"Creating a monster in Arequipa" Top 5 Page for this destination Arequipa by richiecdisc

Arequipa Travel Guide: 349 reviews and 721 photos

Dubbed “the white city” due to the preponderance of buildings made of a lightly colored volcanic rock named sillar, Arequipa not only glistens in its sunny arid climate but also sit majestically amongst the spectacular volcanoes that act as its backdrop. With an array of stunning colonial buildings, a charming tropical main square, and great local food specialties, even the most casual visitor can keep busy for a few days. Add to this, a sprawling colorful convent complex, the archaeological wonder of Juanita, and a bustling local produce market and it is one of Peru’s most unforgettable cities. Finally, with its close proximity to natural wonders like the Colca Canyon and the Valley of Volcanoes, it quickly enters the realm of can’t miss cities in all of South America

Last visit to Arequipa: Nov 2002
Intro Written Mar 5, 2003
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Reviews (31)

volcanoes loom behind Arequipa - Arequipa

Climb a volcano! Sports & Outdoors (1)

With volcanoes surrounding Arequipa, why not give climbing one a go? There is the majestic El Misti at 5825 meters.... more travel advice

local produce Shopping (1)

The local's market is one of those magic parts so integral to South America. Within its confines, you will find not only... more travel advice

get ready to take lots of photos! What to Pack (1)

With its sunny arid climate, you can finally enjoy walking around in shorts and sandals if you have them. But it's not... more travel advice

tasty ice treat, queso helado - Arequipa

queso helado, take II Local Customs (1)

This tasty ice cream-like concoction is a distant cousin to egg nog and its creamy egg infused flavor is contagious. We... more travel advice

Things to Do (12)
See All Museo Santuarios Andinos
Hotels (1)
quiet getaway in the heart of the city
Restaurants (3)
See All more great local foods
Favorites (3)
See All frozen gold
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Comments (15)

thomasvr Jul 25, 2006 at 6:36 PM Report Abuse

This restaurant has a nice typical atmosphere and delicious food you must visit this place it's incredible
Trekki Sep 18, 2005 at 5:22 AM Report Abuse

Great page - and now I have learned where the city got it's name from :-) Never was aware of this light volcanic rock. And queso helado sounds perfect - need to try it one day :-)
munki Apr 5, 2005 at 10:57 AM Report Abuse

Brilliant page, I also loved the colourfull Convento de Santa Catalina.
Sharrie Mar 31, 2004 at 9:47 PM Report Abuse

Yes, Sir!!!! Or is it professor? ;-)
catalysta Dec 17, 2003 at 11:42 AM Report Abuse

Yum.
tessy Oct 24, 2003 at 3:23 PM Report Abuse

Fantastic! Seems that nothing changed there in the last years! But I missed the queso helado!
sabsi Mar 25, 2003 at 11:11 PM Report Abuse

...and this ...
chancay Mar 17, 2003 at 5:28 AM Report Abuse

Fantastic work! Great photos and a lot of important tips and good descriptions!
acemj Mar 8, 2003 at 4:05 PM Report Abuse

Queso helado addict! Sounds like one of the best places you went on this trip.
syllybabe Mar 7, 2003 at 5:52 PM Report Abuse

Any page that has food as its main topic becomes a favorite of mine and these are wonderful! Lechon??? They have lechon, too? Sounds like heaven, Richie! Thanks for taking us there :-)