Peru
Arequipa
Arequipa is a city in southern Peru where historic buildings such as its cathedral and the Santa Catalina Monastery are well preserved. Touring its palaces and churches offers a slow, immersive look at the city's history.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP)
- Best season
- Jul–Dec
- Time zone
- America/Lima
- Sights covered
- 7 places
Sights worth seeing
Temples & religious sites
Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa
A cathedral standing on Arequipa's central Plaza de Armas. Its distinctive colonial architecture, among Peru's finest, continues to draw travelers.
Temples & religious sites
Santa Catalina Monastery
A large monastery in Arequipa, consecrated in 1579. It forms part of the historic center of Arequipa, which is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Attraction
Harvard Observatory, Arequipa
This former observatory on the outskirts of Arequipa was once operated by Harvard University to observe stars in the southern hemisphere. It's worth a visit if you're interested in the history of astronomy.
Temples & religious sites
Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Arequipa
This basilica and convent stands in the heart of Arequipa's old town and is one of the city's historic religious landmarks. It's a lovely place to explore for its antique architecture and atmosphere.
Temples & religious sites
Arequipa Peru Temple
A Latter-day Saint temple in the Cayma district of Arequipa, southern Peru. It was built for worshippers in the southern region, sparing them the long journey to Lima they once had to make.
Museums & galleries
Museo Santuarios Andinos
An archaeological museum in downtown Arequipa, Peru, displaying artifacts from the Andean region. It makes for an easy stop while sightseeing in the city center.
Castles & palaces
Goyeneche Palace, Arequipa
This 17th-century mansion stands on La Merced street in Arequipa. Its spacious courtyard, arched ceilings, and balconies showcase colonial-era Baroque architecture throughout.
How many days do you need?
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Average temperature by month
5-year average
Getting there
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Getting around the city
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Guides by theme
Best value
Where to stay in Arequipa for the best value
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5-star & luxury
Where to stay for a luxury experience in Arequipa, Peru
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Pool villas & resorts
Where to find pool villas and resorts in Arequipa, Peru
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Family travel
Where to stay in Arequipa for a family trip
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Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Arequipa for couples and honeymooners
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Central & near stations
Where to stay in Arequipa for central access and transport
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Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Arequipa, Peru?
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First-time guide
How to visit Arequipa Peru for the first time
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Getting around
How to get around Arequipa, Peru
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