Arequipa, Historic and Colonial City and Santa Catalina Monastery

In the depths of Peru, nestled amidst the Andes, lies the city of Arequipa, a place steeped in history and colonial charm. As visitors traverse its cobblestone streets, they are transported back in time, surrounded by magnificent architecture and tales of a bygone era.

But amidst the grandeur of Arequipa’s historic districts, there is a hidden gem that beckons curious souls to explore its secrets: the Santa Catalina Monastery. Closed to the public for centuries, this sacred sanctuary offers a glimpse into the lives of the nuns who once called it home.

From the moment one steps foot in Arequipa, the allure of the city’s rich heritage and the enigma of the Santa Catalina Monastery leave them yearning for more, eager to uncover the stories that lie within its walls.

Good To Know

• Arequipa is known as the ‘White City’ due to its stunning white volcanic stone architecture.
• The city takes pride in its rich history and cultural heritage.
• Tourism plays a vital role in the local economy, bringing in revenue and creating job opportunities.
• Historical preservation in Arequipa allows visitors to enjoy the city’s past.

Tour Overview

The tour overview of Arequipa offers a captivating exploration of the city’s historical sights, colonial districts, and the enchanting Santa Catalina Monastery.

Arequipa, known as the ‘White City’ due to its stunning white volcanic stone architecture, is a city that takes pride in its rich history and cultural heritage. The importance of historical preservation in Arequipa can’t be overstated, as it allows visitors to enjoy the city’s past and understand its significance in Peruvian history.

On top of that, tourism plays a vital role in the local economy of Arequipa. The influx of travelers brings in revenue, supports local businesses, and creates job opportunities for the residents. The tour not only provides an informative experience for visitors but also contributes to the sustainability and growth of the city.

Tour Itinerary

Set out on a captivating journey through Arequipa’s historical landmarks and hidden gems with our carefully curated tour itinerary. Here’s what you can expect on this exciting adventure:

1. Pickup from your hotel in Arequipa: Start your day of exploration with a convenient pickup from your hotel, ensuring a hassle-free experience from the very beginning.

2. Sightseeing tour aboard an air-conditioned coach: Sit back and relax as you travel in comfort and style, enjoying panoramic views of the city’s stunning architecture and landscapes.

3. Visit the St Lazarus quarter and walk down its lovely streets: Enjoy the charm of Arequipa’s colonial districts, strolling through the picturesque streets of St Lazarus and discovering its rich history.

4. Explore the Monastery of St Catherine and its peaceful plazas: Uncover the monastery’s highlights and step into a world that has been closed to the public for centuries. Marvel at the tranquil plazas and learn about the fascinating stories behind this sacred site.

With this itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the heart of Arequipa, exploring its colonial districts and experiencing the enchantment of the Monastery of St Catherine.

Price and Booking Details

Discover the pricing and booking details for this captivating tour of Arequipa’s historic and colonial city, as well as the renowned Santa Catalina Monastery. The price for the tour varies depending on the size of the group, with special group discounts available. Rest assured, there’s a Lowest Price Guarantee to ensure you get the best deal.

To book, simply select your preferred date and number of travelers, and check for availability. You can then reserve your spot with the option to pay later. It’s that easy!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore Arequipa’s historical sights, visit viewpoints like Mirador de Yanahuara, and discover the enchanting Monastery of Santa Catalina. Choose from various tour package options and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Cancellation Policy

When it comes to canceling your reservation for the Arequipa historic and colonial city tour and Santa Catalina Monastery visit, there are a few important details to keep in mind.

The cancellation policy for this experience is as follows:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
2. Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
3. No refund for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time.
4. No changes accepted less than 24 hours before the start time.

It’s important to note that the cut-off times for cancellation and changes are based on the local time of the experience. So, make sure to plan accordingly and cancel or make any changes within the specified time frame to ensure a smooth refund process.

Reviews and Ratings

After understanding the cancellation policy for the Arequipa historic and colonial city tour and Santa Catalina Monastery visit, it’s time to see what previous travelers have to say about their experience through the reviews and ratings.

The tour has received an overall rating of 4.5 based on 27 reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor.

Viator travelers have left positive feedback on the knowledgeable and excellent guides who accompany them on the tour. They also praise the tour’s comprehensive coverage of the city’s attractions, including the must-see Santa Catalina Monastery.

Many reviewers highly recommend visiting the Monastery of St Catherine, which has been closed to the public for centuries.

These reviews and ratings provide valuable insights for anyone planning to explore Arequipa’s historic and colonial city and visit the Santa Catalina Monastery.

Directions

To navigate your way through the historic and colonial city of Arequipa and reach the Santa Catalina Monastery, follow these directions:

1. Start your journey at the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa, where you’ll find the Cathedral and other architectural gems. Enjoy the city’s history and admire the intricate details of the buildings.

2. From the Plaza de Armas, take a short walk to the Santa Catalina Monastery. This iconic attraction is a city within a city, with its vibrant streets, colorful facades, and peaceful courtyards. Discover the historical significance of this religious site, which was closed to the public for centuries.

3. After exploring the monastery, head towards Yanahuara, a charming district known for its colonial architecture and stunning viewpoints. Visit the Mirador de Yanahuara and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.

4. Lastly, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the St Lazarus quarter, another colonial district filled with cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the atmosphere of this historical neighborhood.

Common Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery?

The best time to visit Arequipa and the Santa Catalina Monastery is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. This is when you can enjoy the city’s attractions without the interruption of rain.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Visiting the Monastery of St Catherine?

There are no age restrictions for visiting the Monastery of St Catherine. The tour duration allows visitors to explore the peaceful plazas and learn about the monastery’s history and significance.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Monastery of St Catherine?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs inside the Monastery of St Catherine. It is one of the many tourist attractions in Arequipa that allows photography, allowing visitors to capture the beauty of the monastery’s architecture and peaceful plazas.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for Visiting the Monastery of St Catherine?

There are dress code requirements when visiting the Monastery of St Catherine. Visitors are advised to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. Photography restrictions may also apply inside the monastery.

Is Transportation Provided to and From the Monastery of St Catherine During the Tour?

Transportation to and from the monastery of St Catherine is provided during the tour experience. Guests will be picked up from their hotel in Arequipa and travel aboard an air-conditioned coach for a convenient and comfortable journey.

The Sum Up

To sum it up, a visit to Arequipa is a journey back in time, filled with captivating history and stunning colonial architecture.

From exploring the charming districts of Yanaahuara and St Lazarus to experiencing the hidden gem of the Santa Catalina Monastery, there’s something for all in this enchanting city.

With knowledgeable guides, excellent reviews, and easy booking options, a trip to Arequipa is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the wonders of the White City.