Arequipa Countryside, Sabandia Mill & Founder's Mansion
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
Enjoy the beautiful green valleys on the outskirts of Arequipa, where you can appreciate stunning landscapes with the surrounding mountains and volcanoes.
Visit architectural marvels in Arequipa such as the Sabandía Mill and the Founder’s Mansion, built from the city’s main construction material: sillar.
Exploring these tourist attractions in Arequipa is well worth it and will allow you to learn more about the history of this fantastic city.
Available options
Arequipa Countryside, Sabandia Mill & Founder's Mansion
Pickup included
What's included
Ticket entrances to Sabandia Mill and Founder's Mansion
01 bottle of water per person
Private transfers to and from your Arequipa hotel.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our Countryside, Sabandía Mill, and Founder’s Mansion tour begins with pickup from your hotel located in downtown Arequipa, and we will head towards the beautiful and extensive Arequipa countryside, where onions and garlic are cultivated.
We will visit the Valley of Chilina to admire the vibrant colors of the countryside from its grand viewpoint. Here, you will have wonderful views of wide green fields and the Chili River.
2
Stop 2
We will visit Paucarpata, which has terraces and viewpoints offering spectacular panoramic views of the Arequipa countryside and the imposing Misti volcano.
3
Stop 3
We will continue the tour by visiting the Founder’s Mansion, a traditional sillar manor house built in the 16th century by the founder of Arequipa, Garcí Manuel de Carbajal. Located 20 kilometers from the Plaza de Armas and near the Socabaya River, its colonial-era style remains intact, as does its original decor.
The mansion has been occupied by various prominent figures such as doctors, bishops, generals, and priests. It features a small chapel, a beautiful main patio, and colorful gardens. During the tour, you will observe rooms adorned with canvases, ceramics, and furniture brought from Europe.
4
Stop 4
Just 9 kilometers from the city, you will find the Sabandía Mill, an architectural gem dating back to 1621 made of sillar, and which still operates to this day! Surrounded by beautiful and spacious gardens, with local trees and plants like cacti and succulents.
Master stonemason Don Francisco Flores was responsible for constructing this interesting site, and today it is one of the most important historical monuments in Arequipa.
At the end of the tour, we will return to the city center to drop you off at your hotel.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You should bring hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, money for personal expenses
Important notes
If you have any question, do not hesitate to contact us!
OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 3221-8400 (Mon to Sun from 09 to 18 Hs)
EMERGENCY MOBILE: (+54 911) 4991-4035 (After office hours)
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
