Province of Arequipa - South American Destination

Location:
Coast and highlands (Andes) in southern Peru
Area: 63.345 km 2 / 24.457 miles 2
Capital:
Arequipa (2335 masl / 7333 fasl)
Lima
Altitude:
Lowest point: 9 masl / 30 fasl (Punta de Bombón)
Highest point: 4910 masl / 16.109 fasl
(Mirador de los Volcanes, Volcano Lookout, – Caylloma)
Arequipa
Distances:
From the city of Arequipa to the following cities:
Camaná
(Province of Camaná) 173 km (108 miles)/ 2 hours and 30 minutes
Caravelí
(Province of Caravelí) 382 km (238 miles) / 7 hours
Aplao
(Province of Castilla) 178 km (111 miles) / 3 hours
Chivay (Province of Caylloma) 162 km (101 miles) / 3 hours and 45
minutes
Chuquibamba (Province of Condesuyos) 234 km (145 miles) / 5 hours
Mollendo
(Province of Islay) 113 km (70 miles) / 2 hours and 15 minutes
Cotahuasi
(Province of La Union) 379 km (236 miles) / 12 hours
Access Routes:
By land:
Lima – Arequipa: 1003 km / 623 miles on the Pan-American
Highway South (14 hours by car)
By air:
Daily flights to Arequipa from: Lima (1 hour), Cusco
(30 minutes), Juliaca (30 minutes) and Tacna (30 minutes)
Farmer in Colca Valle
Archivo de PromPerú
Main Square city of Arequipa
Heinz Plenge / PromPerú
The first inhabitants of the region left some samples of rock art that are more
than 8000 years old as testimonies of their existence. Among the different
peoples that lived in Arequipa, the Collaguas are notable for their excellent textile
skills and their ability as shepherds of large alpaca flocks.
The name Arequipa is associated with an old legend. The story goes that by
chance, Inca Mayta Cápac was passing through these lands with his soldiers,
and he decided to camp there. At the moment of breaking camp, some of the
soldiers asked him if they could stay. Right away, the Inca responded in
Quechua, “Ari quepay,” which means, “Yes, stay here.”
On August 15, 1540, Garci Manuel de Carbajal and almost one hundred more
Spanish founded the city of Arequipa in the name of Francisco Pizarro, at the
foot of Mount Misti. With time, the city became a center of Spanish and Creole
influence.
During the Republic, Arequipa was the site of revolutionary political movements
and the scene of confrontations among various leaders. Powerful political figures
of the nineteenth century like Francisco Javier de Luna Pizarro, president of the
Congress on numerous occasions, and Victor Andres Belaunde, Peruvian
representative at the United Nations, are just two of the illustrious politicians
born in this region.
In the nineteenth century, Arequipa became an important center for sheep and
alpaca wool exportation to England, managing to establish its own economic
strength in the country.
Currently, Arequipa, without a doubt, maintains its economic leadership and has
become the southern commercial and industrial center for the nation.
The department of Arequipa is one of various terrains. It begins in the coastal
desert and then climbs the Andes, reaching great altitude at the snow covered
peaks of Mount Ampato (6288 masl / 20.630 fasl) and Mount Chachani (6075
masl / 19.931 fasl) and at its volcanoes like Mount Misti (5825 masl / 19.111
fasl). Arequipa also has two of the deepest canyons on Earth: the Cotahuasi
Canyon and the Colca Canyon.
The city of Arequipa has a semi-arid and temperate climate with a maximum
temperature of 21.7ºC (71ºF) and a minimum of 6.9ºC (44.4ºF). The rainy season
starts in January and ends in March.
Province of Arequipa
Arequipa
Main Square, city of Arequipa
Bordered by various arched walkways and the Cathedral, the Main Square
possesses a beautiful bronze fountain of three plates crowned by the figure of a
sixteenth century soldier. Of this person, who is called “Tuturutu”, the story
says he was in charge of warning of any new event. Around the square, you see
three granite portals with brick and lime bases: Portal del Cabildo (Portal de la
Municipalidad), Portal de las Delicias (Portal de San Agustín), and Portal del
Regocijo (Portal de Flores).
Cathedral, city of Arequipa
Main Square. Telephone: (054) 23-2635 / 40-5393. Visiting hours: Mon. – Sat. 7:00
A.M. – 11:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M., Sundays 7:00 A.M. – 1:30 P.M. and 5:00
P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
It is considered one of the first seventeenth century religious monuments of the
city. It is built of sillar (white volcanic stone) with a brick base. Destroyed by fire
in 1844, it was rebuilt in 1868 by the Arequipa architect Lucas Poblete. He used
a Neoclassical style and placed the entrances of church on the flanking naves.
In 2001, the building was struck hard by an earthquake, which seriously
damaged its towers.
Iglesia de La Compañía and complex (The Church of the Company of Jesus Christ)
Intersection of Calle General Morán and Calle Álvarez Thomas, Main Square.
Visiting hours: Mon. – Sun. 9:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
This complex, made up of buildings constructed by the Jesuits for religious and
living purposes, is a representative monument of the seventeenth century
religious architecture (1660). The church itself rises from the center of the
buildings. It was designed in 1573 by Gaspar Baez and destroyed by an
earthquake in 1584. The current structure dates from 1650. Inside you find
sixty-six canvases from the Cusco School from such artists as Bernardo Bitti and
Diego de la Puente.
Iglesia de San Francisco and complex (Church of Saint Francis)
First block of Calle Zela. Telephone: (054) 22-3048. Church visiting hours: Mon. –
Sat. 7:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. Sundays 7:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
and 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. Convent visiting hours: Mon. – Sat. 9:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
and 3:00 P.M – 5:00 P.M.
The complex contains the Saint Francis church, the convent and a smaller church
known as La Tercera Orden (the Third Franciscan Order). What catches the
attention inside the church is the bas-relief decorated Baroque pulpit and the
silver front of the main altar. Besides these, a short passageway, named
Manguillo de San Francisco, has been added to the complex to separate the
church from what was the first girl school and later a women jail. Today, it has
become a commercial art center known as “Fundo El Fierro” (Iron Ranch).
Monasterio de Santa Catalina (Saint Kathleen Monastery)
Calle Santa Catalina 301. Visiting hours: Mon. – Sun. 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.
Constructed to shelter the daughters of the wealthiest families of the city with
a religious vocation, the monastery was inaugurated on October 2, 1580, under
the name of Santa Catalina of Siena to be a totaly cloistered religious center,
and it remained that way until August 15, 1970.
It occupies an approximate area of 20.000 m 2 (215.285 feet 2 ), and its
placement is similar to the first neighborhoods of Arequipa.
The building exhibits rooms of very different architectural design. One of the
areas has been established as a gallery to display the canvasses of the Cusco,
Quito, and Arequipa Schools. There are other rooms, or sectors, to visit as well,
like el Claustro de la Portería (the Gate Cloister), el Museo Precolombino (the pre-
Colombian Museum), el Claustro de San Francisco (the Cloister of Saint Francis),
etc.
Convento de La Recoleta (La Recoleta Convent)
Jiron Recoleta 117. Telephone: (054) 27-0966. Visiting hours: Mon. – Sat. 9:00

A.M. – 12:00 P.M. and 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Email: convento-larecoleta@terra.com.pe
A Franciscan convent founded in 1848, open to the public since 1978. It
features various styles that include Romantic and Neo-gothic styles due to its
different remodeling campaigns (the last one in 1940). It has four cloisters and
eleven sectors, as well as two pre-Colombian art rooms, two others dedicated to
the Amazon Rain Forest, and another to religious art. It also has a gallery
exhibiting canvasses from the Cusco and Arequipa Schools and a valuable library
that protects more than 20.000 volumes and ancient books.
Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo (Church and Convent of Santo
Domingo)
Intersection of Calle Santo Domingo and Calle Rivero. Telephone: (054) 21-
3511. Visiting hours: Mon. – Sat. 7:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. and 3:00 P.M. – 7:30
P.M. Sundays 5:45 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. and 6:30 P.M. – 7:45 P.M.
Architecturally, the church is characterized by a bell tower, its entrance with a
corner pedestal, and its impeccable arch under the choir loft. Inside, one can
appreciate paintings and other pieces of sacred art.It is also known for its side
entrance being the oldest in Arequipa. The upper cloister of the convent was
constructed around 1734.
Casa del Moral (Moral House)
Calle Moral 318, downtown Arequipa. Visiting hours: Mon. – Sat. 9:00 A.M. – 5:00
P.M. Holidays 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
An eighteenth century house, constituting one of the oldest and most important
architectural monuments from the Arequipa Baroque period. The house owes its
name to an ancient blackberry tree that grows in its main patio. Inside, furniture
from Peru’s Colonial and Republican epochs is on display. The main entrance of
white sillar stone is a work of art in which you can admire carefully carved
figures. For example, there is a crown suspended above a coat of arms that is
held up by two angels, the coat of arms is composed of tinier carvings of a
castle, a bird, a puma, and two crossed keys. In the same way, the room of
sixteenth century “antique” maps of America stands out.
Barrio de San Lázaro (Saint Lazarus neighborhood)
Five blocks from the Main Square, Arequipa.
This neighborhood of alleys, narrow passageways, small plazas, and large homes
is the most representative of old Arequipa. This place was established by
Dominican priests in 1538, who built a sanctuary to evangelize the natives of the
area and prepare the land to found a new Spanish city. The small bridge that
connects the Church of San Lázaro and its small plaza with the rest of the
quarter is worth a visit.
Casa Goyeneche (Goyeneche House)
Calle La Merced 201. Telephone: (054) 21-2251. Visiting hours: Mon. – Fri. 9:15
A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
This sixteenth century house of white sillar stone is completely designed in the
Colonial style. Prints from the Cusco and Arequipa Schools are preserved there
as well as sculptures from the Granada School of the seventeenth century. The
name comes from Mr. Juan de Goyeneche y Aguerreverre, who bought it in
1782. Presently, it is headquarters to the Central Reserve Bank of Peru in
Arequipa.
Iglesia San Agustín (Saint Augustine Church)
Intersection of Calle San Agustín and Calle Bolívar. Telephone: (054) 22-0066. Visiting
hours: Mon. – Sat. 8:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. Sundays 8:00
A.M. – 1:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Built in 1575, the church displays a façade that dates from the first half of the
eighteenth century and is considered one of the best of its time. In architectural terms,
it belongs to the mixed-origin Baroque and the main construction material is white sillar
stone. Inside, the main highlights are the dome, its Neoclassical altars, especially the
major one, for the precise carvings and gilding
Iglesia La Merced (Mercy Church)
Intersection of Calle La Merced and Calle Tristán. Telephone: (054) 21-3233.
Visiting hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Saturdays 8:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
Its construction began in 1551 and was completed in 1607. It has an attractive
side entrance, which features the image of the Virgin of Mercy accompanied by
two saints of mercy. Important works of art like the “Aparición de la Virgen a
San Pedro Nolasco” (Saint Peter Nolasco Recovering the Image of the Virgin) are
preserved in its sacristy as well as a series of paintings related to the Virgin de
la Merced in the main hall. The church and the convent, the latter constructed in
the city, were built using the white sillar stone from Arequipa. The cloister
maintains a library that dates back to the Vice royal period.
Casa Tristán del Pozo (Tristán del Pozo house)
Calle San Francisco 108. Telephone: (054) 21-2209. Visiting hours: Mon. – Fri. 9:15
A.M. – 12:45 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. Saturdays 9:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
This traditional, colonial house has a façade carved in mixed-origin Baroque. In
addition, it was made with wide, unique patios inside. It was built in 1738 for General
Domingo Tristán del Pozo. Today, it is the property of Banco Continental.
Museo Arqueológico de la Universidad de San Agustín
(University of San Agustín Archeological Museum)
Intersection of Calle Álvarez Thomas and Calle Palacio Viejo. Telephone: (054)
28-8881. Visiting hours: Mon. – Fri. 8:15 A.M. – 4:15 P.M.
A varied collection is exhibited here including stone items, bones from human
sacrifices, ceramic pieces from the Nasca, Tiahuanaco, Huari, and Inca, and
objects of gold and silver from the Colonial and Inca eras.
Museo de Arqueología de la Universidad Católica de Santa María de Arequipa
(University of Santa María de Arequipa Archeological Museum)
Calle Cruz Verde 303. Telephone: (054) 95-9636. Visiting hours: Mon. – Fri. 9:00
A.M. – 12:00 P.M. and 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
The museum has around 1000 pieces (ceramics, textiles, mummies, works of
stone, wood, and metal) from the different cultural groups that inhabited the
Department of Arequipa from 12.000 B.C. up to the time of the colony: Nasca,
Tiahuanaco, Wari, Churajón, Acarí, Aruni and Inca as well as transitional and
colonial materials.
Museo Santuarios Andinos de la Universidad Católica de Santa María
(Catholic University of Saint Mary)
Calle La Merced 110, downtown Arequipa. Telephone: (054) 21-5013. Visiting
hours: Mon. – Sat. 9:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M. Sundays 9:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Here, they exhibit la Dama de Ampato (the Lady of Ampato), an Inca mummy of
a twelve to fourteen year old girl found at the top of the Ampato volcano by the
climber Miguel Zárate, the archeologist José Chávez, and the anthropologist
Johan Reinhard on September 8, 1995. According to the specialists, it is very
likely that the girl, whose remains were found frozen, died from a blow to the
temple from a five pointed granite mace. It seems that she was sacrificed to the
Ampato Apu (protector god) some 500 years ago.
Urbanización Selva Alegre (Selva Alegre suburb)
Considered the “garden of the city” for its large parks and huge trees that live in
harmony with the modern houses of the area, Selva Alegre was constructed as
a monument to Juan Pablo Vizcardo y Guzmán, fore runner of the Peruvian
independence. The Molino de Santa Catalina (Mill of Saint Kathleen) is another
site to visit, completely restored and located on the mall of this zone.
Yanahuara Lookout
2 km / 1 mile from downtown Arequipa (8 minutes by car)
It was built in the nineteenth century and is composed of a series of sillar stone
arches where the words of famous Arequipa citizens have been engraved. This
spot is a wonderful view point of the city and Mount Misti volcano.
City of Sabandia
8 km / 5 miles from Arequipa (20 minutes by car)
Wide terraces and three volcanoes, the Misti, the Chachani, and the Pichu Pichu,
provide the scenery around this traditional town. Some of the houses still
preserve characteristic styles of the Viceroyalty or of the nineteenth century
Republicanism. A recreational area with two swimming pools that use the cold
river waters of the surrounding region has been built.
Molino de Sabandía (Sabandía Mill)
Located in Sabandía
Constructed in 1785, it represents the typical architecture of the zone where the
use of sillar stone predominates. It is characterized by solid supports and rustic
balconies. Stone grinding wheel techniques for wheat processing can be viewed
here as well.
Mansión del Fundador (Founder’s Mansion)
9 km / 6 miles from Arequipa (15 minutes by car)

1 Cathedral
2 Church and Complex of the Company of Jesus Christ
3 Church and Complex of Saint Francis
4 Saint Kathleen Monastery
5 La Recoleta Convent
6 Church anf Convent of Santo Domingo
7 Moral House
8 Goyeneche House
9 San Agustín Church
10 Mercy Church
11 Tristán del Pozo Church
12 University of San Agustín Archeological Museum
13 University of Santa María de Arequipa Archeological Museum
14 Catholic University of Saint Mary Museum of Andean Sanctuaries
Located within the boundaries of the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National
Reserve, this area boasts over 500 rock art figures. These representations,
possibly made by the first inhabitants of the area, are approximately 6000 to
8000 years old.
Mount Chachani
The base camp is 55 km / 34 miles north of Arequipa (2 hours by 4x4 vehicle).
From there, an approximate 6-hour hike will take you to the summit.
This snow covered peak, towering over 6075 masl / 19931 fasl is considered
one of the most difficult mountains to climb in Peru. It is an inactive volcano, but
lava is still visible, and there are depressions and moraines. It takes two days
and one night to ascend.
District of Yarabamba
21 km / 13 miles south of the city of Arequipa (35 minutes by car)
The name of the district comes from two Quechua words: “yaro” or “yara”, a
native bush of the area, and “bamba” which means pampas. Visiting the mansion
of Arenas y Pinto and the colonial house of Rivera y Echevarría are the things to
do in the town.
District of Quequeña
25 km / 16 miles southeast of Arequipa (40 minutes by car)
This area has been inhabited by the Lupacas, Aymaras, Quechuas, Collaguas,
Puquinas, and, in the middle of the fifteenth century, the Incas. The name of the
town probably comes from the Puquina word, “quequeña”, which means “rocky
and solid place”. The main places of interest are la Alameda de los Sauces
(Willows Walk), la Alameda de los Muertos (Path of the Dead), and Guanaqueros
Gorge. There is also a recently restored church to see.
District of Chiguata
30 km / 19 miles east of Arequipa (45 minutes by car) at the foothills of the
Pichu-Pichu volcano
Chiguata was founded on January 22, 1540, by the steward - Diego Hernández.
The name of the city is a combination of two Quechua words, “chiri” (cold) and
“guata” (year), and means “cold all year long”. Among the main attractions, you
can visit the Iglesia del Espíritu Santo (Church of the Holy Spirit) and the
archeological centers of Tambo de León and Infiernillos.
Built with sillar stone at the edge of a cliff, it is one of the most important and
traditional mansions or houses in the department. According to the story, Garcí
Manuel de Carbajal, founder of Arequipa, had it built for his son. Later, in 1785,
Mr. Juan Crisóstomo de Goyeneche y Aguerreverre was its proprietor and
remodeled it, giving it the distinguished characteristics that can be seen today.
The main entrance is composed of a foyer with an arched ceiling, followed by a
wide principal patio over which the windows and doors of the bedrooms open.
District of Cayma
3 km / 2 miles south of Arequipa (8 minutes by car)
The village of Cayma is known as the “Balcony of Arequipa” for its
advantageous location that allows the entire city to be seen. Its central plaza
houses the church of San Miguel Arcángel (Saint Michael the Archangel), built in
1730 and considered an architectural jewel because of its mixed façade. In the
rectory annex, the “Comedor de Bolívar” (Bolivar’s dining room) is preserved
where, according to legend, the Liberators used to have lunch during their stay
in the town.
Misti Volcano
The foothills of the volcano are located 20 km / 12 miles. northeast of Arequipa
(1 hour by 4x4 vehicle)
The Misti volcano, 5825 masl / 19.111 fasl is the guardian of the city. From the
summit, you can see the city of Arequipa, the Chili River valley, and the Chachani
and Pichu Pichu volcanoes.
Yura Hot Springs
27 km / 17 miles north of Arequipa (45 minutes by bus)
These are wells of thermal waters at the foothills of the Chachani volcano, 2575
masl / 8448 fasl. The therapeutic properties of the waters, which temperature
fluctuates between 23ºC (73.40ºF) and 28ºC (82.40ºF), are celebrated. Between
1810 and 1831, Mr. José Nogal y Noguerol built the wells that are still
maintained today.
Sumbay Caves – Rock Art
97 km / 60 miles north of Arequipa on the Caylloma highway (1 hour and 45
minutes by bus)
District of Tiabaya
10 km / 6 miles from Arequipa (15 minutes by car)
The valley is completely agricultural and is believed to have been inhabited by the
ethnic groups of the Kuntis from Cabana, the Yanahuaras, and the Chumbivilcas.
On November 8, 1870, it was given the title of “city” and is famous for its rustic
restaurants.
District of Characato
10 km / 6 miles from Arequipa (15 minutes by car)
This town has plenty of vegetation and abundant water, so it is ideal for farming.
Very close to the town is the “Ojo de Milagro” waterspring (Eye of Miracle Spring).
There is also a beautiful colonial church. Historically, the inhabitants of this area
went to work at the southern salt licks, now territory of Chile. When the people of
this place were asked where they were from, they used to say “from Characato, sir”;
that is where the nickname of the people of Arequipa – “characatos” come from.
Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve
35 km / 22 miles northeast of Arequipa (1 hour and 30 minutes by bus)
The reserve covers almost 367.000 hectares, including territory from the Provinces
of Arequipa, Caylloma (department of Arequipa), and General Sánchez Cerro
(department of Moqueqa). It was created for the purpose of preserving important
associations of flora and fauna, protecting the natural environment that was
deteriorating and in the process of being destroyed, as well as caring for the vicuña
through a repopulation program. The reserve is located between 2800 and 6050
masl (9186 and 19.849 fasl) and the Misti (5825 masl / 19.111 fasl), the Chachani
(6075 masl / 19.931 fasl), and the Pichu-Pichu (5664 masl / 18.583 fasl) volcanoes
are found there.
Among the most representative species of the reserve are the vizcacha, the fox, the
condor, and the Andean flamingo or parihuana. Scientists have determined the
existence of 169 animal species, 23 of which are mammals (including two forms of
domesticated South American camelids), 138 species of birds (blue billed ducks,
eagles, and kestrels are the trophies), 3 reptilians, 4 amphibious, and 3 fish species.
Salinas Lake is considered a special spot to observe
Caylloma
flamingos during their migration period.
Province of Caylloma

Colca Valley
151 km / 94 miles north of Arequipa (3 hours by car)
The extreme northeastern section of the department of Arequipa is located here.
The highest point is the inactive volcano Mount Ampato (6288 masl), and the
lowest at the confluence of the rivers Colca and Andamayo (970 masl). The
Colca valley is 100 km in length and occupies only part of the Colca river basin,
comprising the districts of Callalli and Huambo.
There are sixteen villages in this zone made up of descendents of the Collaguas
and Cabanas tribes, inheritors of rich cultural traditions. The towns of Chivay
and Cabanaconde are the most visited by tourists.
In the latter, you can watch condors soar from the Cruz de Condor (Condor
Crossing) Lookout. The Colca valley forms part of the South American tectonic
plate and contains the active volcano Sabancaya, located on the volcanic
mountain Hualca Hualca. This valley possesses a great diversity of flora and
fauna. Among the most representative species are the condor, the kestrel, the
peregrine falcon, and the Andean tinamou.
Colca Canyon
42 km / 26 miles west of the town of Chivay (1 hour by car)
This is one of the deepest places on the planet, reaching a depth of 3400 meters
/ 11.155 feet at the lowest point in the location of Canco. On the right side, it
is flanked by the Chila Cordillera (Bomboya, Serpregrina, Mismi, Queshihua) and
on the other by Mount Hualca Hualca, Sabancaya, and Ampato. You can see
Mount Ubinas and beautiful Mount Coropuna in the distance.
Imata Stone Forest
150 km / 93 miles northeast of Arequipa on the Puno highway (2 hours by car)
It is a complex of stone structures that have the appearance of a mysterious
petrified forest. Erosion has shaped the stones, giving them a peculiar aspect.
The place is easily accessible since it is located near the Arequipa – Juliaca
highway.
Ampato volcano
173 km / 108 miles north of Arequipa (5 hours by 4x4 vehicle)
At 6288 masl / 20.630 fasl, it is temporarily inactive and exhibits a perpetual
snowcap at the height of 5000 meters / 16.404 feet. The foothills have scarce
vegetation limited to bunch grass and hawthorn. At the top, from which you can
see the Colca Canyon, explorers found the “Dama de Ampato”, the mummified
remains of a girl from the time of the Incas.
Province of Islay
Lagunas de Mejia National Sanctuary
Islay
146 km / 91 miles southwest of Arequipa (2 hours
and 10 minutes by car); 11 km / 7 miles south from the Mejia baths and 5 km /
3 miles south of Mollendo
It possesses an area of 691 hectares and includes different habitats comprising
swamps, salt marshes, tortora reeds, hills, riverside estuaries, fields of salt
grass, and sandy beaches. It is ideal for bird-watching, and 195 species have
been registered: 75 are resident species (you can find them there all year long),
6 are ocean residing species, and 80 are migratory ones that travel from places
so diverse and distant as the Peruvian jungle and the Antarctic.
Province of Castilla
Castilla
Toro Muerto Petroglyphs
164 km / 102 miles northwest of Arequipa (2 hours and
30 minutes)
Leaving the Colca valley and passing through the Sihuas pampas is one way to get
there. To arrive there directly from Arequipa, take the road to Lima and turn off at
Corire (District of Uraca) and drive for 6 km / 4 miles.
The site consists of a group of carvings spread out over 5 km 2 / 2 miles 2 .The majority
of them are representations of human beings, animals, and plants, as well as geometric
designs that seem to have been carved with sharpened stones. The techniques used
varied from striking, scratching, chipping, to hammering, and their age could begin
around 1100 A.D.
Andagua, Valley of the Volcanoes
323 km / 201 miles northeast from Arequipa (9 hours by car)
The Valley of the Volcanoes was the center of strenuous convulsions in the
volcanic mountain chain 200.000 years ago. We can still see today an extensive
layer of lava over which around eighty-six smaller inactive volcanoes have
emerged. It reaches an altitude of 3546 masl / 11.634 fasl.
Province of La Union
Cotahuasi Valley and Canyon (Scenic Reserve of
the Cotahuasi Sub-basin)
375 km / 233 miles northwest of Arequipa (9 hours by car / 12
hours by public bus)
Different altitudinal tiers have created the conditions for a large biological
diversity with high indices of endemism in both the flora and fauna. The
Cotahuasi Canyon includes twelve life zones and three ecological regions. It is
considered the deepest in Peru (3535 m / 11.598 feet).
Province of Caravelí
Waca Gorge or Puerto Inca Archeological Site
417 km / 259 miles northwest of Arequipa (6 hours
and 30 minutes by car);
Archeological complex known for its long period of human occupation since the
remnants found there date from the pre-ceramic era to the fourteenth and
fifteenth centuries, indicating an Inca presence. Some archeologists and
historians think that from this site, one of the most important Inca trails started
which crossed into the territory of Ayacucho and later reached Cusco.
Province of Camaná
La Unión
Caravelí
173 km / 568 miles southwest of Arequipa (2 hours and 30 minutes by car)
The central territory of Arequipa is located here. During the pre-Hispanic era,
cultures like the Nasca, Paracas, Waris, Collaguas, Chuquibambas, and Incas
lived in this pleasant valley. In 1539, the city of Camaná was founded under the
name of “Villa Hermosa de Camaná” (Beautiful Villa of Camaná).
Beach circuit
It is located 10 - 40 km. / 6 - 25 miles from the city of Camaná (5 to 20 minutes
by car)
The beautiful beaches stretching to the Pacific Ocean are the best part of this
area. These include la Punta, Cerrillos, el Chorro, las Cuevas, Quilca, la Miel,
Arantas, Honoratos, La Playuela, etc. Some of these beaches are often visited
by adventure sports lovers and fishing fans.
José María Quimper Archeological Museum – El Cardo
Located in the District of El Cardo, 20 km / 12 miles from Camaná (20 minutes by car)
There, you can see 10.000 years of history through the uncountable objects
among which appear vestiges of the Nasca, Paracas, Wari, Chuquibamba,
Collagua, and Inca cultures.
Pucchun Lakes
Enjoy watching a variety of wild bird species: ducks, antshrikes, moorehens,
geese, flamingos, and more.
Quilca
33 km / 21 miles from the city of Camaná (30 minutes by car)
It is the first southern Peruvian port, known for being the place where the hero
of the War of the Pacific, Admiral Miguel Grau, defied the Chilean fleet
commanded by Monitor Huáscar. It is ideal for underwater hunting and
ecotourism.
Inca Trails
Roads used in pre-Hispanic times. Today, bicyclists, walkers, and equestrians
use them.
Inca Observatory
Located on the right bank of the Camaná River at kilometer marker 826 of the
Pan-American Highway South, you can enjoy nature and watch the waters flow
into the Pacific Ocean.
Arequipa has a large variety of dances and musical styles complemented by
multicolored dance costumes.
The most characteristic dance is the Arequipan Carnaval, mainly done during the
celebrations of Carnival and the anniversary of the founding of the city (15th
August). Other typical music are the Yaraví, Quechua in origin, and the Pampeña,

considered a primitive Huayno in which the dancers dress as chacareros, or
people who live and work on a chacra (farm).
Arequipa is known for its leatherwork of articles such as belts, desk ornaments,
and furniture. In the same way, during the colonial epoch, saddles and other
horse tack was a highly recognized trade. These items were sent to countries as
far away as Cuba and Panamá. The white sillar stone, characteristic symbol of
the city of Arequipa, was used in the building of houses and churches as well as
decorative articles. As for foged iron, it served to fabricate street lamps, gates,
lamps, and decorative furniture.
The cuisine of Arequipa is one of the most varied in Peru. The best example of
this are the different soups for each day of the week and other dishes like:
Chupe de camarones: chowder made with shrimp, milk, eggs, and oregano.
Rocoto relleno: rocotos (red hot peppers) stuffed with chopped beef, cheese,
and milk and served with mashed potatoes.
Soltero: a salad of fresh cheese, lima beans, onions, olives, tomatoes, and rocoto.
Adobo arequipeño: pork marinated with concho de chichi (corn beer
sediment) and spices, cooked in a pot.
Ocopa: boiled potatoes covered with a fresh cheese sauce, lima beans, onions,
olives, and rocoto.
Escribano: potato salad, with rocoto, vinegar, oil, tomatoes, and parsley
Pebre: soup with lamb, beef, and ram jerky
El sango: a dessert made from wheat, raisins, miel de chancaca (sugar syrup),
milk, and butter
Carnival Festival of Camaná / February or March (fluctuates)
Province of Camaná, District of San José
The guachanacos (masked riders) ride through the city streets three days before,
inviting the population to join the carnival festivities. The “yunsa” or
“cortamonte” festivity happens on the main day of the celebration. On that day,
you can enjoy the wonderful dishes of this place.
Virgin of Chapi / May 1 st
Province of Arequipa, Districts of Miraflores and Cayma, and the Province of
Islay
A traditional pilgrimage to the Chapi Sanctuary some 90 km / 56 miles from
Arequipa. The custom is to promise the Virgin to make the pilgrimage for three
consecutive years.
Anniversary of Cotahuasi / 4 th May
Province of La Union, District of Cotahuasi
It is the most important traditional festival of the province. There are bull fights
and group dance competitions, and visits to the different attractions in the
region are promoted.
Anniversary of the city of Arequipa / August
Province of Arequipa, District of Arequipa
For this celebration, the city organizes the International Fair of Arequipa located
on Mount Juli, artisanal exhibitions in the Fundo El Fierro, the Festidanza dance
festival, and the international Climb Mount Misti contest. The main day, 15 th
August , is when the Friendship Parade takes place.
Festival of Santa Úrsula / 21 st October
Province of Castilla, District of Viraco
A very popular, grassroots celebration. It is celebrated with the bringing of the
“capo” herb, the burning of the “yareta”, evergreen tree, fireworks, masses, and
processions. There are also bull fights with Spanish bullfighting apprentices and
very traditional cock fights.
AIRPORT
Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón Airport
Avenida Aviación, Zamácola, Cerro Colorado. Telephone: (054) 44-3464, (054)
44-3458
OVERLAND TRANSPORT
Bus station. Terrapuerto
Avenida Arturo Ibáñez, Jacobo D. Hunter. Telephone: (054) 34-8810
Bus station. Terminal Terrestre
Intersection of Avenida Andrés Avelino Cáceres and Arturo Ibáñez, Jacobo D.
Hunter. Telephone: (054) 42-7798
HEALTH CENTERS
Honorio Delgado Espinoza Regional Hospital
Avenida Daniel Alcides Carrión, la Pampilla José Luis Bustamante y Rivero,
Arequipa. Telephone: (054) 23-1818 / 21-9702 / 23-3812. Attention: 24 hours
Goyeneche Hospital
Avenida Goyeneche, Cercado. Telephone: (054) 23-1313 / 22-3501. Attention:
24 hours
LOCAL POLICE
Jefatura de Seguridad Ciudadana (Citizen Security Headquarters)
Calle Quinta Romaña 315, Cercado. Telephone: (054) 28-4354. Attention: 24
hours
XI Región de la Policía Nacional del Perú (National Police of Peru 9th
Region)
Avenida Emmel 106, Yanahuara. Telephone: (054) 25-4020. Attention: 24 hours
Tourism Police
Calle Jerusalén 315, Cercado. Telephone: (054) 20-1258
CRAFT MARKETS
Fundo El Fierro – FEDARA
San Francisco 415, Cercado.
Frente de Artesanos
Mercaderes 236, Cercado. Telephone: (054) 21-2729. Opening hours: Mon. – Thur.
9:00 A.M. – 1:30 P.M. and 3:00 P.M. – 8:30; Fri. – Sat. 9:00 A.M. – 9:00 P.M.
Patio del Ekeko - C.C. de Artesanías
Calle Mercaderes 141. Telephone: (054) 21-5861. Fax: (054) 23-3575
POSTAL SERVICES
SERPOST
Calle Moral 118, Cercado. Telephone: (054) 21-5247 / 21-5245. Attention:
Mon. – Sat. 8:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.; Sun. 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón Airport
Av. Aviación s/n. Cerro Colorado. Telephone: (054) 44-39-67. Attention: Mon. –
Fri. 6:15 A.M. – 10:30 A.M. y 12:30 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sat. 6:15 A.M. – 12:00
P.M.
REGIONAL GOVERNMENT OF AREQUIPA
www.regionarequipa.gob.pe
AREQUIPA ASSOCIATION OF HOTELS, RESTAURANTS, AND RELATED
SERVICES
www.arequipa-tourism.com
TOURIST INFORMATION
At the Tourist Information and Assistance Service, iperu, you can to ask
for objective and impartial tourism information, as well as assistance in
case the tourist services you received were not provided according to the
contract signed.
Contact the service nationwide, 24 hours a day:
Telephone: (01) 574-8000. Email: iperu@promperu.gob.pe
Arequipa:
Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón Airport – Main hall
Telephone / Fax: (054) 44-4564. Attention: Mon. – Sun. 6:30 A.M. – 8:45 P.M.
Email: iperuarequipaapto@promperu.gob.pe
Casona Santa Catalina
Calle Sta Catalina 210. Telephone / Fax: (054) 22-1227. Attention: Mon. – Sun.
9:00 A.M. – 7:00 P.M. E-mail: iperuarequipa@promperu.gob.pe
MORE INFORMATION: www.peru.info
Legal Deposit Number: 2005 - 7563
The information contained in this document is a list of attractions and services at the disposal of the traveler in the entire
department. In order to update it, PromPerú has been assisted by official information sources like: National Institute of
Natural Resources (INRENA), National Culture Institute (INC), National Institute of Geography (IGN), National Meteorology
and Hydrology Service (SENAMHI), and the Regional Administration of Foreign Trade and Tourism.
Publication Date: September, 2005.
Commission for the Promotion of Peru