Arequipa - Peru's White City

About Arequipa

Arequipa, Peru’s second-largest city, is nestled at 2,335 meters (7,660 feet) in the Andes, surrounded by three volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. Known as the "White City" for its buildings made of sillar (white volcanic stone), Arequipa boasts a UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center. Its colonial architecture, vibrant culinary scene, and proximity to Colca Canyon—one of the world’s deepest canyons—make it a must-visit. Highlights include the Santa Catalina Monastery and Plaza de Armas. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October) for clear skies and mild weather. Arequipa is accessible via Rodríguez Ballón International Airport, with flights from Lima.

Key Information

Location Southern Andes, Peru
Population ~1 million
Best Time to Visit May-October
Access Flight to Arequipa Airport

Current Weather

Arequipa, Peru

Today

18°C

Sunny

10 km/h

40%

06:15

17:45

History of Arequipa

Founded in 1540 by Spanish conquistadors, Arequipa was built on the site of an ancient Inca settlement. Its strategic location made it a key colonial hub for trade between Lima and Potosí’s silver mines. The city’s distinctive sillar architecture emerged from local volcanic stone, giving it its iconic white appearance. Arequipa played a significant role in Peru’s independence movement in the 19th century and is known for its fierce regional pride. The Santa Catalina Monastery, founded in 1579, remains a cultural landmark. Today, Arequipa blends its colonial past with a modern, cosmopolitan vibe, earning it a reputation as Peru’s cultural capital.