from $549.00
Tour Map

Tour style – Culture & History

6 days

See Peru’s south before the secret’s out! The ‘white city’ of Arequipa has a friendly atmosphere, colonial architecture (including a working convent) and the incredible El Misti Volcano towering over the cityscape. Meet its most famous resident, Juanita—a 500-year-old mummy discovered on the top of nearby Mount Ampato—then travel along mountain roads to Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Spot condors and hike across the dramatic Andean scenery.

  • Day 1 Arequipa

    Arrive in Arequipa, meet your transfer and enjoy the chance to explore this south coastal city at leisure.

    Table of Contents

    Please note that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Peru (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.

    Peru’s second most important city after Lima, Arequipa maintains a traditional colonial style and more laid back pace in comparison with the capital. Sitting at 2325m (7626 ft) above sea level and surrounded by the Andes mountains, this delightful colonial town is well worth a visit. Arequipa was built from a very light coloured volcanic rock called sillar, so older buildings dazzle in the sun, giving the city its nickname, “the White City.” The main plaza with it’s cafés and nearby cathedral is a top draw for visitors.

  • Day 2 Arequipa (1B)

    Dubbed White City for it’s pearly white volcanic rock, Arequipa boasts over 80 volcanoes and possesses fine colonial-era Spanish architecture. A guided sightseeing tour includes visits to the main plaza with its cafés and cathedral. History buffs can take an optional visit to the working Convent of Santa Catalina for a unique glimpse into convent life. Spectacular mountains surround Arequipa, the most famous of which is El Misti Volcano stands at 5822m.

  • Day 3 Arequipa/Colca Canyon (1B)

    Transfer to Colca Canyon one of the deepest canyons in the world. This remarkable drive through Inca and pre-Inca terracing will astound and amaze.

    Travel a rough, rutted road through high plains flanked by extensive Inca and pre-Inca terracing that goes on for kilometers, en route to the Colca Canyon—the deepest canyon in the world. We stay near Chivay, a picturesque village near the canyon, where you can take an optional dip in the local hot thermal baths, watch live Andean music at a peña or go for a llama steak. Two nights gives us time to take short hikes to acclimatize to the altitude. Take a tour around the canyon, stopping in fascinating villages and at miradors (scenic lookouts), where with a little luck we see Andean Condors soaring over the majestic Andes, while the river flows 1200m (3936 ft) below us

  • Day 4 Colca Canyon (1B)

    The canyon is rich with wildlife and stunning scenery. Watch out for the “King of the Andes,” the Andean Condor and be sure to photograph the alpacas and llamas while exploring this geological marvel.

  • Day 5 Colca Canyon/Arequipa (1B)

    Transfer to Arequipa for overnight.

  • Day 6 Arequipa (1B)

    You’ll be picked up at your hotel for your airport transfer.

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