About Arequipa

For a heady blend of Spanish colonial architecture, indigenous culture and towering volcanoes, head straight to Arequipa in Peru's southern coastal region. Begin at the Santa Catalina Monastery, built in 1579 in the Mudejar style, then tour one of the living museums near Puente Bolognesi. From there you're just a hop, skip and a jump away from the requisite attractions Plaza de Armas and Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa. An excursion to the volcano Misti comes highly recommended; and Colca Canyon can be done in a day. Other popular activities include shopping for Alpaca attire, and chomping down on local specialties like chicharron, or fried pork with corn.