The best things to do in Arequipa in 3 days

The second most populated city after Lima, Arequipa, “the white city”, is one of the most beautiful in Peru.

Located at 2,335 m above sea level, between the Misti, Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes, it is perhaps less known than Cusco, but it is a city of undeniable charm, as well as being an essential stop to visit the Colca Canyon.

So that you don't miss anything during your stay, here are my suggested itineraries in the Arequipa region, with the best activities to do and places to visit.

How much time is enough to get to know Arequipa?

We are asked about the number of days needed to do a tour of Arequipa.

Most of our travelers visit us for 3 to 5 days, which is enough to accumulate good memories and get to know the most representative things of this region.

But of course we can put together tailor-made experiences and private tours to ensure that each traveler has a good time.

What can I do in Arequipa in 3 days?

It is possible to find MEMORABLE tours to get to know Arequipa in 3 days.

If it is your first time in this region, we recommend taking a City Tour of the White City so that you can learn everything about our volcanoes, colonial architecture, the importance of sillar, our nationally and internationally recognized gastronomy and more. In other words, all the important information and interesting facts that every self-respecting traveler should know.

Once you immerse yourself in the Arequipa culture, you are ready for new experiences and it is at this point that you must decide if you prefer to visit the Colca Valley to enjoy the landscapes, hot springs, see the flight of the Condor or if you prefer to take a tour of the natural attractions within the department.

It is a very important decision, so we are going to share with you a list of images, videos and resources so that you can choose your adventure and have the best experience doing tourism in Arequipa.

Day 1: City Tour in Arequipa

The adventure begins by doing a City Tour. Note that it is possible to visit all these places in 1 day.

Arequipa Cathedral Basilica in the Plaza de Armas

In the center of the city is the Cathedral Basilica built in the year the city was founded, in 1540. Our travelers are impressed by the size and the beautiful view of the Cathedral along with the surrounding volcanoes.

Cloisters of the Company of Jesus
Monastery of Santa Catalina
Yanahuara Viewpoint
Carmen Alto Viewpoint

If you chose to continue your experience in the Colca Valley, below are some of the many options to have a good time in this destination.

Day 2: Colca Valley

The Colca Valley is located in the province of Caylloma. When touring this area, you will be able to visit several small towns (districts) that are in this province. So, you will be able to enjoy typical dances, eat traditional dishes, bathe in hot springs and recharge your energy with the sun, flora and fauna in an environment full of peace and mysticism. Note that you may be able to visit most of the following alternatives in just 1 day, but confirm this with your travel agency in Arequipa.

Colca Canyon
Chivay
Chacapi Hot Springs
Yanque
A ATV ride through Colca
Mirador del Cóndor

Day 3: Walk around the surroundings

If you decided not to go to Colca or to do a Full Day to the Valley, you will have to decide what you want to visit on the third day of your trip. Here is the list of Tours in Arequipa. Please note that the tours below are FULL DAY, which means that they will take you most of the day to visit them. Unlike the two previous options, here you will have to decide on just 1 tour.

Ruta del Sillar
Catarata Pillones
Aguada Blanca and Salinas
Catarata de Yura (Capúa)

Recommendations for visiting Arequipa

It is impossible to be able to see all the alternatives that we have mentioned in 3 days, but we hope they will clarify the situation for you so that you can choose the combination of destinations that you like the most. In summary, if you only have 3 days available in Arequipa, we suggest you choose 2 options between: