AREQUIPA & SOUTHERN CANYONLAND
This region is dominated by the majestic Andes and the presence of three towering volcanoes: El Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu.
It is home to the stunning ‘White City’ of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the vast, awe-inspiring depths of the Colca and Cotahuasi Canyons—among the deepest in the world.
Why Visit Arequipa & Southern Canyonland?
Arequipa’s White City: Explore the stunning Spanish colonial architecture, built from pearly white sillar volcanic stone.
Colca Canyon: Witness the incredible spectacle of Andean Condors soaring at close range over one of the world’s deepest canyons.
Volcanic Landscapes: Hike and explore a dramatic terrain of snow-capped peaks, thermal hot springs, and high-altitude desert plains.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-November): This is the ideal time to visit, with sunny days, less rain, and comfortable temperatures, perfect for trekking and canyon viewing.
Peak Dry Season (June-August): The most popular time due to consistently sunny, rain-free weather. Days are warm, but nights are cold, especially in the canyons. Book accommodations and tours well in advance.
Wet Season (December-March): Expect afternoon showers, particularly in the canyons. The scenery is lush and green, and you will find the best deals on travel and lodging.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
Arequipa – The White City
Peru’s second-largest city, a beautiful colonial gem set beneath the shadow of El Misti volcano. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its magnificent Baroque architecture crafted from white sillar stone.
Your Smart Tip: To truly appreciate the city’s unique architecture, visit the Monasterio de Santa Catalina. Go early in the morning when the light is perfect and there are fewer crowds.
Colca Canyon
One of the world’s deepest canyons, twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. It is famous for the Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint, where you can watch the majestic Andean Condor take flight. The canyon walls are dotted with pre-Inca agricultural terraces still in use today.
Your Smart Tip: For an easier trek that still offers spectacular views, consider hiking from Cabanaconde to Sangalle (Oasis), and start your descent very early in the morning to beat the strong midday sun.
Cotahuasi Canyon
Even deeper and more remote than Colca, Cotahuasi offers a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. The drive is spectacular, crossing high plains where you can spot vicuñas and guanacos. This is a destination for experienced trekkers and those seeking solitude.
Your Smart Tip: Due to the long and arduous journey (around 10-12 hours by bus), break up the trip by staying overnight in the town of Chivay in the Colca Valley before continuing on to Cotahuasi.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is generally dry and sunny year-round. Arequipa city is mild (average 15ºC/59ºF), while the high-altitude canyons (Colca, Cotahuasi) are much colder. Expect hot days and freezing nights in the canyons. The wet season (Dec-Mar) brings short, heavy afternoon rains.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Language: Spanish is the official language. Quechua is still spoken in the rural areas of the canyons.
Altitude: Arequipa is at 2,335m (7,661ft), but the canyons are much higher. Take time to acclimatize before attempting strenuous activity.
Pachamanca: In rural areas, you may be invited to share a traditional meal cooked in a stone oven dug into the ground. It is an honor to be included; always accept respectfully.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($10–$25), mid-range hotels ($40–$80), luxury ($100+). Prices are higher for places with good views in the canyons.
Food: Lunch menu (menú) ($3–$6), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($15–$30 per person), fine dining ($40+).
Transport: Local city bus ($0.50), taxi (short ride $2–$5), bus Arequipa to Chivay ($5–$10).
Activities: Boleto Turístico for Colca Canyon access ($22), rafting/trekking tour ($25–$50).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $40–$70 (hostels, menú meals, public transport).
- Mid-range: $80–$140 (hotels, restaurants, day tours).
- Luxury: $160+ (boutique hotels, gourmet meals, private tours).
Getting Around
By Bus: Comfortable and affordable long-distance buses connect Arequipa to Lima, Cusco, and Puno. Local buses are the cheapest way to travel within the city.
By Tour/Private Transport: The best way to visit the canyons and see the condors is by organized tour or private taxi, which offers flexibility and comfort.
By Foot: The historic center of Arequipa is easily walkable. Allow time to explore the narrow streets and plazas on foot.
Must-Try Food
Rocoto Relleno: The region’s most famous dish: a sweet pepper (rocoto) stuffed with ground beef, herbs, and cheese, then baked. Spicy but delicious.
Adobo Arequipeño: A hearty, traditional stew of marinated pork, onion, and ají panca, usually eaten for breakfast on Sundays.
Chupe de Camarones: A rich, creamy river prawn chowder prepared with milk, cheese, eggs, and rice. A local favorite.
Soltero de Queso: A refreshing salad of cheese, broad beans, corn, onions, and olives, dressed with lime and vinegar.
Ocopa Arequipeña: Sliced boiled potatoes topped with a creamy sauce of ají amarillo, huacatay (Peruvian black mint), and peanuts.
Queso Helado: Not cheese, but a famous local dessert! A delicious, creamy frozen treat resembling ice cream, made with milk, coconut, and cinnamon.
Añapa: A simple, sweet dough ball or bun, often made with flour and molasses, popular in local markets.
Alpaca Steak: A lean, tender, high-protein alternative to beef, widely available in Arequipa’s restaurants.
Chicharrón de Chancho: Pieces of pork belly or ribs fried until crispy and golden, typically served with sweet potatoes and corn.
Buñuelos: Fried dough fritters, often soaked in a sweet, spiced syrup called miel de chancaca.
Must-Try Drinks
Chicha de Jora: A fermented corn beer, traditional to the Andes. It has a slightly sour and earthy flavor.
Inca Kola: A very sweet, yellow, highly carbonated soft drink that is the most popular soda in Peru.
Pisco Sour: Peru’s national cocktail, made with Pisco (grape brandy), lime juice, egg white, and bitters. A must-try.
Emoliente: A popular hot street drink made from a blend of herbs, barley, and medicinal plant extracts, served throughout the day.
Mate de Coca: A tea made from coca leaves, highly recommended for helping with altitude sickness (soroche).
Anis Najar: A local anise liqueur, very popular as a digestif after heavy meals.
Cerveza Arequipeña: The local beer of Arequipa, a pale lager widely available in the region.
Jugo de Maracuyá: A refreshing, tart juice made from passion fruit, a common order in restaurants.
Pisco: Enjoyed neat or in various cocktails; the purest form of the Peruvian grape spirit.
Chicha Morada: A sweet, non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn, fruit, and spices like cinnamon and clove.