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Get in touchThe city of Arequipa, 2,353 metres above sea level, is located on the Chili River, flanked by three, snow-capped volcanoes; Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu. It is known as the ‘White City’, as its buildings are made out of ‘sillar’, a white volcanic rock from the area.
During colonial days, the city was the principal centre for the gathering and shipping of wool to England via the port of Mollendo and today still continues to be the world’s centre of the alpaca wool industry. It is the second most important city in Peru after Lima and the primary commercial, industrial and cultural centre in the southern part of the country.
With its dry climate, consisting of sunny days and cold nights, and its colonial style buildings, Arequipa is without doubt one of Peru’s most beautiful cities. It also has an extraordinary gastronomic heritage. Do not miss trying some of the exquisite dishes in the traditional restaurants called ‘picanterias’.
Santa Catalina Convent
The Santa Catalina Covent is probably Arequipa's most interesting feature. A city within a city, it is a walled complex with winding, cobbled streets and colourful colonial buildings. A small number of nuns still live in a private quarter. Wander among the quiet cloisters and imagine how it was kept closed for four centuries - an oasis of colour in the heart of the city.
Arequipa is also the gateway for visits to the Colca Canyon.
GMT - 6 hours
Nuevo Sol or US dollar
Spanish
12 hours 30 minutes. BA direct flight from London Gatwick
Average rainfall