-Day Arequipa City Tour and Santa Catalina Monastery
Pickup included
What's included
Professional tour guide (Spanish, Portuguese, French and English)
Admission to Santa Catalina Monastery
Pickup and drop-off.
Detailed itinerary
1
It is located 6 km from the center of Arequipa. From this place you can enjoy a great view of the Chili river valley and the volcanoes that surround the city.
2
Stop 2
Yanahuara is declared "Villa Hermosa de Yanahuara" on November 8, 1870. It is one of the oldest districts created in Arequipa whose main square is surrounded by churches, traditional shops and its famous viewpoint.
3
Stop 3
The Church of the Company is a World Heritage Site. Its construction began in 1590 and lasted more than a century.
4
Stop 4
The citadel occupies a land of 20,000 square meters and is isolated from the city, despite being located in the heart of it. The material used for its construction was ashlar, coming from the volcanoes that surround the city
What's not included
Gratuities.
Personal expenses.
Snacks and beverages.
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.0
1 reviews
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1
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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 passengers 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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
