Discover Arequipa: Family Fun Awaits

Today, your family will explore the charm and heritage of Arequipa, known as the “White City” for its beautiful buildings made from volcanic sillar stone. Begin your adventure in the heart of the city at the Plaza de Armas, one of Peru’s most stunning main squares, where palm trees and fountains frame the grand Cathedral. With its striking façade and rich history, the Cathedral provides a fascinating introduction to Arequipa’s colonial legacy. Engaging stories from your guide will help bring the city’s past to life in a way that resonates with all ages.

Next, step into the colorful walls of the Monasterio de Santa Catalina, a massive convent complex that feels like a miniature city of its own. Kids often enjoy navigating the vibrant alleys and quiet courtyards, imagining life behind the convent walls centuries ago. Continue to the Mirador de Yanahuara, a peaceful viewpoint offering spectacular views of the city and the towering Misti Volcano—an ideal spot for family photos. To cap off your day, enjoy a hearty and authentic lunch at a traditional Arequipeña picantería, where bold regional flavors and local dishes offer a true taste of Arequipa’s culinary identity.

Today combines Arequipa’s natural grandeur with delightful animal interactions and scenic beauty. Begin your day with a drive toward the outskirts of the city, stopping at Patahuasi, a viewpoint that offers striking views of Arequipa’s surrounding volcanoes: Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu. This is a great spot to soak in the majestic landscapes and snap memorable family photos with the dramatic peaks in the background.

Continue to Mundo Alpaca, an interactive center where you can learn about alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos. Children will enjoy feeding these gentle animals and observing traditional weaving demonstrations using natural fibers. For those seeking a bit of active time outdoors, a gentle walk or leisurely bike ride through the scenic Chilina Valley can be arranged, passing through terraced fields and along the peaceful Chili River. Return to your hotel in the afternoon with the rest of the day free for relaxation or further exploration.

Culebrillas and Añashuayco Sillar Quarries: Embark on a unique adventure along the Ruta del Sillar, where you’ll explore the living heritage behind Arequipa’s iconic white architecture. Visit the active quarries of Añashuayco and Culebrillas to observe local workers skillfully extracting the white volcanic stone known as sillar. This firsthand look at the quarrying process reveals how the city’s signature buildings were made, and the natural surroundings offer a dramatic backdrop of towering canyon walls and sculpted stone formations.

Hands-on Sillar Carving: Witness traditional stone carving in action, and depending on the quarry visited, you may even try your hand at carving a small piece of sillar to take home. Families with children will especially enjoy the interactive aspect of this experience. If time permits, you can also explore the ancient petroglyphs etched into the stone at Culebrillas, offering a glimpse into the region’s pre-Columbian history. After the tour, enjoy a traditional lunch in the area before returning to Arequipa in the late afternoon with your evening free to relax or continue discovering the city.

Today is dedicated to your domestic flight transfer, offering a smooth and scenic transition between two of Peru’s incredible destinations. This journey is a chance to witness the country’s stunning diversity from above—soaring over dramatic Andean peaks, winding rivers, and sprawling valleys.

Our team will ensure that your transfer is seamless and comfortable, helping you make the most of the journey. As you travel, take a moment to reflect on the landscapes you’ve seen and the adventures still to come—this is not just a travel day, but part of the experience as you prepare to explore your next destination.