Explore the condors, canyons and contours of history in beautiful Arequipa and Colca
Arrange a bespoke tour of Arequipa and we’ll introduce you to perhaps the most beautiful city in Peru. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond lies vast Colca Canyon – thought to be the deepest on Earth.
Arequipa, founded by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, is second in size only to Lima. It enjoys a lighthearted rivalry with the capital. Famed for its magnificent colonial architecture, and the snow-capped volcanos that surround it, Arequipa is a stylish city with a lively cafe culture. As you stroll through its historic streets you’ll hear the calls of market traders hawking their wares, as they have for centuries.
Arequipa is sometimes referred to as a ‘Spanish island in an indigenous sea’. Let your guide lead you up into the Andes towards Colca Canyon, and you’ll feel the change in atmosphere in more ways than one. Deeper than the Grand Canyon at over three kilometres. Portions are given over to agriculture and your guide will point out some interesting pre-Colombian terraced fields here. Though the temptation is always to look down into the canyon, look up to where endangered condor can often seen floating on thermals as they scan the ground for carrion.
Whether you want stay in the canyon or in the city, we have a range of accommodations available around Arequipa, and our friendly experts will be pleased to arrange you a tailored itinerary to help you get the most from this region.