Arequipa is a city full of charm, where gastronomy and culture blend together to bring this beautiful city to life. Clients can wander through white stone streets, dine in award-winning restaurants and admire volcanic views. They can discover the grandeur of the Colca Canyon as well as rich history and exquisite local flavours in the local markets. Arequipa is where culture, gastronomy and spectacular scenery come together to offer a truly extraordinary Peruvian experience.
Day 1: History Behind The White Stones
Clients could start by visiting the historic centre of Arequipa, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. When considering accommodation, Vipac Travel recommend staying at Casa Andina Premium Arequipa, a restored 18th-century mansion where colonial elegance is combined with contemporary comfort.
Another popular attraction is the Santa Catalina Monastery, located in the city’s historic centre.
As for gastronomy, Arequipa is among the top culinary destinations in the country. For this reason, clients should be reserved a table at Chicha, where renowned Peruvian chef Gaston Acurio reinterprets local flavours with sophistication and tradition.
Finally, clients should take the opportunity to go up to the Yanahuara viewpoint, where they can take in the cityscape and the snow-capped Misti volcano.
Day 2: Towards The Edge of the Earth
Another great natural monument found in Arequipa is the great Colca Canyon, a natural wonder twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. The Colca Canyon is a great destination where spectacular landscapes combine with the gliding of the Andean condor, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Your clients can then visit the town of Chivay and have lunch with local dishes such as the traditional quinoa soup.
Although it’s recommended taking more time to visit this area, it’s still possible to have a lasting impression from a day trip. Upon returning to the city, guests could enjoy a refined dinner at Zig Zag, a wonderful restaurant where they can enjoy the aesthetics of its volcanic stone fountains, also served as dinnerware.
Day 3: Local Lives and Living History
To end this adventure, Vipac Travel recommend starting the day with a visit to the San Camilo Market. This market is characterised by its colours, energy and the ease of obtaining the products that Arequipa and the south of the country have to offer in their variety.
Next, clients could head to the Andean Sanctuary Museum, where the main attraction is one of the most impressive archaeological findings in South America: “The Juanita Mummy”.
After a great day of history and living culture, clients can enjoy the traditional cuisine at the Picantería La Nueva Palomino, a traditional restaurant where dishes such as “Chupe de Camarones” or “Rocoto Relleno” are a delight.
Finally, clients will say goodbye to this great trip enjoying the imposing main square of Arequipa and all the surrounding attractions, such as the incredible characteristic dessert of the area called “Queso Helado” which is the translation for iced cheese in Spanish, however it is a local ice cream made from Milk, cinnamon and vanilla – no cheese involved!
For more information on Arequipa or any Peruvian adventure with Vipac Travel, please contact millie@americas.co.uk
